Best Brokers With Synthetic Indices 2025
Brokers with synthetic indices provide trading tools that replicate the behaviour of conventional financial markets. Synthetic indices are not tied to real-world financial assets in the same way as normal indices, and their performance is either calculated according to a formula that is influenced by real-world market movements or is entirely simulated.
Dig into our selection of the top brokers in the UK offering synthetic indices, covering everything from fee structures to compatibility with popular platforms like MT4 and MT5.
List of Brokers That Trade Synthetic Indices
-
In tests, Pepperstone provided synthetic indices such as Volatility 75 (VIX75) through MT5 and cTrader, allowing trading 24/7. Spreads began at 0.0 pips with execution times under 30 ms. Regulated by ASIC, FCA, CySEC, and DFSA, Pepperstone featured Razor and Standard accounts, advanced charting, and an Active Trader program with rebates and lower fees.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto (only Pro clients), Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) -
In our analysis, XTB offered synthetic Volatility Index CFDs through its xStation, enabling 24/7 trading. Competitive spreads and leverage up to 1:67 were observed. Execution proved reliable, and swap-free accounts were available for qualifying traders. XTB also offered educational materials and advanced charting tools for volatility-based strategies.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs on shares, Indices, ETFs, Raw Materials, Forex currencies, cryptocurrencies, Real shares, Real ETFs FCA, CySEC, KNF, DFSA, FSC, SCA, Bappebti xStation Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
In our tests, IC Markets provided synthetic indices such as Volatility 75 and Volatility 100 through MT5 and cTrader, accessible at all times. Spreads began at 0.5 pips with minimal trading costs. Execution was swift, averaging below 50 ms. Regulated by ASIC, CySEC, and FSA, IC Markets offered a secure setting for algorithm-driven markets.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, Futures, Crypto ASIC, CySEC, FSA, CMA MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $200 0.01 Lots 1:30 (ASIC & CySEC), 1:500 (FSA), 1:1000 (Global) -
During our tests, Eightcap provided synthetic indices like Volatility 75 on MT4 and MT5, accessible 24/7. With spreads from 0.6 pips and swift execution, Eightcap also offered advanced charting, various account types, and dependable execution, ideal for volatility-focused trading strategies.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities ASIC, FCA, CySEC, SCB MT4, MT5, TradingView Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage £100 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
In our trials, IG provided synthetic indices like the Volatility Index via MT4 and TradingView. These algorithm-driven markets function round-the-clock, mimicking volatility with tight spreads. Execution proved dependable, with swap-free options available for qualifying traders. IG also featured advanced charting, varied expirations, and diverse markets, ensuring a secure setting for synthetic index trading.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB, AFM, JFSA Web, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentral, ProRealTime Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) -
In our tests, Vantage provided synthetic indices such as Volatility 75 and Volatility 100 on MT4 and MT5, with spreads from 0.5 pips and swift execution. The firm also offered advanced charting, various account types, and dependable execution for synthetic trading strategies.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Spread betting FCA, ASIC, FSCA, VFSC ProTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $50 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
Founded in 2006, GO Markets is a well-regarded CFD broker, providing various accounts, pricing models, and dependable execution for traders. Their consistent product enhancements, including MT5, TradingView, new stock CFDs, a PAMM service, and convenient local payment methods for Latin American traders, have been noteworthy.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, ETFs, Crypto ASIC, CySEC, FSC, FSA GO TradeX™, MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:500
Pepperstone
XTB
IC Markets
Eightcap
IG
Vantage FX
GO MarketsSafety Comparison
Compare how safe the Best Brokers With Synthetic Indices 2025 are and what features they offer to protect traders.
| Broker | Trust Rating | FCA Regulated | Negative Balance Protection | Guaranteed Stop Loss | Segregated Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| XTB | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| IC Markets | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| Eightcap | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| IG | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Vantage FX | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| GO Markets | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
Payments Comparison
Compare which popular payment methods the Best Brokers With Synthetic Indices 2025 support and whether they have trading accounts denominated in British Pounds (GBP).
