Having traded with various brokers over the years, my experience with Equiti stands out due to its robust offerings, particularly in safety measures and account protection. As a relatively well-established broker that has been in the market since 2008, Equiti has consistently expanded its global reach, offering a wide range of tradable assets, from forex to commodities, indices, and CFDs. My personal experience trading on their platforms, primarily MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), has been relatively smooth, with fast execution speeds and competitive spreads. However, the platform shines most due to its focus on security and investor protection. Let’s delve into the specific aspects that make Equiti a reliable choice, from regulation to fund protection mechanisms.
Regulation & Safety
Equiti operates under multiple regulatory bodies, ensuring traders are well-protected under different jurisdictions. The broker holds licenses from top-tier regulators such as the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Jordan Securities Commission (JSC), with additional regulation from authorities in Kenya and the UAE. This multi-jurisdictional regulation gives traders confidence in Equiti’s adherence to international standards. Personally, knowing that my trades were being executed on a regulated platform gave me peace of mind, especially when leveraging large positions. One standout feature is their global approach to regulation, which ensures a safety net for clients from different regions, though it’s important to note that services differ slightly depending on local regulations.
During my time trading, I appreciated the transparent and clear communication about the broker’s regulatory framework, which is crucial in an industry rife with potential risks. This diverse regulatory backing demonstrates that Equiti isn’t just relying on a single set of rules, making them versatile and trustworthy across multiple markets.
Licensing
Equiti’s licensing structure is one of the key components that ensures a safe trading environment. As mentioned, the FCA license is particularly noteworthy due to its strict regulatory requirements, including a minimum capital requirement and regular audits. This adds a level of trust, especially for traders from the UK or Europe. Additionally, Equiti’s license from the UAE’s DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) adds another layer of credibility for those in the Middle East. What I found reassuring was the consistency in the application of these regulations across their global operations. For example, trading in Europe felt just as secure as trading under their UAE entity, despite different jurisdictional requirements. Their compliance with such respected regulators signals a strong commitment to protecting their clients.
That said, depending on your location, the range of assets and leverage options might differ. In my case, trading under the FCA gave me access to negative balance protection and compensation schemes, which I found highly reassuring given the volatility of some trades I placed. Overall, licensing is an integral part of Equiti’s appeal, making it a well-rounded broker for those who prioritize security alongside trading conditions.
Money Protection Scheme
One of the biggest concerns for any trader is whether their funds are safe in case of broker insolvency or any unforeseen events. Equiti offers protection under the FCA’s Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which covers eligible retail clients up to £85,000. This is a crucial feature, especially for UK-based traders like myself who want an additional layer of security. In the unlikely event that something goes wrong with the broker, knowing that my capital is protected under the FSCS gave me more confidence to trade larger volumes without constantly worrying about the safety of my funds.
Moreover, for clients under the Jordan Securities Commission, client protection is also emphasized. While the compensation limits may differ from the UK’s FSCS, the presence of such schemes across multiple jurisdictions is one of the reasons I felt comfortable maintaining a sizable trading account with Equiti. Not every broker offers such comprehensive coverage, making this a key differentiator.
Segregation of Client Funds
Equiti’s use of segregated accounts adds another critical layer of financial security for traders. This means that client funds are held in separate bank accounts from the broker’s operating funds, ensuring that in the event of financial difficulties, client money cannot be used to cover the broker’s liabilities. From personal experience, this has been a significant confidence booster, especially in the early stages when I was more cautious about depositing larger amounts.
Equiti emphasizes transparency in its fund segregation policy, and this was clear in the documentation and communications I received when opening my account. Each time I made a deposit, I knew it was handled separately from Equiti’s own operating funds, which is something that more experienced traders may take for granted, but beginners should pay special attention to. For traders in regions like the UK or EU, this practice is mandated by the FCA and offers further assurance that their capital is safeguarded.
Negative Balance Protection
Negative balance protection is a must for modern-day traders, and thankfully, Equiti offers this feature across its various accounts. This ensures that clients cannot lose more money than they have deposited, protecting them from the dangers of extreme market volatility. I personally tested this feature during a time of high market volatility and knowing that my account balance wouldn’t spiral into negative territory offered a significant psychological edge.
