Best Forex Brokers in Malaysia 2025 [SCM]

Arjun  Mandal

Reviewer:

Arjun Mandal
Davit  Kvaratskhelia

Fact checker:

Davit Kvaratskhelia
Modified:
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34 Min

Malaysia’s Forex market operates under the supervision of the Securities Commission Malaysia (SCM), providing a structured framework for investor protection and broker oversight.

Traders typically access global markets through international brokers that comply with strict regulatory and operational standards. Key evaluation factors include regulation, trading costs, execution quality, and platform availability.

Comparison of Malaysian Forex Brokers Based on Trustpilot Rating

Trustpilot ratings provide an external, user driven perspective on the real trading experience offered by Forex brokers accessible to Malaysian traders.

Broker

Trustpilot Rating

Number of Reviews

FXCM

4.0/5⭐️

815

AvaTrade

4.0/5⭐️

11478

FxPro

3.8/5⭐️

862

BlackBull Markets

4.8/5⭐️

2915

Vantage Markets

4.5/5 ⭐️

11380

HYCM

2.0/5 ⭐️

161

HF Markets

4.6/5 ⭐️

2950

ActivTrades

3.9/5 ⭐️

1250

FBS

4.3/5 ⭐️

8000

easyMarkets

4.2/5 ⭐️

1770

Malaysian Forex Brokers Comparison Based on Spreads

Brokers operating in or accessible from Malaysia typically offer variable spreads influenced by liquidity providers, account type, and market volatility.

While tight spreads improve cost efficiency, they should be evaluated alongside execution quality, commissions, and regulatory oversight by the Securities Commission Malaysia.

Broker

Min. Spread

BlackBull Markets

0.0 pips

Vantage Markets

0.0 pips

Tickmill

0.0 pips

Eightcap0.0 pips

HYCM

0.1 pips

FXCM

0.2 pips

ActivTrades

0.5 pips

XM Group

0.6 Pips

FBS

0.7 pips

Ava TradeDepending on the Asset

Non-Trading Fees in Malaysian Forex Brokers

While some brokers accessible in Malaysia offer zero-fee funding options, others apply charges depending on the payment method or inactivity period.

Broker

Deposit Fee

Withdrawal Fee

Inactivity Fee

FXCM

$0

$0

Yes

AvaTrade

$0

$0

Yes

ActivTrades

$0

$0

Yes

BlackBull Markets

$0

$0

No

Vantage Markets

$0

$0

No

HYCM

$0

$0

Yes

FBS

$0

$0No

Tickmill

$0

$0

Yes

Eightcap

$0

$0

Yes

XM Group

$0

$0

Yes

Tradabale Instruments of Forex Brokers in Malaysia

Alongside major, minor, and selected exotic Forex pairs, many platforms also offer CFDs on indices, commodities, metals, cryptocurrencies, and global equities.

The availability of these instruments often depends on the broker’s regulatory structure and cross-border licensing, especially for brokers operating in alignment with the Securities Commission Malaysia framework.

Broker

Number of Instruments

BlackBull Markets

26K+

FXCM

3000+

FxPro

2100+

XM Group

1400+

AvaTrade

1250+

Vantage Markets

1000+

HF Markets

1000+

Eightcap

800+

Tickmill

600+

HYCM

300+

Top 10 Forex Brokers in Malaysia

The top Forex brokers available to Malaysian traders are selected based on regulatory credibility, trading costs, platform quality, and overall trust metrics.

Since Malaysia’s domestic Forex activity is overseen by the Securities Commission Malaysia, most reputable brokers operate through international licenses while remaining accessible to Malaysian residents.

FXCM

FXCM, short for Forex Capital Markets, is a globally recognized forex and CFD broker founded in 1999 with more than two decades of industry experience.

FXCM Broker
FXCM offers access to multiple trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4, TradingView, and TradeStation

The broker operates under a multi-regulatory framework, holding licenses from top-tier authorities such as the FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, and ISA, which enhances its credibility and investor protection standards.

The broker provides trading across major asset classes such as forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and share CFDs, with floating spreads starting from 0.2 pips and commission-free trading on most instruments (FXCM rebate is also available).

After FXCM registration, client funds are protected through segregated accounts and negative balance protection, while eligible clients may benefit from compensation schemes depending on jurisdiction.

