List of 10 HFT Brokers that Allow High-Frequency Trading

A 2020 study by Aite Group revealed that HFT accounts made up approximately 50% of equity trading volume in U.S. markets. For those with the capital and expertise, HFT can be a lucrative strategy, but it requires a specific set of features from a broker. 

This article explores ten brokers well suited to HFT traders, highlighting their strengths and considerations.

High-frequency trading (HFT) demands that a broker keep up with your lightning-fast strategies. But with a plethora of brokers out there, we’ve narrowed down the options to the 10 best platforms in 2025:

1. Vantage Markets

Vantage Markets excels in providing a robust trading environment suitable for HFT strategies. During our testing, we discovered that the platform offers lightning-fast execution speeds and low latency, essential for high-frequency trading. Vantage Markets utilises the Equinix NY4 data centre, ensuring minimal delays and reliable performance. 

As an HFT software, it also supports MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, equipped with advanced charting tools and automated trading capabilities. Vantage Markets’ competitive pricing with tight spreads and low commissions makes it an attractive option for HFT traders. Additionally, the broker is regulated by multiple financial authorities.

For HFT traders, Vantage Markets’ combination of speed, technology, and competitive pricing makes it a strong contender.

Feature	Description
Products	Forex, Indices, Soft Commodities, Energy, ETFs, Share CFDs
Minimum Deposit	$50
Account Types	Standard STP, Raw ECN, and Pro ECN account.
Spreads	Low, starting from  0.0 pips
Commissions	Variable (standard account – built into spreads, raw account – from 1.5$ per 1 Lot Trade)
API Access	Yes
Other Features	Demo account

2. FP Markets

FP Markets is an excellent choice for HFT because it emphasises speed and efficiency. The broker’s use of Equinix data centres in New York and London ensures ultra-low latency, which is crucial for high-frequency trading. FP Markets offers access to MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and IRESS platforms. 

The broker is known for its tight spreads and low commissions, making it cost-effective for frequent traders. We also found that FP Markets is regulated by ASIC and CySEC, providing high security and trust. The extensive educational resources, including webinars and market analysis, benefit traders looking to refine their strategies.

Perhaps one aspect we found most appealing is the online resources available to clients. FP Markets’ educational resources are a valuable bonus, especially for traders looking to sharpen their HFT skills.

Feature	Description
Products	Forex, Commodities, Indices, Gold, Oil, Silver, Bonds
Minimum Deposit	$100
Account Types	Standard, Raw and Islamic
Spreads	Low, starting from 0.0 pips
Commissions	$ 0 for Standard account, $3.50 per 100k round turn (Raw account)
API Access	Yes
Other Features	Low-cost accounts

3. RoboForex

RoboForex’s Electronic Communication Network (ECN) model caters to aggressive trading styles. Traders can also access MT4, MT5, and their proprietary R Trader platform. RoboForex also allows scalping and hedging strategies, which are beneficial for HFT.

The broker’s competitive spreads, high-leverage options, and promotional offers like bonuses and cashback programs enhance its appeal to HFT traders. RoboForex operates under the regulation of the IFSC, which provides a moderate level of security. 

Our testing revealed that trading instruments such as bonds and cryptocurrencies are unavailable. However, HFT traders still get transparent access to multiple features and other trading instruments.

Feature	Description
Products	Stocks, Indices, Futures, ETFs, Soft Commodities, Currencies
Minimum Deposit	$10
Account Types	Prime,ECN, Pro-Standard, Pro-Cent
Spreads	Variable, starting from 0.0 pips (ECN Prime)
Commissions	Variable (standard account – built into spreads, raw account – commission fees apply)
API Access	Yes
Other Features	Educational materials available

4. IC Trading

IC Trading is a well-established broker focusing on low spreads and fast execution. Like FP Markets, it offers industry-standard MT4 and MT5 platforms with built-in algorithmic trading features.

We found IC markets reliable when it comes to client trust and security. Several Tier-1 bodies, such as ASIC, CySEC, and the FSA, regulate IC Trading. The platform offers a comprehensive suite of educational resources, making it suitable for traders of all levels. 

While the advanced features may seem overwhelming to beginners, IC Trading provides the tools and environment for successful high-frequency trading.

