Written by ForexBrokers.com
In this head to head comparison of HFM vs IFC Markets, we will compare the trading platforms, mobile apps, range of investments, costs, market research, and more. Let's dive in.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 51% and 89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
HFM and IFC Markets are online brokers that offer diverse trading options to individuals and organizations, though they differ in terms of regulatory strength and trust scores. Founded in 2010, HFM boasts a ForexBrokers.com Trust Score of 86, placing it in the "trusted" category. HFM holds two Tier-1 licenses considered highly reliable and three Tier-2 licenses. Established in 2006, IFC Markets has a Trust Score of 73, labeling it as an "average risk" broker. IFC Markets does not hold any Tier-1 licenses but has one Tier-2 license, indicating a more moderate regulatory foundation compared to HFM.
Neither HFM nor IFC Markets is publicly traded or operates as a bank. While HFM's licensing and higher trust score may appeal to those prioritizing oversight, IFC Markets could attract traders looking for a slightly older brokerage with its own regulatory advantages. Both brokers offer distinct trading platforms, and their varied regulatory standings might suit different trading approaches and preferences.
| Feature |
HFM
|
IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
| Year Founded | 2010 | 2006 |
| Publicly Traded (Listed) | No | No |
| Bank | No | No |
| Tier-1 Licenses | 2 | 0 |
| Tier-2 Licenses | 3 | 1 |
| Tier-3 Licenses | 0 | 0 |
| Tier-4 Licenses | 2 | 1 |
When comparing the commission and fee structures of online brokers HFM and IFC Markets, both offer traders distinct cost considerations. HFM's trading costs are slightly above the industry average, with its standard trading accounts typically featuring a spread of 1.2 pips, although this is not an average spread as no data range is provided, indicating it could vary. In contrast, HFM's Zero account offers a more competitive spread of 0.7 pips after commission, again without averaging data. Overall, HFM earns a commendable rating of 4 out of 5 stars for its commissions and fees.
Unlike HFM, IFC Markets does not provide average spread data, making a direct comparison challenging. However, it also receives a 4-star rating, suggesting its fees structure is regarded positively within the market. Although specific spread data is not available, traders considering IFC Markets can expect a level of cost satisfaction comparable to other brokers.
In terms of rankings by ForexBrokers.com, HFM is positioned at #31 out of 62 brokers for commissions and fees, reflecting its slight advantage over IFC Markets, which holds the #39 spot. Both brokers hold competitive positions within the industry, with their rankings and star ratings offering potential traders insight into the relative cost-effectiveness of their trading offerings.
| Feature |
HFM
|
IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | $0 | $1 |
| Average Spread EUR/USD - Standard | 1.2 | 1.44 |
| All-in Cost EUR/USD - Active | 0.7 | N/A |
| Active Trader or VIP Discounts | No | Yes |
| ACH or SEPA Transfers | No | No |
| PayPal (Deposit/Withdraw) | No | No |
| Skrill (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | No |
| Visa/Mastercard (Credit/Debit) | Yes | Yes |
| Bank Wire (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Low Spread Forex Brokers.
When comparing the range of investments offered by HFM and IFC Markets, both brokers provide forex trading through CFDs or spot contracts. HFM presents an extensive selection with 500 tradable symbols and 102 forex pairs, a broader variety compared to IFC Markets' 630 tradable symbols but only 49 forex pairs. However, neither broker facilitates the direct purchase of exchange-traded securities on U.S. exchanges, such as Apple shares. Where IFC Markets stands out is in international exchanges by allowing clients to buy shares like Vodafone, a feature unavailable with HFM.
