Head-to-head comparison

CMC Markets vs XTB

A side-by-side look at CMC Markets and XTB — score, fees, platforms and who each one actually fits best.

CMC Markets

Publicly listed, deep instrument range
4.2

Publicly traded (LSE: CMCX), long track record since 1989, broad CFD and forex range.

XTB

Publicly listed, transparent
4.6

FCA, KNF and CySEC regulated with a real, accessible affiliate program. KNF fined it in 2026 for MiFID II conduct issues — worth disclosing, not disqualifying for a large public broker.

Quick verdict

XTB scores higher overall (4.6 vs 4.2), but a higher score doesn't automatically mean it's the right pick for you.

CMC Markets is the stronger fit for wide market range, advanced charting via Next Generation platform, while XTB is built more around beginner-friendly education, EU/UK regulated access.

Regulation: CMC Markets — FCA, ASIC and more. XTB — FCA (522157), CySEC (169/12), KNF (0000217580) - operating since 2002, publicly listed (WSE) since 2016.

Minimum deposit: CMC Markets — No minimum. XTB — No minimum on standard account.

Side by side

CMC MarketsXTB
Best forWide market range, advanced charting via Next Generation platformBeginner-friendly education, EU/UK regulated access
PlatformsNext Generation, MT4xStation 5 only
RegulationFCA, ASIC and moreFCA (522157), CySEC (169/12), KNF (0000217580) - operating since 2002, publicly listed (WSE) since 2016
Minimum depositNo minimumNo minimum on standard account

CMC Markets strengths

  • Publicly traded since 1989
  • Very wide instrument range
  • Advanced charting

XTB strengths

  • Publicly traded (transparent reporting)
  • Accessible affiliate program
  • Strong education content

Which one should you pick?

Pick CMC Markets if you're mainly after wide market range, advanced charting via Next Generation platform. It stands out for publicly traded since 1989 and very wide instrument range.

Pick XTB if you're mainly after beginner-friendly education, EU/UK regulated access. It stands out for publicly traded (transparent reporting) and accessible affiliate program.

Common questions

CMC Markets vs XTB FAQ

Is CMC Markets better than XTB?

XTB scores higher in our rating (4.6 vs 4.2), but CMC Markets may still be the better fit if you specifically need wide market range, advanced charting via Next Generation platform.

What's the difference in regulation between CMC Markets and XTB?

CMC Markets: FCA, ASIC and more. XTB: FCA (522157), CySEC (169/12), KNF (0000217580) - operating since 2002, publicly listed (WSE) since 2016.

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