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ActivTrades Review

Founded: 2001Headquarters: London, UKLast updated:Review methodology ↗

Review Summary

Overview of ActivTrades

ActivTrades offers forex and CFD trading through ActivTrader, MT4, MT5 and TradingView, where available. The choice lets traders compare a proprietary interface with MetaTrader automation or TradingView chart-based trading. Match the platform and account to your strategy, not just your interface preferences.

When comparing ActivTrades account types or minimum deposit requirements, review spreads, overnight charges and funding conditions for the relevant entity. Client-money segregation and any additional protection have their own terms and do not cover ordinary trading losses. Available instruments, swap-free eligibility and withdrawal methods also need to be checked for your country of residence.

Key Strength

Strong regulatory protection with established trading platforms

Key Consideration

Actual trading costs may vary by spread, account type and regulatory entity

Who Is It Best For?

  • Beginners
  • Professional traders
  • Protection-focused traders
  • Multi-platform traders

Who May It Not Suit?

  • Ultra-low spread traders
  • Scalpers
  • Low-deposit traders
  • Raw pricing seekers
Broker Alarab’s view on ActivTrades

ActivTrades is a strong option for traders who prioritise client protection, regulatory oversight and broker stability, with access to ActivTrader, MT4 and MT5.

It is better suited to cautious and intermediate traders, although spreads and overall trading costs may not be ideal for frequent scalping, so daily trading expenses should be compared carefully.

Rating Breakdown

Each category is rated out of 5.

Safety & Regulation4.75 / 5
Fees & Spreads4.35 / 5
Trading Platforms4.5 / 5
Deposits & Withdrawals4.4 / 5
Customer Support4.4 / 5

Main Advantages

5
  • Strong regulation from FCA and European authorities

  • Trading over 3,000 global shares via CFDs

  • Support for MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and ActivTrader platforms

  • Advanced analysis tools for traders

  • Ability to trade global ETF products

Main Disadvantages

3
  • Minimum deposit may be higher than some brokers

  • Some financial instruments may not be available in all countries

  • Trading conditions vary depending on the regulatory entity

Account Types at ActivTrades

Compare the accounts and tap an account name for more details.

Accounts
1
Lowest Deposit
$10

Review the account conditions, availability, and trading costs before registering.

Open an Account with ActivTrades

Licenses & Safety at ActivTrades

ActivTrades operates through a regulatory structure that includes ActivTrades PLC, authorised by the UK FCA under licence number 434413, which is one of the group’s strongest regulated entities. The group also has entities or registrations connected to Portugal and Brazil, as well as international companies linked to Mauritius and the Bahamas, allowing it to serve clients in different markets under different legal frameworks. Client protection depends on the entity under which the trading account is opened. FCA requirements and UK complaint procedures do not automatically apply to accounts opened with an international entity, and traders should distinguish between a full investment-services licence, local registration and regulatory frameworks with different powers. Before opening an ActivTrades account, traders should confirm the legal company name and licence number shown during registration, then review the applicable client-money protection, compensation and complaints procedures. This is particularly important for traders choosing ActivTrades for its platforms or operating history.

Number of licenses
6
Top regulator
FCA
Last verified
2026-09-15
Status
All active
BACEN
Active
Brazilغير محدد
Central Bank of Brazil
Country
Brazil
Legal entity
ActivTrades CCTVM
View official registry
CMVM
Active
Portugal433
Portuguese Securities Market Commission
Country
Portugal
Legal entity
ActivMarkets - Empresa de Investimento, S.A.
View official registry
CVM
Active
Brazilغير محدد

Learn more about the regulators

Fees & Trading Costs

A clear overview of ActivTrades’s spreads, commissions, and potential trading costs.

Lowest Spread
0.8 – 1.2
Commission Structure
Commission-free accounts available

Trading Fees Explained

ActivTrades uses primarily spread-based forex pricing through its Standard account, with no separate FX trading commission. Our account comparison shows spreads around 0.8–1.2 pips and a $10 minimum deposit, keeping transaction costs straightforward versus raw accounts that add per-lot commissions.

Spreads remain variable and can widen during volatile or illiquid periods, while overnight financing and certain non-forex charges depend on the instrument and position.

Read more +

Deposits & Withdrawals

Payment Methods
5
Minimum Deposit
$10
Funding Score
4.4 / 5
Withdrawal Speed
Same-day processing for many withdrawals, depending on request timing

Deposit & Withdrawal Details

ActivTrades supports account funding through bank transfers, credit and debit cards, Skrill, PayPal, and Sofort, although the methods and supported currencies shown to each client can vary by country and account entity. Eligible options are displayed inside the secure account area after registration.