Feature	Description
Products	Currencies, stocks, CFDs, Commodities, Futures, Bonds
Minimum Deposit	$200
Account Types	Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader
Spreads	Variable, starting from 0.0 pips (Raw Spread account)
Commissions	$7 per standard lot round turn
API Access	Yes
Other Features	Demo account

5. BlackBull Markets

BlackBull Markets is another strong contender for HFT traders. The company gives traders access to popular MT4 and MT5 platforms and its BlackBull Markets platform. BlackBull Markets focuses on low-latency execution and deep liquidity through its ECN network. It is known for its competitive commissions and focus on providing a good platform for algo traders.

BlackBull Markets impressed us with its well-rounded offering for various experience levels. BlackBull Markets seems a solid choice for traders seeking a dependable platform with multiple options.

Feature	Description
Products	Forex, Equities, Commodities, Futures, Indices
Minimum Deposit	$0
Account Types	Standard, ECN Prime, Institutional
Spreads	Variable, starting from 0.0 pips
Commissions	Negotiable for ECN Prime, variable for other accounts (Standard: built into spread; commissions may apply for other account types)
API Access	Yes
Other Features	Demo account, educational resources

6. Tickmill

While they may not be the most well-known name, Tickmill has garnered a loyal following, particularly among high-frequency traders (HFT). Founded in 2014, Tickmill has maintained a reputation for being a reliable and competitive HFT software.

Their Raw Account boasts some of the tightest spreads in the industry, averaging around 0.5 pips for the EUR/USD pair. This minimal spread translates to lower costs for high-volume traders, a crucial factor in HFT strategies that capitalise on small price movements.

Tickmill is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), a Tier-1 regulator, the CySEC, and the FSA.

Tickmill is perfect for those who focus on forex and CFDs. While the platform options are limited to MetaTrader, Tickmill’s focus on core functionality and affordable pricing makes it a solid choice for traders looking for a streamlined experience.

Feature	Description
Products	Forex, Gold, Silver
Minimum Deposit	$100
Account Types	Pro, VIP, Classic
Spreads	Variable, starting from 0.0 pips (ECN Pro)
Commissions	$2 per 100k USD traded (ECN Pro), variable for other accounts
API Access	Yes
Other Features	3.5% interest, cash rebates

7. XM

Regulated by the FCA, CySEC, ASIC, and IFSC, XM ensures high levels of security and client fund protection, including negative balance protection and segregated client funds. Customer support at XM is available 24/5 via live chat, email, and phone, and the broker supports over 25 languages, ensuring that clients worldwide can get the help they need. 

XM serves clients from more than 190 countries, with a client base exceeding 5 million traders worldwide. The broker has also received numerous awards, including Best FX Service Provider (2022), Best Forex Broker (2022), Best Forex Customer Service (2021), and Best Trading Platform (2021).

XM boasts a high order execution speed, with 99.33% of orders reportedly executed in under a second. HFT Traders worried about slippage can rest assured. 

Our tests showed that seasoned traders might find the platform a bit basic, but XM is a good option for new traders seeking a well-supported learning environment.

Feature	Description
Products	Stocks, Indices, Oil, Gold
Minimum Deposit	$5
Account Types	Micro Account, Standard Account, Ultra Low Account (Islamic account)
Spreads	Low, starting from 0.6 pips
Commissions	$3.50 commission per lot per trade on XM Zero accounts
API Access	Yes
Other Features	$30 sign-up bonus

8. Pepperstone

With a strong global presence that extends to clients from over 150 countries, Pepperstone remains a top choice for HFT traders. One key feature we noticed is its competitive pricing, particularly appealing to high-frequency traders. This HFT software offers tight spreads, starting from as low as 0.0 pips on the Razor account, coupled with low commissions—$3.50 per side per lot.

Pepperstone is regulated by multiple top-tier financial authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). For HFT traders, this means greater confidence in the broker’s reliability and the safety of their funds. 

While educational resources might be limited, Pepperstone’s focus on regulation with multiple Tier-1 licenses adds a layer of security that many traders will appreciate.

Feature	Description
Products	Forex, Commodities, Indices, Currency Indices, Shares, ETFs
Minimum Deposit	$0
Account Types	Standard and Razor accounts.
Spreads	Low, starting from 0.0 pips
Commissions	Variable based on account type: Standard or Razor Account
API Access	Yes
Other Features	$0 deposit/withdrawal fees

9. Moneta Markets

Moneta Markets is a South African forex and CFD broker founded in 2019. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, the platform has features that could make it a good fit.

