Forex broker server time refers to the time zone setting used by a broker’s trading server, which determines the timestamps on charts, trade execution logs, and economic calendar syncing. This time setting affects everything from candlestick closes, market open/close alignment, to the daily rollover (swap) timing. Choosing the right broker server time is especially important for traders using technical analysis, EAs (Expert Advisors), or those trading news events.

This article explains how server time works, why it matters, and which brokers use which time zones in 2025.

What is forex broker server time?

A broker’s server time is the time zone that the MetaTrader (MT4/MT5), cTrader, or proprietary platform runs on. It determines:

• Chart time and candlestick closes
• Daily candle reset and swap time
• Economic event alignment (with GMT or local market time)
• EA and script execution schedules
• Weekend open/close timing

Common server time zones in forex trading

Most brokers use GMT+2 in winter and GMT+3 in summer, so that their daily candles align with the New York close (5 PM EST)—widely considered the global forex market close.

Why server time matters

✅ Chart accuracy

• Daily candlestick closes should align with market sentiment resets, i.e., 5 PM New York time
• Inaccurate server time can cause false signals for support/resistance and technical patterns

✅ EA and algorithm compatibility

• Many EAs are built to work with specific time zones (usually GMT+2/+3)
• Running an EA on the wrong server time may cause trades to trigger incorrectly

✅ Swap calculation timing

• Swaps are charged or credited at broker-defined rollover time, typically 5 PM NY time
• If your broker runs GMT+2/+3, this aligns correctly for most calendar-based strategies

Broker server times in 2025

How to check your broker’s server time

1. Open your trading platform (e.g., MT4 or MT5)
2. Navigate to Market Watch > Time column, or check terminal logs
3. Compare the platform time with actual GMT or your local time
4. Ask support or consult the broker’s FAQ for exact rollover info

Server time and daylight saving

• Most brokers auto-adjust server time for Daylight Saving Time (DST)
• This ensures that daily candle closes at 5 PM EST regardless of season
• Some ECN/STP brokers may run on fixed GMT to simplify reporting

Key takeaways

• Forex broker server time controls your chart candles, swap timing, and EA behaviour
• The industry standard is GMT+2 in winter and GMT+3 in summer, aligning with the New York close
• Traders using technical systems should match their indicators or EAs to the broker’s server time
• Confirm with your broker whether they auto-adjust for DST or use fixed GMT
• TibiGlobe, IC Markets, and Pepperstone provide reliable DST-adjusted server time in 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best server time for forex trading?

GMT+2 (winter) and GMT+3 (summer) are ideal because they align with the New York close at 5 PM EST, which sets the global forex daily reset.

How can I find my broker’s server time?

Check the Market Watch window or platform logs in MT4/MT5, or ask support for their server time setting.

Why does server time affect my candlesticks?

Because server time determines when each daily candle opens and closes, it can affect technical signals like engulfing patterns or pin bars.

Does server time affect swap charges?

Yes. Swap is charged or credited at the rollover time, which is based on the broker’s server time—usually 5 PM EST (GMT+2/+3).

Do all brokers adjust for daylight saving time?

No. Some brokers use fixed GMT, while others automatically switch between GMT+2 and GMT+3 to match the New York session close.

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