For those interested in modern trading options, both HFM and IFC Markets offer copy trading and cryptocurrency derivatives without providing actual cryptocurrencies. In terms of ratings, HFM slightly outperforms with 4 stars for their range of investments compared to IFC Markets' 3.5 stars. Moreover, HFM ranks higher at #36 out of 62 brokers in the Range of Investments category on ForexBrokers.com, whereas IFC Markets holds the #43 position. This comparison highlights HFM's edge in offering a broader forex selection, while IFC Markets provides opportunities on international exchanges.
| Feature |
HFM
|
IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
| Forex Trading (Spot or CFDs) | Yes | Yes |
| Tradeable Symbols (Total) | 500 | 630 |
| Forex Pairs (Total) | 102 | 49 |
| U.S. Stock Trading (Non CFD) | No | No |
| Int'l Stock Trading (Non CFD) | No | Yes |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| Cryptocurrency (Physical) | No | No |
| Cryptocurrency (Derivative) | Yes | Yes |
| Disclaimers | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). |
Dive deeper: Best Copy Trading Platforms.
When evaluating trading platforms and tools, both HFM and IFC Markets provide a range of features tailored for traders at all levels. Each broker offers a free virtual demo account, allowing users to engage in simulated trading to hone their skills without risking actual funds. Both companies provide proprietary platforms developed in-house, alongside popular options like MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which are available for download on Windows-based desktops and can be accessed through web browsers. Copy trading is supported by both brokers, facilitating traders to mirror successful strategies. However, platforms like DupliTrade and ZuluTrade are not available through either broker. When it comes to tools, HFM features 30 drawing tools for charting compared to IFC Markets' 15, while both brokers allow for direct trading from stock charts.
In terms of user-friendly functionality, both HFM and IFC Markets allow for robust customization of watch lists with seven fields each. Despite similarities, there are distinctions in their analytics features. While both brokers have been rated 4 stars for their trading platforms and tools, they differ in their rankings on ForexBrokers.com, with HFM placed at #42 and IFC Markets at #36 out of 62 brokers. This difference may reflect slight variations in their platform offerings and user experiences but highlights their competitive standing in the industry. Whether you choose HFM or IFC Markets, both provide a comparable suite of platforms and tools for effective trading strategies.
| Feature |
HFM
|
IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Trading (Demo) | Yes | Yes |
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes |
| Desktop Platform (Windows) | Yes | Yes |
| Web Platform | Yes | Yes |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | Yes | Yes |
| DupliTrade | No | No |
| ZuluTrade | No | No |
| Charting - Indicators / Studies (Total) | 15 | 30 |
| Charting - Drawing Tools (Total) | 30 | 15 |
| Charting - Trade From Chart | Yes | Yes |
| Watchlists - Total Fields | 7 | 7 |
Dive deeper: Best MetaTrader 4 Brokers, Best MetaTrader 5 Brokers.
When it comes to mobile trading, both HFM and IFC Markets have developed apps for iPhone and Android, making trading accessible on the go. Each platform offers stock and forex price alerts along with real-time quotes in customizable watchlists. Charting tools on both apps are well-equipped, providing users with 30 technical studies and the ability to draw trendlines. Users can also view charts across multiple timeframes, with auto-saving features for any chart drawings.
Despite these similarities, there are key differences between the HFM and IFC Markets apps. One notable distinction is in watchlist syncing. IFC Markets allows users to sync their watchlists between the app and the online account, whereas HFM does not support this feature. Both mobile apps earn a 4-star rating for their performance, but HFM ranks higher in the Mobile Trading Apps category by ForexBrokers.com, coming in at #39 compared to IFC Markets at #52. This ranking may influence users who prioritize seamless integration and are looking for a slightly higher-rated trading experience.
| Feature |
HFM
|
IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| Apple iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes |
| Watchlist Syncing | No | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Indicators / Studies | 30 | 30 |
| Mobile Charting - Draw Trendlines | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Multiple Time Frames | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Drawings Autosave | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Watchlist | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Forex Trading Apps.
When comparing market research features between HFM and IFC Markets, both brokers provide daily market commentary, offering traders timely insights into market trends. However, HFM takes a slight edge by integrating forex news from high-profile sources like Bloomberg and Reuters, whereas IFC Markets does not provide access to such sources. Additionally, HFM pulls ahead by incorporating tools from Autochartist, enhancing technical and fundamental analysis capabilities, a feature not available with IFC Markets. Both brokers, however, offer sentiment-based trading tools and economic calendars, helping traders make informed decisions based on market sentiments and global events. Neither broker currently offers research tools from Trading Central, TipRanks, or Acuity Trading.
