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Best Forex Trading Platforms In India 2024

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Written By
James Barra
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Written By
James Barra
James is an investment writer with a background in financial services. He has worked as a management consultant, where he delivered large-scale operational transformational programmes at some of Europe's biggest banks. James authors, edits and fact-checks content for a series of investing websites.
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Fact Checked By
Jemma Grist
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Fact Checked By
Jemma Grist
Jemma is a writer, editor and fact-checker focused on retail trading and investing. Jemma brings a unique perspective to the forex, stock, and cryptocurrency markets and works across several investment websites as a researcher and broker analyst.
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Updated
Jul 18, 2024

With so many forex trading platforms in India, finding the best one, or even the top 5, can seem daunting. Due to tight SEBI regulations, you will need to identify legal brokers to compare against criteria based on your needs and goals. This guide explains some of the key factors to understand about forex brokers in India, including how they operate and make money. We have also reviewed and rated the best forex trading platforms that accept Indian traders in 2024.

Top 10 Forex Trading Platforms In India

After extensive testing, these 10 brokers stand out as the best for traders in India:

Click a broker for details
  1. 1
    AvaTrade
    20% Welcome Bonus up to $10,000
    Ratings
    4.8 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    $100
    0.01 Lots
    1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro)
    ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBI, FSA, FSRA, BVI, ADGM
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Crypto, Spread Betting, Futures
    WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaFutures, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
    Skrill, Wire Transfer, FasaPay, Mastercard, Perfect Money, Swift, MoneyGram, Credit Card, WebMoney, JCB Card, Debit Card, Neteller, Boleto
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD
    Go To AvaTrade
  2. 2
    XM
    $30 No Deposit Bonus When You Register A Real Account
    Ratings
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.7 / 5
    3.9 / 5
    $5
    0.01 Lots
    1:1000
    ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, FSC, FSCA, CNMV, AMF
    Forex, Stock CFDs, Turbo Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Precious Metals, Energies, Shares, Crypto, Futures
    MT4, MT5
    Credit Card, Debit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Wire Transfer, Perfect Money, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, TransferWise, Visa, M-Pesa
    USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, JPY, ZAR, CHF, SGD, PLN, HUF
    Go To XM
  3. 3
    DNA Markets
    Ratings
    3 / 5
    4 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.9 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    1.8 / 5
    1.6 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    $100
    0.01 Lots
    1:500
    ASIC
    CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, Stocks, Crypto
    MT4, MT5
    Credit Card, Debit Card, Wire Transfer, BPAY, Skrill, Neteller, Bitcoin Payments, Bitwallet, AstroPay, Mastercard
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, SGD
    Go To DNA Markets
  4. 4
    Expert Option
    100% deposit bonus
    Ratings
    2.5 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    3 / 5
    3.3 / 5
    2.8 / 5
    3.3 / 5
    3 / 5
    2.8 / 5
    2.5 / 5
    4.2 / 5
    $10
    $1
    N/A
    SVGFSA
    Options, Stocks, Commodities, Forex, Crypto, Futures,
    Expert Option Web Platform
    Visa, Skrill, Neteller, FasaPay, Mastercard, UnionPay, WebMoney, Wire Transfer, Perfect Money, Bitcoin Payments, Maestro, M-Pesa, Flutterwave
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, INR, JPY, ZAR, MYR, IDR, TRY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, RUB, PLN, CZK, AED
    Go To Expert Option
  5. 5
    FXTM
    30% up to $100 via Exinity Ltd
    Ratings
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    4 / 5
    2.8 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    $200
    0.01 Lots
    1:2000
    CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSC, CNMV
    Forex, CFDs, Indices, Commodities, Stocks
    FXTM App, MT4, MT5
    Neteller, Skrill, Visa, WebMoney, Perfect Money, Western Union, Credit Card, Google Wallet, PayRedeem, Maestro, GlobePay
    USD, EUR, GBP
    Go To FXTM
  6. 6
    Exness
    Ratings
    4.5 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.2 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    3 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    $10
    0.01 Lots
    1:2000
    FSA, CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSC, CBCS, CNMV
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
    Exness Trade App, MT4, MT5, TradingCentral
    Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Visa, Mastercard, Bitcoin Payments, Boleto
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, INR, JPY, ZAR, MYR, IDR, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, AED, SAR, HUF, BRL, NGN, THB, VND, UAH, KWD, QAR
    Go To Exness
  7. 7
    Vantage
    50% Welcome Deposit Bonus, earn redeemable rewards in the Vantage Rewards scheme
    Ratings
    4.6 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    3.9 / 5
    $50
    0.01 Lots
    1:500
    FCA, ASIC, FSCA, VFSC
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds
    ProTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade
    Skrill, BPAY, JCB Card, AstroPay, Visa, Swift, Neteller, Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, UnionPay, FasaPay
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, HKD, SGD, PLN
    Go To Vantage
  8. 8
    IC Markets
    Ratings
    4.6 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3.1 / 5
    4.2 / 5
    $200
    0.01 Lots
    1:1000
    ASIC, CySEC, FSA, CMA
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, Futures, Crypto
    MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
    PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Visa, UnionPay, Wire Transfer, Rapid Transfer, Mastercard, POLi, BPAY, Credit Card, Klarna, Swift, SafeCharge
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD
    Go To IC Markets
  9. 9
    FOREX.com
    20% Welcome Bonus Up To $5000
    Ratings
    4.9 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    $100
    0.01 Lots
    1:400
    NFA, CFTC, CIRO, FCA, CYSEC, ASIC, SFC, FSA, MAS, CIMA
    Forex, CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Options, Crypto
    MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
    Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, ACH Transfer
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN
    Go To FOREX.com
  10. 10
    Pepperstone
    CFDs and FX are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 74-89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs.
    Ratings
    4.6 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.1 / 5
    $0
    0.01 Lots
    1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
    FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB
    CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto, Spread Betting
    MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade
    Visa, Mastercard, Credit Card, Debit Card, PayPal, Wire Transfer, POLi, UnionPay, BPAY, Neteller, Skrill
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD
    Go To Pepperstone

