Get To Know Our Team
The following team members have contributed to writing, editing, reviewing, and verifying the information in this article:
Arnold K.
Arnold is a financial journalist specializing in Forex and brokers. With a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Communication & Advertising, he blends creativity and analytical insight in his work. Arnold is known for his detailed analyses of forex markets and broker performance, emphasizing strategic decision-making in trading. His writing, featured on many platforms, aims to educate readers on navigating forex complexities. Passionate about technology and continuous learning, Arnold remains a trusted voice in the financial sector.
Oluwapelumi A.
Oluwapelumi A. is a financial journalist specializing in brokers and cryptocurrency. He holds a Higher National Diploma from The Polytechnic, Ibadan. As an independent journalist, his work has been published on premier broker sites, providing insightful analyses on broker performance and market trends. His investing style focuses on dollar-cost averaging, and his expertise includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, and Algorand. A firm believer in the transformative power of Bitcoin and blockchain, Oluwapelumi shares knowledge on how these technologies can shape the future financial system. Outside of writing, he enjoys meeting new people and exploring new experiences.
Adetola F.
Adetola is a financial journalist and market analyst. He holds a B.Sc. in Educational Media and Technology from the University of Ilorin. Specializing in swing and position trading, Adetola has expertise in currencies, cryptocurrencies, gold, and stocks. Known for his consistent performance and extensive experience, he has trained numerous successful students worldwide. Adetola frequently publishes articles, educational videos, and live market reviews to help others navigate the complexities of financial markets.
Updated as of: April 30, 2025
Markets.com
Disclaimer: This information should not be distributed or used in any country where it would violate local laws or regulations.
Top Brokers
Pros and Cons
- Low spreads
- High leverage options
- Wide range of trading assets
- Comprehensive educational resources
- Responsive customer support
- Advanced trading features
- Fast trade execution
- No cTrader platform
- Limited local payment options
- Withdrawal processing time could be faster
Regulation and Safety: Is Markets.com a Secure Platform?
When selecting an online broker, particularly for traders in emerging markets like Africa, one of the primary concerns is the security and regulatory compliance of the platform.
Markets.com has earned a solid reputation in this regard by being regulated by several major financial authorities worldwide.
The most significant regulators overseeing Markets.com include the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
These regulatory bodies are recognized globally for their stringent standards, ensuring that the broker adheres to important rules surrounding transparency, client protection, and fund safety.
The FSCA regulation is particularly relevant for African traders, offering local legal recourse and safeguarding traders’ funds in the event of disputes.
Beyond regulatory compliance, Markets.com employs several security measures designed to protect its clients’ funds and personal data.
For instance, all client funds are stored in segregated accounts, a standard practice among regulated brokers that ensures the company cannot use these funds for its operational expenses.
Additionally, Markets.com uses top-tier encryption technology to protect sensitive information, making it very difficult for third parties to access private data.
One of the key benefits for traders, particularly those new to trading or with smaller accounts, is the presence of negative balance protection.
This feature ensures that traders cannot lose more than the amount they initially deposited, offering security in the event of market volatility or extreme price fluctuations.
In countries across Africa, where economic conditions and currency volatility can sometimes be unpredictable, this feature is invaluable for risk management.
Markets.com is also part of several investor compensation schemes, which serve as an additional safety net for clients.
For instance, under CySEC regulation, clients are protected by the Investor Compensation Fund (ICF), which compensates traders up to €20,000 if the broker becomes insolvent.
Similarly, the FCA offers protection under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) for UK-based clients, which provides compensation of up to £85,000.
Although these schemes may not apply directly to all African countries, they reinforce the broker’s commitment to client protection.
Range of Markets and Instruments
Markets.com is widely regarded as a multi-asset broker, offering an impressive range of over 2,200 trading instruments.
This level of variety is particularly advantageous for African traders who wish to diversify their investment portfolios across different asset classes.
The availability of multiple instruments means that traders can trade various assets without switching platforms, making Markets.com a one-stop shop for all their trading needs.
Forex Trading
Forex trading remains one of the most popular markets for traders, particularly in Africa, where currency volatility offers both risks and opportunities.
Markets.com provides access to over 60 currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic pairs.
This wide range allows traders to execute different strategies, whether focusing on stable major currencies like EUR/USD or taking advantage of the higher volatility in exotic pairs like USD/ZAR (U.S. Dollar/South African Rand).
For African traders, the ability to trade exotic currency pairs, such as the South African Rand, is a significant advantage.
