HotForex Review 2024

HotForex is now HF Markets. See our review of HF Markets for our latest findings and expert verdict.
Please see the list of similar brokers or the Best Brokers List for alternatives.

4 / 5
HotForex is #13 in our CFD broker rankings.

HotForex is a great all-rounder that will serve traders of all experience levels. We appreciate the regulated and secure trading environment, low minimum deposit, wide market access and user-friendly copy trading solution.

- Daytrading Review Team

HotForex, now HF Markets, is a hugely popular broker with millions clients and authorization from several trusted regulators, including the FCA and CySEC. Leveraged CFDs are available on popular asset classes alongside industry-leading software, flexible account types and an accessible minimum deposit.

$100
MT4, MT5
CFDs, Forex, Stocks, ETFs, Commodities
-
USD, EUR, GBP, PLN
Trustly, Wire Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, M-Pesa, Sticpay, PayRedeem

Forex Trading

HotForex has CFD trading on over 50 major, minor and exotic currency pairs with MT4 and MT5 accounts. This is a strong selection of currencies with advanced analysis software available to plan and execute trades.

Stock Trading

HotForex provides both spot and CFD stocks, indices and ETF trading opportunities with two of the world's most popular trading platforms, MT4 and MT5. The choice of equity instruments will suit various trading styles and risk appetites.

CFD Trading

HotForex has CFD trading in stocks and shares, indices, ETFs, metals, energies, agricultural commodities and forex. Leverage is in line with the relevant regulatory jurisdictions and spreads are tight with no hidden charges.

Awards

  • Top 100 Companies - World Finance Magazine
  • Best Forex Broker Asia - Global Business Review Magazine 2021
  • Best Customer Service Experience - Global - World Business Outlook
  • Best Client Fund Security Global - International Business Magazine 2021
  • Most Transparent Broker - The European - Global Banking & Finance Review Awards

✓ Pros

  • Unlimited usage demo account
  • Easy to sign up with no starting deposit
  • Range of deposit and withdrawal methods
  • Transparent fee and commission structures
  • Hugely popular brand with millions of traders
  • Advanced mobile apps with full trading access
  • Market-leading insurance for up to €5,000,000
  • Virtual private server (VPS) integration support
  • Regulated by tier-one agencies including the FCA
  • Various account types plus Islamic and joint accounts
  • Comprehensive educational platform and trading tools
  • Live chat option with customer support available in 27 languages

✗ Cons

  • No cryptocurrency trading
  • No proprietary trading software

HotForex is a multi-asset online broker offering trading opportunities in forex, commodities, indices and more. Aimed at traders across the world, whether from Nigeria, Jakarta Johannesburg or the US, this 2024 review will cover the company’s history, contact details, asset range, bonuses, payment methods and more, so you can make an informed decision about whether to open an account.

HotForex Headlines

HotForex is an established broker that was formed in 2010 by founder and owner George Koumandaris. The company is the UK affiliate of the global brokerage organisation, HF Markets Group. The group is well recognised in the industry, operating today with 200+ global employees, 2,500,000+ live accounts opened and more than 50 industry awards.

The broker is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), a highly regarded regulator with stringent compliance. The accreditation allows the broker to offer investors in the United Kingdom and across the world access to a range of CFD assets, including forex, stocks, indices, bonds, ETFs and commodities. Direct market access is provided through top-tier liquidity providers in the country and the company headquarters location is in the heart of London.

The broker also formed a partnership with the gaming division of Santos FC in late 2020 to form Santos HotForex esports.

Trading Platforms

HotForex offers industry-recognised MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) trading platform options. Both platforms are suitable for new and experienced traders and available via web terminals or desktop clients, which can be downloaded as 32 and 64 bit applications to PC devices running Windows, Mac OS and Linux systems. Installation is straightforward and the broker offers a 101 tutorial guide if you are having issues.

MetaTrader 4

HotForex bonus and withdrawal review 2021
MetaTrader 4 Platform

MetaTrader 5 Web Terminal

Hotforex KWD account reviews 2021
MetaTrader 5 Platform

Assets

HotForex offers clients investment and trading opportunities with over 1,000 trading instruments in the below markets:

Fees

The broker offers tight, competitive spreads across all assets with fast execution times from leading liquidity providers in the market. Clients can execute trades directly from real-time streaming quotes. HotForex operates as a pure ECN broker pricing model with direct market execution.

