If you are looking for a forex broker to trade currencies online, FOREX.com is one of the established names worth researching.
In this FOREX.com review, we look at the broker’s trading platforms, forex pairs, spreads, fees, account types, minimum deposit, demo account, MetaTrader support, TradingView integration, regulation, customer support, and the main pros and cons traders should understand before opening an account.
FOREX.com is operated by companies within StoneX Group, a publicly traded financial services company. Its regulatory setup depends on where the customer is located. In Canada, GAIN Capital – FOREX.com Canada Ltd. is listed by the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) as an investment dealer.
Important: Forex and leveraged trading involve significant risk. This article is for informational and research purposes only and is not financial advice.
What Is FOREX.com?
FOREX.com is an online trading platform specializing in foreign exchange and leveraged trading.
The broker has operated under the FOREX.com brand since 2001 and is part of StoneX Group Inc., a publicly traded company listed on Nasdaq.
Depending on the country and account type, traders can access different markets and platforms. FOREX.com provides its own web and mobile trading experience while also supporting platforms such as MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and TradingView in applicable markets.
One of the broker’s major attractions is its range of currency pairs. Its U.S. offering currently advertises access to 80 forex pairs, although available products and features can differ between jurisdictions.
Is FOREX.com Legit?
A common search before opening a forex account is:
“Is FOREX.com legit?”
FOREX.com is an established broker operating through regulated entities in multiple jurisdictions.
Its U.S. entity, GAIN Capital Group LLC, operates as a registered Futures Commission Merchant and Retail Foreign Exchange Dealer and is a member of the National Futures Association. FOREX.com also lists regulatory relationships in Canada, the UK, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Cyprus and other jurisdictions.
In Canada, GAIN Capital – FOREX.com Canada Ltd. appears in CIRO’s dealer directory.
However, regulation does not mean trading is risk-free. Forex trading uses leverage, and losses can occur quickly.
FOREX.com Regulation
Regulation depends on the legal entity serving your account.
Some of the regulators associated with FOREX.com entities include:
- CIRO — Canada
- CFTC/NFA — United States
- FCA — United Kingdom
- ASIC — Australia
- FSA — Japan
- MAS — Singapore
- CySEC — Cyprus
- CIMA — Cayman Islands
FOREX.com states that customer funds are kept separate from its operating funds through its custody arrangements, with the exact protections depending on the relevant legal entity and jurisdiction.
Canadian traders should also understand that CIRO is Canada’s national self-regulatory organization overseeing investment dealers and trading activity on Canada’s debt and equity marketplaces.
FOREX.com Features
FOREX.com offers a broad selection of features designed for both newer and experienced forex traders.
Key FOREX.com Features
- Forex trading
- Multiple trading platforms
- Web-based trading
- Mobile trading
- MetaTrader 4
- MetaTrader 5
- TradingView integration
- Demo account
- Technical charting
- Market research
- Reuters news in supported platforms
- Performance Analytics
- Expert Advisors through MetaTrader
- FX Blue tools
- VPS availability for eligible MT accounts
- Different pricing models
- High-volume trader programs in applicable markets
The exact availability of these features depends on the country where your account is registered.
FOREX.com Trading Platforms
One of the biggest advantages of FOREX.com is its selection of trading platforms.
1. FOREX.com Web Trading Platform
The proprietary web platform lets traders access their account through a browser without downloading traditional desktop software.
FOREX.com says its web platform includes TradingView charting, more than 80 indicators, Reuters news and additional trading and analytics tools.
This can be useful for traders who want to combine chart analysis, market information and order management in one interface.
2. FOREX.com Mobile App
The FOREX.com mobile platform allows traders to monitor markets and manage positions from a smartphone.
Features promoted by FOREX.com include:
- Mobile trading
- One-swipe trading
- TradingView charts and tools
- Performance Analytics
- Market information
- Account management
3. MetaTrader 4
MT4 remains one of the most widely recognized forex trading platforms.
FOREX.com supports MetaTrader 4 in applicable markets and provides access to forex trading, technical indicators and automated trading capabilities.
FOREX.com also advertises additional tools through FX Blue for supported MetaTrader accounts.
4. MetaTrader 5
FOREX.com also supports MetaTrader 5, the newer generation of the MetaTrader platform.
The broker advertises features including:
- Advanced charting
- Technical indicators
- Expert Advisors
- FX Blue tools
- VPS hosting for eligible accounts
- Multiple timeframes
- Advanced market search
5. TradingView
Another major feature is TradingView integration.
Traders can connect a FOREX.com account with TradingView in supported markets and use TradingView’s charting and trading interface.
This is particularly relevant for traders who already use TradingView for technical analysis.
FOREX.com Forex Pairs
FOREX.com provides access to a large selection of currency pairs.
Its U.S. website currently advertises 80 FX pairs, although the exact number available depends on the jurisdiction and account.
