On the other hand, STP accounts offer automated order routing, potentially lower trading costs, and accommodate various trading styles. They are more accessible and may not charge commission fees, but spreads can be slightly wider. ECN accounts offer fast order execution speeds due to the direct market access and automated execution process. STP accounts also provide fast order execution, as trades are processed electronically without manual intervention. However, the execution speed may vary depending on the broker’s technology infrastructure.
The rapidity of execution of orders is the most essential indicator reflecting any Forex broker’s effectiveness. However, it largely depends on the electronic system of execution the broker selects. This index directly affects trading efficiency Utility Programming Interface Api and has a direct correlation, expressed in the probability of slippage at order execution, for better or worse. Today, brokers working on the ECN scheme are becoming more and more popular due to the high speed of order execution.
ECN Vs STP Account
We chose Pepperstone’s demo account for its trading experience as it simulates real trading conditions. The demo account allows for easy replication of your forex trading strategies and chart setups, which would then translate into a smooth transition to a live account. Forex traders devoted to MetaTrader 4 will appreciate AXI’s commitment to the beloved trading platform. Customers can access the full suite of built-in MT4 technical indicators and drawing tools, as well as the Expert Adviser (EA) marketplace. Spreads start at 0.0 pips, however, traders will pay a NZ$7 commission per round-turn trade.
Also, the speed of execution is affected by the type of infrastructure and equipment used by the liquidity providers to which STP brokers send client orders. The main disadvantage of this system is the absence of a two-level Depth of Market, which allows the trader to see only the best price without the possibility of analysis. The answer is by adding a nominal mark-up to the bid/ask spreads offered by their liquidity providers. STP brokers offer floating spreads depending on the bid/ask strength of the respective market.
Differences Between STP, ECN & DMA
Traders can see the available bid and ask prices at different levels, allowing for a better understanding of market liquidity and potential trading opportunities. Traders may not have visibility into the order book or the available liquidity beyond the best bid and ask prices. At an STP broker, the execution speed can vary depending on how the broker routes the trade, which can vary with each trade.
- An ECN broker is a financial intermediary that uses electronic communications networks (ECNs) to give clients direct access to other participants in equity and currency markets.
- Our page lists all of the FMA regulated brokers with Axitrader no longer listed as they lost their regulation in 2021.
- This account type avoids traditional interest-based swap fees to comply with Islamic finance principles.
- Another benefit of trading with an ECN broker is the absence of conflicts of interest.
- One of the most important decisions that a beginner trader has to make is to choose the right Forex broker.
Since its inception, Fxview has remained steadfast in its commitment to transparency, reliability, and high levels of customer service. By offering low-cost trading solutions and utilising the latest and best technological solutions, Fxview fully supports every one of its clients throughout each stage of their trading journey. The world of Forex trading can be quite intimidating for beginners, with all its complexities and jargon.
Pros of a STP Account
Thomas J Catalano is a CFP and Registered Investment Adviser with the state of South Carolina, where he launched his own financial advisory firm in 2018. Thomas' experience gives him expertise in a variety of areas including investments, retirement, insurance, and financial planning. If scalping interests you then you can read our analysis and broker recommendation through this scalping Forex brokers guide for more.
ECN brokers usually offer raw spreads, which means that they pass on the prices from liquidity providers without any markup. With a low minimum deposit requirement and access to multiple trading platforms, IG Markets is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced traders. It also offers a range of educational resources and excellent customer support, making it a solid choice for those seeking to improve their trading skills.
Which is Better: STP or ECN?
Beginners should choose a broker that offers responsive and helpful customer support. Stepping back to a broader view, there are of course many broker types available to fit your needs. At the most basic level, these can be broken down to dealing desk, and no dealing desk brokers. Once you have made sure that your broker is well-regulated then you can look more closely at this. On top of these highly competitive spreads, they will also add their own mark-up which as we have mentioned above, is the main profit source for STP brokers. With STP brokers it is also important to note that they will not be a counterparty to your trade.
This more straightforward cost structure makes it easier to calculate trading costs for novice traders. In addition, because the broker charges no commissions on trades, spreads are typically wider than other account types. ECN brokers are essentially intermediaries that connect traders with liquidity providers, such as banks, hedge funds, and other financial institutions. An ECN broker provides direct access to the market and allows traders to trade with other participants in the network.
Understanding The STP Brokers
With data being significantly closer to New Zealand, execution speeds may be ever-so-slightly faster. For example, one industry report found that trades routed through data centres less than 200km from the trader experienced 50% less slippage. With headquarters based in the Auckland CBD, BlackBull also has its main customer support centre here, which is open during regular New Zealand business hours.
Because an ECN broker consolidates price quotations from several market participants, it can generally offer its clients tighter bid/ask spreads than would be otherwise available to them. For traders looking to decide between an ECN (Electronic Communication Network) account and an STP (Straight Through Processing) account, it is essential to consider several key factors. ECN accounts provide direct market access, tighter spreads, and depth of market information, making them suitable for scalpers and those who prioritize transparency.
Thus, the correct approach is to weigh the positives and negatives of each offering and consider if the corresponding liquidity pools are deep enough for specific trading needs. ECN brokers also offer abundant liquidity levels to their customers, having access to large liquidity provider institutions. On the contrary, STP brokers generally do not have access to ample liquidity pools, as they accommodate traders with smaller transactional needs. As a result, their processed transactions might be susceptible to slippage and fail to process orders swiftly. Traders get the chance to compare their order execution prices with those of other market participants who have access to the same price feed. Another important thing to point out is that liquidity providers compete with each other for greater trading volumes, which motivates them to offer better quotes.
Differences Between STP, ECN and DMA Forex Broker Models
For example if you have a trading account with USD and you deposit with NZ it will convert to the USD it depends on the exchange rate. You can trade with any currency but when you deposit or withdraw it will convert with NZ and there will be conversion costs. Below, you’ll find a list of the FMA-regulated forex and CFD brokers operating in New Zealand. Note that we’ve only included brokers with a valid FSP license and have excluded offshore and unlicensed brokers.