For traders operating under the FCA regulation, this protection is mandatory, but it’s offered across other jurisdictions as well. This is a particularly important feature when trading highly leveraged instruments like CFDs, where market moves can be swift and significant. My experience with negative balance protection has been positive, as it’s an essential safety net, especially for less experienced traders who might not yet have strong risk management strategies in place.
Trading Environment
Equiti offers a versatile and competitive trading environment, catering to both beginner and professional traders. With access to over 1,600 instruments across various asset classes such as forex, indices, commodities, and shares, it provides ample opportunities for portfolio diversification. The platform supports both standard and ECN execution, which ensures fast, transparent trade executions. During my time trading with Equiti, I found the execution speeds to be particularly impressive, with minimal slippage during volatile market periods. The availability of high leverage (up to 1:500 on forex) and tight spreads from 0.0 pips on certain account types make it appealing for traders looking to maximize their returns. However, leverage is region-dependent, and traders in regions like Europe may be limited to a maximum leverage of 1:30, adhering to local regulations.
Account Types
Equiti offers multiple account types to suit different trader profiles. The Executive Account is ideal for beginners with a minimum deposit of $500, featuring spreads starting from 1.6 pips and zero commissions. In contrast, the Premiere Account targets more experienced traders, requiring a $20,000 deposit, offering spreads as low as 0.0 pips but charging commissions ($70 per $1 million traded on forex). Both accounts support micro-lot trading and ECN execution, making them suitable for various strategies, including scalping and hedging. What stands out is the availability of Islamic accounts, which are swap-free, catering to traders who follow Islamic finance principles.
Account Opening & Verification
Opening an account with Equiti is straightforward. The process involves filling out a short form and uploading identification and proof of residence documents. Verification typically takes around 24 hours. During my experience, I found the process smooth and transparent, with no hidden complications. Equiti’s user-friendly portal makes it easy to upload documents and track verification status. For those new to trading or uncertain about the platform, the demo account is an excellent option, allowing users to familiarize themselves with real-time market conditions before committing actual funds.
Initial Minimum Deposit
The minimum deposit for the Executive Account is $500, which is relatively high compared to some brokers, but reasonable given the premium services like fast ECN execution and broad asset selection. For the Premiere Account, the deposit is $20,000, aimed at professional traders who benefit from tighter spreads and advanced features. While this higher requirement may deter some, it ensures access to premium trading conditions that can be crucial for high-volume traders.
Asset Classes and Instruments
Equiti provides a wide selection of tradable instruments across multiple asset classes. You can trade 60+ forex pairs, including major, minor, and exotic currencies, as well as CFDs on indices, commodities, stocks, and ETFs. For UAE traders, Equiti also offers access to cryptocurrency CFDs, which include popular digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. This breadth of instruments allows traders to diversify their portfolios and take advantage of different market conditions. However, while the offering is broad, it could be improved by including more niche asset classes like bonds and ETFs in certain regions.
Trading Platforms
Equiti supports the industry-standard MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platforms, known for their robustness and extensive feature sets. Both platforms are available on desktop, web, and mobile, ensuring seamless trading across devices. As a trader, I appreciated the variety of charting tools, automated trading capabilities via Expert Advisors (EAs), and the depth of market (DOM) feature, particularly on MT5. These platforms provide access to a range of technical indicators and advanced order types, making them suitable for both novice and advanced traders. Additionally, Equiti offers its proprietary web-based platform, EQ Trader, which is intuitive and integrates well with their broader suite of tools.
Trading Tools & Tech
Equiti offers a robust set of trading tools to help traders make informed decisions. The platform provides access to daily market reports, technical analysis, and sophisticated chart-pattern recognition tools. The inclusion of tools like an economic calendar and market sentiment analysis helps keep traders informed about upcoming events and market movements. Moreover, Equiti supports automated trading through its MT4 and MT5 platforms, allowing users to implement and backtest trading strategies with ease. During my trading, I found these tools to be incredibly helpful, particularly the trading calculators and risk management tools, which are accessible to all account holders.
