Broker Select → HFM

HFM

Broker Review

Unlock your trading potential with HFM

For traders in search of a broker offering tight spreads, a wide range of instruments, and robust global regulation, HFM (previously HotForex) remains a standout choice. Operating under the oversight of multiple financial authorities—most notably the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa—HFM provides local deposit and withdrawal options, leverage as high as 1:2000, and access to over 1,200 instruments spanning forex, indices, shares, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. With user-friendly platforms and a comprehensive selection of account types, HFM caters to the needs of both novice and experienced traders.

Grow your trading power with HFM

Min Deposit

0 Regulated.

FSCA

Founded

2010

Max Laverage

Up to 1:2000

Instruments

over 1,200 instruments

4.8 /5

Rating Info

Visit Broker

Overall Rating:

4.8 /5

HFM scores impressively in our comprehensive
BrokersSelect.com review, excelling in various critical areas:

Trading Conditions

4.8 /5

Platforms and Tools

4.6 /5

Customer Service

4.7 /5

Trust and Regulation

4.9 /5

Education and Research

4.8 /5

Deposits and Withdrawal

4.7 /5

Assets Available

4.6 /5

Why Choose HFM
as Your Forex Broker

As highlighted on the HFM South Africa website, traders choose HFM for its blend of local-market accessibility and global reach.

Global Regulation & Trader Protection

HFM’s multi-jurisdictional framework ensures a high standard of client protection. In South Africa, HF Markets SA (PTY) Ltd is licensed by the FSCA, giving local traders:

FSCA (South Africa)

Segregated Funds and Negative Balance Protection

All HFM accounts include Negative Balance Protection, ensuring traders do not lose more than their deposited capital—even in highly volatile markets.

Start Trading with Confidence Today

Join HFM and unlock access to a powerful trading platform, tight spreads, and reliable support. Perfect for beginners and pros alike!

Your Trading Journey Starts Here

Awards and Recognition

HFM has received over

50+

international awards, including:

Best Global Forex Broker – World Finance Forex Awards (2022, 2021, 2020)

Best Broker – Middle East & Africa – Global Banking & Finance Review Awards (2023)

Most Transparent FX Broker – FX Markets Awards (2021)

These accolades reflect HFM dedication to excellence and innovation in the trading industry

Wide Range of Trading Instruments and Leverage

HFM provides 1,200+ instruments, enabling traders to diversify their strategies

Number of Assets

Number of Assets: 70+ currency pairs

Max Leverage

1:1000

Global liquidity access with institutional-grade execution 70+ pairs spanning majors (EUR/USD), minors (EUR/GBP), and exotics (USD/ZAR). Trade with raw spreads from 0.0 pips via ECN/STP across 24/5 markets. Leverage up to 1:1000* (*offshore) or 1:30 (EU/UK).

Number of Assets

15+ global indices

Max Leverage

1:200 (All regions)

Macro-market exposure without owning underlying assets 15+ futures-based CFDs tracking global benchmarks (S&P 500, DAX, Nikkei). Benefit from extended 23-hour sessions and leverage up to 1:200. Ideal for hedging portfolios or speculating on economic trends.

Number of Assets

26,000+ stock CFDs

Max Leverage

1:20 (Global retail)

*Unprecedented equity CFD coverage across 15+ exchanges* 26,000+ stocks including US giants (Apple), EU blue-chips (Siemens), and Asian leaders (Tencent). Leverage up to 1:20 with fractional share access. Go long/short without ownership costs or custody fees.

Number of Assets

30+ raw materials

Max Leverage

1:500 (Metals/Energy for offshore entities)

Diversified raw materials portfolio with ultra-high leverage 30+ assets: Gold/XAU (0.15 pips), Oil/Brent (0.04 pips), and softs (Wheat). Hedge inflation or capitalize on supply shocks with leverage up to 1:500* (*offshore metals) or 1:20 (EU/UK energy).

Number of Assets

BTC, ETH, XRP, LTC, and others

Max Leverage

Not available to UK/EU clients (ESMA/UK FCA restrictions). Offered via HFM's global entities (e.g., SVG, Seychelles).