Here is a short summary of why we think each broker belongs in this top list:

  1. AvaTrade - AvaTrade offers 50+ currency pairs with competitive spreads from 0.9 pips and zero commissions. You can trade majors, minors and exotics around the clock on industry-leading platforms, including MT4 and MT5. Traders can also access beginner-friendly trading tools and comprehensive forex education.
  2. XM - XM offers ultra low spreads across a wide range of forex assets with no re-quotes or hidden charges. Over 50 currency pairs are available, which is above the market average and is in line with one of our top award-winners, AvaTrade.
  3. DNA Markets - DNA Markets continues to deliver an excellent environment for forex traders with 50+ currency pairs and low spreads from 0.0 pips on the EUR/USD during tests. The MetaTrader 4 platform, available on desktop, web and mobile, was also designed specifically for forex trading.
  4. Expert Option - Expert Option traders can access some of the most popular forex pairs including USD/EUR, GBP/USD and GBP/EUR using binary options contracts that payout up to 95%, well above the industry average of around 85%.
  5. FXTM - FXTM offers a strong range of 60+ currency pairs - more than many competitors including AvaTrade. There’s also 6 currency indices for day traders looking to diversify their forex portfolios. The brand’s ECN account offers competitively low spreads from 0 pips, with equally low commissions up to $2 per lot.
  6. Exness - An impressive range of around 100 forex pairs are available, more than most other brands. Spreads on major pairs are also tight, from 0.1 pips. Additionally, the broker offers an excellent suite of forex analysis tools, including market news by FXStreet.
  7. Vantage - Vantage offers 55+ currency pairs - above the industry average, so experienced traders can explore plenty of opportunities. Vantage's deep liquidity pool provides forex spreads from 0.0 pips in the ECN account, lower than many alternatives. There are also no commissions, deposit fees or hidden charges.
  8. IC Markets - IC Markets maintains its commitment to providing exceptionally tight 0.0-pip forex spreads on major currency pairs such as EUR/USD. This makes it an excellent option if you are seeking superior execution, with an average of 35 milliseconds. Additionally, if you are a high-volume trader, you can benefit from rebates of up to $2.50 per forex lot.
  9. FOREX.com - FOREX.com continues to uphold its stature as a premier FX broker, offering over 80 currency pairs and boasting some of the most competitive fees in the industry. With EUR/USD spreads dipping as low as 0.0 and $5 commission per $100k, it stands out. Moreover, its SMART Signals help to identify price behaviors across numerous major currency markets.
  10. Pepperstone - Pepperstone offers ultra-competitive forex spreads averaging 0.12 pips on EUR/USD in the Razor account, accompanied by a diverse portfolio comprising 100+ currency pairs - an extensive selection surpassing most competitors. Additionally, Pepperstone distinguishes itself by offering three currency indices (USDX, EURX, JPYX), not commonly found among alternative platforms. Pepperstone has now won our annual 'Best Forex Broker' award twice.

