HF Markets (HFM) review and test – Is it a trusted broker or not?
Table of Contents
Is HF Markets (also known as HotForex) a reliable Forex Broker for international traders? – On this website, we will have a deeper look into the company. With more than nine years of experience in trading, we know exactly how to check an online broker. In the next sections, we will show you the conditions of the broker and test the trading platform. Is it really worth investing your money with HF Markets? – Find it out in this trusted review.
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
What is HF Markets? – The broker presented
HF Markets is a MetaTrader-only platform broker that provides market-maker implementation within a large selection of six types of accounts. With an advanced mode of MetaTrader provision, HF Markets offers a restricted variety of tradable products. This can be compared to other leading multi-asset companies.
The Forex Broker is most famous among other newly initiated companies and affiliates. Its popularity is seen as real progress for the Company and stands as an avenue for the Company to endorse and promote its name or brand, reaching every area of the forex market. The Company was built on a mission to structure a trustworthy customer service brokerage. This is one of the significant reasons why HF Markets traders continue transactions with the broker on the platform.
HotForex was established in 2010 as a MetaTrader broker and renamed its brand in 2022 to HF Markets (HFM). Their traders have free access to more than 150 securities, though with some restrictions. For instance, the crypto CFDs are only traded on weekdays.
This company HF Markets is highly regulated, and it has just one tier license. It has been in operation for more than nine years, and so far, it has been able to stream trust from other forex companies. The platforms give access to six different kinds of accounts if you count the demo account as well, and these accounts vary in price depending on the account a user is operating. However, it is still one of the lowest pricing platforms so far. A full Metatrader suite on HF Markets is loaded with choice tool packages for their customers. These tools are known as premium trader tools, made to improve users’ experience on the platform. HF Markets is known for its genuineness and the company got more than 30 awards.
Facts about HF Markets
⭐ Rating: | 5 / 5 |
🏛 Founded: | 2010 |
💻 Trading platforms: | HFM Platform, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 |
💰 Minimum deposit: | $250 from bank transfers, $50 for all other payment methods |
💱 Account currencies: | USD, EUR, PLN |
💸 Withdrawal limit: | No |
📉 Minimum trade amount: | $1,000 trading volume / 0.01 lot |
⌨️ Demo account: | Yes |
🕌 Islamic account: | Yes |
🎁 Bonus: | Yes |
📊 Assets: | Forex, Metals, Indices, Energies, Stocks, Commodities, Bonds, ETFs |
💳 Payment methods: | Bank transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Neteller, Skrill |
🧮 Fees: | From 0.1 pip, depending on the account type |
📞 Support: | 25 / 5 support via phone, e-mail, and live chat |
🌎 Languages: | 27 languages |
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
Is HF Markets regulated? – The regulation explained
HF Markets’s regulation is one of the trending subjects amongst other top traders because HF Markets is among part of the few brokers that own multiple regulatory ranks across the world. Financial Services Authority (Seychelles) regulatory authority, the FCA of the United Kingdom, the FSCA in South Africa, and DFSA in Dubai are the most important bodies regulating the HF Markets trading platform. However, the broker is one of the most regulated in the world and has certifications from more than 27 additional national agencies, mainly from various European countries.
Overall, at the moment, there are more than five different tier 1 regulations for the company. This shows us the high trust, and we can see that the Forex Broker is a safe place to invest money.
HF Tier 1 Markets Regulations:
- FCA – Financial Conduct Authority (United Kingdom)
- DFSA – Dubai Financial Service Authority (Dubai)
- FSCA – Financial Sector Authority (South Africa)
- FSA – Financial Services Authority (Seychelles)
- CMA – Capital Markets Authority (Kenya)
Financial security for traders
On the HF Markets platform, many winning traders have all their hearts on what they are trading because they have no worries about the security of their invested funds. Some measures have been integrated to make sure that the financial security of the platform is solid and foolproof. Some of these measures are highlighted below:
Market Leading Insurance:
HF Markets has made reasonable efforts to protect her liabilities from clients and third parties using a Civil Liability insurance system for a limit of €5,000,000. This incorporates market-leading coverage in counter against omissions, errors, fraud, negligence, and any other kind of activity that can lead to loss of cash investment on the platform.
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
Industry leader, leading financial safety:
HF Markets is known as a trending platform in online trading activities, derivatives on UK and US stocks, forex trading, spot metals, commodities, and indices. The safety of the client’s funds is one of the missions of the broker, including a world-class customer support relationship. With this, HotForex is bound to gain high recognition for its excellent performance, good reviews from clients across the world, and services award-winning with an assurance that clients are free from worries about the safety of their funds.