Commissions are only charged on the HotForex Zero spread account. Fees are transparent and start as low as $0.03 per 1k lot on major forex pairs like EUR/USD, USD/JPY and GBP/JPY. Commissions on other forex pairs start as low as $0.04 per 1k lot. This includes GBP/NZD, EUR/DKK and USD/RUB.

The broker charges swap rates for positions held overnight but there are no additional hidden fees like inactivity charges.

Leverage

As HotForex UK is regulated in Europe, it is subject to ESMA leverage capping regulations. Major forex pairs like EUR/USD and GBP/USD are offered at the maximum leverage of 1:30. Minor and exotic forex pairs like USD/HKD, metals and indices are offered at 1:20. Commodities, including XAU/USD, are available at 1:10. The maximum leverage available on shares trading is 1:5. Visit the broker’s website for all leverage details by instrument.

An overview of the leverage caps is provided below:

Mobile Apps

The broker offers a powerful multi-asset mobile application platform; HF App. This HotForex app is available for free download to iOS and Android devices. The application offers financial analysis tools, the latest news, updates and direct access to your trading account while on the go. The below features are available in the palm of your hand, anytime, anywhere:

HotForex mobile and desktop trading MT4, MT5 and proprietary app
HotForex Mobile App

MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 are also both available as mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices. These provide access to many of the same features of the desktop platforms, including trade and account management, portfolio evaluation and technical analysis, though some charting options are limited.

Payment Methods

Deposits

HotForex minimum deposits vary by account type. The standard Premium Account has the lowest at £100/$100/€100. HotForex does not charge a deposit fee for any payment method and account funding transactions are available 24/5, though the processing times vary by method. There are three account funding currencies: USD, EUR and GBP. Accepted account payment methods include:

Bank Transfers

Credit/Debit Cards

There are no fees to deposit your HotForex account with a credit or debit card

E-Wallets

Note, HotForex does not offer cryptocurrency deposits like Bitcoin. For full details on how to make deposits, solutions to any account funding and withdrawal problems or questions, contact the broker’s customer support (details below).

HotForex offers the HF PaySpark Card. This is a UnionPay card that can be used in over 170 countries. The card is accessible to investors after opening a live account with the broker, subject to availability in your region. Make fast secure payments, withdraw money from ATMs globally and withdraw funds from your myHF account.

Withdrawals

The broker does not charge a withdrawal fee, although some bank wire transfers may have additional fee structures. HotForex processes all withdrawals within 24 hours if received Monday to Friday. To withdraw, select the fund withdrawal logo once sign in details are filled. Note, a minimum withdrawal limit applies, which varies by the method. Withdrawal options include:

Withdrawals must be made using the same method used to deposit funds. The broker cannot withdraw more capital back to a credit card than was initially deposited.

Demo Account

HotForex offers traders a demo account option similar to those offered by XM, XTB, JustForex, JP Markets, Exness, OctaFX, IC Markets and FXTM. The online demo account is a good option to familiarise yourself with the trading platforms offered, the markets available and strategies you may want to try out, with no monetary risk. Notable features include:

To open a demo account, you must fill out your personal details in the registration process.

Deals And Promotions

At the time of writing, the HotForex UK affiliate did not offer any promotions to new or existing clients, this includes a no deposit, welcome or free bonus. This is aligned with the regulations of the FCA, restricting the financial incentives that can be offered to customers. However, it is not unlikely for the broker to offer $100 sign-up credit bonus schemes, a 30 rescue bonus, no deposit bonuses and referral programmes via its global affiliates. Terms and conditions can be found on the relevant websites.

Regulation And Licensing

HotForex holds licenses in all countries of operation, including Dubai, Kenya, Cyprus and South Africa. Our review was pleased to see the safeguarding of customer assets with segregated funds implemented in all jurisdictions. The broker complies with annual and quarterly reports and review requests with internal audits conducted regularly. HK Markets UK is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This is a highly regarded authoritative body in the financial market with stringent compliance protocols.

The licenses held by HotForex customers should be reassuring to all traders. These come with benefits like negative balance protection, segregated client funds in top-tier bank accounts and a Civil Liability Insurance programme with liabilities protection up to $5,000,000. The broker is also a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), with £85,000 compensation available to all retail traders against the financial failure of the investment company.

