Which broker is better for Malta traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
When comparing Libertex vs Oanda for Malta traders in 2025, both brokers bring unique strengths. Libertex, scoring 3.7/5, is a well-established broker with a strong local presence in Malta through its MFSA regulation. It supports popular local payment methods like Skrill, Neteller, and even USDT TRC20, making deposits seamless for Maltese retail traders. Oanda, with a 3.6/5 score, is a globally trusted broker known for transparent pricing and superior market research. It is also regulated by the MFSA via its EU entity, ensuring compliance with local financial standards. This comparison covers trading costs, platforms, regulation, and deposit options specifically for Maltese traders who prefer trading in USD. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, understanding which broker fits your needs in Malta's growing retail forex market is crucial. Let's examine the key factors that matter most to traders in Malta.
| Instrument | Libertex | Oanda | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | Oanda |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | Oanda |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | Oanda |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | Oanda |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $10 | $0 | Oanda |
For Malta retail traders, trading costs are a critical factor. Oanda typically offers lower spreads on major forex pairs like EUR/USD, often from 0.6 pips in its standard account, which is advantageous for high-frequency traders. Libertex's spreads start around 1.0 pip on the same pair, but it does not charge commission on most instruments, making it cost-effective for occasional trades. Both brokers are regulated by the MFSA, so costs are transparent. Over 100 standard lots per month, Oanda's lower spreads can save Malta traders significantly, especially in volatile markets. Always check current spreads as they vary by account type.
| Account Type | Libertex | Oanda |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✗ | ✗ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $10 | $0 |
| Entity / Asset | Libertex | Oanda |
|---|---|---|
| Malta (offshore) | Up to 1:999 | Up to 1:100 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:999 | 1:100 |
| 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 | Libertex | Oanda | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | Libertex |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | Libertex |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | ✗ | Libertex |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | ✗ | Oanda |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | Libertex | Oanda |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✗ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✗ | ✗ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✓ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✗ | ✗ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
Libertex provides its proprietary platform, which is intuitive and web-based, plus a mobile app popular among Maltese traders for its simplicity and fast execution. Oanda offers its own platform as well as the widely used MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and a powerful TradingView integration. For Malta traders who value advanced charting and automated trading, Oanda's MT4 support is a clear advantage. Libertex's platform is better suited for beginners seeking a clean interface and easy access to multiple asset classes including crypto.
| Factor | Libertex | Oanda | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | Oanda |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | Libertex |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
Oanda is known for its fast and reliable execution with no requotes, thanks to its advanced infrastructure and liquidity providers. Libertex also offers competitive execution speeds, averaging under 100ms. Both brokers provide market execution with slippage protection. For scalp traders in Malta, Oanda's low latency and price transparency give a slight edge.
| Safety Factor | Libertex | Oanda |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✗ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Both brokers are regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), which is the local financial regulator. This ensures Malta traders receive strong investor protection, including negative balance protection and segregation of client funds. Libertex operates under its MFSA licence as a recognised entity in Malta. Oanda holds a licence from the Central Bank of Ireland, which is passported into Malta under EU regulations, giving equal regulatory safeguards. Trading with either broker means your funds are protected under local law.
| Payment Method | Libertex | Oanda |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✗ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✗ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✗ | ✗ |
| Withdrawal time | 5 business days | 1 to 5 business days |
Malta traders can fund their accounts using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20 at both Libertex and Oanda. Libertex processes withdrawals via Skrill and Neteller within 24 hours, while USDT TRC20 deposits are credited instantly. Oanda supports the same methods, but Bank Transfer withdrawals may take 1-3 business days. For Malta traders who prefer crypto, USDT TRC20 is available with zero network fees at both brokers. Minimum deposits vary: Libertex requires $50, while Oanda has no minimum deposit, making it more accessible for beginners. Both brokers do not charge internal fees for deposits, but third-party charges may apply.
| Islamic Account Feature | Libertex | Oanda |
|---|---|---|
| Swap-free available | ✗ | ✗ |
| Admin fee instead of swap | On some instruments | On some instruments |
| MT4 / MT5 supported | ✓ | ✓ |
| How to apply | Contact support | Contact support |
Libertex and Oanda both offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Malta Muslim traders. Oanda provides swap-free status upon request with proof of Muslim faith, applicable to all account types. Libertex requires a written request to customer support, and swap-free status is granted for an indefinite period. Neither broker charges administrative fees for Islamic accounts. This makes both brokers suitable for Maltese traders adhering to Sharia law.
| Support Feature | Libertex | Oanda | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | Libertex |
Oanda offers 24/5 multilingual customer support via phone, email, and live chat, with a dedicated Malta phone number. Libertex provides 24/7 live chat and email support, including Maltese language support during business hours. Both brokers have comprehensive FAQ sections on their websites. For Malta traders who need after-hours assistance, Libertex's 24/7 chat is slightly more convenient.
| Mobile Feature | Libertex | Oanda | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | Libertex |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | Libertex |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✓ | Oanda |
| Resource | Libertex | Oanda | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | ✗ | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | Libertex |
Choose Libertex if you...
Choose Oanda if you...
For Malta retail traders, the choice between Libertex and Oanda depends on your trading style and priorities. Libertex edges ahead with its higher overall score (3.7 vs 3.6), 24/7 support, and seamless integration of local payment methods like Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. Its proprietary platform is great for beginners and multi-asset traders. Oanda, while scoring slightly lower, offers tighter spreads, MT4/MT5 support, and a more established global reputation. Both are regulated by the MFSA, ensuring safety for Maltese traders. If you prioritise low costs and platform flexibility, go with Oanda. If convenience, instant deposits, and diverse assets matter more, Libertex is your pick. No matter which you choose, both are reliable for trading USD-denominated accounts in Malta.