Comparison of CMC Markets vs AvaTrade [ 2024 ]

The best brokers to invest in cryptocurrencies compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is theCMC Markets vs AvaTrade comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

CMC Markets

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

avatrade

AvaTrade

Main points

Fees

Low 4/5

Regulated

FCA, ASIC

Demo account

Yes
Average 3,4/5

Fees

ASIC

Regulated

Yes

Demo account

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

No

Buy and hold

No
Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

No

Passive income

No

Buy and hold


Comparison of fees

Rating

4.0 – CMC Markets offers competitive pricing and precision with aggregated prices from multiple sources. However, the daily and overnight holding costs can be significant for long-term positions .
4.2 – AvaTrade stands out with no deposit or withdrawal fees and competitive spreads, making it a good option for frequent traders. The only drawback is the inactivity fee .

Level

Low 4/5
Average 3,4/5

Brief explanation

CMC Markets offers a competitive fee structure for cryptocurrency trading, primarily operating through spreads rather than commission-based fees. The spreads on major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum are relatively tight, making it cost-effective for traders to execute their strategies. Additionally, CMC Markets does not charge deposit fees, which is a significant advantage for traders looking to fund their accounts without incurring extra costs. However, users should be aware of potential overnight holding costs for CFD positions, which can add up if trades are held for extended periods. For cryptocurrency CFDs, the primary cost is the spread, which is the difference between the bid and ask prices. This spread is competitive with other major exchanges, particularly for popular cryptocurrencies. CMC Markets also employs a tiered spread system, where spreads can vary depending on market conditions and liquidity. This dynamic pricing model helps ensure that traders receive fair pricing, especially during times of high market volatility. Additionally, the absence of commission fees on crypto trades further enhances the platform’s attractiveness to cost-conscious traders. While there are no hidden fees, it’s important for traders to consider the overall cost of trading, including potential overnight fees for positions held beyond a day. These fees can vary based on the specific cryptocurrency and market conditions. Moreover, CMC Markets provides detailed information on all costs associated with trading on their platform, promoting transparency and helping traders make informed decisions. Overall, CMC Markets’ fee structure is designed to be straightforward and competitive, making it a strong choice for both novice and experienced cryptocurrency traders.
AvaTrade operates with a clear and competitive commission structure, making it an attractive choice for traders looking for cost efficiency. There are no fees for deposits or withdrawals, which is a significant advantage compared to many other platforms. Deposits can be made via credit and debit cards, wire transfers, and e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller, while withdrawals are processed within 1-5 business days, depending on the method used . AvaTrade charges spreads on cryptocurrency trades, with typical spreads being competitive. For example, the spread for Bitcoin against the US dollar (BTC/USD) is around 0.35%, and for Ethereum against the US dollar (ETH/USD), it’s about 0.60%. These spreads are within the industry standard, offering traders cost-effective trading opportunities . However, there are some non-trading fees to be aware of. AvaTrade imposes an inactivity fee of $50 per quarter after three months of inactivity and a $100 administrative fee after 12 months of inactivity. Additionally, overnight financing fees apply to positions held overnight, with rates varying depending on the asset . Despite these non-trading fees, AvaTrade’s overall fee structure is transparent and competitive, making it a favorable platform for active traders looking to minimize their costs.

CMC Markets

AvaTrade

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Account Minimum

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Product selection

Native token

CMC Markets does not have a native token.
AvaTrade does not have a native token.

Earns

CMC Markets does not support staking or other crypto earning programs. It provides trading through crypto CFDs and spread betting .
AvaTrade does not provide earning options like staking for cryptocurrencies. The platform focuses on CFD trading .

NFT marketplace

CMC Markets does not have an NFT marketplace.
AvaTrade does not have an NFT marketplace.

Cripto/debit card

CMC Markets does not offer a card for its clients .
AvaTrade does not provide a card for its clients .

Company information

Full name

CMC Markets UK Plc​​.
AVA Trade EU Ltd​​.

Regulation

FCA (UK), BaFin (Germany/EU), IIROC (Canada), ASIC (Australia), FMA (New Zealand), MAS (Singapore), DFSA (Dubai)​​.
Central Bank of Ireland, BVIFSC, ASIC, FSCA, FSA, FFAJ, ADGM-FSRA, ISA​​.

Year founded

1989​​
2006​​

Founder

Peter Cruddas​​
Emanuel Kronitz, Negev Nosatzki, Clal Finance​​

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes, CMC Markets accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .
Yes, AvaTrade accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .

Mastercard

Yes, CMC Markets accepts Mastercard for deposits​​.
Yes, AvaTrade accepts Mastercard for deposits​​.

Wire transfer

Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method. In some locations, third-party payment providers like Wise are not available .
Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method .