In terms of research ratings, HFM provides a more robust offering with a 4-star rating out of 5, placing it at the 20th spot among 62 brokers as ranked by ForexBrokers.com. On the other hand, IFC Markets, with a rating of 3.5 stars, is positioned at the 40th rank. Both brokers cater to traders looking for market analysis, though HFM offers a more comprehensive package, especially beneficial for those who value access to high-tier news and advanced analytical tools.
| Feature |
HFM
|
IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
| Daily Market Commentary | Yes | Yes |
| Forex News (Top-Tier Sources) | Yes | No |
| Autochartist | Yes | No |
| Trading Central (Recognia) | No | No |
| Social Sentiment - Currency Pairs | Yes | Yes |
| TipRanks | No | No |
| Signal Centre (Acuity Trading) | No | No |
| Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Brokers for Forex Research.
When it comes to educational resources for beginners, both HFM and IFC Markets provide a substantial selection of material to help you get started in forex or CFDs trading. Each broker offers more than ten educational pieces, including articles and videos, with a focus on forex or CFDs. Additionally, they both deliver a suite of beginner videos to help newcomers understand trading basics, as well as advanced videos for experienced traders. HFM rises above with its regular monthly webinars, which are accessible live, coupled with a searchable archive of past sessions; a feature that IFC Markets does not offer.
For those who prefer learning through written resources, both HFM and IFC Markets provide investor dictionaries with an extensive list of over 50 terms. However, HFM slightly edges out IFC Markets in overall educational quality, reflected by a four-star rating compared to IFC Markets' 3.5 stars. Interestingly, in the rankings by ForexBrokers.com, IFC Markets is ranked higher at 30th compared to HFM's 37th place, which could be attributed to different educational strengths valued by users.
| Feature |
HFM
|
IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
| Education (Forex or CFDs) | Yes | Yes |
| Client Webinars | Yes | No |
| Client Webinars (Archived) | Yes | No |
| Videos - Beginner Trading Videos | Yes | Yes |
| Videos - Advanced Trading Videos | Yes | Yes |
| Investor Dictionary (Glossary) | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Forex Brokers for Beginners.
After testing 62 of the best forex brokers, our research and account testing finds that HFM is better than IFC Markets. HFM finished with an overall rank of #30, while IFC Markets finished with an overall rank of #44.
Alongside its enhanced MetaTrader offering and quality research, HFM (HF Markets), previously known as HotForex, offers a proprietary copy trading platform, HFcopy, a proprietary HF mobile app, and a decent selection of over 1,000 CFDs and 47 forex pairs. Still, trading costs at HFM are slightly above the industry average.
| Feature |
HFM
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IFC Markets
|
|---|---|---|
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| Trust Score | 86 | 73 |
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Both HFM and IFC Markets provide opportunities to trade cryptocurrency derivatives, but neither offers the option to purchase actual, delivered cryptocurrencies.
Both HFM and IFC Markets do not support ACH, SEPA, or PayPal for deposits and withdrawals, but they both allow transactions via Visa, Mastercard, and bank wires, with HFM additionally offering Skrill as an option where IFC Markets does not.
Please note:
We review each broker’s overall global offering – a “Yes” checkmark in our Compare Tool does not guarantee the availability of any specific features in your country of residence. To verify the availability of any features within your country of residence, please contact the broker directly.