These pairs often experience higher volatility due to political, economic, or external market factors, providing the potential for large price movements and profit opportunities.
However, it is essential to note that exotic pairs also come with wider spreads due to lower liquidity, and traders must be prepared to manage this risk effectively.
The forex market on Markets.com operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, allowing traders in different African time zones to trade at times that suit them.
Whether a trader is based in South Africa, Nigeria, or Kenya, they have the flexibility to enter and exit trades without being restricted by traditional market hours.
This flexibility is particularly useful for traders who wish to balance trading with other responsibilities, such as a full-time job or education.
Commodities Trading
African economies are heavily influenced by commodity prices, especially in countries rich in natural resources such as oil, gold, and agricultural products.
Markets.com offers traders access to a broad range of commodity markets, including:
- Precious Metals: Gold and silver remain popular assets for hedging against inflation and economic instability. Gold, in particular, is widely regarded as a safe-haven asset, and its price tends to rise during times of economic uncertainty.
- Energy Products: Crude oil and natural gas are essential commodities in the global economy. African traders, especially those from oil-producing nations like Nigeria, often keep a close eye on these markets due to their significant impact on national economies.
- Agricultural Commodities: Agricultural products such as wheat, corn, and coffee are also available on the platform. These markets are crucial for traders who want to diversify their portfolios with soft commodities that have a different price behavior compared to financial assets like stocks or currencies.
For traders in Africa, commodities trading is an excellent way to hedge against local economic challenges, such as inflation or currency devaluation.
By investing in globally traded commodities like gold or oil, traders can potentially protect the value of their investments even when their local currencies are under pressure.
Stocks and Indices Trading
In addition to forex and commodities, Markets.com provides access to a vast array of stocks and indices.
Traders can choose from thousands of stocks across global exchanges, including major companies listed in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
This broad selection gives African traders the ability to diversify into international markets and gain exposure to leading companies worldwide.
Markets.com also offers access to indices trading, allowing traders to speculate on the overall performance of a stock market rather than individual companies.
Popular indices include the S&P 500, FTSE 100, and NASDAQ. Index trading is an excellent option for traders who want exposure to entire markets while mitigating the risks associated with individual stock movements.
For African traders, indices provide a more diversified and potentially lower-risk entry into the stock market.
Local traders will also appreciate the inclusion of African-listed companies.
Markets.com provides access to stocks from exchanges like the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), allowing traders to invest in companies with which they are already familiar.
Whether traders are looking to invest in international tech giants or local energy producers, Markets.com offers ample choice.
Cryptocurrency Trading
Cryptocurrencies have gained significant popularity in Africa, particularly in countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, where digital currencies are increasingly viewed as a hedge against inflation and currency instability.
Markets.com offers access to some of the most popular cryptocurrencies, including:
- Bitcoin (BTC): The most well-known and widely traded cryptocurrency, Bitcoin continues to attract traders due to its high volatility and potential for significant price movements.
- Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization and offers opportunities for traders who want to diversify within the crypto space.
- Ripple (XRP): Ripple is another popular digital currency, particularly favored for its use in cross-border payments and financial institutions.
- Litecoin (LTC): Litecoin, often referred to as the silver to Bitcoin’s gold, offers traders another option for speculating on the price movements of digital assets.
One of the key advantages of trading cryptocurrencies on Markets.com is the ability to trade these assets 24/7, as the crypto markets never close.
This feature is particularly beneficial for African traders who may wish to trade outside traditional market hours due to time zone differences or personal schedules.
The platform also provides leverage on cryptocurrency trades, allowing traders to magnify their exposure and potential profits.
However, it’s important to note that leverage also increases the risk, and traders should approach it with caution.
Trading Platforms and Technology
Markets.com offers its users a selection of powerful and intuitive trading platforms, ensuring that traders can access the markets in the way that best suits their needs.
Whether traders prefer web-based platforms, mobile trading, or advanced desktop software, Markets.com has options that cater to different trading styles and preferences.
Marketsx Platform
The proprietary Marketsx platform is one of the standout features of Markets.com, designed to provide a seamless and user-friendly trading experience.
Available on desktop, web, and mobile devices, Marketsx is a multi-functional platform that caters to traders of all experience levels.
Here are some of the key features of Marketsx:
- Advanced Charting Tools: Marketsx offers more than 80 technical indicators and advanced charting options, allowing traders to perform in-depth technical analysis and identify trading opportunities.
- News and Market Analysis: The platform integrates real-time news feeds and market analysis from leading financial news providers, ensuring that traders stay informed about market events that could impact their trades.
