FBSvs
HFMStock Broker Comparison
Two brokers square off in the stocks CFD space, both offering MT4/MT5 but with different regulatory profiles and market reach. The tension centers on safety, scope, and platform quality.
Our Verdict
HFM winsby 0.5 pts
HFM is the higher-scoring overall choice based on editorial scores. It benefits from a stronger regulatory framework, broader exchange access, and higher platform ratings than FBS.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1HFM holds top-tier regulatory status (FCA/DFSA) while FBS does not.
- 2HFM provides access to 8 exchanges versus FBS's 3.
- 3FBS uses a proprietary platform while HFM relies on MT4/MT5.
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
HFM is regulated by FCA and DFSA with investor compensation, signaling stronger safety.
Best for active traders
Recommended
FBS vs HFM: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.3/ 5 | 3.8/ 5 |
| Min deposit | $1 | No minimum▼ lower |
| Spreads from | 0 pips | 0 pips |
| Commission / lot | $20/lot | $6/lot▼ lower |
FBS vs HFM 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 HFM: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
1
FBS
criteria win
3
HFM
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | FBS | HFM |
|---|---|---|
| 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 HFM: Frequently Asked Questions
HFM rates 3.8/5 versus 3.3/5 for FBS. HFM edges ahead on our composite score, though both brokers meet a reasonable standard for most traders.
Both FBS and HFM 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.
HFM has no minimum deposit, while FBS requires at least $1. This makes HFM more accessible for traders with limited starting capital.
HFM holds top-tier regulation (FCA, FSCA, DFSA), 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.
HFM stands out for beginners: it has a lower entry point and provides negative balance protection, which caps losses at your deposited amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
FBS lists maximum leverage of 3000:1, while HFM 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.
HFM charges $6 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 HFM supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4.
Neither FBS nor HFM 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.
HFM 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.