Card

Yes, CMC Markets accepts credit/debit cards .
Yes, AvaTrade accepts credit/debit cards .

Comparative table

CMC Markets Features AvaTrade
The minimum trade size at CMC Markets is low, making it accessible for beginners who want to start trading with smaller amounts.
Minimum Trade
Minimum trade size is accessible, starting from 0.01 lots, making it suitable for beginners.
While CMC Markets offers competitive spreads, the stock CFD fees are relatively high compared to other exchanges.
Trading and Transaction Fees
Competitive spreads, but inactivity and overnight fees can add up .
With around 19 cryptocurrencies available, the selection is decent but fewer than some competitors that offer a broader range.
Number of Cryptocurrencies
Limited selection of 13 cryptocurrencies, including major ones like Bitcoin and Ethereum .
Trading is limited to CFDs, and there are no direct crypto-to-crypto trading pairs available, which might be a limitation for some traders.
Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs
Offers crypto-to-crypto trading pairs, but the range is limited compared to specialized crypto exchanges .
The CMC Markets website provides transparent and detailed information about its fees, regulatory status, and services, fostering trust among users.
Website Transparency
The website is clear and informative, with comprehensive details about fees, trading conditions, and regulations .
CMC Markets does not offer a card for its clients .
Credit/Debit Card
AvaTrade does not provide a card for its clients .
CMC Markets does not offer direct crypto storage, as it operates through CFDs, which might not appeal to traders looking for a direct investment in cryptocurrencies.
Storage Offering
Does not offer crypto wallets as it only deals in crypto CFDs .
The platform does not offer any staking or rewards programs, which can be a disadvantage for traders interested in earning passive income through their holdings.
Staking and Rewards
No staking or rewards programs available, which could be a drawback for some users .
CMC Markets provides high-quality mobile and desktop trading platforms with advanced features, ensuring a seamless trading experience across devices.
Mobile App and Desktop
AvaTradeGO mobile app and desktop platforms like MetaTrader 4/5 provide robust trading features and user-friendly interfaces .
Customer service is reliable and available 24/5, but the absence of weekend support can be a drawback for traders needing assistance outside regular hours.
Customer Service
Multilingual customer support available 24/5 via live chat, phone, and email, but not 24/7 .
The platform offers fast and varied deposit methods. Withdrawals are generally quick, though some methods may incur fees, which should be considered by users.
Deposit and Withdraw
Free deposits and withdrawals with various methods, though withdrawal processing can take up to five days

Key features

Analysis tools

CMC Markets offers the “Next Generation” trading platform with advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and a comprehensive range of research tools. Their MT4 platform also supports algorithmic trading .
AvaTrade offers the Guardian Angel risk management tool for MetaTrader 4 and 5, which provides real-time feedback on trading actions. AvaTrade also provides access to a wide range of technical indicators and charting tools within their trading platforms .

Mobile APP

Yes, CMC Markets offers a highly functional mobile app as part of their “Next Generation” trading platform, providing extensive features for mobile trading .
Yes, AvaTrade offers the AvaTradeGo mobile app, which is reliable and provides access to all trading tools and account management features .

Security

CMC Markets is regulated by several financial authorities, including the FCA. They provide negative balance protection for UK and EU clients. The broker is listed on the London Stock Exchange, which enhances transparency and security​​.
AvaTrade is regulated by multiple authorities, including the Central Bank of Ireland and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). They provide negative balance protection for retail clients, ensuring investors cannot lose more than their account balance​​.

Additional features

CMC Markets provides an extensive range of CFDs, including cryptocurrencies. They offer 19 cryptocurrencies for trading, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. The platform features advanced research and educational tools, including a comprehensive learning center. CMC Markets also boasts a high fill rate of 99.9%, making it a great choice for active crypto day traders. However, they do not support trading real stocks and have relatively high stock CFD fees .
AvaTrade is known for its extensive range of CFDs, including cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and more. They offer leverage up to 1:2 for EU clients and up to 1:25 for non-EU clients. AvaTrade also features the Guardian Angel tool for risk management, which gives instant feedback and advice tailored to each trader’s actions. Furthermore, they provide competitive spreads and have a variety of trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4 and 5 .

Anonymity

CMC Markets requires identity verification during the account opening process, so anonymous accounts are not possible .
Anonymous accounts are not available on AvaTrade. The registration process includes filling out personal information, financial details, and providing proof of identity and residence .