Best Forex Trading Platforms In India 2024 Comparison

Best Forex Trading Platforms In India 2024 Comparison
Broker Currency Pairs EUR/USD Spread Forex App Rating Minimum Deposit INR Account
AvaTrade logo
50+ 0.9 4.3 / 5 $100 -
XM logo
55+ 1.6 4.7 / 5 $5 -
DNA Markets logo
50+ 1.0 4.3 / 5 $100 -
Expert Option logo
6 Variable 4 / 5 $10 ✔
FXTM logo
50+ 0.1 4.5 / 5 $200 -
Exness logo
97 0.0 4.4 / 5 $10 ✔
Vantage logo
55+ 0.0 4 / 5 $50 -
IC Markets logo
75 0.02 4.8 / 5 $200 -
FOREX.com logo
80+ 1.2 4.9 / 5 $100 -
Pepperstone logo
100+ 0.1 4.7 / 5 $0 -

AvaTrade

"AvaTrade offers the full package for short-term traders. There is powerful charting software, reliable execution, transparent fees, and fast account opening with a low minimum deposit."

Jemma Grist, Reviewer

AvaTrade Quick Facts

Bonus Offer20% Welcome Bonus up to $10,000
GBPUSD Spread1.5
EURUSD Spread0.9
EURGBP Spread1.5
Total Assets50+
Leverage1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro)
PlatformsWebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaFutures, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD

Pros

  • WebTrader is well-suited to beginners and features a strong suite of technical analysis tools and market research for day traders
  • Recently introduced AvaFutures offers an alternative vehicle to speculate on over 35 markets with low day trading margins
  • AvaTrade is a heavily regulated and trustworthy broker with licenses from the ASIC, CySEC and more

Cons

  • Traders from the US are not accepted
  • There is no ECN account with raw spreads
  • There’s an above-average $50 inactivity fee after three months, though this won't impact active day traders
Visit AvaTrade
AvaTrade Review

XM

"XM is one of the best forex and CFD brokers we have tested. The flexible account types will suit a variety of short-term trading styles while the $5 minimum deposit and smooth sign-up process make it easy to start trading."

William Berg, Reviewer

XM Quick Facts

Bonus Offer$30 No Deposit Bonus When You Register A Real Account
GBPUSD Spread1.9
EURUSD Spread1.6
EURGBP Spread1.8
Total Assets55+
Leverage1:1000
PlatformsMT4, MT5
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, AUD, JPY, ZAR, CHF, SGD, PLN, HUF

Pros

  • The broker offers premium research including market sentiment, fundamental insights and strategy builders
  • Powerful MT4 and MT5 platforms are available with 60+ and 80+ technical charting tools
  • Transparent and low fees with spreads from 0.0 pips that will help protect day trading profit margins

Cons

  • PayPal deposits are not supported
  • There's $5 inactivity fee after only 3 months, though this won't affect active traders
  • There is weak regulatory oversight through the global entity
Visit XM
XM Review

DNA Markets

"DNA Markets is an excellent choice for short-term traders familiar with the MetaTrader platforms. The smooth sign-up process also makes it easy to get started while the $100 minimum deposit is accessible. That said, DNA Markets trails the top brokers in education, research and mobile trading. "

Jemma Grist, Reviewer

DNA Markets Quick Facts

GBPUSD Spread1.0
EURUSD Spread1.0
EURGBP Spread1.0
Total Assets50+
Leverage1:500
PlatformsMT4, MT5
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, SGD

Pros

  • Short-term trading strategies are permitted including scalping and automated trading using Expert Advisors (EAs)
  • You can access low trading fees with spreads from 0.0 pips in the Raw account and zero non-trading fees
  • DNA Markets offers top-rate platforms and charting tools for day traders with access to MT4 and MT5

Cons

  • Although it continues to strengthen its client base and reputation, DNA Markets lacks the track record of top brokers like Vantage
  • Unlike many alternatives, there are limited educational and research tools for traders seeking an all-in-one solution
  • Despite access to MT4 and MT5, there is no proprietary trading app for seamless account management whilst on the go
Visit DNA Markets
DNA Markets Review

Expert Option

"Expert Option will suit aspiring traders who want to access the financial markets through an options broker with a very easy-to-learn bespoke platform. The user-friendly day trading platform is clear and reliable."