Accounts with major banks:
HF Markets platform is dedicated to banking with only significant banks across the globe. Liquidity is offered through these significant banks based on the strength and international recognition of the broker.
Segregation of funds:
Clients have separate bank accounts for their funds. The account is different from where the Company keeps its money. The funds are not used to pay creditors because it is off the balance sheet. So, if anything should happen to the Company, the client’s investment is fully secured.
Risk management:
HF Markets regularly examines, assesses, identifies, and watches different kinds of risk attached to their operation. This implies that the Forex Broker always puts effort into checking and advancing the procedures in place and the effect of policies. This helps the Company to be able to recover all its financial requirements and startup capital requirements at any given time.
What are the pros and cons of HF Markets?
If you are wondering if HF Markets is a good fit for you, keep reading because we have listed our most important advantages and disadvantages in the chart below. We tested the platform extensively and with our own money, and we are confident we can give you a great inside.
Pros of HF Markets | Cons of HF Markets |
✔ Compatible spreads from 0.1 pip spread | ✘ Deposit via cryptocurrencies isn’t supported |
✔ Winner of 60 industry awards | ✘ Copy trading option not available worldwide |
✔ Full transparency on fees and commissions | ✘The verification process can be rather slow |
✔ Scalping and Hedging allowed | |
✔ Accepts international traders from most countries | |
✔ More than 150 tradable assets | |
✔ Low minimum deposit |
Is HF Markets user-friendly?
Wheater HF Markets (formerly Hotforex) is a user-friendly broker or not will be answered in this segment. We rated different aspects of usability, and we will give you an overview here.
Criteria | Rating |
General Website Design and Setup | ★★★★★ Clean and easy to navigate, and we like the impressive selection of supported languages |
Sign-up Process | ★★★★ Easy and fast sign-up process, as well as an unlimited demo account |
Usability of trading area | ★★★★ The amount of customizable settings is impressive, but slightly fewer assets than other brokers |
Usability of mobile app | ★★★★ The app is handy, and trading over a mobile phone is very easy |
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
Trade offers overview: Review of the conditions for traders:
There are some conditions set for traders on the HF Markets trading platform. However, the broker offers a broad set of educational materials or tools that are meant to teach a newbie trader on the platform. With this, a beginner trader can gradually grow into an intermediate level and expert level, depending on the speed of learning. The traders’ training course includes a set of eBooks and tutorial videos. The tutorial videos are made with professional presentations and clear audio. The eBooks are self-explanatory and full of several illustrations for easy understanding. The training is recommended for every new trader.
Some of the conditions for traders include several regulations in their different countries, several bonuses and contests for traders, different languages for customer support, secured spread as low as 0 pips, and natural trading conditions on advanced platforms.
The trading conditions are depending on your account type. Generally, there are three different account types and special accounts for professional clients and experienced retail clients. To open these account types, you will need to provide proof and certain documents. If you are just starting out, the minimum deposit is low as $ 50, and you can open your account in different currencies. We will go more into detail in the other sections.
Traders can use the well-known trading software MetaTrader in version 4 or 5, providing more than 150 different assets like forex, commodities, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. This platform gives you all the tools you need for successful investing in the financial markets. In addition, the leverage can be up to 1:1000, and there is also the possibility of activating a trading bonus. In conclusion, HF Markets shows us that good offers and conditions are available.
Conditions for traders:
- The minimum deposit is $ 50
- Free demo account
- Various account types
- More than 150 assets (forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, indices, stocks)
- Starting 0.0 pips
- Leverage up to 1:1000
- Fast execution of trades
- Free bonus available
- MetaTrader 4/5 platforms
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
Test of the HF Markets trading platform
HF Markets offers the trading platform MetaTrader in version 4 or 5. This platform is multifunctional and offered by many other brokers. It can be used for your computer, mobile phone, or tablet. You only need one account to use any device.
- MetaTrader 4
- MetaTrader 5
- (available for web browser, desktop, and mobile device)
The MetaTrader is well-known for its professional trading tools and customizability of indicators. For example, there are free indicators to use, but you can add some more if you found a reliable one on the internet. It is possible to program your own tools or automated strategies on the platform. After a few hours of practice, you will feel comfortable using the platform. HF Markets can help you to use the MetaTrader. Also, tutorials and strategies are provided by the broker.