| Broker | GBP Account | Debit Card | Credit Card | Neteller | Skrill | Apple Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| XTB | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IC Markets | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Eightcap | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IG | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Vantage FX | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| GO Markets | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
Mobile Trading Comparison
How good are the Best Brokers With Synthetic Indices 2025 at mobile trading using apps or other mobile interfaces.
| Broker | Mobile Apps | iOS Rating | Android Rating | Smart Watch App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| XTB | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| IC Markets | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| Eightcap | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| IG | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| Vantage FX | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| GO Markets | iOS & Android | ✘ |
Beginners Comparison
Are the Best Brokers With Synthetic Indices 2025 good for beginner traders, that might want an affordable setup to get started, along with good support and educational resources?
| Broker | Demo Account | Minimum Deposit | Minimum Trade | Support Rating | Education Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| XTB | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| IC Markets | ✔ | $200 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Eightcap | ✔ | £100 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| IG | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Vantage FX | ✔ | $50 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| GO Markets | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots |
Advanced Trading Comparison
Do the Best Brokers With Synthetic Indices 2025 offer features that allow for more advanced trading strategies?
| Broker | Automated Trading | Pro Account | Leverage | VPS | AI | Low Latency | Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| XTB | Open API | ✔ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IC Markets | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cBots on cTrader, Myfxbook AutoTrade | ✘ | 1:30 (ASIC & CySEC), 1:500 (FSA), 1:1000 (Global) | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Eightcap | TradingView Bots | ✘ | 1:30 | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IG | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, build your own on ProRealTime | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Vantage FX | Myfxbook AutoTrade, Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✘ | 1:30 | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| GO Markets | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cBots on cTrader | ✔ | 1:500 | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
Detailed Rating Comparison
Use this heatmap to compare our detailed ratings for all of the Best Brokers With Synthetic Indices 2025.
| Broker | Trust | Platforms | Mobile | Assets | Fees | Accounts | Support | Research | Education |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | |||||||||
| XTB | |||||||||
| IC Markets | |||||||||
| Eightcap | |||||||||
| IG | |||||||||
| Vantage FX | |||||||||
| GO Markets |
Our Take On Pepperstone
"Pepperstone is a premier trading platform, providing tight spreads, swift execution, and sophisticated charting tools for seasoned traders. Beginners benefit from no minimum deposit, comprehensive learning materials, and outstanding 24/7 support."
Tobias Robinson
Reviewer
Pros
- Support for top-tier charting platforms such as MT4, MT5, TradingView, and cTrader. These tools accommodate different short-term trading methods, including algorithmic trading.
- In recent years, Pepperstone has significantly enhanced the deposit and withdrawal process. By 2025, clients can use Apple Pay and Google Pay, while 2024 saw the introduction of PIX and SPEI for customers in Brazil and Mexico.
- Pepperstone presents itself as an economical choice for traders, offering spreads as low as 0.0 in its Razor account. The Active Trader programme provides rebates up to 30% on indices and commodities, plus $3 per lot on forex.
Cons
- Pepperstone's demo accounts expire after 30 days, which may not provide sufficient time to explore various platforms and evaluate trading strategies.
- Although its market range has improved, its crypto offerings remain limited compared to brokers specialising in this sector, lacking real coin investment options.
- Pepperstone doesn't offer cTrader Copy, a favoured feature for copying trades found in the cTrader platform, which is available on other platforms such as IC Markets. However, Pepperstone has launched its own user-friendly copy trading app.
Our Take On XTB
"XTB emerges as an ideal option for novice traders, offering the impressive xStation platform, zero commission pricing, no required minimum deposit, and outstanding educational resources, many of which are conveniently integrated into the platform."
Pros
- Top-notch customer support, available 24/5, includes a welcoming live chat with response times under two minutes during tests.
- XTB ensures swift access to funds, providing fast withdrawals with same-day payments for requests made before 1 pm.
- XTB has raised its interest rate on uninvested funds and introduced zero-fee ISAs for UK clients, offering access to 3,000 stocks and 700 ETFs for diverse investment opportunities.
