Written by ForexBrokers.com
In this head to head comparison of CMC Markets vs FXPrimus, we will compare the trading platforms, mobile apps, range of investments, costs, market research, and more. Let's dive in.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 51% and 89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
CMC Markets and FXPrimus are two online brokers with distinct regulatory profiles. Established in 1989, CMC Markets is publicly traded and holds a strong reputation with a perfect Trust Score rating of 99 out of 99 from ForexBrokers.com. This high rating is backed by five highly trusted Tier-1 licenses and one trusted Tier-2 license, demonstrating its commitment to offering a secure trading environment.
In contrast, FXPrimus, founded in 2009, is not publicly traded and presents a different regulatory stance. It holds a Trust Score of 71, indicating an average risk level according to ForexBrokers.com. FXPrimus is supported by just one highly trusted Tier-1 license and lacks any Tier-2 licenses. Both companies are not banks, emphasizing their distinct positions as dedicated brokerage firms in the financial market.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Year Founded | 1989 | 2009 |
| Publicly Traded (Listed) | Yes | No |
| Bank | No | No |
| Tier-1 Licenses | 5 | 1 |
| Tier-2 Licenses | 1 | 0 |
| Tier-3 Licenses | 0 | 0 |
| Tier-4 Licenses | 0 | 1 |
When comparing commissions and fees, CMC Markets shines as a leader in the industry, securing the top spot in the 2025 Annual Awards for Commissions and Fees. CMC Markets offers traders remarkably competitive pricing, with average spreads for popular pairs like EUR/USD around 0.61 pips, which is notably lower than the industry average. Their newly introduced Price Plus Scheme rewards active traders with discounts based on trading volume, enhancing cost-effectiveness. Meanwhile, the FX Active pricing model, introduced in select regions, complements this by adding a nominal commission over minimal spreads, offering significant savings to high-volume traders.
On the other hand, FXPrimus holds an average ranking, positioned at #42 in the same category. While average spread data for FXPrimus isn't readily available, their four-star rating indicates they provide satisfactory pricing but fall short of the competitive edge provided by CMC Markets. Traders with FXPrimus might pay slightly more over time due to less aggressive pricing structures and a potentially variable spread environment that doesn't offer the same level of transparency found in CMC Markets' offerings.
Overall, CMC Markets stands out as a clear winner in terms of commissions and fees, earning a five-star rating. FXPrimus, while adequately rated with four stars, does not compare favorably to CMC Markets' consistent, low-cost trading solutions. Traders seeking a competitive edge with lower trading costs will find CMC Markets' comprehensive pricing options and user-focused programs particularly appealing.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | $0 | $100 |
| Average Spread EUR/USD - Standard | 0.61 | N/A |
| All-in Cost EUR/USD - Active | 0.51 | N/A |
| Active Trader or VIP Discounts | Yes | No |
| ACH or SEPA Transfers | Yes | No |
| PayPal (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | No |
| Skrill (Deposit/Withdraw) | No | Yes |
| Visa/Mastercard (Credit/Debit) | Yes | Yes |
| Bank Wire (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Low Spread Forex Brokers.
CMC Markets and FXPrimus both offer forex trading as either a CFD or a spot contract, catering to varying trading preferences. However, CMC Markets stands out with a staggering 11,925 tradeable symbols, dwarfing FXPrimus's offering of 140 symbols. In terms of forex pairs, CMC Markets provides access to 156 pairs compared to FXPrimus's 42 pairs, making it a more versatile option for forex enthusiasts. Additionally, CMC Markets enables investors to purchase exchange-traded securities on major global exchanges, including the U.S., allowing for direct investments in individual stocks like Apple and Vodafone. In contrast, FXPrimus does not offer access to exchange-traded securities.