Additional Features

HotForex clients can benefit from a range of additional tools and educational content. On the roster are economic calendars, risk management systems and position size, pip size and margin calculators. The website also hosts a page dedicated to advanced trading tools with comprehensive user guides and YouTube videos for extra aid. Topics include sentiment trader systems, correlation matrices, session maps and alarm managers. Utilise these tools provided to get the most of your trading experience.

HotForex UK leveraged CFD, forex and stocks trading
HotForex Economic Calendar

The HotForex education client area is comprehensive and suitable for new and experienced traders alike. Available content includes live forex trading webinars, daily market analysis, global economic releases and e-courses, covering topics like carrying out exchange rate calculations, hedging, utilising leverage, understanding VPS hosting, introducing the cryptocurrency market and more.

Account Types

HotForex UK offers three live account types available to the retail trader, the Premium Account, Zero Spread Account, and Premium Pro Account. All of these offer access to all trading terminals, instruments, telephone trading and a personal account manager. Other similarities include market execution order types and a minimum trade size of 0.01 lots. Account details include:

Premium

Suitable for all traders.

Zero Spread

The HotForex 0 spread account is particularly useful for high-volume traders, scalping and those trading with Expert Advisors (EA).

Premium Pro

For the professional trader with experience, knowledge, and expertise

To open a HotForex live account, identity verification documents are required to be uploaded for compliance with know-your-customer (KYC) guidelines. This is standard practice across FCA-regulated brokers and may include providing a utility bill or driving licence for proof of address. The sign-up process and documents submission can be completed within three minutes.

Our HotForex review was pleased to see accessible account types available. These include an Islamic Account with no swap or rollover charges and a joint account for up to two members. There is no micro account/cent account offered to UK clients, though this is available under a Naira account in Nigeria.

Trading hours

HotForex follows standard hours with trading 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday. However, this can vary for different instruments. Trading starts at 00:01 GMT on Monday and ends at 23:59 GMT Friday. HotForex’s VPS server time has a GMT offset of +2 (GMT+3 during summer).

Customer Support

HotForex offers a range of customer contact options, available 24/5 in 27 languages. There is also a contact form on the website that can be filled out for the broker to get back to you and a Telegram group.

There is also a comprehensive FAQ section on the broker’s website. Topics include reopening an archived account, downloading the APK compatible terminal, PAMM account review, referral schemes and more. HotForex user reviews from 2024 may also provide valuable information before starting your investing journey, these can be found on sites like TrustPilot and Quora.

Safety And Security

Clients can rest assured that HotForex provides a safe trading environment. Trading terminal login and client area interfaces are password protected. Account registration requires profile verification to comply with KYC validation. The MT4 and MT5 platforms assure high-tech encryptions, secure logins, and industry-standard data privacy.

All payment transactions, including withdrawal processing, are protected by level 1 PCI-DSS certified, independent international payment gateways. The broker ensures risk management protocols are integrated into all operations and policies and procedures are in place to mitigate potential scam impediments.

HotForex Verdict

HotForex provides opportunities for traders of different abilities to invest in multiple CFD and spot assets on the established MT4 and MT5 platforms. Traders can be assured of the FCA regulatory authorisation, multilingual customer contact options, transparent fees and a variety of security and safety systems. Follow the link below to sign up and get started today.

FAQs

Does HotForex UK Offer A ZAR Account?

HotForex UK offers accounts in GBP, USD and EUR base currencies. A ZAR account is accessible via the HotForex Limited ZA affiliate. Visit the region’s website for minimum deposit requirements in the ZAR currency, access to HFcopy and more.

Is HotForex A Market Maker Broker?

HotForex is an STP and ECN broker with no dealing desk. The broker provides investors with live quotes directly from top-tier liquidity providers in the market.

Is HotForex A Regulated Broker?

Yes, HotForex UK is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), firm reference number 801701. The FCA is a renowned and rigorous financial watchdog with many safety systems in place for retail traders.

Is HotForex A Good Broker?

HotForex is a legit, regulated broker. With over 10 years of established service and trading opportunities across various asset classes, it provides a good platform for inexperienced and veteran investors. Trade the NASDAQ (NAS100) index, USOIL, US30, forex pairs like GBP/JPY and more.

