HF Markets has always been a starting point for me when I seek clarity about regulation and safety. In my experience with HF Markets I have found that understanding which entities supervise a broker is key to trading with peace of mind. That’s why I explain, in a direct and approachable way, which aspects are worth checking before opening an account.
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Regulations of HF Markets/HotForex
If you care about transparency, look at public documents: terms and conditions, privacy policy and details about fees. I usually compare those sections across several brokers before deciding. Also, remember that regulation changes by country — now, regarding this broker we have:
- It is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission under license number 183/12.
- HF Markets is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority of the United Kingdom (FCA) under license number 801701.
- HFM is regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) under license number 46632.
- And it is also regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) under license number F004885.
But what does this mean for you? Think of two scenarios:
- Segregated funds: Your money is never mixed with the company’s operating funds (like having one safe inside another).
Semi-annual audits: Firms like Deloitte review their numbers more often than an accountant during tax season.
Now, let’s talk about what nobody mentions. Did you know some brokers that are “regulated” only hold offshore licenses of questionable reputation? Here the differentiator is clear: HF Markets complies with the 1:30 leverage cap for the EU, a measure from ESMA that prevents retail traders from taking on the kind of debt seen in 2008. Boring? Maybe, but it’s like a seatbelt: it doesn’t shine, but it saves financial lives.
Available account types and trading profiles
HF Markets often appears among the options when I talk with friends who ask about account types; I personally compare features before choosing. Understanding trading profiles and available accounts makes it easier to choose according to your experience and capital.
At HF Markets there are also Premium and Pro accounts aimed at retail traders, which do not charge commissions and where the direct charge is via spreads; there are also Zero accounts that offer RAW spreads from 0.0 pips and operate with a commission per lot; this is useful if you want to lower the spread and pay a fixed commission per volume; keep in mind that requirements and commissions vary depending on the account type you choose. As for maximum leverage across all accounts, it is 1:2000 — it’s your decision whether to keep it at the maximum or reduce it.
Generally, during the year some details, features and account types can change at this broker, so I invite you to visit their official page from the description or first comment of this video, either to register or to stay informed with their latest updates.
Each account type has implications for spreads, leverage and deposit requirements. I recommend starting with an account that limits risk while you learn, and then migrating if your strategy requires it.
For active traders, it’s vital to check order execution and latency; for investors, analytical tools and access to a variety of instruments matter more. Use questions like: What level of leverage do I need? and Which fees impact my profitability?
Trading platforms and operational tools at HF Markets
HFM offers MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) (desktop, mobile and web), in addition to its proprietary HFM App and MT5 WebTerminal. It supports EAs/automation in environments where allowed.
Spreads and commissions: how to calculate the real cost
If you use a Zero account, expect minimal spreads (0.0) + a round-turn commission (e.g. $3–6/lot). In Premium/Standard accounts the cost is usually built into the spread (typical EUR/USD in reviews: ~1.0–1.5 pips). Always check the average spread during low-liquidity hours (it can widen).
Customer service (channels and practical test)
Channels: live chat 24/5, email support@hfm.com and international phone numbers (e.g. +44 numbers). HFM publishes its phone numbers and chat on the contact page. If you want to measure quality: send a query via chat with a specific question (deposit/withdrawal) and record the response time and the resolution.