One major plus side is that Moneta Markets keeps fees low, especially for commodities, indexes, and crypto. We found it even easier to test the platform thanks to zero extra charges for deposits and withdrawals in most cases. They cater to different trading styles with various account options, whether you prefer commission-free trades or razor-thin spreads. Plus, they haven’t skimped on trading platforms. 

Moneta Markets’ well-designed platform features the industry-standard MetaTrader 4 and 5 and Trading Central analysis tools. For those who take their trading seriously, free VPS hosting keeps things running smoothly.

Feature	Description
Products	Forex, Commodities, Indices, Share CFDs
Minimum Deposit	$50
Account Types	Standard, Prime, and ECN Forex
Spreads	Very low, starting from 0.0 pips
Commissions	Up to $3 per lot per side for Prime ECN
API Access	Yes
Other Features	Sharia-compliant trading

10. OctaFX

OctaFX, formerly known by the same name but now simply Octa, is a forex and CFD broker established in 2011. The company has grown to serve clients in over 100 countries. Its platform is also well known to be best-suited for beginner HFT traders. 

One positive aspect we discovered is that OctaFX charges no commissions on CFDs (Contracts for Difference), their primary offering, which means cost savings for high-volume trading. The cTrader platform is particularly noteworthy for high-frequency traders due to its fast execution speeds and sophisticated features, which are designed to meet professional traders’ needs.

OctaFX seems a good option for traders looking for a well-supported and affordable entry into forex trading.

Feature	Description
Products	Forex, CFDs
Minimum Deposit	$25
Account Types	Octa MT4 Account, Octa MT5 Account, Octa Islamic
Spreads	Low, from 0.6 pips
Commissions	$0 on commission
API Access	Yes
Other Features	Zero deposit/withdrawal fees

Why don’t all Brokers Accept HFT Trading?

The average net profit per HFT trade can be as low as $0.001 per share. So, while lucrative for some, it’s not a universally embraced practice. Here’s why some brokers shut the door on HFT:

• Technical Strain: HFT algorithms generate massive order volumes, burdening a broker’s infrastructure.  Frequent order cancellations and rapid-fire trades can overwhelm servers, potentially impacting execution speeds for all clients. From our experience, brokers with less robust systems might struggle to handle this strain.
• Market Integrity Concerns:  Critics argue that HFT can exacerbate market volatility and create unfair advantages.  Rapid back-and-forth trading by HFT algorithms can make it difficult for traditional investors to get a fair price.  Brokers aiming to maintain a level playing field might restrict HFT activity to ensure a healthy market for all participants.
• Profitability Considerations: HFT strategies often involve scalping tiny profits from minuscule price movements. Brokers might find this less profitable than catering to investors making larger, less frequent trades. Our findings reveal that revenue generated from HFT commissions might not justify the technical and regulatory hurdles involved. Brokers might be more inclined to focus on clients contributing more significantly to their bottom line.

How did we choose the best HFT Forex Brokers?

High-Frequency Trading (HFT) thrives on speed and precision. Selecting the right broker on WR Trading for your HFT strategy requires careful consideration. Here are some key criteria to guide your choice:

1. Execution Speed and Latency: We choose brokers with robust infrastructure and cutting-edge technology to ensure orders are filled with minimal latency (delay). In recent years, nearly 10% of all trades used HFT, which has a clearing time of just a few seconds. Ideally, execution times should be below 50 milliseconds to capitalise on fleeting market opportunities.  
2. Low Costs, High Volume: HFT strategies involve high trade volume with tiny profit margins.  Therefore, competitive fees are usually key for this trading strategy. We look for brokers offering low commissions, tight spreads (the difference between the buy and sell price), and minimal non-trading fees.  ECN (Electronic Communication Network) accounts are often preferred as they provide raw spreads and commission-based pricing.
3. Liquidity Matters: Deep liquidity ensures smooth order execution. To minimise slippage (the difference between the expected and actual price of a trade), we often look for brokers with access to a vast pool of buyers and sellers. Brokers with connections to major exchanges and Electronic Market Makers (EMMs) are ideal.
4. Proper Tech Support: HFT relies heavily on advanced technology. We need a broker that offers robust trading platforms like MetaTrader 4 and 5 or cTrader and provides API (Application Programming Interface) access for integrating custom algorithms.  Reliable technical support is also crucial to troubleshoot any issues that might arise.

