Which broker is better for New Zealand traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
New Zealand traders looking for a reliable forex broker in 2025 often compare FBS and Hantec Markets due to their global presence and local accessibility. FBS, with a 3.7/5 rating, is known for its low costs, diverse account types, and support for modern payment methods like USDT TRC20, making it ideal for retail traders seeking flexibility. Hantec Markets, rated 3.6/5, offers a more traditional trading environment with competitive spreads and a focus on stability. Both brokers accept New Zealand residents and provide USD-denominated accounts, which is crucial for local traders who prefer trading in US dollars. This comparison covers key factors such as spreads, regulation, deposit options, and customer support tailored to the New Zealand market, helping you decide which broker aligns with your trading style and financial goals.
| Instrument | FBS | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | Hantec Markets |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | Hantec Markets |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | Hantec Markets |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | Hantec Markets |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $5 | $10 | Hantec Markets |
When comparing trading costs for New Zealand traders, FBS generally offers lower spreads, starting from 0.1 pips on its Zero Spread account, while Hantec Markets starts from 0.8 pips on its Standard account. For a typical New Zealand trader executing 10 lots per month, FBS can save up to $70 in spread costs compared to Hantec Markets. Both brokers charge no commission on standard accounts, but FBS’s tighter spreads benefit high-volume traders. Additionally, FBS provides a 100% deposit bonus that can reduce effective costs, though terms apply. Hantec Markets has no such promotions, making FBS more cost-effective for active New Zealand traders.
| Account Type | FBS | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $5 | $10 |
| Entity / Asset | FBS | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand (offshore) | Up to 1:3000 | Up to 1:500 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:3000 | 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 | FBS | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | FBS |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | FBS |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | ✗ | FBS |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | 1,700+ | Hantec Markets |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | FBS | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
FBS offers MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, which are widely preferred by New Zealand traders for their advanced charting tools and automated trading capabilities. Hantec Markets also provides MT4 and its proprietary web platform, but lacks MT5 support. For New Zealand traders who value mobile trading or algorithmic strategies, FBS’s MT5 gives an edge with more timeframes and order types. Both platforms are available on desktop, web, and mobile, ensuring seamless access from New Zealand. However, FBS’s broader platform choice better suits retail traders looking for flexibility and innovation.
| Factor | FBS | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | Hantec Markets |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | FBS |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
FBS uses NDD (No Dealing Desk) execution with an average execution speed of 0.3 seconds, suitable for scalping and high-frequency strategies popular among New Zealand traders. Hantec Markets also uses NDD execution but with a slightly slower average of 0.5 seconds. Both brokers offer no re-quotes, but FBS’s faster execution reduces slippage risks. For New Zealand traders focusing on tight spreads and quick trades, FBS provides a more efficient trading environment.
| Safety Factor | FBS | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | IFSC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✗ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
FBS is regulated by the International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) of Belize, while Hantec Markets is regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Neither broker is directly regulated by the local financial regulator in New Zealand, but both comply with international standards. For New Zealand traders, this means they are not covered by the local financial regulator’s compensation scheme. However, both brokers offer negative balance protection and segregated client funds. Hantec Markets has a longer operational history, which may appeal to risk-averse traders, while FBS’s IFSC regulation provides a baseline of oversight.
| Payment Method | FBS | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✗ |
| Withdrawal time | Electronic Wallets / Systems: Credited immediately to 30 minutes (processed 24/7 by the financial department).Cryptocurrency: Instant, though subject to blockchain network confirmations.Credit / Debit Cards: Average of 3 to 4 business days (internal processing takes 15–20 minutes, plus bank clearance).Bank Transfers: Usually processed within 7 to 10 business days. | Crypto / USDT: 1 to 3 hours (for eligible wallets)E-wallets: Within hours up to 1 dayBank / Wire Transfers: 2 to 5 business days |
New Zealand traders can fund their accounts at FBS using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20, with a minimum deposit of just $10. Hantec Markets supports Bank Transfer, Skrill, and Neteller, but does not accept USDT TRC20, with a minimum deposit of $50. FBS processes withdrawals within 24 hours via most methods, while Hantec Markets takes 1-3 business days. For New Zealand traders who prefer crypto deposits, FBS’s USDT TRC20 option offers fast, low-cost transfers. Both brokers charge no deposit fees, but FBS’s lower minimum and faster processing make it more convenient for retail traders. Bank Transfer remains a reliable option for larger sums at both brokers.
| Islamic Account Feature | FBS | Hantec 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 FBS and Hantec Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for New Zealand Muslim traders. FBS provides swap-free accounts on all account types without additional requirements, making it straightforward to open. Hantec Markets also offers Islamic accounts upon request, but may require proof of faith or a declaration. FBS’s policy is more inclusive and easier to access for New Zealand traders. Both brokers ensure no overnight interest is charged, complying with Sharia law. For New Zealand traders seeking a hassle-free Islamic account, FBS is the better choice.
| Support Feature | FBS | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | FBS |
FBS offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and phone, with English-speaking agents available for New Zealand traders. Hantec Markets provides support during market hours (Monday-Friday) via live chat and email, with slower response times. FBS’s round-the-clock support is advantageous for New Zealand traders in different time zones. Both brokers have FAQ sections, but FBS’s live chat is more responsive, ensuring quicker issue resolution.
| Mobile Feature | FBS | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | FBS |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | FBS |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Resource | FBS | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | FBS |
Choose FBS if you...
Choose Hantec Markets if you...
For New Zealand traders in 2025, FBS emerges as the stronger choice due to its lower costs, flexible payment options including USDT TRC20, and faster execution. Its 3.7/5 rating reflects better value for retail traders, especially those using Bank Transfer, Skrill, or Neteller. Hantec Markets (3.6/5) is a solid alternative for traders prioritizing a longer track record and simpler platform offerings. While neither broker is regulated by the local financial regulator, both provide adequate safeguards. Ultimately, FBS suits cost-conscious New Zealand traders, while Hantec Markets appeals to those seeking stability. Consider your trading style and deposit preferences when deciding.