LQDFX or ATC Brokers – which is better for UK traders 2024? Compare LQDFX and ATC Brokers in this detailed breakdown of their platforms, features and fees.
LQDFX is a straight-through processing (STP) broker based in the Marshall Islands. The offshore trading firm offers competitive spreads from 0.0 pips, free deposits, 24/5 support and access to the hugely popular MetaTrader 4 platform. LQDFX also runs a competitive bonus program for short-term traders.
ATC Brokers is a London-based brokerage that was founded in 2012 and has since opened offices in California and the Cayman Islands. The firm benefits from rigorous FCA regulation for maximum client security, with leverage rates are capped at 1:30. The broker offers both self-directed investing as well as PAMM accounts, with access to the broker's MetaTrader 4 and MT Pro software.
Pros
There are multiple STP account types with fast execution speeds, plus an Islamic swap-free option and PAMM accounts
The broker offers the industry favorite MT4 platform and mobile app, with 30 technical indicators for chart analysis
The $20 minimum initial deposit is accessible for beginners, and the Micro account will serve those looking to trade in smaller volumes
Tight forex spreads from 0.0 are available in the raw spread account and the $3.50 per lot commissions are in line with competitors
Leverage is available up to 1:1000 for experienced traders
I'm a fan of the broker's advanced MT4 toolset called MT Pro, which supports advanced reporting and a more sophisticated one-click trading functionality
I also rate the rapid trade execution through the broker's ECN pricing model, which allowed me to access spreads from 0.3 pips on EUR/USD
Top-tier FCA regulation ensures that certain customers are protected from financial malpractice via robust safeguarding measures
ATC Brokers offers both self-directed trading and PAMM investment accounts for experienced account managers
Cons
There are no additional charting platforms available, such as MT5 or a proprietary solution
The lack of regulatory oversight is a concern, although the broker does claim to use segregated accounts and balance protection
It's a shame that there's no copy trading platform for beginners or experienced strategy providers
Market research tools and educational resources are very limited compared to top brands like IG
ATC Brokers has a disappointing asset range compared to most competitors, supporting a total of just 51 products
I'm disappointed that there is no commission-free pricing model available for less experienced and lower-volume traders
I expected a larger range of educational and analysis materials from the broker, which would help clients make more informed trading decisions
The minimum deposit limit of $2,000 is pretty high in my opinion, especially with such a small asset list on offer
LQDFX offers a modest collection of CFDs covering currencies, metals, stocks, indices, commodities and cryptos. The 50+ technical indicators and drawing tools pre-included in MT4 will facilitate both short-term and long-term strategies.
My tests only uncovered 51 CFD products spanning currencies, indices, energies, precious metals and cryptocurrencies - a very underwhelming line-up compared to most other brands.
Leverage
1:1000
1:30
FTSE Spread
0.90
0.6
GBPUSD Spread<
0.1
0.6
Oil Spread
0.05
0.03
Stocks Spread
0.05 (Apple Inc)
Variable
Forex
LQDFX offers an extensive list of 70+ currency pairs, more than most alternatives. Spreads are low, coming in at 0.2 pips for EUR/GBP during peak market hours and the low/no commission models will suit beginners and high-volume forex traders.
ATC Brokers offers a poor range of 35 forex products through the MT Pro platform. That said, I was impressed with the very tight spreads and low latency speeds.
Assets
71
35+
GBPUSD Spread
0.1
0.6
EURUSD Spread
0.1
0.3
EURGBP Spread
0.5
0.5
Cryptocurrency
You can trade 16 well-known cryptos including Bitcoin, the majority paired with USD or EUR. Spreads are low, starting from 1.02 pips. You can also deposit instantly via crypto with minimum deposits from $20 and no fees.