Main facts of the trading platform MetaTrader:
- The best platform for retail traders and used by many brokers
- Available for any device
- You only need one account to get access to the markets on any device
- Free indicators
- Supports automated trading
- Customizable tools
- Multi-Charting
- Professional portfolio management
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
MetaTrader 4 vs MetaTrader 5
MetaTrader 5 is the newest version of the platform, and there are always updates to improve the service. If you compare both versions, there are only small differences which we will show you in the next table.
MetaTrader 5 | Metatrader 4 | |
---|---|---|
TIMEFRAMES: | 21+ and customizable | 9 |
TECHNICAL INDICATORS: | 38+ (you can add more manually) | 30+ (you can add more manually) |
BUILT-IN ECONOMIC CALENDAR: | Yes | No |
PLATFORM SPEED: | 64-bit, multi-threaded | 32-bit, mono-threaded |
PENDING ORDER TYPES: | 6 | 4 |
HEDGING: | Yes | Yes |
How to use the trading platform:
The HF Markets trading platform has been tested by several users and by us. One of the users on the HF Markets platform gives a story of how he proved the account. According to him, he started out by just filling out a questionnaire online using some of his details; he was asked if he had previous trading experience and a few other questions that are not stressful to answer. After that, he made a deposit of $ 500. He illustrated that when filling out the registration form, accurate details must be provided because one of the HF Markets representatives will put a call through to verify the user’s identity. This process is very important to the company because of the regulatory authorities.
As soon as the account was opened and he deposited the fund for a premium account using a VISA card. His funds were credited live to the account within a few minutes. He recommends using wire transfer for more significant amounts of deposit. One lovely fact about a wire transfer is that it will pay the transfer fee for any transaction done via wire transfer. This option can be used when the fund to be deposited is above $250.
We also highlight and confirmed that the broker is regulated. Identity must be approved before permission is granted to access live accounts to prevent money laundering, and this is according to the law governing the system. Identification can be verified by tendering a scanned copy of one’s ID card or any government-issued passport, in addition to other documents like utility bills that will confirm the user’s place of residence and account statement.
At the time of the test, several trades were placed on major currency pairs such as EURGBP, EURUSD, and GBPUSD both short and long. The analysis was done, especially during business time. The response was fast, and trade execution on HF Markets is one of the fastest that has been experienced.
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
Analysis and charting for trading
HF Markets makes use of the Tick Chart Trader Tool to display different kinds of tick charts. There are a quick response order entry and exit with just a single click on your keyboard. It is recommended that you continuously enter and exit the market in case you want to transact short-term trades.
In addition, there are helpful tools like the “autochartist” which will show you automated technical analysis. For beginners who are new to technical analysis, this tool is very good for understanding price movements.
Here are five types of chart views for several kinds of traders:
- There is an easy tick chart that updates each time asks and bid price change.
- Versus is used to change the movements of two trades against the other.
- The Candles tools show the OHLC candles depending on the number of ticks and not just a single time.
- The Timed charts make an update on each tick, and the X-axis is based on time, it shows the difference between quiet periods and busy periods.
- The Tick Chart plus display bars indicate the time that the last ticks have been used to form and indicate market transactions.
Furthermore, market orders are done by clicking on the bid or ask price, which the shortcut is by making use of the keyboards B and S. For a super-fast trade order entry, you can make use of the Ctrl key to input orders without verification. Keyboard shortcuts Ctrl and B together can place orders in a blink without any verification.
Professional charting:
- Multi-Charting
- Different chart types
- Tick chart
- Autochartist
- Multiple timeframes
- Customizable charts
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
Mobile trading via the app
In an advanced market like this, your HF Markets account and your financial trading are right in the palm of your hand. With the use of the HF app, all you need to do on the website are made available in a few clicks. The mobile app will enable you to comprehend the markets using fast trading tools and recent news updates, plus financial market analysis. The myHF area feature has been integrated into the HF app so that no users can have direct access to the app.
Also, the MT4 and MT5 versions can be downloaded on Android and iOS devices from the app store. Also, you can download them directly from the HF Markets official website. They are just exactly what you will find in the web version, and it has all the features and tools found on the web version. You can contact HF Markets directly from the app.
Listed in the next paragraph are some of the important features and functions of MT4 and MT5 mobile applications:
- Carry out trading activities easily from anywhere with just a click.
- It displays real-time quotes and current market price previews.
- There is permission for full account control plus order activities.
- There are more than 20 multiple-time monitors and indicators.
- Real-time charts are integrated for quick and constant analysis, plus chart transactions.
How to open your trading account with HF Markets
On the HF Markets platform, a demo account is opened with an initial deposit of $ 100,000 for testing the trade and getting familiar with all the tools and features on the site in case of a newbie registration. The demo account functions exactly like the live account, only that the cash is not real.