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

CMC Markets provides trading in cryptocurrency CFDs. Available cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), TRON (TRX), EOS, Stellar Lumens (XLM), Cardano (ADA), and crypto indices such as the All Crypto Index, Major Crypto Index, and Emerging Crypto Index​​.
AvaTrade provides trading in cryptocurrency CFDs. The supported cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Bitcoin Gold (BTG), Ethereum (ETH), EOS, NEO, Dash, Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), Litecoin (LTC), Stellar (XLM), IOTA (MIOTA), and Ripple (XRP). Additionally, it offers a Crypto10 index​​.

User-friendliness

CMC Markets offers a powerful and versatile trading platform that caters well to crypto traders. The Next Generation platform is particularly noted for its configurability and advanced tools. However, the platform might require some time to master due to its extensive features, which can be overwhelming for beginners. Overall, it provides a comprehensive trading experience with access to multiple crypto assets .
AvaTrade simplifies the crypto trading experience with a quick and fully digital account setup process. Users can start trading within minutes, which is significantly faster compared to traditional crypto exchanges. The platform supports multiple payment methods for deposits and withdrawals, making it convenient for global users. AvaTrade’s intuitive interface and support for various cryptocurrencies make it an excellent choice for beginners .

Value for money

CMC Markets offers value through competitive pricing and a wide range of tradable instruments. The fees for holding positions overnight are standard, and the platform’s robust tools justify the costs, though its advanced features may be overwhelming for beginners​​.
AvaTrade provides a robust value for money with no deposit or withdrawal fees, though it charges an inactivity fee of $50 after three months of inactivity. The spreads on major cryptos are competitive, making it a good option for active traders​​.

Countries of operation

United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, United Arab Emirates .
Ireland, Japan, Australia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Israel .

Best for

CMC Markets caters to experienced traders who appreciate a powerful trading platform with extensive configurability and tools. It is best for those who are comfortable with trading crypto CFDs and are looking for a wide range of cryptocurrency indices to trade​​.
AvaTrade is great for traders who are interested in speculating on the price movements of major cryptocurrencies using CFDs. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to utilize leverage and trade within a highly regulated framework, although the limited number of available cryptocurrencies might be a drawback for some​​.

Account

Trading

CMC Markets offers a wide selection of crypto CFDs, allowing users to trade on price movements without owning the underlying assets. The platform is known for its advanced trading tools and competitive spreads.
AvaTrade supports crypto CFD trading with a range of popular cryptocurrencies. The platform is well-regulated and offers leverage, providing a secure environment for trading cryptos.

Deposit and withdrawal

CMC Markets offers free deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers and credit/debit cards. The process is straightforward, though withdrawal times can be slightly longer compared to deposits.
AvaTrade supports a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. The process is generally smooth, but withdrawal times can vary based on the method used.

Account opening process

CMC Markets has an easy and efficient account opening process. Users complete an online application, provide personal and financial details, and upload identification documents. The process is fully digital, and accounts are usually approved quickly.
Opening an account with AvaTrade is simple and fast. Users must complete an online registration form, provide personal information, and upload verification documents. The process is fully digital, and accounts are usually approved within a day.

KYC required?

CMC Markets requires KYC verification. Personal identification documents and proof of address must be provided during the account registration process.
AvaTrade requires KYC verification. Users need to submit identification documents and proof of address before they can start trading.

Customer Service

CMC Markets has a reliable customer service team available 24/5 via phone, email, and live chat. The support is known for being efficient and knowledgeable, helping users with a wide range of issues.
AvaTrade provides strong customer support through multiple channels including live chat, email, and phone. Their support is available 24/5 and is generally responsive, though some users report occasional delays in getting complex issues resolved.

Security

CMC Markets is regulated by several financial authorities, including the FCA. They provide negative balance protection for UK and EU clients. The broker is listed on the London Stock Exchange, which enhances transparency and security​​.
AvaTrade is regulated by multiple authorities, including the Central Bank of Ireland and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). They provide negative balance protection for retail clients, ensuring investors cannot lose more than their account balance​​.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

As an expert at Threenvest, I recommend CMC Markets for crypto traders who value a secure and user-friendly platform. The advanced charting tools and comprehensive research capabilities make it ideal for both beginners and experienced traders. While the selection of cryptocurrencies is decent, the platform’s robust security measures and regulation by top-tier financial authorities provide added peace of mind. However, keep in mind that customer support is not available on weekends, and the range of cryptocurrencies could be expanded for more trading opportunities.
As a cryptocurrency enthusiast and expert at Threenvest, I highly recommend AvaTrade for its robust regulatory framework and user-friendly trading platforms. AvaTrade’s diverse range of trading instruments and excellent customer support make it a reliable choice for both new and experienced traders. While the selection of cryptocurrencies could be broader, and the inactivity fees lower, the overall security and ease of use make AvaTrade a strong contender in the world of crypto trading.

How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

 

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).


For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.

More comparatives CMC Markets and AvaTrade