Cons
- It is frustrating that XTB products do not allow traders to modify the default leverage level. Manually adjusting leverage can greatly reduce risk in forex and CFD trading.
- XTB has stopped supporting MT4, restricting traders to its own platform, xStation. This decision may discourage experienced traders accustomed to using the MetaTrader suite.
- The demo account lasts only four weeks, posing a challenge for traders wanting to fully explore the xStation platform and refine short-term strategies before investing actual money.
Our Take On IC Markets
"IC Markets provides excellent pricing, swift execution, and easy deposits. With cutting-edge charting tools like TradingView and the Raw Trader Plus account, it continues to be a preferred option for intermediate and advanced traders."
Pros
- As a well-regulated and reputable broker, IC Markets focuses on client safety and transparency to provide a dependable global trading experience.
- In 2025, IC Markets earned DayTrading.com's accolade for 'Best MT4/MT5 Broker' due to its top-tier MetaTrader integration. This achievement highlights the broker's continuous refinement over the years to enhance the platform experience.
- IC Markets provides reliable 24/5 support, especially for account and funding queries, drawing from direct experience.
Cons
- The tutorials, webinars, and educational resources require enhancement, lagging behind competitors such as CMC Markets, which diminishes their appeal to novice traders.
- Interest is not paid on idle cash, a feature gaining popularity with alternatives such as Interactive Brokers.
- Certain withdrawal methods incur fees, including a $20 charge for wire transfers. These costs can reduce profits, particularly with frequent withdrawals.
Our Take On Eightcap
"Eightcap excels for traders, offering diverse charting platforms, educational Labs, and AI tools. With over 120 crypto CFDs, it stands out in crypto trading and has won our 'Best Crypto Broker' award twice consecutively."
Pros
- With spreads starting at 0 pips, minimal commission charges, and leverage up to 1:500 for select clients, Eightcap delivers affordable and flexible trading opportunities. These conditions suit various strategies, such as trading and scalping.
- In 2021, Eightcap enhanced its lineup, now providing an extensive range of cryptocurrency CFDs. It offers crypto/fiat and crypto/crypto pairs, along with crypto indices for comprehensive market exposure.
- Eightcap excels with a suite of advanced trading tools, such as MT4 and MT5, and has recently joined the 100-million-user social trading network, TradingView.
Cons
- Despite the growing range of tools available, Eightcap lacks popular industry resources such as Autochartist and Trading Central. These provide advanced charting analytics, live news, and essential market insights for traders focused on short-term strategies.
- The demo account is available for 30 days, after which it requires a request for extension. This is less convenient than XM's offering, which provides an unlimited demo mode.
- Eightcap must enhance its range of over 800 instruments to rival top competitors like Blackbull Markets, which offers 26,000+ assets, especially improving its limited commodities selection.
Our Take On IG
"IG offers a complete package with an intuitive online platform, top-tier beginner education, advanced charting tools through its TradingView integration, real-time data, and swift execution for seasoned traders."
Pros
- IG stands out with its extensive range of instruments, offering stocks, forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Additionally, it has recently introduced US-listed futures and options, along with an AI Index. These options enhance opportunities for diversification in trading.
- The IG app provides an excellent mobile trading experience with an intuitive design, earning it the Runner Up position in our 'Best Trading App' award.
- The ProRealTime advanced charting platform remains free, provided traders meet modest monthly activity requirements.
Cons
- IG has ended its swap-free account, diminishing its attractiveness to Islamic traders.
- IG imposes a monthly inactivity fee of $12 after two years, discouraging occasional traders.
- In the UK and EU, negative balance protection is available. However, US clients lack account protection and guaranteed stop losses.
Our Take On Vantage FX
"Vantage is an ideal choice for CFD traders looking for a well-regulated broker with access to the dependable MetaTrader platforms. With a swift sign-up process and a minimum deposit of $50, starting trading is simple and fast."
Pros
- Vantage upholds a high trust score through its solid reputation, backed by premier regulation from the FCA and ASIC.
- With a minimal deposit requirement of just $50 and no funding fees, this broker stands out as an excellent option for novice traders.