Forex markets generally include:
- Major currency pairs
- Minor currency pairs
- Exotic currency pairs
Popular forex pairs include combinations such as:
- EUR/USD
- GBP/USD
- USD/JPY
- USD/CAD
- AUD/USD
- USD/CHF
- NZD/USD
Availability and spreads can change based on market conditions and location.
FOREX.com Fees and Trading Costs
Understanding FOREX.com fees is important before opening an account.
The broker uses different pricing models depending on the account and jurisdiction.
In the U.S., FOREX.com currently advertises both Spread-Only and RAW Pricing structures.
Spread-Only Account
With a spread-only account, the trading cost is primarily incorporated into the bid/ask spread rather than a separate commission.
FOREX.com currently advertises EUR/USD spreads as low as 1.2 pips on its U.S. spread-only pricing page, although actual spreads vary with market conditions.
RAW Pricing Account
The RAW pricing structure is designed for traders looking for tighter spreads.
FOREX.com advertises EUR/USD spreads as low as 0.0 pips under RAW pricing, with a $7 USD commission per $100,000 traded in its U.S. offering.
A 0.0-pip advertised minimum should not be interpreted as a permanent spread. Spreads fluctuate based on liquidity and market volatility.
FOREX.com specifically notes that spreads can become wider during periods of high volatility or low liquidity.
FOREX.com Minimum Deposit
The minimum deposit can depend on the account and jurisdiction.
For example, FOREX.com states that its U.S. spread-only account can be opened with as little as $100, while the broker says it recommends a larger starting amount for greater flexibility and risk management.
Potential customers should check the funding requirements displayed for their specific country before opening an account because account conditions are not identical worldwide.
FOREX.com Demo Account
If you are new to forex trading, the FOREX.com demo account can be useful for learning the platform without immediately committing real money.
A demo account can allow traders to become familiar with:
- Charts
- Order types
- Position management
- Technical indicators
- Trading platforms
- Risk-management tools
However, demo trading is not identical to trading with real money. Market conditions, execution and psychology can differ.
FOREX.com Research and Trading Tools
FOREX.com provides market research and analytical tools alongside its trading platforms.
Some of the available tools include:
Performance Analytics
Performance Analytics is designed to help traders examine their trading behavior and results.
This can help users identify patterns in their trading activity rather than simply looking at individual winning or losing trades.
Reuters News
FOREX.com provides integrated Reuters news on supported platforms, giving traders access to financial news alongside their trading interface.
FX Blue
For supported MetaTrader accounts, FOREX.com advertises access to FX Blue tools, including indicators and Expert Advisors.
FOREX.com Customer Support
Customer support is another factor to consider when comparing forex brokers.
FOREX.com provides customer support and account assistance, although the exact contact methods and availability can vary by region.
Before opening an account, traders should check the support options available to customers in their country.
FOREX.com Pros and Cons
FOREX.com Pros
Established broker: FOREX.com has been operating under the brand since 2001 and is part of StoneX Group.
Regulated entities: FOREX.com operates through regulated entities in multiple jurisdictions.
Large forex selection: The U.S. platform advertises 80 FX pairs.
Multiple platforms: Traders can choose between FOREX.com platforms, MetaTrader and TradingView where available.
TradingView integration: Useful for traders who prefer TradingView’s charting environment.
MetaTrader support: MT4 and MT5 are available in applicable markets.
RAW pricing: Eligible U.S. customers can access pricing with spreads advertised as low as 0.0 pips plus commission.
Research tools: Reuters news, Performance Analytics and other trading tools are available.
Demo account: Beginners can practice using a demo environment before trading real money.
FOREX.com Cons
Not all features are available everywhere: Account types, markets, leverage, pricing and platforms can vary by jurisdiction.
Spreads are variable: Advertised minimum spreads are not guaranteed at all times.
Leverage increases risk: Forex trading can result in rapid losses, particularly when positions are highly leveraged.
RAW pricing includes commission: The tighter-spread structure isn’t simply “free trading”; commission applies to qualifying RAW trades.
Platform choice can be confusing for beginners: Having proprietary platforms, MT4, MT5 and TradingView may be useful, but new traders may need time to understand which platform fits their strategy.
Country-specific restrictions: A product available to a U.S. trader may not be available to a Canadian, UK or Australian customer.
FOREX.com vs MetaTrader
It is important to understand that FOREX.com and MetaTrader are not the same thing.
FOREX.com is the broker.
MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 are trading platforms that can be used through supported brokers.
Therefore, when someone searches for FOREX.com MT4 or FOREX.com MT5, they are generally looking for information about using these platforms with their FOREX.com account.
FOREX.com vs TradingView
TradingView is primarily known for its charting, market analysis and trading interface.
FOREX.com provides TradingView integration in supported markets.
For traders who already use TradingView, connecting a compatible FOREX.com account can provide a more familiar charting environment.
The availability of the integration should be confirmed for your specific jurisdiction.
Who Is FOREX.com For?