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0 of 5| Overall Rating | HFM | IFC Markets | |
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| Trust Score | 86 | 73 | |
| Winner | check_circle | ||
| Review | HFM Review |
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| Regulation | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 86 | 73 | |
| Year Founded | 2010 | 2006 | |
| Publicly Traded (Listed) | No | No | |
| Bank | No | No | |
| Regulated in one or more EU or EEA countries (MiFID). | Yes | No | |
| Tier-1 Licenses | 2 | 0 | |
| Tier-2 Licenses | 3 | 1 | |
| Tier-3 Licenses | 0 | 0 | |
| Tier-4 Licenses | 2 | 1 |
| Tier-1 Licenses (Highly Trusted) | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia (ASIC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Canada (CIRO Authorised) | No | No | |
| Hong Kong (SFC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Japan (SFC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Singapore (MAS Authorised) | No | No | |
| Switzerland (FINMA Authorised) | No | No | |
| United Kingdom (U.K.) (FCA Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| USA (CFTC Authorized) | No | No | |
| New Zealand (FMA Authorised) | No | No | |
| Regulated in one or more EU or EEA countries (MiFID). | Yes | No |
| Tier-2 Licenses (Trusted) | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya (CMA Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| Israel (ISA Authorised) | No | No | |
| South Africa (FSCA Authorised) | Yes | Yes | |
| UAE (DFSA/Central Bank Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| India (SEBI Authorised) | No | No | |
| Jordan (JSC Authorised) | No | No |
| Investments | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex Trading (Spot or CFDs) | Yes | Yes | |
| Tradeable Symbols (Total) | 500 | 630 | |
| Forex Pairs (Total) | 102 | 49 | |
| U.S. Stock Trading (Non CFD) | No | No | |
| Int'l Stock Trading (Non CFD) | No | Yes | |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes | |
| Cryptocurrency (Physical) | No | No | |
| Cryptocurrency (Derivative) | Yes | Yes | |
| Disclaimers | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). |
| Cost | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Spread EUR/USD - Standard | 1.2 | 1.44 | |
| All-in Cost EUR/USD - Active | 0.7 | N/A | |
| Active Trader or VIP Discounts | No | Yes | |
| Inactivity Fee | Yes | No | |
| Execution: Agency Broker | No | Yes | |
| Execution: Market Maker | Yes | Yes |
| Funding | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | $0 | $1 | |
| PayPal (Deposit/Withdraw) | No | No | |
| Skrill (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | No | |
| Visa/Mastercard (Credit/Debit) | Yes | Yes | |
| Bank Wire (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes | |
| ACH or SEPA Transfers | No | No |
| Trading Platforms | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes | |
| Desktop Platform (Windows) | Yes | Yes | |
| Web Platform | Yes | Yes | |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | Yes | Yes | |
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | Yes | Yes | |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | Yes | Yes | |
| cTrader | No | No | |
| DupliTrade | No | No | |
| ZuluTrade | No | No |
| Trading Tools | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Trading (Demo) | Yes | Yes | |
| Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes | |
| Watchlists - Total Fields | 7 | 7 | |
| Charting - Indicators / Studies (Total) | 15 | 30 | |
| Charting - Drawing Tools (Total) | 30 | 15 | |
| Charting - Trade From Chart | Yes | Yes | |
| Charts can be saved | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Trading | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android App | Yes | Yes | |
| Apple iOS App | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Watchlist | Yes | Yes | |
| Watchlist Syncing | No | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Indicators / Studies | 30 | 30 | |
| Mobile Charting - Draw Trendlines | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Multiple Time Frames | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Drawings Autosave | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
| Research | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Market Commentary | Yes | Yes | |
| Forex News (Top-Tier Sources) | Yes | No | |
| Autochartist | Yes | No | |
| Trading Central (Recognia) | No | No | |
| TipRanks | No | No | |
| Social Sentiment - Currency Pairs | Yes | Yes | |
| Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
| Education | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education (Forex or CFDs) | Yes | Yes | |
| Client Webinars | Yes | No | |
| Client Webinars (Archived) | Yes | No | |
| Videos - Beginner Trading Videos | Yes | Yes | |
| Videos - Advanced Trading Videos | Yes | Yes | |
| Investor Dictionary (Glossary) | Yes | Yes |
| Major Forex Pairs | HFM | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| GBP/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/JPY | Yes | Yes | |
| EUR/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/CHF | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/CAD | Yes | Yes | |
| NZD/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| AUD/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| Review | HFM Review |
| Overall | HFM | IFC Markets | |
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| Trust Score | 86 | 73 | |
| Winner | check_circle | ||
| Review | HFM Review |
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