Account Types at HFM

HFM offers a variety of account types designed to cater to the diverse needs of traders:

Standard

Accounts:

Premium Account

Professional

Accounts:

Zero Spread Account

Features: $3.5/lot commission, NDD execution, ultra-fast order matching (<15ms). Target: High-frequency traders and algorithmic strategies.

Professional Account

Features: Tier-1 liquidity, personalized account manager, depth-of-market data. Target: High-volume traders qualifying as “professional clients” (e.g., 500+ trades/year).

Islamic

Accounts:

Islamic Account

Features: Sharia-compliant (no swap/rollover fees), open-ended positions. Target: Traders requiring Sharia compliance.

How to Open an Account with HFM:

HFM offers ultra-fast execution, top-tier security, and a seamless account setup. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to trade smarter.

Account Types at HFM

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HFM Platforms and Tools

HFM provides traders with advanced platforms and tools to enhance their trading experience:

MetaTrader 4

Renowned for its user-friendly interface, MT4 offers robust charting tools, multiple timeframes, over 50 technical indicators, and support for Expert Advisors (EAs) for automated trading.

MetaTrader 5

The successor to MT4, MT5 provides additional features such as more technical indicators, timeframes, and the ability to trade more asset classes, including stocks and indices. It also offers an economic calendar and advanced order types.

HFcopy

HFM provides traders with globally recognized and user-friendly platforms — including MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, and mobile apps — to enhance the trading experience.

Advanced Trading Tools

HFM supports MT4, MT5, and its own app,
all platforms available on Android, iOS, Mac, and PC.

HFM Deposits and Withdrawals

Bank Transfers

Wire Transfer

Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard)

Crypto (select cryptocurrencies)

Skrill

HFM prioritizes secure, swift transactions. In South Africa

Bank Transfers

Wire Transfer

Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard)

Crypto (select cryptocurrencies)

Skrill

HFM prioritizes secure, swift transactions. In South Africa

BrokersSelect.com

Evaluation Methodology

At BrokersSelect.com, our evaluation is based on a rigorous analysis of critical factors to ensure our reviews are accurate, transparent, and informative:

1. Trading Conditions: We assess spreads, leverage, order execution speed, and trading costs. HFM excels with tight spreads, high leverage options, and fast execution speeds due to its advanced technology and liquidity providers.
2. Platforms and Tools: The availability, functionality, and user-friendliness of trading platforms and tools are evaluated. HFM offers multiple platforms, including MT4, MT5, and proprietary mobile apps, equipped with advanced features.
3. Customer Service: We evaluate the responsiveness, professionalism, and availability of customer support. HFM provides 24/7 multilingual support via live chat, email, and phone, ensuring assistance is always available.
4. Trust and Regulation: The broker’s regulatory status and adherence to financial standards are crucial. HFM’s regulation by multiple top-tier authorities enhances its credibility and reliability.
5. Education and Research: The quality and availability of educational materials and research tools are important for trader development. HFM offers comprehensive resources catering to traders at all levels.
6. Deposits and Withdrawals: We assess the ease, speed, and cost of funding and withdrawing from accounts. HFM stands out with instant processing and a variety of fee-free payment methods.
7. Assets Available: The diversity of tradable instruments is essential for portfolio diversification. HFM provides a broad range of assets across multiple classes.

Take Control of the Markets

With HFM, you’re in charge. Get access to tools and insights that help you stay ahead of the game. It takes just a minute to sign up!

Create Your Trading Account

Help Centre.

Got questions?

Is HFM regulated in South Africa?

Yes. HF Markets SA (PTY) Ltd holds an FSCA license (No. 46632), ensuring a transparent and secure trading environment for local clients.

What is the minimum deposit at HFM?

For certain accounts—like the Cent or Zero—the listed minimum can be as low as $0 (or R0). However, some accounts (e.g., Pro) require higher deposits, such as $100 (R1,800)

Which trading platforms does HFM offer?

HFM supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, and the HFM Mobile Platform, catering to both desktop and mobile traders.

Are deposits and withdrawals free?

HFM typically does not charge internal fees, but third-party costs (e.g., bank or transaction fees) may apply depending on your chosen method.

Does HFM offer a demo account?

Absolutely. Demo accounts enable you to practice strategies, explore the platforms, and experience real-time trading conditions without risking actual funds.