To register a demo account, click on the ‘demo’ button indicator on the top corner of the HF Markets official website.
Fill out the form correctly and continue with the prompt to finish registration. An email confirmation link will be seen to confirm it, and that account will be created instantly. After this, you will get another email that contains your password and myHF Identity. You can further download and install the MT4 trading app. When you are done with the installation, open the app, then select the demo server and continue to the next phase. Now log in with your detail.
HF Markets platform has different kinds of accounts according to the trader’s level of experience and trading capital.
Steps to open your trading account:
- Fill out the account form
- Confirm your email address
- Answer the broker’s questions
- Confirm your identity by uploading documents
- Deposit or use the free demo account
- Start trading
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
Account types of HF Markets:
Demo Account:
For micro account users, MT4, MT5, WebTraders, and mobile trading platforms are available. The maximum leverage on this account is 1:1000. The trading contracts are smaller than in normal accounts.
Zero Account:
The Zero account is an accessible, swap-free, low-cost trading solution that is suitable for all traders. Receive RAW, Super-Tight Spreads from leading liquidity providers with no hidden markups and commissions starting from a low $0.03 per 1k lot!
Premium Account:
The Premium account is for retail traders who are looking for swap-free trading with lower spreads and no commissions. You can open a premium account on all trading platforms available, the HFM Platform, MetaTrader 4, and MetaTrader 5.
Premium Pro Account:
The HF Markets Premium Pro Account was specifically created to cater to the needs of traders classified under the Professional Clients or Experienced Retail Client categories as per the Client Categorization Policy. It is most fitting for traders who have the experience, knowledge, and expertise to make their own investment decisions and adequately assess risk.
In the chart below, you will find some important differences between the various account types.
Premium | Zero | Premium Pro | |
Minimum trade size | 0.01 lot | 0.01 lot | 0.01 lot |
Spreads Pip | From 1.4 pip | From 0 on Forex and Gold | From 1.0 pip |
Maximum Leverage | Variable, depending on the product | Variable, depending on the product | 1:400 for professional clients |
Commissions For Forex Pairs | No | Yes | No |
Max Simultaneous Open Orders | 500 | 500 | 300 |
Can my account balance go negative with HF Markets?
Change generally occurs in the market. HF Markets has a policy of negative balance protection this implies that even if there is a great change that affects the performance of margin calls and stop-outs, clients will not be charged nor held responsible for the negative balance reflection.
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
How to deposit and withdraw with HF Markets
Note that HF Markets never charges users for withdrawal and deposit fees. The withdrawal procedure is also similar to the deposit process. A third-party transaction is highly forbidden. Any withdrawal that is processed as early as 10 am will be concluded that same day. The accepted payment methods are:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Bank transfer
- Skrill
- Neteller
In the overview below, you will find an overview of the transaction time and fees associated with it, as well as the minimum deposit.
When it comes to withdrawal, basically the same option is available, but the processing time varies. What’s great about HF markets is the process of withdrawing requests rather quickly from our experience, usually within one business day. However, depending on your local bank regulations, it may take them longer to clear the funds and make it available to you, but that’s outside HF Markets control.
Minimum withdrawal amount | Processing time | Fees | |
Bank transfers | $100 | 2-10 business days | None |
Credit- and Debit Cards | $5 | 2-10 business days | None |
Neteller | $5 | Instant | None |
Skrill | $5 | Instant | None |
There are no deposit and withdrawal fees.
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
HF Markets fees: How much does it cost to trade?
You can bring down the cost of your trading with a Zero spread account on the HF Markets platform. With the least opening deposit of $200, the HF Markets Zero account is a balanced, low-cost trading account for all kinds of traders. It is most suitable for scalpers, Expert Advisors, and high-trading users. On this account, you will get RAW and a good spread from high-liquidity companies without any hidden markups. The account provides a clear commission-based structure, and the commissions begin at a minimum of $0.03.
The zero spread account is the best account for paying low trading fees.
Another fee which we will discuss is the overnight fee. HF Markets is offering leveraged trading products like CFDs. By using the leverage, the trader is borrowing money from the broker. If a position is held overnight, there can be overnight fees (swap) that occur. The fee is depending on the leverage, trading product, and currency. Note that the swap can be positive in forex trading because of the interest rates.
Fees:
- Spread
- Trading commission
- Overnight fees for positions
Customer support and service
HF Markets customer support is available in s more than 27 languages. Live chats are made available too. You can reach them via live chat, phone, and e-mail. You can also contact them by filling out the contact form on the official website. International employees are working for the company.
