Pepperstone vs CMC Markets — which is better for UK FCA traders?
How this answer was verified
- Cross-checked against broker-published fact sheets, regulator licensing databases, and ESMA product intervention notices.
- Reviewed by the FX-Brokers EU editorial desks (Markets, Platforms, Regulation). Desk structure disclosed at /about/editorial-desks.
- Refreshed quarterly. The most recent verification date is shown above. Read our methodology.
Broker mentioned in this answer
Pepperstone
9.4/10Pepperstone serves EU clients through its CySEC-regulated entity (part of a group also licensed by BaFin, the FCA and ASIC), offering razor-sharp spreads, zero minimum deposit, and excellent execution across MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView.
73.7% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Affiliate disclosure: FX-Brokers.eu may receive compensation from brokers listed above when you open an account through our links. This does not affect our editorial ratings or the order in which brokers appear. Read our full affiliate disclosure.
Related
Broker review: Pepperstone
Pepperstone serves EU clients through its CySEC-regulated entity (part of a group also licensed by BaFin, the FCA and ASIC), offering razor-sharp spreads, zero minimum deposit, and excellent execution across MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView.
Broker review: CMC Markets
CMC Markets is a FTSE 250-listed broker with 35+ years of experience, offering 12,000+ instruments and an award-winning proprietary trading platform.
What is the best forex broker in the UK?
Our top UK pick for 2026 is IG (9.2/10), followed by Pepperstone (9.3/10) and CMC Markets (8.8/10). All three are FCA-regulated with FSCS protection up to £85,000. IG offers the broadest market coverage; Pepperstone the tightest spreads; CMC Markets a strong technical platform.
IG vs CMC Markets — which is better?
IG is the larger and more diversified broker with 17,000+ markets, deeper research, and structured IG Academy education. CMC Markets offers the more advanced Next Generation proprietary platform with superior charting and 10,000+ markets. Both are BaFin-regulated and excellent for serious EU traders.
Is Pepperstone a safe broker?
Yes, Pepperstone is one of the safest forex brokers globally. It holds licenses from BaFin (Germany), FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), and ASIC (Australia) — four tier-1 regulators. Client funds are segregated at tier-one banks, and EU clients are covered by ICF compensation up to EUR 20,000.