- Economic Calendar: An economic calendar is built into the platform, providing traders with information on upcoming economic events, such as interest rate decisions, GDP releases, and employment reports. This feature is especially useful for fundamental analysis.
- One-Click Trading: Marketsx offers a one-click trading feature that allows traders to execute trades quickly, which can be crucial during periods of high volatility.
- Customizable Interface: Traders can customize the layout of the platform to suit their personal preferences, making the trading experience more intuitive and comfortable.
For African traders, the ability to access Marketsx across multiple devices is a significant advantage.
Whether a trader is using a desktop computer at home, a tablet at work, or a smartphone while on the move, they can manage their trades efficiently.
This flexibility ensures that traders never miss out on market opportunities, regardless of their location or time constraints.
MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5
For traders who prefer the familiarity of the MetaTrader platforms, Markets.com offers both MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5).
These platforms are renowned for their advanced features and widespread use in the trading community, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced traders.
- Expert Advisors (EA): Both MT4 and MT5 support automated trading through Expert Advisors, allowing traders to set up algorithms that execute trades based on predefined criteria. This feature is especially useful for traders who want to take advantage of market opportunities without having to monitor the markets constantly.
- Multiple Charting Options: MetaTrader platforms offer a wide range of chart types, timeframes, and technical indicators, enabling traders to perform comprehensive technical analysis.
- Risk Management Tools: Both platforms support many order types, including stop-loss, take-profit, and trailing stop orders, which are essential for managing risk and protecting capital.
For African traders who are already familiar with MT4 or MT5, the availability of these platforms on Markets.com makes the transition to this broker seamless.
Traders can continue to use the tools and features they are accustomed to while benefiting from the extensive range of assets and competitive pricing offered by Markets.com.
Fees and Account Types
One of the most important factors for traders when choosing a broker is the fee structure.
Markets.com operates on a spread-only model, meaning that traders are not charged additional commissions on their trades.
This is particularly appealing to traders who want to keep their trading costs low and straightforward.
The spreads on Markets.com are competitive, especially on major currency pairs and popular assets.
Spread and Commission Structure
The spreads on Markets.com vary depending on the asset being traded, but they are generally in line with industry standards.
For instance, the spread on the popular EUR/USD currency pair is typically around 0.7 pips, which is competitive compared to other brokers.
However, traders should be aware that spreads can widen during periods of low liquidity or high market volatility, which is common during major news events or after-hours trading.
| Asset | Spread |
| EUR/USD | 0.7 pips |
| USD/ZAR | 50 pips |
| Gold | 0.3 points |
| Bitcoin | 0.75% |
In addition to competitive spreads, Markets.com does not charge deposit or withdrawal fees, which is another significant advantage for African traders who want to minimize their trading costs.
However, traders should always check with their payment provider, as some banks or e-wallet services may charge their fees for transactions.
Account Types
Markets.com offers several account types designed to cater to the needs of different traders, whether they are beginners or experienced professionals:
- Standard Account: The Standard Account is the most popular option for retail traders, offering access to all the tradable assets on the platform. The minimum deposit is $100, making it accessible to traders who are just starting out. This account type is ideal for African traders who want a straightforward trading experience without additional fees or complexity.
- Professional Account: The Professional Account is designed for experienced traders who meet certain eligibility criteria, such as trading large volumes or having relevant professional qualifications. This account type offers higher leverage and more advanced features, but traders must be aware of the additional risks involved in professional trading.
- Islamic Account: Markets.com also offers an Islamic account option that complies with Sharia law by eliminating overnight swap fees. This account type is ideal for Muslim traders who want to trade in accordance with their religious beliefs.
Customer Support and Educational Resources
Markets.com places a strong emphasis on customer support, providing traders with multiple ways to get help when they need it.
The broker offers 24/5 customer service via live chat, email, and phone, ensuring that traders can resolve any issues quickly and efficiently.
For African traders, this level of support is crucial, particularly when dealing with technical difficulties or time-sensitive trading matters.
In addition to its responsive customer support, Markets.com provides a wealth of educational resources designed to help traders improve their knowledge and skills.
These resources include:
- Webinars: Markets.com offers regular live webinars on various trading topics, ranging from technical analysis to risk management. These webinars are an excellent resource for traders in Africa who are keen to learn from experienced professionals and gain practical insights into the financial markets.
- Video Tutorials: The broker’s video tutorials cover everything from platform usage to advanced trading strategies. These step-by-step guides are ideal for beginners who want to familiarize themselves with the platform and learn how to place trades.