The customer support representatives are practical and straightforward to reach. The telephone bolsters associates who are learned and quick to get calls. The online life channels are dynamic, now and again refreshed, and have heaps of adherents. For instance, the Facebook page has 1.2 million preferences. The live visit bolster aide took under 20 seconds to react when a talk was started. Email backing reacts within a couple of hours.
In addition, HF Markets offers a huge range of educational materials like eBooks, webinars, events, coaching, and tutorials. Especially for beginners, it is very interesting to gain professional knowledge.
There are daily webinars where professionals are analyzing the financial markets and show trading ideas. It is free in different languages. On the other hand, you can ask support for personal support from educated employees. They will help you to understand the trading platforms and build a portfolio.
Facts of the service for traders:
- 24/5 support via phone, email, or chat
- Webinars
- Education tutorials, eBooks, and more
- Live events
- Coachings
- Professional support in different languages
(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
What are the best alternatives to HF Markets?
If you aren’t fully convinced HF Markets is a good fit for you, don’t worry. With this wide variety of options available, finding your perfect broker can take some time. Below, we introduce you to three regulated, trusted, and reliable alternatives, definitely worth taking a look at.
Captial.com
Capital.com is the excellent choice for new merchants with little experience due to the fact our check revealed, their platform is easy to use, they offer a ton of instructional experience, a free demo account, aggressive spread prices, and much more. Read our full review here.
RoboForex
RoboForex is a notable option for intermediate to advanced traders, typically due to the high leverage and the massive amount of tradable assets. The broker has more than 900,000 registered customers around the world and scored in terms of leverage and professional client support. Read our detailed RoboForex review here.
XTB
XTB is one of the most independent brokers in history and is great for everyone who wishes their funds extremely safe. XTB used to be firstly centered in Poland, however, has offices in many nations around the world, and they are even traded in the Polish inventory market. So you can be sure you won’t go anywhere. As an additional benefit, they are offering access to xStation 5, one of the best and most beginner-friendly trading platforms on the market. Learn more about XTB here.
Conclusion of the HF Markets review: Reliable Forex broker
This profoundly regulated Forex Broker HF Markets goes far to guarantee customers of its unwavering quality and well-being. It offers a choice of best-in-class exchanging stages over different gadgets. They gave MT4 and MT5 refined, all-around acknowledged, and profoundly adaptable.
HF Markets gives propelled devices and specialized analysis to their customers. Trader Education in the type of webinars, eBooks, and recordings are accessible. Moreover, there are heaps of rewards, advancements, and challenges to support and reward dedicated customers. HF Markets has enough in its weapons store to challenge the leading brands in the EU and UK, and it is likewise pushing hard to make advances in different markets.
Furthermore, the conditions for traders are very good. International traders can profit from high leverage up to 1:1000. Through different liquidity providers, the execution of trades is very fast. We can truly recommend trading with the broker HF Markets.
Advantages of HF Markets:
- Multi-regulated company
- Accept international clients
- More than 150 markets
- Tight spreads and account types for every need
- Low minimum deposit of 5$ and a free demo account
- MetaTrader 4 and 5
- Professional support in different languages
- Overall a very good Forex Broker for beginners and advanced traders
HF Markets is a very good Forex Broker with low spreads and fast execution on the financial markets. (5 / 5)
Trusted Broker Reviews
Experienced and professional traders since 2013(Risk warning: Your capital can be at risk)
FAQs- The most asked questions about HF Markets (HFM):
Is HF Markets trustworthy?
HF Markets is a reputable and secure Fx and derivatives broker recognized for its no-spread accounts and excellent client support. Furthermore, it is a genuinely worldwide broker that accepts users from several nations and provides opportunities for both novice and seasoned traders to participate in the forex market.
Is HotForex (HF Markets) a trade manipulator?
HotForex boasts of being a 100% STP brokerage, which means that all trades are handled directly in the real-time market with no influence or intervention by the brokerage and nil re-quotes.
Does HF Markets offer any bonuses?
Is there a sign-up incentive at HotForex? Certainly, HotForex offers a 50% Sign-Up Reward that is instantly credited to your trading account. So just invest $50/R800 ZAR to boost your balance by 50%! The promotion is accessible on Micro Account and the MetaTrader 4 trading system.
Does HF Markets make use of MT4/5?
The MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5 interfaces are currently only open to Hotforex users with an SV registration. To obtain entry to the platforms, simply join up with the brokerage for a real account or check the HF Markets demo account and try all of the functionalities with $100k in imaginary money.
See other articles about online brokers:
Last Updated on June 8, 2023 by Res Marty