In conclusion, Equiti provides a well-rounded trading environment with multiple account types, competitive pricing, and extensive trading tools. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start small or a professional needing advanced tools and tight spreads, Equiti offers solutions that cater to a wide range of trading needs.
Fees and Pricing
Equiti’s fee structure is transparent, though it varies by account type. The Executive Account operates on a spread-only model with no commissions, making it a good option for traders who prefer simpler pricing. However, the spreads are generally wider, starting from 1.6 pips for EUR/USD. In contrast, the Premiere Account features tighter spreads (as low as 0.0 pips) but charges a commission of $70 per $1 million traded on forex. Other fees include overnight swaps (for positions held past a trading day), and inactivity fees ranging from $5 to $10 after 180 days of inactivity.
Spreads
Spreads at Equiti can be categorized into two types: fixed and variable. Variable spreads are the standard, fluctuating with market conditions. For example, typical spreads for major forex pairs like EUR/USD are 1.6 pips on the Executive Account but can drop to 0.0 pips on the Premiere Account, depending on market liquidity. These spreads are relatively competitive, especially for professional traders who opt for the Premiere Account.
Swap Rates
Swap rates are charged or credited for holding positions overnight, depending on the currency pair and whether you are long or short. Equiti provides detailed swap rates that can be accessed directly via the MetaTrader platform or their website. For instance, swaps for a position in US30 range from -8.3 for long positions to +2.3 for shorts. Equiti also offers swap-free accounts for Islamic traders, which exempts positions from these charges.
Leverage & Margin Requirements
Leverage at Equiti varies significantly by region and asset class. Retail traders in regions like the EU are limited to 1:30 leverage, but in other regions, such as the UAE, leverage can go up to 1:500 for forex trades. For professional traders or specific regions, leverage can extend to 1:2000. Equiti’s leverage allows traders to control large positions with minimal capital, but it’s crucial to note the increased risk involved with high leverage.
Margin Call & Stop-Out Levels
Equiti maintains a margin call level of 100%, meaning when your equity drops to 100% of your margin, you’ll be alerted to add more funds or close positions. The stop-out level is set at 50%, at which point the broker will automatically begin closing positions starting with the most unprofitable ones to prevent further losses. These risk management measures ensure that you cannot lose more than your available capital.
Orders Execution (Slippage & Requotes)
Equiti offers market execution, meaning trades are filled at the best available price, though slippage may occur during volatile market conditions. From personal experience, I noticed that slippage is rare during regular market hours, and execution speeds are fast. However, like most brokers, Equiti may experience requotes in highly volatile markets, especially if you opt for instant execution.
Trade Sizes Allowed
Equiti allows for flexible trade sizes starting from 0.01 lots on most instruments, including forex, commodities, and indices. This micro-lot trading makes it accessible for beginners or those who want to test strategies with smaller amounts of capital. The maximum trade size varies depending on the instrument and account type, but it generally allows for high-volume trades suited for professional traders.
In summary, Equiti provides a competitive fee structure, flexible leverage options, and solid risk management features. While the spreads on the Executive Account could be more competitive, the Premiere Account offers tight spreads for serious traders. Additionally, the ability to customize trade sizes and manage risk through stop-out levels makes it a strong contender for both novice and advanced traders.
Account Management
Equiti offers a straightforward and intuitive account management system. You can monitor your account activity, trading history, and manage your funds directly through the client portal, which is accessible 24/6. The portal supports multiple base currencies, and traders can manage multiple accounts from one place. My experience with the platform was seamless, as the interface is user-friendly, allowing for efficient account handling and quick fund transfers. The platform is also available on mobile, which is handy for those who need to manage their accounts on the go.