What Is The HotForex Demo Contest?

The HotForex virtual to real demo contest is a promotional bonus incentive available to traders in 2024 on the HF Markets Group global platform. Note, this is not available to UK clients.

What Trading Platforms Does HotForex Offer?

The broker offers two trading platforms: MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5. The industry-established terminals offer advanced trading tools, user-friendly dashboards and live quote streams including commodity trading on XAU/USD and spot gold. The platforms can be downloaded from the HotForex website and via QR codes.

What Are The HotForex Global Affiliates?

HotForex is comprised of various global affiliates. This includes HF Markets Europe Limited, HF Markets DIFC Ltd, HF Markets South Africa and HF Markets Seychelles Ltd. Refer to these affiliates and contact the relevant head office when trading in offshore countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Nigeria, Malaysia, Kenya, Australia, India, Ghana, Indonesia, Iran, Jamaica, Japan and more.

Top 3 Alternatives to HotForex

Compare HotForex with the top 3 similar brokers that accept traders from your location.

  1. IG – Founded in 1974, IG is part of IG Group Holdings Plc, a publicly traded (LSE: IGG) brokerage. The brand-US offers spread betting, CFD and forex trading across an almost unrivalled selection of 17,000+ markets, with a range of user-friendly platforms and investing apps. For 50 years, IG has maintained its position as an industry leader, excelling in all key areas for traders.
    Go to IG
  2. Interactive Brokers – Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a premier brokerage for experienced traders, providing access to 150 markets in 33 countries, along with a suite of comprehensive investment services. With over 40 years of experience, this Nasdaq-listed firm adheres to stringent regulations by the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC, amongst others, and is one of the most trusted brokers for trading around the globe.
    Go to Interactive Brokers
  3. World Forex – World Forex is an offshore broker registered in St Vincent and the Grenadines, offering commission-free trading with a $1 minimum deposit and 1:1000 leverage. Digital contracts are also available, offering beginners a straightforward way to speculate on popular financial markets.
    Go to World Forex

HotForex Comparison Table

Compare HotForex With Similar Brokers
HotForex IG Interactive Brokers World Forex
Rating 4 4.4 4.3 4
Markets CFDs, Forex, Stocks, ETFs, Commodities CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies Forex, CFD Stocks, Metals, Energies, Cryptos, Digital Contracts
Demo Account Yes Yes Yes Yes
Minimum Deposit $100 $0 $0 $1
Minimum Trade 0.01 Lots 0.01 Lots $100 0.01 Lots
Regulators FCA, DFSA, FSCA, CySEC, FSC, CMA, JFSA FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA FCA, SEC, FINRA, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB SVGFSA
Bonus 100% Deposit Bonus
Education No Yes Yes No
Platforms MT4, MT5 Web, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, AutoChartist, TradingCentral Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentral MT4, MT5
Leverage 1:30 1:30 (Retail), 1:250 (Pro) 1:50 1:1000
Payment Methods 10 6 6 10
Visit Visit Visit Visit Visit
Review IG
Review
Interactive Brokers
Review
World Forex
Review

Compare Trading Instruments

Compare the markets and instruments offered by HotForex and its competitors. Please note, some markets may only be available via CFDs or other derivatives.

Compare HotForex Trading Instruments
HotForex IG Interactive Brokers World Forex
CFD Yes Yes Yes Yes
Forex Yes Yes Yes Yes
Stocks Yes Yes Yes Yes
Commodities Yes Yes Yes Yes
Oil No Yes No Yes
Gold No Yes Yes Yes
Copper No Yes No No
Silver Yes Yes No Yes
Corn No No No No
Crypto No Yes Yes Yes
Futures No Yes Yes No
Options No Yes Yes No
ETFs Yes Yes Yes No
Bonds No Yes Yes No
Warrants No Yes Yes No
Spreadbetting No Yes No No
Volatility Index Yes Yes No No

HotForex vs Other Brokers

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HotForex, now HF Markets, is a hugely popular broker with millions clients and authorization from several trusted regulators, including the FCA and CySEC. Leveraged CFDs are available on popular asset classes alongside industry-leading software, flexible account types and an accessible minimum deposit.