- Vantage has enhanced its trading tools for experienced traders, introducing AutoFibo EA to pinpoint potential market reversals.
Cons
- Regrettably, cryptocurrencies are accessible solely to clients in Australia.
- It's unfortunate that some clients must register with the offshore firm, which provides reduced regulatory safeguards.
- Based on tests, average execution speeds of 100ms to 250ms are slower compared to other options.
Our Take On GO Markets
"GO Markets is ideal for active CFD traders focused on minimal spreads, clear pricing, and swift execution on robust charting platforms such as MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView. The GO Plus+ account offers raw spreads starting at 0.0 pips with low commissions, making it perfect for scalpers and high-frequency traders."
Pros
- GO Markets simplifies complex topics, creating a supportive learning community. Its educational offerings include courses, webinars, podcasts, and weekly live coaching, perfect for new traders.
- MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView support lets traders access top platforms with fast execution and strong charting capabilities.
- GO Markets has enhanced its services, adding over 1000 new stock CFDs in 2024. In 2025, it will introduce local payment options for traders in Latin America, such as Pago Efectivo in Peru and Paynet in Mexico.
Cons
- GO Markets' research tools are quite basic, missing the depth and frequent updates of larger rivals that provide daily insights, analyst commentary, and sophisticated forecasting tools.
- During testing, we discovered that GO Markets limits TradingView access in demo mode unless a live account is registered first—a restriction contrasting with firms providing full demo platform access immediately.
- While offering decent multi-asset coverage, our analysis revealed restricted options in categories such as commodities and indices, providing only about 15 indices and 10 commodities.
How Did Investing.co.uk Chose The Best Brokers That Offer Synthetic Indices?
To identify the best brokers for trading synthetic indices, our testing panel – made up of active traders and industry experts – handpicked the top providers. We carried out in-depth, hands-on testing to verify that each platform genuinely offers synthetic index products.
Our process went beyond surface-level research. We opened accounts, navigated the platforms, and tested features to assess the things that matter most to synthetic index traders – trading costs, platform usability.
We also factored in support for UK-specific needs, so every brokerage in our toplist is FCA-regulated and supports GBP-denominated accounts.
What Are Synthetic Indices?
Synthetic indices are designed to replicate the price movements of real-world markets.
However, unlike traditional financial instruments, their pricing is typically generated using cryptographically secure random number algorithms rather than tied to actual assets.
This allows synthetic indices to be traded around the clock, including weekends – offering flexibility beyond conventional market hours.
Some leading brokers offering synthetic indices are audited by independent bodies to ensure price integrity and prevent manipulation, creating a more transparent environment for retail traders.
For UK investors, the most widely available and recognised types of synthetic-like indices include:
- Volatility indices: These measure fluctuations in market sentiment. A key example is the VIX, which reflects expected volatility in the S&P 500. While not purely synthetic, it mimics characteristics of volatility-focused synthetic assets.
- Currency indices: These track a single currency’s strength against a group of others. One of the most traded is the US Dollar Index (DXY), while brokers like CMC Markets also offer a British Pound Index, tracking the GBP against the currencies of the UK’s major trading partners.
Though not synthetic in the strictest sense – like the engineered indices offered by brokers like Deriv – these tools share similar traits. They help you speculate on broader market dynamics or hedge exposure to macroeconomic shifts without relying on individual securities.
CMC Markets’ GBP Index tracks the strength of the British pound against key global currencies
How To Compare Brokers That Offer Synthetic Indices
To begin trading synthetic indices, you must register with a UK broker that provides access to these instruments. For example, Saxo offers CFDs on the VIX and direct market access (DMA) to VIX futures.
However, before choosing a provider, it’s important to compare synthetic index brokers across the following key areas:
- Trading Costs: Consider the total fees including spreads, commissions, overnight charges, and currency conversion fees if your account is not GBP-denominated. For example, IG offers access to the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) and VSTOXX with floating spreads starting from 0.4 pips. Be sure to check for any deposit charges, withdrawal fees, or premium data subscriptions. If you opt for a binary options platform with synthetic indices, compare typical payout percentages – top providers offer 95% or higher.
