Top 5 CFD Brokers (2025) - Best Trading Platforms

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Go to broker’s website Plus500 Overview

If you're too busy to read the entire article and want a quick answer, the best CFD broker is Plus500. Why? Here are its key advantages:

Is legit in your country (Identified as United States )
Has a good user satisfaction score 6.83 out of 10
Order execution quality - fast and accurate transaction processing
Access to a variety of assets - a wide range of forex pairs, stocks, indices, commodities and cryptocurrencies to diversify your investment portfolio.

Go to broker’s website Plus500 Overview

Below, we'll explain in more detail why we believe this and how brokers were evaluated.

Best CFD brokers in 2025 are:

Plus500 - Best premium client support (personal manager, exclusive analysis, webinars)
Pepperstone - Best for scalping strategies (spread from 0 pips)
OANDA - Best for trading with advanced technical analysis tools (TradingView charts support)
FOREX.com - Diverse range of tradable assets (80+ currency pairs)
Interactive Brokers - Best broker for international investors (assets from 33 countries, 150+ markets)

When choosing a CFD broker, it is important to focus on the reliability of the platform, trading conditions and available instruments. CFD trading involves active work with financial instruments, so the key criteria are the quality of order execution, low commissions and platform flexibility. An experienced broker provides access to a wide range of assets and technical tools for analysis. In this article, we will walk through how to choose a suitable CFD broker, what to pay attention to and which platforms are worth considering. Following our recommendations, you can find a broker that best suits your needs and trading goals.

List of the best CFD brokers

Contracts for difference (CFDs) are a financial instrument that allows traders to profit from changes in the value of an underlying asset without purchasing it directly. When trading CFDs, a trader enters into an agreement with a broker that the difference between the initial and final price of an asset is their profit or loss.

The best CFD brokers provide traders with access to a variety of financial instruments and excellent trading conditions. They offer high-quality order execution, attractive commissions, and user-friendly platforms that make trading comfortable and efficient. These brokers stand out in the market thanks to their experience and high level of customer service, providing traders with all the necessary tools and support to achieve their goals. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best CFD brokers to consider, along with details on their trading features and strengths.

Best CFD brokers
	Min. deposit, $	Max. leverage	S&P 500 spread	Nasdaq 100 spread	Other CFD fees	Open account
Plus500	100	1:300	0,7	0,51		Open an account Your capital is at risk.
Pepperstone		1:500	0,5	1		Open an account Your capital is at risk.
OANDA		1:200	0,4	0,8		Open an account Your capital is at risk.
FOREX.com	100	1:50	0,3	1,1		Study review
Interactive Brokers		1:30	0,25	0,75	£3/€3 per trade for Western EU stocks with no added spreads. US stocks com 0005-0.0035 per share	Open an account Your capital is at risk.

How to choose the right CFD broker?

The choice of the right CFD broker depends on the following key factors:

Variety of trading instruments. The broker should offer access to various financial markets, allowing traders to invest in a wide range of assets and diversify their portfolio.
Account types. A good broker will provide a choice between different account types, each with its own advantages, such as increased leverage, tight spreads, and additional levels of capital protection.
Spreads. Although low spreads are considered an attractive criterion, it is important to consider them along with other parameters that affect the overall trading conditions and the convenience of working with the broker.
Quality of order execution. Reliable execution of trades at the requested price is one of the indicators of a quality broker, which helps to minimize the risks associated with slippage and changes in quotes.
Trading platform. It should be convenient and functional for the user. Before choosing a broker, it is worth testing its platform to make sure it is user-friendly and has the appropriate functionality.

What are the pros and cons of CFD trading

Leverage. CFDs allow traders to trade with leverage, giving them the ability to manage a larger amount than they would be able to with a traditional purchase of the asset. This increases their profit potential.
Asset diversity. CFDs are available in a variety of markets, from stocks and indices to commodities and cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to easily diversify their portfolio.
Short position. CFDs allow traders to profit from both rising and falling prices, which is not possible with a traditional purchase of the asset.
Hedging risks. CFDs can be used to hedge existing assets, reducing the risk of a portfolio. For example, if an investor is long a stock, they can short a CFD on the same stock to balance their risk.
Reduced transaction costs. Trading CFDs is generally cheaper than traditionally buying stocks, as CFDs are traded directly through a broker rather than on an exchange.

Overnight holding costs. Holding CFDs overnight adds costs, which can reduce gains, especially if positions are held long-term.
No ownership of assets. CFD trading doesn’t involve ownership, so traders miss out on potential long-term growth and dividends.
Counterparty risk. CFDs are over-the-counter, so a trader’s experience depends on the broker’s stability.
Hidden costs and spreads. Brokers may charge spreads or other fees that can impact profits over time, especially with frequent trading.

What assets can be traded through CFD brokers?