- Market Analysis: Markets.com provides daily and weekly market reports that offer traders insights into potential market movements. These reports are invaluable for traders who want to stay informed about global economic events and their impact on the financial markets.
Payment Methods: Deposits and Withdrawals
Markets.com offers more than 10 payment methods that cater to traders in Africa, making it easy to deposit funds and withdraw profits.
The available payment options include:
- Bank Transfers: This is a reliable option for traders who prefer traditional banking methods. However, bank transfers may take several business days to process, so traders who need faster access to their funds might prefer other options.
- Credit and Debit Cards: Markets.com accepts Visa and Mastercard, which are widely used across Africa. Card payments are processed almost instantly, allowing traders to fund their accounts and start trading immediately.
- E-Wallets: For traders who prefer faster transactions, Markets.com supports popular e-wallets such as PayPal and Skrill. These methods are particularly popular among African traders due to their convenience and quick processing times.
Markets.com does not charge fees for deposits or withdrawals, which is a significant advantage for traders looking to minimize their costs.
However, traders should be aware that their payment provider may charge its fees for processing transactions, so it’s important to check with the bank or e-wallet service before making a deposit or withdrawal.
Visit the official website: www.markets.comConclusion
In conclusion, Markets.com offers African traders a robust and comprehensive trading platform that provides access to a wide range of financial markets, including forex, stocks, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
With its strong regulatory standing, competitive fees, and advanced trading platforms, Markets.com is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced traders in Africa.
The broker’s commitment to customer support, education, and security further enhances its appeal, making it a reliable partner for traders looking to navigate the financial markets.
Whether you are new to trading or a seasoned professional, Markets.com provides the tools, resources, and support you need to succeed.
From its user-friendly proprietary platform to its flexible account types and diverse range of assets, Markets.com is well-positioned to meet the needs of African traders in a fast-evolving global market.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Markets.com regulated?
Yes, Markets.com is regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
What is the minimum deposit for Markets.com?
The minimum deposit for Markets.com is $100.
Does Markets.com offer a demo account?
Yes, Markets.com offers a demo account for traders to practice and familiarize themselves with the platform.
What payment methods are accepted by Markets.com?
Markets.com accepts various payment methods including local bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller.
Does Markets.com offer negative balance protection?
Yes, Markets.com offers negative balance protection to ensure that traders do not lose more than their account balance.
What trading platforms does Markets.com support?
Markets.com supports multiple trading platforms including MT4, MT5, and their proprietary platform.
How fast is the trade execution on Markets.com?
Trade execution on Markets.com is very fast, typically within 0.02 seconds.
Are there any fees for deposits and withdrawals on Markets.com?
No, Markets.com does not charge any fees for deposits and withdrawals.
Does Markets.com offer educational resources?
Yes, Markets.com offers a wide range of educational resources including webinars, video tutorials, market news, and eBooks.
Can I trade on Markets.com using a mobile app?
Yes, Markets.com offers a mobile trading app available on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Resources
Get To Know Our Team
The following team members have contributed to writing, editing, reviewing, and verifying the information in this article:
Arnold K.
Arnold is a financial journalist specializing in Forex and brokers. With a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Communication & Advertising, he blends creativity and analytical insight in his work. Arnold is known for his detailed analyses of forex markets and broker performance, emphasizing strategic decision-making in trading. His writing, featured on many platforms, aims to educate readers on navigating forex complexities. Passionate about technology and continuous learning, Arnold remains a trusted voice in the financial sector.
Oluwapelumi A.
Oluwapelumi A. is a financial journalist specializing in brokers and cryptocurrency. He holds a Higher National Diploma from The Polytechnic, Ibadan. As an independent journalist, his work has been published on premier broker sites, providing insightful analyses on broker performance and market trends. His investing style focuses on dollar-cost averaging, and his expertise includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, and Algorand. A firm believer in the transformative power of Bitcoin and blockchain, Oluwapelumi shares knowledge on how these technologies can shape the future financial system. Outside of writing, he enjoys meeting new people and exploring new experiences.
Adetola F.
Adetola is a financial journalist and market analyst. He holds a B.Sc. in Educational Media and Technology from the University of Ilorin. Specializing in swing and position trading, Adetola has expertise in currencies, cryptocurrencies, gold, and stocks. Known for his consistent performance and extensive experience, he has trained numerous successful students worldwide. Adetola frequently publishes articles, educational videos, and live market reviews to help others navigate the complexities of financial markets.
Top Brokers
Updated as of: April 30, 2025