Tobias Robinson, Reviewer

Expert Option Quick Facts

Bonus Offer100% deposit bonus
GBPUSD SpreadVariable
EURUSD SpreadVariable
EURGBP SpreadVariable
Total Assets6
LeverageN/A
PlatformsExpert Option Web Platform
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, INR, JPY, ZAR, MYR, IDR, TRY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, RUB, PLN, CZK, AED

Pros

  • High payouts up to 95% are above the industry average
  • The diverse range of account currencies and 20+ accepted payment methods allow for flexible funding
  • The broker offers an easy to use, beginner-friendly proprietary trading platform with 4 chart types and social trading features

Cons

  • There's a very small list of binary assets with just 100 on offer compared to 1000+ offered by some competitors
  • The SVGFSA is a weak financial regulator with limited safeguarding measures
  • The broker doesn't offer any popular leveraged products such as CFDs
Visit Expert Option
Expert Option Review

FXTM

"FXTM is a good pick for day traders seeking low forex commissions on the MetaTrader 4 platform. That said, the range of other assets is not extensive for those looking to diversify, especially stocks and cryptocurrencies."

Tobias Robinson, Reviewer

FXTM Quick Facts

Bonus Offer30% up to $100 via Exinity Ltd
GBPUSD Spread0.2
EURUSD Spread0.1
EURGBP Spread0.6
Total Assets50+
Leverage1:2000
PlatformsFXTM App, MT4, MT5
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP

Pros

  • Negative Balance Protection is available to clients registering with the EU and UK entities
  • Customer support is reliable and available in 30+ languages, making FXTM a top choice among global traders
  • Beginners can access a strong range of free educational materials and short-term market insights, including a podcast hosted by the brand’s expert team

Cons

  • There are limited e-wallet payment options compared to alternatives
  • Spreads are mediocre in the commission-free accounts, with typical EUR/USD spreads around 1.9 pips - the industry average is around 1.2 pips
  • Withdrawal fees apply, including a 30 EUR fee on bank wire withdrawals
Visit FXTM
FXTM Review

Exness

"Exness remains an accessible broker for all experience levels, though experienced day traders will particularly appreciate the ultra-low commission rates, fast withdrawals and high-quality charting software."

Tobias Robinson, Reviewer

Exness Quick Facts

GBPUSD Spread0.1
EURUSD Spread0.0
EURGBP Spread0.4
Total Assets97
Leverage1:2000
PlatformsExness Trade App, MT4, MT5, TradingCentral
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, INR, JPY, ZAR, MYR, IDR, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, AED, SAR, HUF, BRL, NGN, THB, VND, UAH, KWD, QAR

Pros

  • The broker offers fast execution speeds for short-term traders, averaging under 25ms
  • Local payments are available, plus deposits in BTC and USDT
  • Experienced strategy providers can open social trading accounts, with monthly commissions up to 50%

Cons

  • Unlike most competitors, Exness doesn't provide its own education section
  • There are several regional restrictions for retail traders including the USA, Europe and the UK
  • There are no promotional deals or loyalty schemes for high-volume day traders
Visit Exness
Exness Review

Vantage

"Vantage remains an excellent option for CFD traders seeking a tightly-regulated broker with access to the reliable MetaTrader platforms. The fast sign-up process and $50 minimum deposit make it very straightforward to start day trading quickly."

Jemma Grist, Reviewer

Vantage Quick Facts

Bonus Offer50% Welcome Deposit Bonus, earn redeemable rewards in the Vantage Rewards scheme
GBPUSD Spread0.5
EURUSD Spread0.0
EURGBP Spread0.5
Total Assets55+
Leverage1:500
PlatformsProTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, HKD, SGD, PLN

Pros

  • The low minimum deposit of $50 and zero funding fees make this broker a great choice for new traders
  • Vantage caters to hands-off investors with beginner-friendly social trading via ZuluTrade & Myfxbook
  • There’s an excellent suite of day trading software, including the award-winning platforms MT4 and MT5