Although FXCM faced regulatory challenges in the past, it has maintained a strong international presence and continues to serve traders seeking regulated market access, advanced platforms, and diverse trading tools.

Account Types

CFD, Active Trader, Corporate

Regulating Authorities

FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA

Minimum Deposit

$50

Deposit Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller

Withdrawal Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:1000

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, TradingView, TradeStation

FXCM Pros and Cons

Table below, highlights the FXCM brokers pros and cons at a glance:

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple tier-1 authorities (FCA, ASIC, CySEC)

History of regulatory penalties and past bankruptcy

Access to TradingView, MT4, and TradeStation

Bank wire withdrawals carry a $40 fee

Competitive spreads from 0.2 pips

Annual inactivity fee applies

Negative balance protection available

Limited availability in some countries

Suitable for algorithmic and active traders

No PAMM account support

AvaTrade

AvaTrade is a globally established Forex and CFD broker founded in 2006, serving traders in more than 150 countries.

AvaTrade
AvaTrade provides access to markets including Forex, commodities, indices, stocks, metals, and cryptocurrencies

The broker operates under a strong multi regulatory framework, holding licenses from top tier authorities such as the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), ASIC, FSCA, FSA Japan, ADGM, and CySEC, which significantly enhances its credibility and client protection standards.

In AvaTrade dashboard, trading is supported via multiple platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, and the proprietary AvaTrade mobile app, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced traders.

The broker offers fixed and competitive spreads, commission free trading, AvaTrade rebate, Islamic accounts, and copy trading solutions through AvaSocial and DupliTrade.

With segregated client funds, negative balance protection, and strong educational resources, the broker stands out as a secure and user friendly trading environment with easy AvaTrade registration.

Account Types

Retail, Professional, Islamic, Demo

Regulating Authorities

CBI, ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, FSA, ADGM

Minimum Deposit

$100

Deposit Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, WebMoney, PayPal

Withdrawal Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:400

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, Mobile App

AvaTrade Pros and Cons

The table below provides a quick overview of AvaTrade broker strengths and weaknesses.

Parameter

Details

Account Types

Retail, Professional, Islamic, Demo

Regulating Authorities

CBI, ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, FSA, ADGM

Minimum Deposit

$100

Deposit Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, WebMoney, PayPal

Withdrawal Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:400

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, Mobile App

FxPro

FxPro is a globally established Forex and CFD broker founded in 2006, with more than 15 years of operational history and over 7.8 million registered client accounts worldwide.

FxPro broker
In FxPro, client funds are held in segregated accounts, and negative balance protection is available across all entities

The broker is known for its fast execution speed, processing trades in under 12 milliseconds, and for offering access to more than 2,100 tradable instruments across multiple asset classes.

FxPro operates under a multi regulated structure, holding licenses from top tier authorities such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), and the Securities Commission of The Bahamas (SCB).

FxPro dashboard supports several advanced trading platforms including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, WebTrader, and a proprietary mobile app.

With multiple account types, copy trading services, Islamic accounts, FxPro rebate and competitive spreads starting from 0.0 pips, FxPro is suitable for both retail and professional traders seeking a regulated and technology driven trading environment.

Account Types

Standard, Raw+, Elite

Regulating Authorities

FCA, CySEC, FSCA, SCB

Minimum Deposit

$100

Deposit Methods

Visa, Mastercard, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal

Withdrawal Methods

Visa, Mastercard, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:500

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, WebTrader, Mobile App

FxPro Pros and Cons

The following table presents FxPro’s main advantages and disadvantages in a concise format.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple tier 1 authorities

Not available for U.S. and Canadian clients

Access to 2,100+ trading instruments

Limited bonus and promotional offers

MT4, MT5, cTrader, WebTrader support

No 24/7 customer support

Fast execution and deep liquidity

Higher minimum deposit for Elite account

Copy trading and Islamic account availability

Some country based restrictions

BlackBull Markets

BlackBull Markets is a New Zealand based Forex and CFD broker founded in 2014, operating under the legal entity Black Bull Group Limited.

BlackBull Markets broker
BlackBull Markets supports platforms including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView, BlackBull CopyTrader and BlackBull Invest

The broker is regulated by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) in New Zealand and the Financial Services Authority (FSA) in Seychelles, offering a combination of tier 1 and offshore regulatory coverage.

BlackBull Markets provides access to more than 26,000 tradable instruments across Forex, indices, commodities, metals, cryptocurrencies, and share CFDs.