Comparison Table of HFT Brokers

Broker	Platforms	Regulation	Min Deposit	Leverage	Spreads	HFT Capability
Vantage Markets	MT4, MT5	ASIC, FSCA, VSFC	$50	100:1 to 500:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, low latency execution
FP Markets	MT4, MT5, IRESS, cTrader	ASIC, CySEC	$100	Up to 500:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, Direct Market Access (DMA)
RoboForex	MT4, MT5, R Trader	FSC	$10	Up to 2000:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, multiple account types supporting HFT
IC Markets	MT4, MT5, cTrader	ASIC, CySEC, FSA	$200	Up to 500:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, ultra-low latency
BlackBull Markets	MT4, MT5	FMA, FSA	$0	Up to 500:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, institutional-grade infrastructure
Tickmill	MT4, MT5	FCA, CySEC, FSA, FSCA	$100	Up to 500:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, fast execution
OctaFX	MT4, MT5	CySEC, MISA, FSCA,	$25	Up to 1000:1	From 0.6 pips	Yes, reliable execution
XM	MT4, MT5	ASIC, CySEC, IFSC	$5	Up to 1000:1	From 0.6 pips	Yes, fast execution
Pepperstone	MT4, MT5, cTrader, Trading View	ASIC, FCA, DFSA, CMA, SCB, CySEC	$0	Up to 500:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, low-latency
Moneta Markets	MT4, MT5	SLIBC, FSCA	$50	Up to 1000:1	From 0.0 pips	Yes, efficient execution

Benefits of Using Trading APIs for HFT Trading:

Trading APIs are integral to the success of High-Frequency Trading (HFT) by enabling direct and automated interaction with trading platforms. HFT Traders often turn to trading application programming interfaces (APIs), which provide direct access to market data and order execution. In addition, you can see our Trading API Forex Broker Comparison.

Here’s why you should use Trading APIs for HFT Trading:

1. Speed and Low Latency

Trading APIs offer ultra-fast order execution and low latency, making them well-suited for HFT strategies. APIs allow you to bypass traditional trading interfaces and connect directly to exchange servers or liquidity pools. 

2. Customisation and Flexibility

Trading APIs provide high customisation and flexibility, allowing traders to tailor their trading strategies to specific market conditions and objectives. APIs enable the automation of trading processes, including order generation, risk management, and trade monitoring, based on pre-defined algorithms or rules. 

This allows traders to fine-tune their strategies and adjust real-time parameters to adapt to changing market dynamics.

3. Access to Market Data

APIs grant access to real-time market data, including price quotes, order book depth, and trade history, enabling traders to make informed decisions quickly. By integrating market data feeds directly into their trading algorithms, HFT traders can analyse market trends, identify trading opportunities, and execute trades precisely. 

4. Scalability and Efficiency

Trading APIs facilitate the scalability and efficiency of HFT operations by streamlining the trade execution process and reducing manual intervention. With APIs, traders can execute multiple trades across different markets and asset classes simultaneously. 

This scalability allows HFT firms to handle high trading volumes and capitalise on various market opportunities.

5. Risk Management and Compliance

While trading APIs offer significant benefits for HFT, they also pose risks, particularly regarding system reliability, connectivity issues, and potential errors. When using trading APIS, HFT traders must implement robust risk management measures and adhere to regulatory requirements. 

This includes implementing failover mechanisms, monitoring system performance, and maintaining compliance with market regulations to mitigate operational and legal risks.

What is the Right Platform & Software for HFT?

Due to the high-stakes nature of HFT, you could win or lose fortunes in the blink of an eye. The platform you choose goes a long way in ensuring you guarantee more wins. So, what makes a platform ideal for HFT? Here’s what to consider:

Built for Automation

HFT relies on algorithms to make trading decisions at lightning speed. Your platform should seamlessly integrate with your custom algorithms. We’ve tested platforms that offer features like API (Application Programming Interface) access and compatibility with popular algorithmic trading platforms like MetaTrader 4&5 or cTrader. These features are essential for building and deploying your algorithmic strategies.

Comprehensive Market Data

The platform should provide comprehensive market data feeds, including price quotes, order book depth, trade history, and other relevant data points. We often test specific platforms to ensure reliable data delivery with minimal latency and support integration with external data sources and APIs for additional market insights.

Speed and Latency

An ideal HFT platform must offer ultra-low latency to ensure rapid order execution. Latency, the delay between sending an order and its execution, needs to be minimised. According to a report by the TABB Group, latency below one millisecond is considered optimal for HFT. 