FOREX.com may be relevant to traders looking for:
- A dedicated forex broker
- Multiple trading platforms
- MetaTrader support
- TradingView integration
- Forex research
- Technical analysis tools
- Demo trading
- Different pricing structures
- Access to a large selection of currency pairs
Beginners should spend time learning how forex, leverage, margin and risk management work before trading real money.
Experienced traders may be more interested in factors such as spreads, commissions, execution, platform compatibility and available currency pairs.
Is FOREX.com Good for Beginners?
FOREX.com offers several features that can be useful for beginners, including demo trading, educational resources, charting tools and multiple platforms.
However, the broker itself does not remove the risks associated with forex trading.
A beginner should understand:
- What a pip is
- How leverage works
- What margin means
- How stop-loss orders work
- How spreads affect profitability
- How position sizing works
- Why volatile markets can produce rapid losses
Starting with a demo account can be one way to become familiar with the platform before risking real capital.
Is FOREX.com Safe?
FOREX.com operates through regulated entities and is part of StoneX Group.
In Canada, its Canadian entity is listed by CIRO. In the United States, its relevant entity is registered with the CFTC and is an NFA member.
That said, broker regulation and trading safety are two different concepts.
Regulation provides a framework for the broker’s operations and customer protections, but it does not protect a trader from losses caused by unsuccessful trades.
Final Thoughts on FOREX.com
FOREX.com is an established forex trading brand with a broad selection of currency pairs, multiple trading platforms and different pricing structures.
Its platform lineup includes its proprietary trading environment as well as MT4, MT5 and TradingView in applicable markets. The broker also provides research and analytical tools such as Reuters news, Performance Analytics and FX Blue tools.
The most important point for prospective customers is that FOREX.com’s exact fees, products, leverage, account types and protections depend on the legal entity and country where the account is opened.
For that reason, prospective traders should review the current terms for their specific jurisdiction before depositing money.
FOREX.com Review — Quick Summary
| Feature | FOREX.com |
|---|---|
| Broker type | Forex / leveraged trading broker |
| Founded/brand history | FOREX.com brand operating since 2001 |
| Parent company | StoneX Group Inc. |
| Forex pairs | Up to 80 advertised in U.S. offering |
| Trading platforms | FOREX.com, MT4, MT5, TradingView where available |
| Demo account | Available |
| Pricing | Spread-only and RAW pricing in applicable markets |
| RAW pricing | Spreads advertised as low as 0.0 pips in U.S. offering |
| RAW commission | $7 USD per $100,000 traded in U.S. offering |
| Minimum deposit | Depends on jurisdiction/account |
| Regulation | Depends on legal entity |
| Mobile trading | Available |
| Market research | Available |
| Reuters news | Available on supported platforms |
| Risk level | Forex and leveraged trading carry significant risk |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FOREX.com a legitimate broker?
Yes. FOREX.com operates through regulated entities in multiple jurisdictions and is part of StoneX Group. Its Canadian entity is listed as a CIRO investment dealer, while its U.S. entity is registered with the CFTC and is an NFA member.
Is FOREX.com available in Canada?
FOREX.com operates through a Canadian entity listed by CIRO. Canadian residents should review the current Canadian account terms, products and protections before opening an account.
Does FOREX.com have a demo account?
Yes. FOREX.com provides demo trading functionality so prospective traders can practice using its trading environment before trading with real money.
Does FOREX.com support MT4?
Yes. MetaTrader 4 is supported in applicable markets.
Does FOREX.com support MT5?
Yes. MetaTrader 5 is available in applicable markets and provides advanced charting and Expert Advisor functionality.
Does FOREX.com work with TradingView?
FOREX.com offers TradingView integration in supported markets.
What are FOREX.com’s fees?
FOREX.com uses different pricing structures depending on the market and account. Its U.S. offering includes spread-only pricing and RAW pricing. RAW pricing currently advertises spreads as low as 0.0 pips and a $7 commission per $100,000 traded.
What is the FOREX.com minimum deposit?
The minimum deposit depends on the jurisdiction and account type. The U.S. spread-only account currently lists a minimum deposit of $100.
Can you trade forex on FOREX.com?
Yes. Forex is the broker’s core offering, with the U.S. platform currently advertising access to 80 currency pairs.
Is FOREX.com good for beginners?
FOREX.com provides a demo account, educational material and several trading tools that can help beginners learn the platform. However, forex and leveraged trading are inherently risky, so beginners should understand leverage, margin, spreads and position sizing before trading real money.
Does FOREX.com charge commissions?
It depends on the pricing model. Spread-only accounts generally incorporate the trading cost into the spread, while RAW pricing uses tighter spreads plus a commission in applicable markets.
Disclosure: This FOREX.com review is for educational and informational purposes only. Forex and leveraged trading involve substantial risk and may not be suitable for every investor. Always verify current fees, products, regulations and account conditions directly with FOREX.com for your country before opening an account.
