Which broker is better for Malta traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Malta traders looking for a reliable forex broker in 2026 often compare XM Group (rated 4.7/5) and FP Markets (also 4.7/5). Both brokers offer strong trading conditions, but they cater to slightly different needs. XM Group is known for its user-friendly platforms, zero-commission trading, and wide range of local payment methods including Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. FP Markets, on the other hand, excels with raw spreads from 0.0 pips, advanced charting tools, and deep liquidity for scalpers. Malta traders value brokers that support USD accounts, low costs, and reliable customer support. This comparison covers spreads, platforms, regulation, and deposit/withdrawal options specific to Malta residents. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned trader, understanding these differences will help you choose the right broker for your trading style.
| Instrument | XM Group | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | FP Markets |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | FP Markets |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | FP Markets |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | FP Markets |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $5 | $100 | FP Markets |
For Malta traders, trading costs directly impact profitability. XM Group offers spreads from 0.6 pips on its Zero account with no commission, ideal for casual traders. FP Markets provides raw spreads from 0.0 pips with a commission of $3 per lot per side on its Raw account, making it cheaper for high-volume traders. If you trade 10 standard lots per month, FP Markets saves you around $30 in spread costs compared to XM Group. Both brokers have no hidden fees, but FP Markets is better for scalpers and day traders in Malta who prioritize tight spreads.
| Account Type | XM Group | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✓ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✓ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $5 | $100 |
| Entity / Asset | XM Group | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Malta (offshore) | Up to 1:1000 | Up to 1:500 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:1000 | 1:500 |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:200 | 1:200 |
| Indices | 1:100 | 1:100 |
| Cryptocurrencies | 1:2 to 1:10 | 1:2 to 1:10 |
| Asset Class | XM Group | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | XM Group |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | XM Group |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | XM Group |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | 1,700+ | FP Markets |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Platform | XM Group | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✓ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✓ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
Both XM Group and FP Markets support MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which are popular among Malta traders for their advanced charting and automated trading capabilities. XM Group also offers its proprietary XM WebTrader for browser-based trading. FP Markets provides cTrader in addition to MT4/MT5, giving traders more flexibility with depth of market and advanced order types. Malta traders who prefer algorithmic trading will find both brokers suitable, but FP Markets’ cTrader is a bonus for those who want a modern interface.
| Factor | XM Group | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | FP Markets |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | XM Group |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
FP Markets offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips with ECN execution, making it ideal for scalpers and high-frequency traders in Malta. XM Group uses market execution with spreads from 0.6 pips, which is sufficient for most retail traders. FP Markets reports average execution speeds of under 40ms, while XM Group averages around 50ms. For Malta traders who prioritize speed, FP Markets is the better choice.
| Safety Factor | XM Group | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | ASIC | ASIC |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
XM Group is regulated by CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (Australia), and FSCA (South Africa). FP Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, and the FSCA. Neither broker is directly regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), but they are authorized to serve Maltese clients under EU passporting rules (for CySEC entities). Malta traders benefit from negative balance protection and segregated client funds with both brokers. Always verify the specific entity you are trading with, as client protection levels vary by jurisdiction.
| Payment Method | XM Group | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | Visa/Mastercard and e-wallets near-instant to 1-2 business days; bank wire several days | 24 hours |
Malta traders can deposit and withdraw using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20 at both XM Group and FP Markets. XM Group has a minimum deposit of $5 and offers instant processing for Skrill and Neteller. FP Markets requires a minimum deposit of $100 but also supports USDT TRC20 with zero blockchain fees. Withdrawals are processed within 24 hours at XM Group, while FP Markets takes 1-3 business days. Both brokers do not charge deposit fees, but bank transfers may incur intermediary fees. For Malta traders, Skrill and Neteller are the fastest options.
| Islamic Account Feature | XM Group | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Swap-free available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Admin fee instead of swap | On some instruments | On some instruments |
| MT4 / MT5 supported | ✓ | ✓ |
| How to apply | Contact support | Contact support |
Both XM Group and FP Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Malta Muslim traders who follow Sharia law. XM Group provides Islamic accounts automatically upon request, with no swap charges on all instruments. FP Markets also offers Islamic accounts but requires a formal request and approval. Both brokers ensure no interest is charged on overnight positions. Malta traders should note that Islamic accounts may have restrictions on certain instruments or holding periods. For Muslim traders in Malta, XM Group’s straightforward process is slightly more convenient.
| Support Feature | XM Group | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | XM Group |
XM Group offers 24/5 multilingual customer support via live chat, email, and phone, with Maltese language support available. FP Markets also provides 24/7 support through live chat and email, but phone support is limited to business hours. For Malta traders, XM Group’s local language support and extended hours give it an edge. Both brokers have comprehensive FAQ sections on their websites.
| Mobile Feature | XM Group | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | XM Group |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | XM Group |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✓ | FP Markets |
| Resource | XM Group | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | ✗ | XM Group |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | XM Group |
Choose XM Group if you...
Choose FP Markets if you...
Both XM Group and FP Markets are top-tier brokers for Malta traders, each excelling in different areas. XM Group is best for beginners, low-budget traders, and those who prioritize local payment methods like Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. FP Markets is ideal for experienced traders, scalpers, and those who want the tightest spreads and fastest execution. Neither broker is regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), but both are backed by strong international regulators. For most Malta retail traders, XM Group offers a more accessible and user-friendly experience, while FP Markets rewards active traders with lower costs. Consider your trading style, deposit preferences, and volume to make the best choice.