Stocks. Access shares of global companies across categories, from blue-chip giants to small-cap and penny stocks.
Indices. Trade popular indices like the S&P 500, NASDAQ 100, FTSE 100, and more.
Forex. CFDs enable trading on major currency pairs, such as EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY.
Commodities. Choose from metals like gold and silver, energy resources like oil and gas, and agricultural products like wheat and corn.
Cryptocurrencies. Trade digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple, among other cryptos.

CFD brokers vs. Forex brokers: what’s the difference?

While both CFD and Forex brokers allow traders to engage in leveraged trading, Forex is centered around currency trading with straightforward costs and high leverage, whereas CFD brokers provide broader market access with more variable costs and moderate leverage options. This makes Forex brokers ideal for those focused on currency trading, while CFD brokers are suited for traders interested in accessing multiple asset types under one roof. We have discussed their differences in more detail below:

Instruments offered. Forex brokers focus exclusively on currency trading, allowing users to speculate on price changes between pairs like EUR/USD or GBP/USD. In contrast, CFD brokers cover a wider variety of assets beyond currency pairs, including stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This diversity makes CFD brokers appealing to traders who want to explore different asset classes within a single platform.
Trading approach. Forex trading involves direct currency exchanges between buyers and sellers, often facilitated by a broker in the form of spot or margin trading. On the other hand, CFDs are derivative products, meaning traders do not actually own the underlying assets; instead, they speculate on price movements through a contract with the broker. This setup enables CFD traders to profit from both upward and downward price shifts in various assets.
Leverage and trading hours. Forex brokers generally offer higher leverage, sometimes up to 500:1, which allows traders to open larger positions with a smaller initial investment. CFDs offer leverage too, but typically at lower ratios due to the risks associated with various asset classes. Additionally, Forex operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, aligning with global currency market hours. CFD trading hours depend on the specific asset, as CFDs mirror the trading hours of the underlying stock exchanges or markets.
Cost structure. Forex trading costs are mainly built into the spread, though some brokers may charge additional commissions. For CFDs, brokers often impose spreads as well, but other fees, such as overnight holding costs and, in some cases, fixed commissions on stocks, can also apply.

Can you make money trading CFDs?

Yes, it is possible to make money trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) even without large initial investments, but it requires a smart, cautious approach. Unlike traditional investments, CFDs allow traders to speculate on price movements with leverage, meaning they can control a larger position with a smaller amount of capital. This leverage can boost potential gains, but it also increases the risk of losses, making money management essential.

Beginners are often advised to start small, using minimal leverage and focusing on understanding the market dynamics, rather than jumping in with high-risk trades. Building a disciplined strategy that includes setting clear stop-loss and take-profit levels helps manage this risk and sustain growth without significant capital.

Moreover, knowledge and strategy are fundamental when working with limited funds in CFD trading. Studying market trends, practicing with a demo account, and developing a risk management plan all help traders avoid common pitfalls. Avoiding over-leveraging is particularly important, as this can quickly wipe out small accounts if the market moves unfavorably. Experienced traders suggest gradually building up both knowledge and capital, aiming for steady returns rather than high-stakes wins. This disciplined approach not only mitigates risks but also enables traders to potentially profit over time even with a smaller initial investment.

Which CFD brokers are good for beginners?

To choose a CFD broker that works well for beginners, you’ll want to focus on features that simplify the trading experience while ensuring support is readily available. Here’s some targeted advice to keep in mind:

Look for accessible, straightforward platforms. A user-friendly interface is critical when starting, as it minimizes the learning curve. Choose a broker with an intuitive design and features that help you quickly locate essential trading tools without being overwhelmed.
Prioritize educational resources and demo accounts. For beginners, educational resources are invaluable. A demo account allows you to practice trading without financial risk, helping you understand how different strategies play out in real-market conditions, which is crucial before diving into live trading.
Check for risk management tools. Good beginner-friendly brokers include features like negative balance protection and risk alerts to help traders avoid significant losses.
Evaluate support options. Reliable customer support can make a big difference when you’re starting. Good brokers offer responsive customer service, providing answers to trading questions and guidance on using platform features effectively.

Is it possible to make money on CFDs without large investments?

Yes, it is possible to make money on CFDs without a large initial investment, but this requires understanding key strategies and carefully managing risks. CFDs, or Contracts for Difference, allow you to trade on asset price movements with leverage, meaning you can control a position worth more than your initial deposit. For example, a small amount can control a much larger position in the market, amplifying potential returns if the market moves in your favor. However, leverage also magnifies losses, so even a small adverse price movement can result in a significant loss. This is why it’s essential for beginners to start small, using minimal leverage, and to rely on careful risk management practices like setting stop-loss orders to protect their capital.

Beyond leverage, successful small-cap CFD trading depends heavily on a solid understanding of market trends and using the right strategies. Many experienced traders recommend starting with a demo account to practice without risking real money. Additionally, focusing on assets with higher liquidity, like major Forex pairs or popular stocks, can help beginners avoid volatile markets that may be difficult to manage with limited funds. By gradually building skills and using conservative strategies, traders can achieve profitability with relatively small investments, although patience and consistent learning are key to making sustainable gains.