Card and electronic deposits are generally handled quickly. Many withdrawal requests may be reviewed on the same business day when submitted within the relevant processing window, while bank transfers can take longer to reach the receiving account because external banks and payment providers control the final delivery time.

Withdrawals remain subject to identity checks and anti-money-laundering requirements. ActivTrades may request proof that the payment method belongs to the account holder or ask for additional documents. Completing verification early and using payment methods registered in the trader's name can reduce avoidable delays.

Read more +

Supported Payment Methods

  • Bank transfer
  • Credit / Debit cards
  • Skrill
  • PayPal
  • Sofort

Trading Platforms

A closer look at the trading platforms offered by ActivTrades and the overall platform experience.

Available Platforms
  • ActivTrader
  • MT4
  • MT5
  • TradingView
Trading Tools
5 tools available
Best For
Platform choice and risk management

Trading Platform Experience

ActivTrades combines its proprietary ActivTrader platform with MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, while TradingView access may also be available depending on the product and region. These options support web, desktop, and mobile access, with charting, technical indicators, and tools for trade execution and position management.

ActivTrader suits users who prefer a streamlined interface with built-in tools, while MT4 and MT5 provide a familiar environment for analysis, Expert Advisors, and strategy testing. The multi-platform setup gives traders flexibility, although platform and tool availability should be confirmed with the entity through which the account is opened.

Read more +

Available Trading Tools

  • Technical indicators
  • Advanced charting
  • Expert Advisors
  • Strategy testing
  • Trailing-stop orders

Download MetaTrader Platforms

Final Verdict

Overall Rating
4.48 / 5
Final Verdict
Very Good

Our verdict on ActivTrades

Overall, ActivTrades may suit traders who value established platforms, regulatory oversight and a structured trading environment. Access to ActivTrader, MT4 and MT5 gives both intermediate and experienced users flexibility across different trading styles and markets. Its main trade-off is pricing: spreads and total costs can vary by instrument, account setup and legal entity. Traders should therefore compare expected costs and confirm the protection available in their country before opening an account.

Read more +

Key Strength

Strong regulatory protection with established trading platforms

Main Limitation

Actual trading costs may vary by spread, account type and regulatory entity

Frequently Asked Questions

How competitive are ActivTrades spreads compared to other brokers?

ActivTrades offers spreads typically between 0.8 to 1.2 pips on its Standard account, which is competitive but not the lowest compared to raw spread brokers. However, the absence of commissions makes it attractive for simple trading strategies.

Does ActivTrades charge commissions or is everything included in the spread?

ActivTrades uses a spread-only pricing model for most accounts, meaning there are no separate commissions. All trading costs are built into the spread, making pricing simpler for traders.

What makes ActivTrades different from ECN brokers?

Unlike ECN brokers that offer ultra-low spreads with commissions, ActivTrades provides a simpler model with no commissions and slightly higher spreads, making it more suitable for traders who prefer predictable costs.

How strong is ActivTrades regulation compared to offshore brokers?

ActivTrades is regulated by the FCA in the UK and other international regulators, which offers significantly higher protection compared to offshore brokers that operate under weaker regulatory frameworks.

What is the minimum deposit required to start trading with ActivTrades?

The minimum deposit at ActivTrades starts from $10, which is relatively low compared to many regulated brokers and makes it accessible for new traders.

Show more questions (5)
How stable are spreads on ActivTrades during high volatility?

Spreads on ActivTrades are generally stable under normal conditions but can widen during major market events or low liquidity periods, similar to most market execution brokers.

What trading platforms does ActivTrades offer besides MT4 and MT5?

In addition to MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, ActivTrades offers its proprietary ActivTrader platform, which includes advanced order types and risk management tools.

How reliable are withdrawals on ActivTrades in real conditions?

ActivTrades processes withdrawals through secure and regulated channels, and most requests are handled within 1–2 business days depending on the payment method and verification status.

What is the biggest advantage of trading with ActivTrades?

The main advantage of ActivTrades is its strong regulation combined with a simple pricing model (no commissions), making it a reliable choice for traders who value transparency and stability.

What is the main drawback of ActivTrades compared to top competitors?

The main drawback is that spreads are slightly higher compared to raw spread brokers, which may not be ideal for scalpers or high-frequency trading strategies.

Risk Warning

The information on this page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Broker Alarab does not provide trading services or hold client funds. Trading forex, CFDs and other leveraged products involves a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. You may lose part or all of your invested capital. Trading conditions, leverage and investor protection may vary according to the broker, regulatory entity and client jurisdiction.