FBSvs
FXOpenStock Broker Comparison
Two brokers compete on regulatory quality, exchange coverage, and stock CFD execution. The tension lies between offshore oversight and broader global access.
Our Verdict
FXOpen winsby 0.3 pts
FXOpen outpaces FBS with a higher editorial score. FXOpen also benefits from top-tier regulation, broader exchange access, and a compensation scheme, while FBS relies on offshore oversight and fewer exchanges.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1FXOpen has top-tier regulation (FCA/ASIC) while FBS relies on offshore oversight.
- 2FXOpen provides a compensation scheme for client funds, FBS does not.
- 3FXOpen covers five exchanges, FBS covers three.
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
Recommended
FXOpen wins for safety and regulation with FCA/ASIC oversight and FSCS protection.
Best for active traders
Recommended
FBS vs FXOpen: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.3/ 5 | 3.6/ 5 |
| Min deposit | $1▼ lower | $100 |
| Spreads from | 0 pips | 0 pips |
| Commission / lot | $20/lot | $3/lot▼ lower |
FBS vs FXOpen Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- $1 minimum deposit, widest accessibility for equity CFD markets
- MT4/MT5 with full EA support for automated stock strategies
- 24/7 multilingual support across Asian and CIS markets
Cons
- Offshore regulation (IFSC Belize), minimal investor protection
- Limited stock selection vs dedicated equity brokers
FBS vs FXOpen: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
1
FBS
criteria win
3
FXOpen
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | FBS | FXOpen |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Fail | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Fail | Pass |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Fail | 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 | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Pass | Pass |
FBS vs FXOpen: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: FBS rates 3.3/5 and FXOpen rates 3.6/5. FXOpen 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.
Both FBS and FXOpen start from the same spread of 0. For stock trading, also compare per-trade or per-share commissions to determine the total cost per transaction.
FBS has $1, while FXOpen requires at least $100. This makes FBS more accessible for traders with limited starting capital.
FXOpen holds top-tier regulation (FCA, ASIC, CySEC), providing stronger investor protections. FBS may be regulated but does not hold top-tier status in our data. Verify regulatory status on each regulator's public register before depositing funds.
For beginners, two factors stand out: FBS requires a lower minimum deposit ($1), lowering the barrier to entry, and FXOpen provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
FBS lists maximum leverage of 3000:1, while FXOpen lists up to 500:1. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
FXOpen charges $3 per trade, lower than FBS's $20 per trade. Lower commissions benefit active traders who execute many trades per day. Stock commissions may be charged as a flat rate per trade or per share; confirm the exact structure on each broker's website.
FBS supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, while FXOpen supports cTrader, MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4. FXOpen has exclusive access to cTrader.
Neither FBS nor FXOpen 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.
FXOpen scores higher on investor protection criteria, with compensation scheme coverage and segregated client funds. For stock investors, confirming compensation scheme coverage ensures your assets are protected up to a defined limit if the broker becomes insolvent.
