FXTM (ForexTime) vs Interactive Brokers
Can't decide between FXTM (ForexTime) and Interactive Brokers? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Executive Summary
FXTM (ForexTime) and Interactive Brokers are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. FXTM (ForexTime) scores 80/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, while Interactive Brokers leads with 98/100.
On pricing, both brokers offer competitive 0.1-pip EUR/USD spreads. FXTM (ForexTime) supports MT4, MT5, FXTM Trader App while Interactive Brokers offers TWS, IBKR Desktop, IBKR Mobile, Client Portal, IBKR APIs, giving Interactive Brokers more platform options.
For regulation, FXTM (ForexTime) holds licenses from CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSC while Interactive Brokers is regulated by SEC, FCA, SFC, MAS, CIRO, CBI. Both brokers offer segregated client funds and are considered safe for retail trading.
The Verdicts
Most Trusted
Interactive Brokers scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (98/100) compared to FXTM (ForexTime) (80/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
Both brokers offer extremely competitive pricing, tying with a 0.1 pip average on EUR/USD.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, Interactive Brokers is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | FXTM (ForexTime) | Interactive Brokers |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 80/100 | 98/100 ✓ |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.0 pips | $0 commission (IBKR Lite) |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.1 pips | 0.1 pips |
| Commission | $0.4-2/lot on Advantage | $0.20 min/order |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | < 25ms | < 10ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:2000 | 1:50 |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 | $0 ✓ |
| Instruments | 1,100+ | 10,000+ |
| Account Types | Micro, Advantage Plus, Advantage | IBKR Lite, IBKR Pro |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, FXTM Trader App | TWS, IBKR Desktop, IBKR Mobile, Client Portal, IBKR APIs |
| Top Regulators | CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSC | SEC, FCA, SFC, MAS, CIRO, CBI |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 1-2 business days | 1-3 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $5/month after 6 months | $0 (Eliminated in 2021) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/6 Live Chat, Email, Phone, Ticket System |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose FXTM (ForexTime) if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You value emerging markets and african traders
Choose Interactive Brokers if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
FXTM (ForexTime) Overview
Advantages
- ✓ CySEC and FCA regulated — strong Tier-1 regulatory backing
- ✓ Advantage account offers 0.0 pip spreads with ultra-low $0.4-2/lot commission
- ✓ Exceptional localized service for Africa, Middle East, and Asia — including M-Pesa payments
- ✓ Micro account with $10 minimum — extremely accessible for beginners
- ✓ Strong educational content with webinars, seminars, and localized learning materials
Drawbacks
- × Offshore entity (FSC Mauritius) has weaker regulation for some clients
- × 1:2000 leverage only available on offshore entity — risky for beginners
- × No cTrader or TradingView support
- × Stock CFD selection is limited to 250+ instruments
- × Spreads on Micro account are wider than ECN alternatives
Interactive Brokers Overview
Advantages
- ✓ Access to 150+ markets in 34 countries — unmatched global reach
- ✓ Publicly traded on NASDAQ (IBKR) with $15B+ market cap — ultimate transparency
- ✓ Industry-lowest margin rates starting at 5.83% (Benchmark + 1.5%)
- ✓ Fractional shares, options, futures, bonds, and forex all in one account
- ✓ Advanced order types and algos via Trader Workstation (TWS)
- ✓ IBKR Lite offers $0 commissions on US stocks and ETFs
Drawbacks
- × TWS has a steep learning curve — intimidating for complete beginners
- × No MetaTrader 4 or MetaTrader 5 support
- × Customer support can have long wait times during peak hours
- × Limited deposit methods — no e-wallet support (Skrill, Neteller, PayPal)
- × Currency conversion fee of 0.002% (min $2) for non-base currency trades
Algorithmic Deep Dive
Data Updated: Sep 2026🛡️ Safety & Regulation
Tier-1 Licenses
💸 Pricing Economics
⚡ Technical Capabilities & Execution
Platform Support
- MT4✓✗
- MT5✓✗
- cTrader✗✗
- TradingView✗✗
FXTM (ForexTime) Execution
FXTM offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and the FXTM Trader mobile app. MT4 is available for the Micro account, while MT5 is the primary platform for Advantage accounts and offers depth of market, more timeframes, and better charting than MT4. The FXTM Trader app is a simplified mobile experience with one-tap execution — useful for beginners but limited for advanced traders. There's no cTrader, TradingView, or proprietary desktop platform. During testing, execution was stable with order fills averaging under 25ms on the Advantage account.
Interactive Brokers Execution
IBKR offers four platforms: the legendary Trader Workstation (TWS), the newer IBKR Desktop, the mobile app, and the web-based Client Portal. TWS remains the most powerful retail trading platform ever built — featuring 100+ order types, advanced algorithmic execution, real-time risk analytics, and options strategy builders. IBKR Desktop is a more modern, streamlined alternative that's easier to learn. Both performed flawlessly during our testing with sub-10ms execution speeds.
The Bottom Line: FXTM (ForexTime) vs Interactive Brokers
- ✓ Emerging Markets
- ✓ African Traders
- ✓ Ultra-Low Commissions
- ✓ Localized Service
- ✓ Beginner Accessibility
- ✓ Equally competitive EUR/USD spreads (0.1 pips)
- ✓ Global Market Access
- ✓ Low Margin Rates
- ✓ Professional Trading
- ✓ Multi-Asset Investing
- ✓ Institutional-Grade Execution
- ✓ Equally competitive EUR/USD spreads (0.1 pips)
- ✓ No minimum deposit
Both brokers are featured in our top broker rankings. Your choice should depend on your specific trading style, preferred platform, and geographical location.
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