Cons

  • A steep $10,000 deposit is needed for the best trading conditions, which include the $1.50 commission per side
  • It's a shame that some clients will need to register with the offshore entity, which offers less regulatory protection
  • The average execution speeds of 100ms to 250ms are slower than alternatives based on tests
Visit Vantage
Vantage Review

IC Markets

"IC Markets offers superior pricing, exceptionally fast execution and seamless deposits. The introduction of advanced charting platforms, notably TradingView, and the Raw Trader Plus account, ensures it remains a top choice for intermediate to advanced day traders."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

IC Markets Quick Facts

GBPUSD Spread0.23
EURUSD Spread0.02
EURGBP Spread0.27
Total Assets75
Leverage1:1000
PlatformsMT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD

Pros

  • You have access to over 2,250 CFDs across various markets, including forex, commodities, indices, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversified trading strategies.
  • IC Markets offers fast and dependable 24/5 support based on firsthand experience, particularly when it comes to accounts and funding issues.
  • As a tightly regulated and widely respected broker, IC Markets prioritizes client security and transparency, helping to ensure a reliable trading experience globally.

Cons

  • The breadth and depth of tutorials, webinars and educational resources still need work, trailing alternatives like CMC Markets and reducing its suitability for beginners.
  • Despite four industry-leading third-party platforms, there is no proprietary software or trading app built with new traders in mind.
  • There are fees for certain withdrawal methods, including a $20 wire charge, which can eat into profits, especially for frequent withdrawals.
Visit IC Markets
IC Markets Review

FOREX.com

"FOREX.com remains a best-in-class brokerage for active forex traders of all experience levels, with over 80 currency pairs, tight spreads from 0.0 pips and low commissions. The powerful charting platforms collectively offer over 100 technical indicators, as well as extensive research tools."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

FOREX.com Quick Facts

Bonus Offer20% Welcome Bonus Up To $5000
GBPUSD Spread1.3
EURUSD Spread1.2
EURGBP Spread1.4
Total Assets80+
Leverage1:400
PlatformsMT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN

Pros

  • FOREX.com offers industry-leading forex pricing starting from 0.0 pips, alongside competitive cashback rebates of up to 15% for serious day traders.
  • With over 20 years of experience, excellent regulatory oversight, and multiple accolades including runner-up in our 'Best Forex Broker' awards, FOREX.com boasts a global reputation as a trusted brokerage.
  • There’s a wealth of educational resources including tutorials, webinars, and a stacked YouTube channel to help you get educated in the financial markets.

Cons

  • Demo accounts are frustratingly time-limited to 90 days, which doesn’t give you enough time to test day trading strategies effectively.
  • There’s no negative balance protection for US clients, so you may find yourself owing more money than your initial deposit into your account.
  • Funding options are limited compared to leading alternatives like IC Markets and don’t include many popular e-wallets, notably UnionPay and POLi.
Visit FOREX.com
FOREX.com Review

Pepperstone

"Pepperstone stands out as a top choice for day trading, offering razor-sharp spreads, ultra-fast execution, and advanced charting platforms for experienced traders. New traders are also welcomed with no minimum deposit, extensive educational resources, and exceptional 24/7 support."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

Pepperstone Quick Facts

GBPUSD Spread0.4
EURUSD Spread0.1
EURGBP Spread0.4
Total Assets100+
Leverage1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
PlatformsMT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD

Pros

  • Now offering spread betting through TradingView, Pepperstone provides a seamless, tax-efficient trading experience with advanced analysis tools.
  • Award-winning customer support is available via telephone, email or live chat with response times of <5 minutes during testing.
  • Pepperstone boasts impressive execution speeds, averaging around 30ms, facilitating fast order processing and execution that’s ideal for day trading.

Cons

  • There’s no simplified proprietary trading platform, nor are there any social trading features, which could be a disadvantage if you are new to day trading.
  • Pepperstone does not support cTrader Copy, a popular copy trading feature built into the excellent cTrader platform and available at alternatives like IC Markets.
  • Pepperstone’s demo accounts are active for only 30 days, which may not be not long enough to familiarize yourself with the different platforms and test trading strategies.
Visit Pepperstone
Pepperstone Review

What Is An Indian Forex Broker?

Forex brokers in India allow investors to buy and sell foreign currencies. For example, if you have Indian Rupees (INR) and would like to purchase American Dollars (USD), you will need to find a broker that allows you to trade the USD/INR pair.

