FP Markets vs Freetrade Stock Broker Comparison
A head-to-head comparison of FP Markets and Freetrade across regulation, commissions, platforms, and editorial scoring.
FP Markets offers direct-access share CFD trading via IRESS alongside standard MT4/MT5/cTrader share CFDs - a differentiated dual-model approach under ASIC and CySEC regulation that suits both ECN forex traders and equity-focused clients.
Freetrade's clean mobile interface and support for both ISAs and SIPPs make it one of the best commission-free options for UK long-term investors. Its stock selection is good but narrower than full-service brokers.
FP Markets and Freetrade are extremely closely matched with scores of 4.1/5 and 4/5. The right choice depends on your individual trading priorities.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of stock trader, based on costs, safety, features, and editorial scoring.
Freetrade offers commission-free trading while FP Markets does not, making Freetrade the more cost-effective choice for frequent stock traders.
FP Markets has a stronger safety profile: top-tier regulation, compensation scheme, segregated funds, negative balance protection.
Freetrade is better suited for long-term investing: fractional shares.
Both brokers offer equivalent conditions for active trading across commissions, platforms, and charting tools.
FP Markets edges out Freetrade with a higher editorial score (4.1/5 vs 4/5), indicating a stronger overall experience for new stock investors.
FP Markets vs Freetrade: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
| Editorial score | 4.1/ 5 | 4.0/ 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Min deposit | $100 | N/A |
| Commission-free | No | Yes |
| Fractional shares | No | Yes |
| Dividend reinvestment | No | No |
| Extended hours | No | No |
| IPO access | No | No |
| Short selling | Yes | No |
| Regulators | ASIC CySEC | FCA |
| Platforms | MetaTrader 4 MetaTrader 5 cTrader TradingView IRESS | Freetrade App |
| Active bonuses | None | 2 offers |
| Visit broker | Visit FP Markets | Visit Freetrade |
FP Markets vs Freetrade Stock Broker Pros & Cons
- IRESS platform provides genuine DMA access to ASX, NYSE, LSE, and other exchanges
- 10,000+ share CFDs available on MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView
- ASIC and CySEC regulation - among the strongest regulatory profiles for a mid-tier broker
- No platform fee for standard share CFD trading (IRESS fee only for DMA users)
- IRESS DMA incurs a monthly fee (~AUD 55) - uneconomical for low-frequency traders
- CFD-only for most share access; DMA limited to IRESS users
- IRESS has a steeper learning curve than MetaTrader or TradingView
- Not available to US residents
- Commission-free stocks and ETF trading
- Both Stocks & Shares ISA and SIPP available
- Clean, beginner-friendly mobile interface
- FCA regulated with FSCS protection
- No minimum deposit requirement
- Narrower stock universe than full-service brokers
- Advanced features require paid Plus subscription (£9.99/month)
- No desktop application - mobile only
- Limited research tools and market data
FP Markets vs Freetrade: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
| Criteria | FP Markets | Freetrade |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Pass | Fail |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Pass | Pass |
| Costs | ||
| Commission-free trading | Fail | Pass |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Fail | Pass |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Fail | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Fail | Fail |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Pass | Fail |
| Stock screener tool | Pass | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Pass | Fail |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Pass | Fail |
FP Markets vs Freetrade: Frequently Asked Questions
Based on our independent editorial scoring, FP Markets ranks higher with a score of 4.1/5 vs 4/5 for Freetrade. The best choice still depends on your needs — commissions, features like fractional shares, and regulatory coverage all matter.
Freetrade offers commission-free stock trading while FP Markets does not according to our data. Commission-free trading can significantly reduce costs for frequent traders. Always confirm the current fee structure directly on each broker's website.
Both FP Markets and Freetrade hold top-tier regulatory licences, indicating a high standard of investor protection. Confirm each broker's specific regulatory bodies and compensation scheme coverage to ensure they apply in your jurisdiction.
FP Markets requires a minimum deposit of $100. Minimum deposit information is not currently available for the other broker.
FP Markets supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView, IRESS and Freetrade offers Freetrade App. Platform availability affects the tools, charting, and order types available to you. If you rely on a specific platform like MetaTrader or a proprietary web app, confirm compatibility before opening an account.
For beginners: FP Markets offers negative balance protection; FP Markets has a higher overall editorial score. Also compare educational resources, customer support quality, and the simplicity of each broker's platform before deciding.
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