This HFM review (formerly HotForex) covers the broker’s regulatory structure, execution model, asset coverage, and suitability for both retail and institutional clients. HFM is a globally licensed multi-asset CFD broker offering advanced trading tools, deep liquidity, and multi-platform access via MT4, MT5, and a proprietary mobile app.

Regulation and Safety

HFM operates via multiple regulatory entities:

• HFM (Europe) Ltd: Regulated by CySEC, License No. 183/12
• HFM (UK) Ltd: FCA-regulated, License No. 801701
• HFM SA (PTY) Ltd: FSCA-authorised, License No. 46632
• HFM (DIFC) Ltd: DFSA-licensed, License No. F004885
• HFM (Seychelles) Ltd: FSA Seychelles, License No. SD015
• HFM (SV) Ltd: Unregulated offshore entity (St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

HFM offers negative balance protection, segregated client funds, and compensation scheme eligibility in the EU and UK (ICF, FSCS).

Execution Model and Trading Platforms

HFM runs a No Dealing Desk (NDD)/STP execution model with the following trading platforms:

• MetaTrader 4 (MT4): Desktop, mobile, and web
• MetaTrader 5 (MT5): Advanced platform with depth of market
• HFM App: Proprietary mobile trading platform and client hub

VPS and FIX API are available for professional traders. Trading infrastructure includes direct market access (DMA) and low-latency execution.

Markets and Instruments

HFM provides access to over 1,200 instruments across six asset classes:

• Forex: 50+ pairs including majors, minors, and exotics
• Commodities: Oil, gold, silver, natural gas
• Indices: Dow Jones, NASDAQ, FTSE, DAX
• Stocks: Apple, Tesla, Amazon, Alibaba (CFDs)
• ETFs: SPDRs, iShares, QQQ
• Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, DOT (CFDs)

Accounts, Spreads and Leverage

HFM offers five main account types:

• Micro: Leverage up to 1:1000, spreads from 1 pip
• Premium: No commission, tighter spreads
• Zero Spread: Raw spreads from 0.0 pips, $6 commission per lot
• Pro: Professional-grade conditions, available on request
• Islamic: Swap-free option across account types

Minimum deposit: $5. Leverage up to 1:1000 (offshore), 1:30 (EU/UK retail). Stop-out levels vary by account (10–50%).

Funding and Base Currencies

Available payment methods include:

• Visa, Mastercard, bank transfers
• Skrill, Neteller, crypto payments (BTC, ETH, USDT)
• Regional e-wallets depending on location

Supported base currencies: USD, EUR, GBP, NGN, ZAR. Deposits are processed instantly for most methods. Withdrawals within 24 hours in most cases.

Client Protections and Features

• Investor Compensation Fund (ICF) and FSCS protection (EU and UK)
• Negative balance protection globally
• Segregated bank accounts
• Two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Biometric mobile login and internal fund transfers
• Regulatory audits and transparent disclosures

Institutional and Retail Offering

HFM caters to both retail and institutional clients:

• FIX API and VPS hosting
• MAM and PAMM accounts
• White-label services and introducing broker (IB) solutions
• Liquidity and API trading solutions for hedge funds and asset managers

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Multi-jurisdictional regulation including FCA, CySEC, DFSA
• MT4, MT5, and proprietary HFM app supported
• Ultra-low spreads and flexible leverage
• FIX API and VPS available
• Crypto, ETFs, and over 1,200 CFDs offered

Cons

• Offshore entity lacks compensation scheme
• Educational resources are basic for advanced traders
• Retail leverage restricted in EU/UK
• CFD-only — no access to underlying assets
• Region-specific account restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HFM the same as HotForex?

Yes, HFM is the rebranded name of HotForex and continues to operate under the same regulatory entities globally.

Is HFM regulated?

Yes, HFM is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA, DFSA, and FSA Seychelles depending on the client region.

What trading platforms does HFM offer?

HFM offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and its own proprietary HFM mobile app.

What is the minimum deposit at HFM?

The minimum deposit starts from just $5, depending on the account type and jurisdiction.

Does HFM support crypto trading?

Yes, HFM supports cryptocurrency CFD trading on BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, and more, subject to regional access.