Always check the terms and conditions for transaction fees and additional costs

For new traders, managing risk is crucial, especially when using leverage, which can amplify gains but also potential losses. Look for brokers that provide clear, easy-to-use tools for setting limits on trades, such as stop-loss orders and margin calls. Some brokers even offer tools to limit overnight financing costs or provide an option to reduce exposure automatically if the market moves against you too far. These features are invaluable in protecting your initial capital as you learn the ropes and build confidence in your strategy.

Beyond standard educational content, the best beginner-friendly brokers provide interactive sessions like live webinars, Q&As with experienced traders, and easy-to-access real-time chat support for when you're mid-trade and have questions. In choosing a broker, pay attention to the quality and responsiveness of their customer support and the availability of experienced guidance. This combination can provide practical insights into market dynamics, helping you navigate CFD trading with better insights than generic tutorials can offer.

Methodology for compiling our ratings of Forex brokers

Traders Union applies a rigorous methodology to evaluate brokers using over 100 quantitative and qualitative criteria. Multiple parameters are given individual scores that feed into an overall rating.

Key aspects of the assessment include:

Regulation and safety. Brokers are evaluated based on the level/reputation of licenses and regulations they operate under.
User reviews. Client reviews and feedback are analyzed to determine customer satisfaction levels. Reviews are fact-checked and verified.
Trading instruments. Brokers are evaluated on the range of assets offered, as well as the breadth and depth of available markets.
Fees and commissions. All trading fees and commissions are analyzed comprehensively to determine overall costs for clients.
Trading platforms. Brokers are assessed based on the variety, quality, and features of platforms offered to clients.
Other factors like brand popularity, client support, and educational resources are also evaluated.

Find out more about the unique broker assessment methodology developed by Traders Union specialists.

Conclusion

The choice of a CFD broker determines the comfort and efficiency of your trading. When choosing a broker, it is worth paying attention to its licensing, commission level, quality of order execution and available tools. A correctly chosen broker will provide you not only with stable access to the markets, but also reliable support in risk management. Do not forget about the possibilities of a demo account for initial development of the platform and assessment of all conditions. A careful approach to choosing a broker will allow you to minimize risks and focus on achieving your financial goals.

FAQs

How to check if a broker is really licensed?

Find information about the license on the broker’s website and check it on the official website of the regulator. To do this, enter the license number in the register, which is available on the websites of regulators such as FCA, ASIC or CySEC. This confirms the legality and reliability of the company.

How is a demo account useful for beginners?

A demo account allows you to safely study the platform’s functionality and test trading strategies on virtual funds. This will help you understand the basic mechanics of trading and gain confidence without the risk of losses.

What leverage is best for a beginner?

It is better for beginners to use minimal leverage, since high leverage significantly increases the risk of losses. Start with 1:10 or lower and adjust it as you gain experience to control risks.

Does news affect CFD trading?

Yes, news affects the price of assets, especially economic reports, political events and corporate announcements. Events can cause sharp price fluctuations, so it is important to monitor the news and take them into account when planning trades.

Team that worked on the article

Andrey Mastykin is an experienced author, editor, and content strategist who has been with Traders Union since 2020. As an editor, he is meticulous about fact-checking and ensuring the accuracy of all information published on the Traders Union platform. Andrey focuses on educating readers about the potential rewards and risks involved in trading financial markets.

He firmly believes that passive investing is a more suitable strategy for most individuals. Andrey's conservative approach and focus on risk management resonate with many readers, making him a trusted source of financial information.

Also, Andrey is a member of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (membership card No. 4574, international certificate UKR4492).

Learn about our editorial policies

Chinmay Soni is a financial analyst with more than 5 years of experience in working with stocks, Forex, derivatives, and other assets. As a founder of a boutique research firm and an active researcher, he covers various industries and fields, providing insights backed by statistical data. He is also an educator in the field of finance and technology.

As an author for Traders Union, he contributes his deep analytical insights on various topics, taking into account various aspects.

Mirjan Hipolito is a journalist and news editor at Traders Union. She is an expert crypto writer with five years of experience in the financial markets. Her specialties are daily market news, price predictions, and Initial Coin Offerings (ICO).

Bitcoin

Bitcoin is a decentralized digital cryptocurrency that was created in 2009 by an anonymous individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a technology called blockchain, which is a distributed ledger that records all transactions across a network of computers.

Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is a type of digital or virtual currency that relies on cryptography for security. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments (fiat currencies), cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks, typically based on blockchain technology.

Margin Call

A margin call is a demand made by a broker or a financial institution to a trader or investor who is using margin (borrowed funds) to cover potential losses in a trading account. It occurs when the value of the securities or assets held in the account falls below a certain threshold, known as the maintenance margin or margin requirement, as specified by the broker.

Diversification

Diversification is an investment strategy that involves spreading investments across different asset classes, industries, and geographic regions to reduce overall risk.

Leverage

Forex leverage is a tool enabling traders to control larger positions with a relatively small amount of capital, amplifying potential profits and losses based on the chosen leverage ratio.

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