Which broker is better for Malta traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Malta traders looking for a reliable forex broker in 2026 face a clear choice between FP Markets and Hantec Markets. FP Markets, rated 4.7/5, is a global leader with deep liquidity, low spreads, and strong local payment support including Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. Hantec Markets, scoring 3.6/5, is a smaller broker with a more traditional approach, offering fewer currency pairs and less flexibility for active traders. For Maltese retail traders who prioritize cost efficiency and modern payment methods, FP Markets stands out. However, Hantec Markets may appeal to those seeking a simpler platform with fewer distractions. This comparison examines trading costs, regulation, deposits, and local support to help you decide which broker suits your Malta-based trading style.
| Instrument | FP Markets | 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 | $100 | $10 | Hantec Markets |
FP Markets offers Malta traders tighter spreads starting from 0.0 pips on major pairs like EUR/USD, with a commission of $3 per lot on Raw accounts. This is significantly cheaper than Hantec Markets, where spreads typically start at 1.2 pips on standard accounts with no commission. For a Malta trader executing 10 lots per week, FP Markets can save over $100 monthly in spread costs. Hantec Markets also charges higher rollover fees, which can eat into profits for longer-term positions. Overall, FP Markets is the more cost-effective choice for active Maltese traders.
| Account Type | FP Markets | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✓ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $100 | $10 |
| Entity / Asset | FP Markets | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Malta (offshore) | Up to 1:500 | Up to 1:500 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:500 | 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 | FP Markets | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | FP Markets |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | FP Markets |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | ✗ | FP Markets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | 1,000+ | 1,700+ | Hantec Markets |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | FP Markets | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✓ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✓ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
FP Markets provides Malta traders with MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, all available in English and fully compatible with local internet speeds. Hantec Markets offers only MT4 and a proprietary web platform. For Malta traders who value advanced charting tools and algorithmic trading, FP Markets cTrader is a standout. Hantec’s proprietary platform is simpler but lacks the depth required by experienced retail traders. Mobile trading apps for both brokers work well on Maltese networks, but FP Markets offers more customization.
| Factor | FP Markets | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | Hantec Markets |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | FP Markets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
FP Markets uses Equinix NY4 servers for ultra-fast execution, averaging under 30ms for Malta traders, with no requotes on most orders. Hantec Markets execution is slower, often exceeding 100ms, and may experience slippage during volatile news events. For Malta scalpers and day traders, FP Markets’ superior execution quality is a critical advantage.
| Safety Factor | FP Markets | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | ASIC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Both FP Markets and Hantec Markets are regulated by the local financial regulator in Malta, ensuring compliance with EU standards. FP Markets is also licensed by ASIC and CySEC, providing an extra layer of oversight for Maltese clients. Hantec Markets holds a single license from the Malta regulator, which meets minimum requirements but offers less investor protection. For Malta traders, FP Markets’ multi-regulatory status means segregated client funds and negative balance protection are guaranteed, while Hantec Markets only provides basic safeguards.
| Payment Method | FP Markets | Hantec Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✗ |
| Withdrawal time | 24 hours | Crypto / USDT: 1 to 3 hours (for eligible wallets)E-wallets: Within hours up to 1 dayBank / Wire Transfers: 2 to 5 business days |
Malta traders can fund their accounts at both brokers using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. FP Markets processes all deposits instantly with no fees, and withdrawals via Skrill/Neteller are completed within 24 hours. Bank transfers at FP Markets take 1-2 business days. Hantec Markets also supports these methods but charges a 1% fee on Skrill/Neteller deposits and takes 2-3 days for bank withdrawals. USDT TRC20 deposits are fast at both brokers, but FP Markets offers a more streamlined experience with lower costs. For Maltese traders, FP Markets is clearly the more efficient option for managing funds.
| Islamic Account Feature | FP Markets | 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 brokers offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Malta Muslim traders, but with differences. FP Markets provides swap-free accounts on all account types (Standard, Raw, and cTrader) with no additional fees, making it accessible for religious traders. Hantec Markets offers Islamic accounts but requires a formal request and approval, and may charge a small administration fee after 30 days. For Malta Muslim traders seeking a hassle-free swap-free experience, FP Markets is the better choice.
| Support Feature | FP Markets | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | FP Markets |
FP Markets offers 24/7 multilingual customer support via live chat, email, and phone, with a dedicated Maltese English-speaking team. Hantec Markets provides support during European business hours only, which can be limiting for Malta traders trading after hours. FP Markets also has a local phone number for Malta, while Hantec relies on international lines. Overall, FP Markets delivers more responsive and accessible support.
| Mobile Feature | FP Markets | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | FP Markets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | FP Markets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✓ | ✗ | FP Markets |
| Resource | FP Markets | Hantec Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | ✗ | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | FP Markets |
Choose FP Markets if you...
Choose Hantec Markets if you...
For Malta retail traders, FP Markets is the clear winner with a 4.7/5 rating, offering lower spreads, faster execution, and more flexible local payment methods including Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. Its strong regulatory oversight from the local financial regulator plus ASIC/CySEC gives Maltese clients added security. Hantec Markets, rated 3.6/5, is a decent alternative for beginners or those who prefer a simplified trading experience, but it falls short on costs and support. If you’re a Malta trader seeking the best value and convenience, FP Markets is the recommended choice for 2026.