We’ve found platforms like IC Markets and Pepperstone to excel in this area, providing an edge to HFT traders.

Robust API Support

Trading APIs are essential for implementing and executing algorithmic strategies in HFT. APIs provide real-time market data and facilitate the rapid execution of trades. From our experience, platforms like RoboForex and Vantage Markets offer comprehensive API support, enabling traders to deploy complex algorithms efficiently. 

What Are The Benefits Of 1-Click Trading On HFT Brokers?

Many trading platforms offer one-click trading, allowing traders to execute trades with a single button click without needing multiple confirmation steps. This feature provides several benefits for traders, particularly those engaged in high-frequency trading (HFT) and active day trading. 

Here are some of the key advantages of one-click trading:

Speed and Efficiency

One-click trading enables traders to execute trades quickly and efficiently, reducing the time required to enter or exit positions. With just a single click, traders can instantly execute market orders, saving valuable time and allowing them to capitalise on fast-moving market opportunities. 

This speed is especially beneficial for HFT strategies, where every millisecond counts in capturing fleeting market movements.

Reduced Latency

One-click trading helps reduce latency in order execution by eliminating the need for manual confirmation steps. Traders can place orders directly from the trading interface without delays caused by additional confirmation dialogues or pop-up windows. 

OCT is handy for HFT traders who require rapid order execution to stay ahead of the competition and seize time-sensitive trading opportunities. 

Improved Trade Timing

One-click trading allows traders to react quickly to changes in market conditions and execute trades at the optimal moment. With instantaneous order placement, traders can precisely enter or exit positions, minimising slippage and maximising trade execution efficiency.

This ability to act swiftly and decisively is crucial for achieving optimal trade outcomes, particularly in volatile or rapidly changing markets.

Streamlined User Experience

One-click trading simplifies the trading process and enhances the user experience by reducing the steps required to execute trades. Traders can place orders with a single click directly from the trading chart or order entry panel, eliminating the need to navigate multiple menus or screens.

This streamlined user interface improves efficiency and reduces the risk of errors, allowing traders to focus on their trading strategies without distractions.

What is the Regulation and Security of an HFT Broker?

Regulatory authorities establish rules and standards that govern HFT activities, including trading practices, market access, and risk management. Key regulatory bodies overseeing HFT may include:

• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK
• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States
• Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Australia
• Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the United States
• European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) in the European Union

These regulatory bodies enforce compliance with regulations such as Market Abuse Regulation (MAR), Market Conduct Rules, and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements to maintain market integrity and protect investors from abusive or manipulative trading practices.

Market Surveillance

Regulators employ sophisticated surveillance systems to monitor HFT activities and detect irregularities or potential market abuse. Market surveillance tools analyse trading data in real time, flagging suspicious patterns or behaviours that may indicate manipulative trading, insider trading, or other violations of market rules. 

Risk Management

Our research found that top HFT firms implement robust risk management practices to mitigate operational, financial, and regulatory risks associated with high-speed trading. Effective risk management strategies include pre-trade risk checks, position limits, circuit breakers, and automated monitoring systems to proactively identify and address potential risks. 

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is critical to HFT operations, given the reliance on electronic trading systems and connectivity to global markets. We noticed that the best HFT firms invest in cybersecurity measures to safeguard their trading infrastructure, data, and proprietary algorithms from cyber threats such as hacking, malware, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.

Is HFT Trading legal or not?

Yes. High-frequency trading (HFT) is not illegal. It’s a legitimate trading method that uses powerful computers and algorithms to exploit tiny market inefficiencies quickly. 

Our research shows that the best brokers are well-regulated by top-tier authorities. These regulatory bodies are constantly working to define and prevent any form of market manipulation or giving unfair advantages. The right trading broker is essential to save costs and ensure quick order execution.

Conclusion

High-frequency trading (HFT) presents a unique set of demands for Forex Brokers. As such, traders must use HFT software that provides easy access to features to help with effective trading. In this article, we’ve reviewed ten brokers catering to HFT, highlighting their strengths and considerations.

While we’ve assembled these options, you should select the ideal HFT broker based on your needs and priorities. Success hinges not only on the right broker but also on in-depth market knowledge, effective risk management strategies, and a well-honed algorithmic trading approach.

Frequently Asked Questions on HFT Brokers

Sources:

• High Frequency Trading Definition – Nasdaq