Both brokers offer copy trading features, allowing users to follow and replicate successful trading strategies. However, neither offers the ability to buy actual cryptocurrency, though both provide options for trading cryptocurrency derivatives. Based on their range of investments, CMC Markets earns a commendable five-star rating, ranking ninth among 63 brokers, while FXPrimus holds a 3.5-star rating, positioning it at #59. This stark comparison places CMC Markets as a more comprehensive choice for those seeking a broader spectrum of investment opportunities.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Forex Trading (Spot or CFDs) | Yes | Yes |
| Tradeable Symbols (Total) | 11925 | 140 |
| Forex Pairs (Total) | 156 | 42 |
| U.S. Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | No |
| Int'l Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | No |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| Cryptocurrency (Physical) | No | No |
| Cryptocurrency (Derivative) | Yes | Yes |
| Disclaimers | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). |
Dive deeper: Best Copy Trading Platforms.
When choosing between CMC Markets and FXPrimus for your trading endeavors, both brokers provide well-equipped platforms with a host of features. Each offers a free virtual demo account for simulated trading, which is ideal for beginners looking to practice without financial risk. Both companies have developed their own proprietary platforms in-house and provide Windows-based desktop download options as well as web-based trading platforms accessible through a browser. You'll find that both brokers support popular platforms like MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, along with offering the ability to execute trades directly from a stock chart. Copy trading is available with each, but neither supports tools like DupliTrade or ZuluTrade at the moment.
Despite their similarities, there are distinct differences that might sway your decision. CMC Markets stands out with a higher rating for trading platforms and tools, earning a prestigious 5-star rating, compared to FXPrimus's 4 stars. It's also rated significantly higher in the industry rankings, coming in at #4 out of 63 brokers, compared to FXPrimus's rank of #49. CMC Markets also provides a wider range of drawing tools for charting, offering 40 compared to FXPrimus’s 15, along with more flexibility in watch lists with 11 columns versus FXPrimus's 7. These variations highlight CMC Markets as the more feature-rich option for those who prioritize advanced trading tools and comprehensive charting capabilities.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Trading (Demo) | Yes | Yes |
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes |
| Desktop Platform (Windows) | Yes | Yes |
| Web Platform | Yes | Yes |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | Yes | Yes |
| DupliTrade | No | No |
| ZuluTrade | No | No |
| Charting - Indicators / Studies (Total) | 79 | 30 |
| Charting - Drawing Tools (Total) | 40 | 15 |
| Charting - Trade From Chart | Yes | Yes |
| Watchlists - Total Fields | 11 | 7 |
Dive deeper: Best MetaTrader 4 Brokers, Best MetaTrader 5 Brokers.
When considering mobile trading apps, both CMC Markets and FXPrimus offer comprehensive options for iPhone and Android users. They each provide essential features such as stock and forex price alerts, trendline drawing tools, and the ability to view charts in multiple time frames. However, CMC Markets stands out by allowing users to sync their watchlists with their online accounts, a feature not offered by FXPrimus. While FXPrimus provides an impressive 30 technical studies for charting, just edging out CMC Markets' 29, both brokers allow users to create watchlists with real-time quotes and have apps that auto-save chart drawings.
Despite their similarities, CMC Markets shines in terms of overall user satisfaction, receiving a 5-star rating for its mobile trading app, compared to FXPrimus' 4-star rating. This superior user experience is reflected in their app rankings; CMC Markets holds a commendable position at #5 out of 63 brokers on ForexBrokers.com, whereas FXPrimus is ranked at #48. These distinctions make CMC Markets a preferable choice for traders seeking a highly regarded and seamless mobile trading experience.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| Apple iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes |
| Watchlist Syncing | Yes | No |
| Mobile Charting - Indicators / Studies | 29 | 30 |
| Mobile Charting - Draw Trendlines | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Multiple Time Frames | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Drawings Autosave | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Watchlist | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Forex Trading Apps.
When choosing an online broker, the quality of market research can greatly impact investment decisions. CMC Markets and FXPrimus both offer daily market commentary and have economic calendars to keep traders informed of current and upcoming global news events. However, when it comes to detailed forex news from top-tier sources like Bloomberg and Reuters, CMC Markets provides access, whereas FXPrimus does not. Additionally, CMC Markets stands out by including technical analysis tools from Autochartist and sentiment-based trading tools to show market positions. These added resources contribute to a richer trading toolbox for investors using CMC Markets.