Through forex brokers based in India, you can typically only trade a limited list of INR-based currency pairs spanning USD, EUR, GBP and JPY.

Some international forex trading platforms that operate in India may offer other currencies, but these may not be SEBI-approved. Using a broker that is not authorized by the SEBI or exchanging non-regulated currencies could lead to legal ramifications. With that in mind, only use trusted overseas FX brokers that accept Indian traders and continue to follow Indian tax rules.

SEBI Oversight

In India, forex brokers are highly regulated and legal if they are licensed by the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI). SEBI-regulated FX brokers essentially allow local residents to buy and sell currencies securely while the financial watchdog actively deters individuals from investing in foreign currencies.

Indian forex trading platforms regulated by the SEBI have to meet various requirements. This includes restrictions on margin trading, rules on exotic currency pairs, and a requirement to undergo regular audits and meet Anti-Money Laundering (AML) legislation.

Investing in foreign currencies is frowned upon for Indian residents. Equally, signing up with an international forex broker that accepts Indian traders and depositing money from your local bank account to an overseas account is not viewed upon favorably. Indian citizens often need permission from the relevant government authority. Speak to a local professional for guidance.

How Do Forex Brokers In India Make Money?

Online forex trading platforms primarily make their money through two methods: commissions or spreads.

Commissions

Electronic communications network (ECN) forex brokers in India allow you to speculate against other investors. These brokers tend to charge a commission for each transaction and can thus keep spreads very tight. With this fee model, you have more certainty about the costs of a particular trade.

An example commission calculation is given below:

Spreads

Forex trading platforms in India with different business models and brokerage structures may not charge a fixed cost per exchange. Instead, they may incorporate their charges into the bid-ask spread of the pair, which is the difference between the buy and sell price of the instrument.

Spreads are dependent on the liquidity and volatility of the market, with a tight spread indicating low volatility and high liquidity. This would be a desirable time to place an order as the exchange cost would be lower.

A spread calculation could go as follows:

How To Compare Forex Brokers In India

If you are trying to choose a forex broker in India, there are several factors you should take into account:

Range Of FX Pairs

The SEBI only allows seven currency pairs to be offered by local brokers, INR/USD, INR/EUR, INR/GBP, INR/JPY and cross-currency pairs EUR/USD, GBP/USD and USD/JPY.

The best forex trading platforms in India will allow easy access to all of these pairs with tight spreads and low or zero commissions.

Some overseas forex brokers may offer other pairs, but sticking with SEBI-approved brokers will provide legal protections.

Fees

Forex brokers in India offer different spreads, commissions and non-investing fees. Zerodha, for example, offers a flat Rs. 20 fee or 0.03% of the trade value (whichever is lower) on intraday trades across currencies, equities, and commodities.

The broker’s website also offers a useful cost calculator with additional transaction costs, such as SEBI charges, NSE/BSE transaction fees, and stamp duty charges.

Also look out for brokers that offer INR as an account base currency so you are not liable for any currency conversion charges.

Regulatory Status

As outlined above, the Securities Exchange Board of India has strict regulatory rules making it challenging to buy and sell through non-authorized methods. To spot fake forex trading platforms in India, check the footer of a firm’s website. A genuine broker will clearly have an Indian forex broker license number.

Zerodha for example provides SEBI registration details at the bottom of each webpage. Simply search this number on the SEBI-registered entities list for confirmation.

You can also search for a broker’s name in the complete list of legal forex brokers on the SEBI website. Another good indicator of trustworthiness is an office in India.

Leverage

SEBI leverage rules introduced in May 2022 state that clients may only use 50% of their margin against securities, whilst the other 50% margin must be held with the forex broker. This is a reduction on the previous rules in place regarding trading forex with leverage.

Additionally, the Securities Exchange Board of India has placed restrictions on the use of intraday profits on further investing activities on the same day. The profits made by retail investors may only be used a minimum of two days after.

Deposits & Withdrawals

The best forex trading platforms in India offer several different local payment options, including RuPay credit/debit cards, bank wire transfers and online wallets such as Paytm.

Upstox for example offers a range of deposit methods; NetBanking, UPI transfer, Google Pay, NEFT/RTGS/IMPS, and cheque. Note, electronic transfers often provide the fastest processing times.

Withdrawal times and associated fees should also be compared when choosing between forex brokers in India.

