Which broker is better for United States traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
For United States traders operating under the strict oversight of the NFA and CFTC, choosing a forex broker is severely constrained: only brokers registered with these regulators are legal. EasyMarkets (score 3.4/5) and FP Markets (score 4.7/5) are both well-known globally, but neither holds NFA or CFTC registration. As a result, U.S. traders engaging with them do so outside the protection of local regulators. This comparison examines features like trading costs, platforms, and payment methods (Bank Wire, ACH, Credit Card) specifically for the U.S. context. While FP Markets scores higher overall and offers lower spreads, the critical regulatory barrier means U.S. traders must carefully weigh the risks. This content is for informational purposes to help you understand the differences should you explore options outside the compliant framework.
| Instrument | EasyMarkets | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | FP Markets |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | FP Markets |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | FP Markets |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | FP Markets |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $25 | $100 | FP Markets |
For United States traders, cost efficiency is vital, but both brokers present distinct spread structures. EasyMarkets offers fixed spreads (e.g., 2–3 pips on EUR/USD) with no commission, which suits lower-volume traders seeking predictability. FP Markets provides variable raw spreads from 0.0 pips plus a commission per lot (e.g., $3 per side). Given that U.S. traders may execute over 100 lots per month at an offshore broker, FP Markets’ raw account can save hundreds of dollars, though this is offset by lack of NFA oversight. EasyMarkets’ fixed spreads add up on high volume, making it more expensive. Neither broker provides the regulatory cost benefits of a true NFA member, so transparency is limited.
| Account Type | EasyMarkets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $25 | $100 |
| Entity / Asset | EasyMarkets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| United States (offshore) | Up to 1:2000 | Up to 1:500 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:2000 | 1:500 |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:200 | 1:200 |
| Indices | 1:100 | 1:100 |
| Cryptocurrencies | 1:2 to 1:10 | 1:2 to 1:10 |
| Asset Class | EasyMarkets | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | EasyMarkets |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | EasyMarkets |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | EasyMarkets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | 1,700+ | FP Markets |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Platform | EasyMarkets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✗ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✗ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✓ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✓ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✗ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
Platform choice can make or break a trader’s experience. EasyMarkets offers its proprietary web platform and mobile app, which feature unique risk management tools like dealCancellation and free guaranteed stops — attractive for risk-averse U.S. traders. FP Markets provides MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), along with cTrader, offering advanced charting, algorithmic trading, and fast execution. For U.S. traders accustomed to high customizability and automation, FP Markets’ platform suite is superior. However, note that MT4/MT5 from unregulated brokers are not hosted under U.S. jurisdiction, which affects data security and latency. EasyMarkets’ proprietary platforms are simpler but less flexible.
| Factor | EasyMarkets | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | FP Markets |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | EasyMarkets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
Execution quality varies between the two brokers. EasyMarkets uses a market maker model with fixed spreads, offering instant execution but potential requotes during high volatility. FP Markets operates as an ECN/STP broker, delivering direct market access with low latency and minimal requotes. For United States day traders needing fast fills on news events, FP Markets’ execution is superior, with average execution speeds under 30 ms. However, because FP Markets is not NFA-regulated, execution data is not audited by a U.S. authority. EasyMarkets’ execution is reliable but not as fast, which can impact scalping strategies.
| Safety Factor | EasyMarkets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | ASIC |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Regulation is the most critical factor for United States traders. Under NFA/CFTC rules, only brokers registered with these bodies can lawfully solicit U.S. clients. EasyMarkets is regulated by CySEC (Cyprus) and ASIC (Australia); FP Markets is regulated by ASIC and CySEC. Neither is registered with the NFA or CFTC. This means U.S. clients using these brokers face: no access to the NFA’s arbitration or compensation schemes, potential account closure, and possible legal liability. While FP Markets has a higher overall broker score, its regulatory standing for U.S. traders is identical to EasyMarkets: non-compliant. U.S. traders are strongly advised to use only NFA/CFTC-regulated brokers like OANDA or Forex.com for legal protection.
| Payment Method | EasyMarkets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✗ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | Cards 1-2 business days; e-wallets instant-1 business day; bank wire 3-10 business days; overall back-office processing within 1 business day (24h) | 24 hours |
United States traders can fund accounts at both EasyMarkets and FP Markets using Bank Wire, ACH, and Credit Card. EasyMarkets processes deposits instantly via credit card and ACH (1–2 business days), with no fees for ACH. Bank wire deposits take 2–5 days and may incur intermediary bank charges of $20–$30. FP Markets offers similar methods: credit card deposits are instant with possible cash advance fees, ACH (often free, 2–3 days), and bank wires (1–3 days with fees up to $15). Withdrawals at both brokers must typically be processed back to the original funding method. However, because neither broker is NFA-regulated, U.S. banks may reject or delay transfers. Ensure your bank allows international payments to these offshore entities before depositing. Using large amounts via bank wire may trigger AML scrutiny.
| Islamic Account Feature | EasyMarkets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Swap-free available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Admin fee instead of swap | On some instruments | On some instruments |
| MT4 / MT5 supported | ✓ | ✓ |
| How to apply | Contact support | Contact support |
Both EasyMarkets and FP Markets provide Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Muslim traders in the United States. These accounts eliminate overnight interest on positions, complying with Sharia law. EasyMarkets offers swap-free accounts on request without additional fees, though extended holding periods may incur administrative charges. FP Markets also provides Islamic accounts via live account application, with swap-free status on all major instruments. For United States Muslim traders, the availability is the same, but neither account is backed by NFA/CFTC oversight. Traders should verify that the broker’s swap-free terms are transparent and that no hidden commissions apply. Given the legal issues with using unregulated brokers, U.S. Muslim traders may be better served by NFA-regulated brokers offering Islamic accounts.
| Support Feature | EasyMarkets | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | EasyMarkets |
EasyMarkets offers 24/5 multilingual support via live chat, email, and phone, with average response times under 5 minutes. They do not provide a U.S.-based phone number. FP Markets supports 24/5 live chat, email, and phone, with a dedicated support desk for Australian office hours. For United States traders, time zone difference means FP Markets’ support may be less accessible during U.S. evening hours. Neither broker offers NFA-required dispute resolution services. Overall, EasyMarkets’ chat support is slightly more responsive, but both lack the regulatory accountability of a U.S.-regulated broker.
| Mobile Feature | EasyMarkets | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✓ | FP Markets |
| Resource | EasyMarkets | FP Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | ✗ | EasyMarkets |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | EasyMarkets |
Choose EasyMarkets if you...
Choose FP Markets if you...
For United States traders under NFA/CFTC oversight, the final verdict is cautionary. Neither EasyMarkets (3.4) nor FP Markets (4.7) is a legal choice for residents due to their lack of U.S. regulatory registration. That said, if we compare purely on features, FP Markets wins on trading costs, platform variety, execution, and overall score. EasyMarkets appeals to beginners with its fixed spreads and risk tools. Both accept Bank Wire, ACH, and Credit Card, but U.S. banks may restrict deposits and withdrawals. Ultimately, U.S. traders should prioritize NFA-regulated brokers for legal safety. This comparison serves as an informational guide; for compliant trading, seek brokers registered with the NFA/CFTC.