- Trading Platforms: Look for brokers offering advanced proprietary platforms or trusted third-party terminals like MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5). Strong platforms will feature fast execution, charting tools, and mobile accessibility. Interactive Brokers, for example, offers a comprehensive platform suite, including its powerful Trader Workstation (TWS) geared toward high-volume traders.
- Demo Account: We’ve found that a free practice trading account can be an invaluable tool, especially if you’re new to synthetic indices. It lets you familiarise yourself with market behaviour and trading strategies without risking real funds.
- Payment Options: Choose a broker that supports popular UK-friendly payment methods such as debit card, credit card, bank transfer and e-wallet. Look for a GBP currency account to avoid unnecessary conversion fees.
- Regulation & Safety: Always opt for brokers that are FCA-regulated. UK investors benefit from added protections such as negative balance protection, segregated accounts, and potential compensation through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) if the broker becomes insolvent.
- Customer Support: We’ve learned that responsive support is crucial due to the high-speed nature of synthetic index trading. Top brokers offer assistance via live chat, email, and phone, with availability either 24/5 or 24/7 to suit global trading hours.
AvaTrade offers a variety of synthetic indices, including the Inverse VIX ETN (VXXB)
How To Start Trading Synthetic Indices
Most FCA-authorised brokers offering synthetic indices follow a standard onboarding process. Here’s what you can expect when getting started:
- Create a live trading account: Complete the broker’s registration form and submit the required Know Your Customer (KYC) documents, such as a valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) and a recent utility bill or bank statement to confirm your address. This process is mandatory under UK financial regulations. It can be time-consuming – I know I’ve done it many times – but it’s unavoidable.
- Fund your account: Deposit funds using one of the accepted payment methods (e.g. bank transfer, debit card, PayPal). Be aware of minimum deposit requirements, which can vary by platform—some start from £50, while others may require £250 or more.
- Access the trading platform: Log into your broker’s client portal and launch the trading terminal. Most platforms support MT4 or MT5, though some synthetic index brokers that we’ve tested offer web-based or proprietary alternatives.
- Explore synthetic indices: Within the platform, search for available synthetic instruments or related indices, such as the VIX, GBP Index, or proprietary volatility assets. Check the product details, including leverage, trading hours, and spreads.
- Analyse and execute your trade: Use available charting tools, indicators, and market data for technical or fundamental analysis. Once ready, place your order, choosing the appropriate trade size and risk parameters.
When starting with synthetic indices, use a demo account to test how the asset behaves at different times of day. Unlike traditional markets, these instruments run 24/7, and volatility patterns can shift depending on the time, offering unique trade setups during off-peak hours.
Pros And Cons Of Trading Synthetic Indices
Pros
- Consistent volatility
- Low spreads and fees
- Can be traded around the clock
- Multiple trading vehicles available, including CFDs, futures and binary options
- Leading synthetic index brokers are regulated by the FCA
- Can be used as a hedging tool
Cons
- Limited list of UK brokers with synthetic indices from our investigations
- High volatility can lead to large losses, especially for beginners
- 24-hour availability increases the risk of overtrading
Bottom Line
Brokers that offer synthetic indices provide UK investors a way to trade market-like movements without exposure to real-world assets. These instruments are often powered by secure algorithms that simulate volatility, and they can be traded 24/7—ideal if you seek round-the-clock opportunities.
Available through select FCA-regulated brokers, synthetic indices let you practise strategies, hedge positions, or speculate on price action in a controlled, transparent environment.
Products may include volatility-based instruments or GBP-focused indices, giving UK investors local relevance and global variety.
To get started, open an account with one of the best synthetic index brokers.
FAQ
Is Trading Synthetic Indices Safe?
Trading synthetic indices can be safer if done through a reputable, FCA-regulated broker that offers transparent pricing and strong client protections, such as negative balance protection.
While these products aren’t tied to real-world assets, secure algorithms and audited systems often drive their values. However, as with all leveraged trading, there’s still financial risk – especially due to the high volatility synthetic indices are designed to replicate. You could lose any money you invest.