Inactivity & Account Termination
Equiti charges an inactivity fee after 180 days of non-trading, which ranges between $5 to $10, depending on the account type and region. This is relatively lenient compared to other brokers, some of which charge inactivity fees after only 60 or 90 days. The fee structure is clearly outlined in their terms and conditions, which is beneficial for those who may have long periods of inactivity. Accounts can be terminated if left inactive for an extended period, although there is usually prior notification.
Deposit and Withdrawal
Equiti provides several deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and eWallets such as Skrill and Neteller. Processing times for deposits are generally instant for cards and eWallets, while bank transfers can take 1-5 days. Withdrawals, on the other hand, can take up to 5-14 days for credit cards and 3-5 days for bank transfers, with eWallet withdrawals processed within 1-2 days. While deposits are typically fee-free, withdrawals via Neteller or Skrill may incur a fee of 1% up to $30, and bank transfers cost a flat $30. My personal experience with fund transfers was positive, with deposits being quick, and withdrawal processing meeting the outlined timeframes.
Customer Support
Equiti offers 24/6 multilingual customer support, accessible via live chat, email, and telephone. Support staff are available in several languages, which makes it easier for traders across different regions to get assistance. From my interactions with their support team, they were responsive and knowledgeable, addressing issues like withdrawals and account verification promptly. However, user reviews suggest that while the customer service is generally reliable, response times could vary depending on the complexity of the issue.
In summary, Equiti’s account management features are solid, supported by efficient fund transfer options and reliable customer support. However, it’s important to stay aware of inactivity fees and withdrawal timelines to avoid any unexpected costs or delays.
Extra Features
Equiti offers a diverse range of extra features that enhance the overall trading experience. These include copy trading, rebates, and various educational tools. The broker supports multiple platforms, including MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which integrate with their robust analytical tools. Let’s dive deeper into these aspects.
Social Copy Trading
Equiti Copy is an exciting feature for traders who prefer to follow successful strategies rather than making their own trades. You can browse a leaderboard of verified strategy providers, review their performance, and replicate their trades automatically. This allows less experienced traders to benefit from the strategies of more seasoned traders without deep market knowledge. It’s a useful tool for both portfolio diversification and learning market techniques by observing experts in action. Note that copy trading on Equiti is available through a separate platform, not directly on MT4 or MT5.
Trading Contests
Equiti doesn’t currently emphasize trading contests, which are commonly seen on other platforms as a way to engage users. However, they have been known to offer periodic promotions and contests. It’s a good idea to stay tuned to their announcements for any upcoming events.
Education and Research
Equiti provides educational resources to support traders, including webinars, trading guides, and technical analysis reports. While their education section may not be as robust as some competitors, it still covers essential areas like risk management, market analysis, and platform tutorials. The broker also offers access to economic calendars and market news, which are integrated into the trading platforms to help traders stay updated on financial events.
Promotions and Bonuses
Equiti does not currently offer a wide range of promotions or bonuses like some brokers. However, they have a referral program, where both the referrer and the referred party receive a $50 bonus after certain conditions are met, such as a $500 deposit and trading at least two lots. This program is a simple way to earn a bonus but is not a core feature of the platform.
Rebates & Cashback
For frequent traders, Equiti offers cashback rebates based on trading volume. The rebates, ranging from $2 to $5 per lot, are automatically credited to your account and can be withdrawn via the usual methods, including bank transfer, eWallets like Skrill and Neteller, and even virtual currencies. These rebates can provide an additional income stream but should be seen as supplementary, not as a primary strategy for trading profits.
Comparison vs. Top Alternatives
When compared to top competitors like Pepperstone, FXTM, or FP Markets, Equiti holds its own in terms of account management and platform offerings but lacks some advanced features such as robust cryptocurrency trading or comprehensive educational content. Brokers like FP Markets provide lower spreads and a broader range of asset classes, while Pepperstone may offer more trading tools and analytics. Equiti shines, however, in offering segregated accounts, high-level customer support, and the copy trading feature, which not all competitors provide.
In conclusion, Equiti is a reliable broker with solid extra features like copy trading and rebates. While it lacks frequent promotions and large educational libraries, its focus on security and client protection makes it an excellent choice for serious traders.
Evaluation: Legit or Scam?