Despite both brokers lacking certain research partnerships, like those with Trading Central or TipRanks, CMC Markets’ research offerings are stronger overall, as reflected by a 5-star research rating compared to the 3 stars held by FXPrimus. When evaluated among 63 brokers, CMC Markets ranks impressively at #6, while FXPrimus is positioned at #58. This distinction highlights the superior market research capabilities provided by CMC Markets, making it a more appealing choice for investors seeking comprehensive market insights.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Daily Market Commentary | Yes | Yes |
| Forex News (Top-Tier Sources) | Yes | No |
| Autochartist | Yes | No |
| Trading Central (Recognia) | No | No |
| Social Sentiment - Currency Pairs | Yes | No |
| TipRanks | No | No |
| Signal Centre (Acuity Trading) | No | No |
| Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Brokers for Forex Research.
When choosing between CMC Markets and FXPrimus for educational resources tailored to beginners, both brokers provide a collection of over 10 educational pieces focusing on forex and CFDs, including articles, videos, and archived webinars. CMC Markets shines in offering a well-rounded learning platform. Notably, they provide over 10 beginner videos specifically designed to ease newcomers into trading, alongside more than 10 advanced videos for experienced traders. CMC Markets' educational content is bolstered by an extensive glossary of over 50 investing terms, ensuring that beginners grasp essential trading vocabulary. Despite not hosting monthly webinars, CMC Markets maintains a comprehensive archive of recordings for convenient access.
FXPrimus, in comparison, also delivers a respectable suite of educational materials but lacks specialized beginner and advanced video libraries compared to CMC Markets. However, FXPrimus compensates with regular online client webinars, hosting at least one session per month and maintaining a searchable webinar archive for ongoing learning. Its educational offerings are rated 3 stars, and it ranks 51st among 63 brokers according to ForexBrokers.com, compared to CMC Markets' higher 5-star rating and 10th place standing. Overall, for beginners prioritizing diverse educational tools and specialized video content, CMC Markets presents the more comprehensive choice.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Education (Forex or CFDs) | Yes | Yes |
| Client Webinars | No | Yes |
| Client Webinars (Archived) | Yes | Yes |
| Videos - Beginner Trading Videos | Yes | No |
| Videos - Advanced Trading Videos | Yes | No |
| Investor Dictionary (Glossary) | Yes | No |
Dive deeper: Best Forex Brokers for Beginners.
After testing 63 of the best forex brokers, our research and account testing finds that CMC Markets is better than FXPrimus. CMC Markets finished with an overall rank of #4, while FXPrimus finished with an overall rank of #53.
CMC Markets is well-trusted across the globe, and delivers a terrific trading experience thanks to its excellent pricing and selection of over 12,000 tradeable instruments.
| Feature |
CMC Markets
|
FXPrimus
|
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating |
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| Trust Score | 99 | 71 |
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Both CMC Markets and FXPrimus do not offer the ability to buy actual delivered cryptocurrency, but both provide the option to trade cryptocurrency derivatives.
CMC Markets stands out by offering ACH or SEPA transfers, PayPal, Visa, Mastercard, and bank wire options for fund deposits and withdrawals, whereas FXPrimus provides Skrill, Visa, Mastercard, and bank wire options, but lacks ACH, SEPA, and PayPal services.
Please note:
We review each broker’s overall global offering – a “Yes” checkmark in our Compare Tool does not guarantee the availability of any specific features in your country of residence. To verify the availability of any features within your country of residence, please contact the broker directly.
