Which broker is better for Malta traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
For Maltese traders navigating the forex market in 2025, choosing between FXTM (ForexTime) and Global Prime is a common dilemma. Both brokers accept clients from Malta and offer USD-denominated accounts, but they cater to slightly different trading styles. FXTM, with a 4.3/5 rating, is a well-known multi-asset broker regulated by CySEC, offering over 1,000 instruments, flexible account tiers, and direct support for local payment methods like Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and even USDT TRC20. Global Prime (3.6/5) is an Australian-founded ECN broker focused on low-latency execution and raw spreads, making it popular among scalpers and algo traders. Malta’s vibrant trading community, supported by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) framework, benefits from both brokers’ strong regulation – though FXTM’s EU license and localised support in English give it an edge for most retail traders. This comparison examines spreads, platforms, regulation, and local payment convenience to help you decide.
| Instrument | FXTM | Global Prime | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | Global Prime |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | Global Prime |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | Global Prime |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | Global Prime |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $200 | $0 | Global Prime |
For Malta traders, trading costs are a key differentiator. FXTM offers standard accounts with spreads from 1.3 pips on EUR/USD (no commission) and a Zero Account from 0.0 pips plus a $3–$4 commission per lot per side. Global Prime operates an ECN model with raw spreads from 0.0 pips and a fixed $3.50 commission per lot round-turn. For a Maltese trader executing 20 lots per month on EUR/USD, FXTM’s Zero Account costs about $140 in commission, while Global Prime’s cost is $70 + a tiny spread on volatile pairs. However, FXTM’s standard account suits lower-volume traders who prefer simple pricing. Both brokers offer competitive swaps for holding positions overnight, with FXTM’s swap rates clearly listed and Global Prime’s varying by instrument. Overall, Global Prime has lower raw costs for active traders, but FXTM provides more predictable costs for casual retail clients.
| Account Type | FXTM | Global Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✗ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✓ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✓ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $200 | $0 |
| Entity / Asset | FXTM | Global Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Malta (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 | FXTM | Global Prime | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | FXTM |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | ✗ | FXTM |
| Crypto CFDs | ✗ | ✗ | FXTM |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | ✗ | Global Prime |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | FXTM | Global Prime |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✗ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
Both brokers offer MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), the gold standards for Maltese retail traders. FXTM also provides its proprietary FXTM Trader app (mobile-friendly) and integrates with TradingView for chart analysis. Global Prime focuses exclusively on MT4/MT5 with an advanced version that includes Depth of Market (DOM) and VPS for algo traders. For Malta-based traders who need reliable execution on local internet connections, FXTM’s MT4/MT5 servers in London (low latency) and Global Prime’s Equinix NY4 servers ensure minimal delay. FXTM’s web-based platform is handy for quick access without download. If you value multiple platform choices and a mobile app, FXTM wins; if you prioritise pure MT4/MT5 with raw feeds, Global Prime is strong.
| Factor | FXTM | Global Prime | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | Global Prime |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | FXTM |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
Execution quality matters for Maltese scalpers and day traders. FXTM offers No Dealing Desk (NDD) execution on its ECN accounts with low latency – average execution speed around 40ms. Global Prime is built for speed with direct market access (DMA) and co-located servers in London – execution typically under 30ms with no requotes on most orders. Both brokers have fair slippage policies, but Global Prime is slightly faster for high-frequency strategies. For most Maltese retail traders, the difference is marginal, though Global Prime’s edge appeal to algorithmic traders. FXTM’s execution is more than adequate for standard trading.
| Safety Factor | FXTM | Global Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | FCA | ASIC |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✗ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Regulation is critical for Maltese traders. FXTM is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) – an EU regulator aligned with MFSA standards – offering negative balance protection, investor compensation (up to €20,000), and segregation of client funds. Global Prime is authorised by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and also holds a license from the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC). While ASIC regulation is respected, it is not an EU regulator, so Maltese clients do not have access to the same compensation schemes as with CySEC. For Malta traders, FXTM’s EU regulatory umbrella provides additional comfort, especially for retail clients who value the security of the Investor Compensation Fund. Global Prime compensates with a clean track record and strict operational controls, but the regulatory difference tilts in FXTM’s favour.
| Payment Method | FXTM | Global Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✗ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✗ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | 24 hours (often in 30 minutes),Credit / Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard): 1 to 3 business days. | Global Prime processes withdrawals instantly on their end, but the time to receive your funds depends on your payment method: bank wire transfers take 1 to 5 business days, credit or debit cards take 1 to 10 days, and e-wallets are instant once completed. |
Both brokers support Bank Transfer, Skrill, and Neteller for Maltese clients, but FXTM also accepts USDT TRC20 – a major advantage for crypto-savvy traders in Malta. FXTM processes deposits instantly for e-wallets and crypto, while bank wires take 1–3 business days. Withdrawals are free via e-wallets and crypto (USDT), but bank transfers may attract intermediary fees. Global Prime supports Bank Transfer and Skrill (Neteller is not listed), with withdrawals processed within 24 hours for e-wallets and 2–5 days for bank transfers. Neither broker charges internal deposit fees, but currency conversion to USD may apply if you fund in EUR. For Malta traders who prefer using Tether (USDT) via TRC20 for faster, low-cost transfers, FXTM is the clear choice. For those sticking to traditional bank wires, both brokers are comparable.
| Islamic Account Feature | FXTM | Global Prime |
|---|---|---|
| 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 FXTM and Global Prime offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Maltese Muslim traders. FXTM provides swap-free status for all account types upon request – submit proof of Islamic faith (e.g., ID or declaration) and no swap is charged on overnight positions. Note that FXTM may apply a small administration fee for trades held beyond 3–5 days to cover operational costs. Global Prime also offers Islamic accounts on its ECN platform with no overnight swap, but a flat fee may be charged for very long-held positions. Both brokers comply with Sharia principles by not earning or paying interest. For Maltese traders seeking an Islamic account, FXTM’s streamlined process and broader account choice (including cent accounts) are more flexible, while Global Prime’s solution is straightforward but limited to standard account types.
| Support Feature | FXTM | Global Prime | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | FXTM |
Customer support is vital for Malta traders. FXTM offers 24/5 live chat, email, and phone support in English and several other languages – response times are usually under 5 minutes. Its Malta-specific page provides local contact details and a dedicated account manager for VIP clients. Global Prime provides support via live chat (business hours), email, and a knowledge base. Response quality is good, but support hours are limited to Sydney time (AEST), which may not align perfectly with Malta’s UTC+1. For Maltese retail traders who need immediate assistance during European trading hours, FXTM’s support is more accessible and responsive.
| Mobile Feature | FXTM | Global Prime | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | FXTM |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | FXTM |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Resource | FXTM | Global Prime | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | ✗ | FXTM |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | ✗ | FXTM |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✗ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | FXTM |
Choose FXTM if you...
Choose Global Prime if you...
For most Maltese retail traders in 2025, FXTM is the better choice. Its higher Trustpilot rating (4.3 vs 3.6), EU regulation via CySEC (mirroring MFSA standards), and comprehensive local payment support – including Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20 – make it more accessible and secure. The availability of Islamic accounts and a diverse platform suite further strengthens its appeal. Global Prime is a strong contender for advanced traders who prioritise low spreads and execution speed, but its limited payment methods (no Neteller or USDT TRC20) and non-EU regulatory status may be drawbacks for Malta-based clients. Unless you are a high-volume scalper, FXTM’s all-around service, tailored to Maltese traders, is the recommended option for 2025.