Minimum Deposit

Some forex trading platforms in India will have a minimum amount that you must deposit in your account, although some recognized brands such as Upstox and Zerodha, do not have a minimum requirement. This makes them good choices for beginners.

Although the best option for beginners is likely to be an account with an accessible deposit requirement, ensure you still benefit from all the tools and analysis features required to execute your forex strategy. For example, the top forex brokers that accept Indian traders may offer useful insights into announcements from the Central Bank of India (CBI).

Bonuses

Forex brokers in India often provide referral schemes rather than welcome bonuses or other financial incentives for new or existing customers.

Dhan for example offers lifetime referral rewards, accrued daily, for those investors that refer and meet eligibility requirements. You can earn up to 20% of a referral’s profits.

Accounts

Forex trading platforms in India will offer different account types so you can choose a solution that best suits your strategy. You may find brokers that offer a commission-based account and a spread-based account, whereas other Indian forex brokers will offer you professional accounts with more benefits but higher minimum deposits.

If you are a beginner or are looking to test new strategies, it is a good idea to find a forex broker with a demo account. This type of account is loaded with virtual funds and operates in the same way as a live account, so you can try out a broker or INR/USD strategy without taking on any risk.

Platforms & Mobile Apps

The platform offered by a brokerage is a key consideration. Forex brokers in India may offer a range of web-based or desktop-based platforms.

Well-known solutions include MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and cTrader, although some Indian forex brokers may offer proprietary platforms. Dhan for example offers day traders access to their web platform complete with TradingView charts, advanced Option Chain and an instant pledge margin benefit available on over 1400 assets.

Other things to look out for when comparing platforms include technical indicators, analysis tools, and forex heat maps.

The best forex brokers in India will also offer a mobile app that allows for full account management, market analysis and easy order execution. Zerodha’s proprietary platform Kite, is available as an iOS and Android app, offering a simple yet intuitive user experience for all your forex investment needs.

Customer Support

The best forex trading platforms in India will offer comprehensive, round-the-clock customer support in a variety of languages, including Hindi.

24/7 online chat or telephone lines are a great way to get help quickly whenever you need it. The top forex brokers that accept India also offer support via social media channels.

Forex Taxes In India

When buying and selling forex with a broker in India, make sure you are aware of how you will be taxed and how you need to report your income. If your forex investments are not your main source of income, your profits will likely be taxed as capital gains. Any income under the basic exemption limit will not be taxed.

If you are using forex trading platforms in India as a business, you will have to pay business income tax. You will be able to offset your taxable profits with your losses and, if you are in the lower earning brackets, the tax will be relatively small.

Speak to a local tax advisor to understand how to work with authorised forex brokers in India and how to report taxes.

Final Word

If you are looking to trade currencies online, consider a SEBI-regulated forex broker to guarantee legitimacy and to benefit from client safeguards. Alternatively, use a trusted and accepted overseas provider. While the number of currencies available to Indian forex traders is small, profits can be maximized through the use of leverage and market insights.

Use our comparison guide to find the best forex broker in India that suits your investing strategy. Alternatively, our experts have compiled a list of the top 10+ forex brokers that accept Indian traders.

FAQs

Yes, trading is legal with forex trading platforms in India that are regulated by the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Using a non-regulated broker can lead to fines. Check our list of forex brokers in India for the best and safest platforms.

What Pairs Can I Trade With Forex Brokers In India?

When you use a forex broker in India you can exchange pairs based on the Indian Rupee, like INR/USD, and some cross-currency pairs, such as the USD/EUR. Buying or selling non-authorized currencies is prohibited in India.

What Are The Best Forex Trading Platforms In India?

The best forex trading platform in India is a subjective concept, as everyone’s needs differ. You can compare forex trading platforms in India by their account types, spreads and commissions, leverage, bonuses, withdrawal options, customer service and regulatory oversight from an agency like the SEBI.

How Do I Find SEBI-Regulated Forex Brokers In India?

Finding a SEBI-regulated forex broker is straightforward. A registered broker will have their SEBI license number at the bottom of their website. You can also search for a broker’s name or license number in the SEBI financial register.

What Fees Do I Need To Pay To Use Forex Trading Platforms In India?

The fees you pay to a forex broker in India will depend on the brokerage. FX providers will often charge either a fixed commission per trade and/or a spread. Some forex accounts will also have withdrawal fees, overnight fees and inactivity penalties.