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0 of 5| Overall Rating | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
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| Trust Score | 99 | 71 | |
| Winner | check_circle | ||
| Review | CMC Markets Review |
| Broker Screenshots | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
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| Regulation | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 99 | 71 | |
| Year Founded | 1989 | 2009 | |
| Publicly Traded (Listed) | Yes | No | |
| Bank | No | No | |
| Regulated in one or more EU or EEA countries (MiFID). | Yes | Yes | |
| Tier-1 Licenses | 5 | 1 | |
| Tier-2 Licenses | 1 | 0 | |
| Tier-3 Licenses | 0 | 0 | |
| Tier-4 Licenses | 0 | 1 |
| Tier-1 Licenses (Highly Trusted) | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia (ASIC Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| Canada (CIRO Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| Hong Kong (SFC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Japan (SFC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Singapore (MAS Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| Switzerland (FINMA Authorised) | No | No | |
| United Kingdom (U.K.) (FCA Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| USA (CFTC Authorized) | No | No | |
| New Zealand (FMA Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| Regulated in one or more EU or EEA countries (MiFID). | Yes | Yes |
| Tier-2 Licenses (Trusted) | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya (CMA Authorised) | No | No | |
| Israel (ISA Authorised) | No | No | |
| South Africa (FSCA Authorised) | No | No | |
| UAE (DFSA/Central Bank Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| India (SEBI Authorised) | No | No | |
| Jordan (JSC Authorised) | No | No |
| Investments | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex Trading (Spot or CFDs) | Yes | Yes | |
| Tradeable Symbols (Total) | 11925 | 140 | |
| Forex Pairs (Total) | 156 | 42 | |
| U.S. Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | No | |
| Int'l Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | No | |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes | |
| Cryptocurrency (Physical) | No | No | |
| Cryptocurrency (Derivative) | Yes | Yes | |
| Disclaimers | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). |
| Cost | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Spread EUR/USD - Standard | 0.61 | N/A | |
| All-in Cost EUR/USD - Active | 0.51 | N/A | |
| Active Trader or VIP Discounts | Yes | No | |
| Inactivity Fee | Yes | No | |
| Execution: Agency Broker | No | No | |
| Execution: Market Maker | Yes | Yes |
| Funding | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | $0 | $100 | |
| PayPal (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | No | |
| Skrill (Deposit/Withdraw) | No | Yes | |
| Visa/Mastercard (Credit/Debit) | Yes | Yes | |
| Bank Wire (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes | |
| ACH or SEPA Transfers | Yes | No |
| Trading Platforms | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes | |
| Desktop Platform (Windows) | Yes | Yes | |
| Web Platform | Yes | Yes | |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes | |
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | Yes | Yes | |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | Yes | Yes | |
| cTrader | No | Yes | |
| DupliTrade | No | No | |
| ZuluTrade | No | No |
| Trading Tools | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Trading (Demo) | Yes | Yes | |
| Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes | |
| Watchlists - Total Fields | 11 | 7 | |
| Charting - Indicators / Studies (Total) | 79 | 30 | |
| Charting - Drawing Tools (Total) | 40 | 15 | |
| Charting - Trade From Chart | Yes | Yes | |
| Charts can be saved | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Trading | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android App | Yes | Yes | |
| Apple iOS App | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Watchlist | Yes | Yes | |
| Watchlist Syncing | Yes | No | |
| Mobile Charting - Indicators / Studies | 29 | 30 | |
| Mobile Charting - Draw Trendlines | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Multiple Time Frames | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Drawings Autosave | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
| Research | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Market Commentary | Yes | Yes | |
| Forex News (Top-Tier Sources) | Yes | No | |
| Autochartist | Yes | No | |
| Trading Central (Recognia) | No | No | |
| TipRanks | No | No | |
| Social Sentiment - Currency Pairs | Yes | No | |
| Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
| Education | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education (Forex or CFDs) | Yes | Yes | |
| Client Webinars | No | Yes | |
| Client Webinars (Archived) | Yes | Yes | |
| Videos - Beginner Trading Videos | Yes | No | |
| Videos - Advanced Trading Videos | Yes | No | |
| Investor Dictionary (Glossary) | Yes | No |
| Major Forex Pairs | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| GBP/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/JPY | Yes | Yes | |
| EUR/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/CHF | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/CAD | Yes | Yes | |
| NZD/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| AUD/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| Review | CMC Markets Review |
| Overall | CMC Markets | FXPrimus | |
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| Trust Score | 99 | 71 | |
| Winner | check_circle | ||
| Review | CMC Markets Review |
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