FXCM and Skilling offer crypto CFDs under different regulatory regimes and platform ecosystems. The tension centers on asset breadth and pricing approaches.
FXCM and Skilling are closely matched overall, with coin selection distinguishing them as Skilling offers 40+ crypto CFDs versus FXCM's 4.
Which exchange wins for each type of crypto trader, based on security, fees, coin selection, and editorial scoring.
FXCM is best for security because it carries FCA/ASIC oversight and FSCS protection.
Skilling wins for low fees with no inactivity fee and competitive spreads.
| Criteria | ||
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.8/ 5 | 3.7/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | $50 | $50 |
| Spreads From | 0.4 pips▼ lower | 0.7 pips |
| Taker Fee | N/A | N/A |
| Inactivity Fee | $50/month (after 12 months) | $10/month (after 90 days)▼ lower |
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
| Criteria | FXCM | Skilling |
|---|---|---|
| Security | ||
| Cold storage for assets | Fail | Fail |
| Proof of reserves published | Fail | Fail |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Fail | Pass |
| Transparent pricing page | Pass | Fail |
| Features | ||
| Staking available | Fail | Fail |
| DeFi integration | Fail | Fail |
| NFT trading | Fail | Fail |
| 500+ coins listed | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Pass | Fail |
The scores are close: FXCM rates 3.8/5 and Skilling rates 3.7/5. FXCM has a marginal edge in our scoring, but the difference is small enough that your specific priorities — fees, platforms, or regulatory jurisdiction — should guide the final choice.
FXCM lists a lower spread from 0.4, compared with Skilling's 0.7. Crypto trading costs are typically quoted as a percentage of the trade value; check each exchange's full fee schedule, as maker/taker rates and volume discounts vary.
Both FXCM and Skilling require a minimum deposit of $50 to start trading crypto.
Both FXCM and Skilling hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each exchange's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, both exchanges provide negative balance protection. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each exchange's site before deciding.
FXCM offers up to 2:1 on perpetual or margin products, versus Skilling's 2:1 cap. Margin and futures trading carry higher risk than spot crypto; confirm product availability and jurisdiction-specific limits on each exchange's website.
FXCM supports ZuluTrade, Proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4, NinjaTrader, while Skilling supports cTrader, Skilling Trader, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 4. FXCM has exclusive access to ZuluTrade and Proprietary Web/Mobile and NinjaTrader. Skilling has exclusive access to cTrader and Skilling Trader.
Skilling scores better on fee criteria (no deposit fee, no inactivity fee). Always check both exchanges' current fee schedules, as maker/taker rates and withdrawal fees vary and are subject to change.
FXCM is best for beginners due to its long track record and established platform.
Equally matched; neither offers DeFi access or Web3 features.
| Deposit Fee |
|---|
| Free |
| Free |
| Deposit methods | Bank transferCredit cardDebit cardSkrill | Bank transferCredit cardDebit cardSkrillNeteller |
|---|
| Withdrawal methods | Bank transferCredit cardSkrill | Bank transferCredit cardSkrillNeteller |
|---|
| Withdrawal Fee | Free for first per month | Free |
|---|
| Regulators | FCA ASIC | FCA FSCA CySEC |
|---|
| Cold Storage | No | No |
|---|
| Proof of Reserves | No | No |
|---|
| Staking | No | No |
|---|
| DeFi Integration | No | No |
|---|
| NFT Trading | No | No |
|---|
| 500+ Coins | No | No |
|---|
| P2P Trading | No | No |
|---|
| Crypto Earn / Savings | No | No |
|---|
| Token Launchpad | No | No |
|---|
Dig deeper into each broker’s features, fees, and regulation.
Score 3.7 / 5
Personalised recommendation
Answer 6 quick questions and we’ll match you with the brokers that best fit your trading style, experience level, and country.
Find my broker