Equiti is widely regarded as a legitimate broker, not a scam. It operates under the regulation of multiple reputable financial authorities, including the UK’s FCA, Jordan Securities Commission (JSC), Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), and other regional regulators. These regulatory bodies ensure that Equiti adheres to strict financial and operational standards, providing users with additional layers of security. Additionally, Equiti has been in operation since 2008, which gives it credibility and trustworthiness in the trading community.
However, retail traders should be aware that in some regions, such as Seychelles, Equiti operates under more lenient regulatory environments, which may not provide the same level of investor protection as the FCA or JSC.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Strong Regulatory Oversight: Regulated by well-known authorities like the FCA, providing transparency and security for traders.
- Competitive Spreads & Fees: Offers tight spreads (as low as 0.0 pips on Premiere accounts) and competitive commissions for high-volume traders.
- Multiple Account Types: Suits different trader profiles, including Executive (no commission) and Premiere (low spreads with commissions).
- Copy Trading Feature: Allows traders to replicate successful strategies from seasoned providers.
- Cashback Rebates: Additional income through rebate programs, automatically applied to qualifying trades.
- Solid Trading Platforms: Supports MT4, MT5, and Equiti’s proprietary platforms, which are widely regarded for their reliability and functionality.
Cons:
- High Minimum Deposit for Premium Accounts: The Premiere account requires a $20,000 minimum deposit, which may deter smaller traders.
- Limited Promotions & Bonuses: Compared to some competitors, Equiti offers fewer promotional deals and bonuses.
- Inactivity Fees: Charges inactivity fees after 180 days, which may be problematic for long-term traders.
- Geographical Limitations: Some account types and features, like certain trading instruments, are restricted based on regional regulations.
Dos & Don’ts
Dos:
- Do Utilize Copy Trading: If you’re new to trading or looking to diversify your strategies, the Equiti Copy platform is an excellent tool.
- Do Take Advantage of Cashback Rebates: Frequent traders can benefit from automatic rebates that enhance earnings over time.
- Do Choose the Right Account: Pick the account that fits your trading style. The Executive account is better for low-volume, commission-free trading, while the Premiere account offers tighter spreads for high-volume traders.
Don’ts:
- Don’t Overtrade for Rebates: Rebates are a nice perk but shouldn’t be the main reason to place trades. Overtrading can increase risk.
- Don’t Ignore Regional Differences: Ensure you understand the regulatory environment under which your account operates. Equiti’s level of protection varies by region.
- Don’t Expect Instant Withdrawals: Withdrawals, especially via bank transfers, may take several days, so plan accordingly.
Who Should Use It?
- Beginner Traders: The copy trading feature is a great way for newcomers to learn and gain market exposure by following experienced traders.
- High-Volume Traders: Professionals or serious traders can benefit from the Premiere Account, which offers competitive spreads and low commissions.
- Forex Traders: With over 60 currency pairs, including majors, minors, and exotics, forex traders have plenty of options.
- Traders Looking for Cashback Rebates: Active traders can benefit from Equiti’s rebate program, which provides extra income based on trading volume.
Who Shouldn’t Use It?
- Small-Scale Investors: If you’re not able to meet the $20,000 minimum deposit for the Premiere account, you may not benefit from the best trading conditions.
- Traders Seeking Aggressive Bonuses: If you’re looking for a broker with high promotional bonuses or frequent trading contests, Equiti’s offerings are relatively limited.
- Long-Term, Inactive Traders: The inactivity fees could become a burden if you don’t plan to trade actively.
The Final Verdict
Equiti is a well-regulated and legitimate broker with a range of features catering to both beginner and professional traders. Its strong regulatory framework, particularly in the UK and the Middle East, provides security and transparency for users. The platform’s copy trading, tight spreads, and cashback rebates add significant value, making it ideal for active traders. However, its high minimum deposit for the Premiere account and inactivity fees might deter small-scale or infrequent traders.
In summary, if you’re an active trader looking for a broker with strong regulation, flexible platforms, and useful extra features, Equiti is a solid choice.