ATFXvs
CMC MarketsStock Broker Comparison
Two multi-asset brokers compete in the stock CFD space, each with different platform ecosystems and coverage. The tension centers on regulation strength, platform tools, and global access.
Our Verdict
CMC Markets winsby 0.3 pts
CMC Markets outperforms ATFX on editorial score due to stronger trust & regulation and superior platforms.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1Exchanges covered: CMC Markets offers 20 vs ATFX's 12.
- 2Live chat available 24/5: CMC Markets yes; ATFX no.
- 3Research tools and stock screener: only CMC Markets provides.
Who should choose ATFX vs CMC Markets?
Find out which stock broker best suits your investing profile.
Choose ATFX if…
Choose ATFX if you prioritise access to 12 exchanges and you do not require 24/5 live chat. You also get multi-jurisdictional regulation across CySEC, FSCA and FCA.
Choose CMC Markets if…
Choose CMC Markets if you want access to 20 exchanges and round-the-clock support with live chat. You also benefit from research tools, stock screener, and a proprietary Next Generation platform.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of stock trader, based on costs, safety, features, and editorial scoring.
Best for safety & regulation
It’s a tie
Both equally suited
CMC Markets has the broader regulator footprint, enhancing safety via top-tier oversight.
Best for active traders
Recommended
ATFX vs CMC Markets: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.7/ 5 | 4.0/ 5 |
| Min deposit | No minimum | No minimum |
| Spreads from | 1.8 pips | 0.7 pips▼ lower |
| Commission / lot | N/A | N/A |
| Inactivity fee | None | £10/month (after 12 months) |
| Deposit fee |
ATFX vs CMC Markets Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- FCA and CySEC regulated, dual tier-1 coverage with FSCS and ICF protection
- 200+ share CFDs across US, UK, EU, and Asian markets
- Zero minimum deposit with MT4/MT5 platform access
Cons
- CFDs only, no real share ownership or ISA/SIPP wrapper
- Commission structure less competitive than ECN-focused alternatives
ATFX vs CMC Markets: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
0
ATFX
criteria wins
2
CMC Markets
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | ATFX | CMC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Pass | Pass |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Pass | Pass |
| Costs | ||
| Commission-free trading | Fail | Fail |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Fail | Fail |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Fail | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Fail | Fail |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Pass | Pass |
| Stock screener tool | Fail | Pass |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Fail | Pass |
| Phone support | Pass | Pass |
ATFX vs CMC Markets: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: ATFX rates 3.7/5 and CMC Markets rates 4/5. CMC Markets 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.
CMC Markets lists tighter spreads from 0.7, compared with ATFX's 1.8. For stock trading, also factor in any per-trade or per-share commissions — spreads and commissions together determine the true cost per trade.
Neither ATFX nor CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit, making both accessible regardless of starting capital.
Both ATFX and CMC Markets hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each broker's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, both brokers provide negative balance protection. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each broker's site before deciding.
ATFX lists maximum leverage of 400:1, while CMC Markets lists up to 20:1. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
ATFX supports MetaTrader 4, while CMC Markets supports ProRealTime, Proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 4. CMC Markets has exclusive access to ProRealTime and Proprietary Web/Mobile.
Neither ATFX nor CMC Markets is listed as offering commission-free trading in our data. Compare each broker's commission schedule directly, as fees vary by account type and the markets you trade.
Both ATFX and CMC Markets are covered by a compensation scheme according to our data, providing an additional safety net for your stock investments. Confirm the specific scheme and coverage limit that applies to your account before depositing.