Trading is executed through an ECN environment with ultra-fast execution, deep liquidity, and spreads starting from 0.0 pips on ECN accounts.

With no minimum deposit on its Standard account, leverage up to 1:500, 24/7 customer support, and strong trust scores on Trustpilot, BlackBull Markets registration is well suited for active traders, scalpers, and professional investors.

Account Types

ECN Standard, ECN Prime, ECN Institutional

Regulating Authorities

FMA (New Zealand), FSA (Seychelles)

Minimum Deposit

$0 (ECN Standard)

Deposit Methods

Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Bank Wire, Crypto, Skrill, Neteller, SEPA

Withdrawal Methods

Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Bank Wire, Crypto, Skrill, Neteller, SEPA

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:500

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView, BlackBull CopyTrader, BlackBull Invest

BlackBull Markets Pros and Cons

Below is a table summarizing the key pros and cons of the BlackBull Markets brokerage.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by FMA New Zealand and FSA Seychelles

Limited availability in some regions

ECN trading with spreads from 0.0 pips

ECN Prime requires a $2,000 minimum deposit

Access to 26,000+ tradable instruments

Wide product range may overwhelm beginners

Supports MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView

No U.S. clients accepted

24/7 customer support and strong Trustpilot rating

Withdrawal fee of $5 per transaction

Vantage Markets

Vantage Markets is a global Forex and CFD broker founded in 2009 and headquartered in Sydney, Australia, with more than 30 offices worldwide.

Vantage Markets broker
Vantage Markets supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, ProTrader, TradingView, and a proprietary mobile app

The broker offers access to a broad range of markets including Forex, indices, commodities, shares, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, with spreads starting from 0.0 pips on ECN accounts.

Vantage operates under a strong multi-regulatory framework, holding licenses from tier-1 authorities such as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), alongside FSCA, VFSC, and CIMA.

After Vantage Markets registration, client funds are kept in segregated accounts, and negative balance protection is available for most entities.

With copy trading via ZuluTrade, DupliTrade, and Myfxbook AutoTrade, low minimum deposit requirements, and 24/7 support, Vantage Markets suits both beginner and professional traders.

Account Types

Standard STP, Standard Cent, Raw ECN, Pro ECN, Swap Free

Regulating Authorities

ASIC, FCA, FSCA, VFSC, CIMA

Minimum Deposit

$20

Deposit Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, Perfect Money, Local Methods

Withdrawal Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, Local Methods

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:1000

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, ProTrader, TradingView, Mobile App

Vantage Markets Pros and Cons

The table shown here outlines Vantage Markets’s positive features and limitations clearly.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple tier-1 authorities

High minimum deposit on Pro ECN account

Spreads from 0.0 pips on ECN accounts

No proprietary desktop platform

MT4, MT5, ProTrader, TradingView support

Restricted in some countries (e.g. US, Canada)

Copy trading and social trading available

Trustpilot score lower than some competitors

Low minimum deposit from $20

Bonuses not available in all regions

HYCM

HYCM is a long-established multi-regulated Forex and CFD broker operating under top-tier authorities such as the Financial Conduct Authority (UK) and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (UAE), with additional international coverage.

HYCM broker
Founded as part of the Henyep Group, HYCM focuses on regulatory compliance, client fund segregation, and negative balance protection

HYCM dashboard offers three main account types Fixed, Classic, and RAW with a low minimum deposit of $20, making it accessible to beginners while still suitable for high-volume traders.

HYCM supports a broad range of markets including Forex, indices, commodities, stocks, metals, energy, and cryptocurrencies, available via MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and its proprietary HYCM Trader app.

With spreads starting from 0.1 pips on RAW accounts, flexible leverage up to 1:500 for non-UK clients (available after HYCM verification), and multiple HYCM deposit and withdrawal methods including crypto, HYCM positions itself as a competitive, regulation-focused broker for global traders.

Account Types

Fixed, Classic, RAW, Demo, Islamic

Regulating Authorities

Financial Conduct Authority, Dubai Financial Services Authority, CIMA

Minimum Deposit

$20

Deposit Methods

Bank Wire, Credit/Debit Cards, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto

Withdrawal Methods

Bank Wire, Credit/Debit Cards, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:500 (varies by regulation)

Trading Platforms & Apps

MT4, MT5, HYCM Trader

HYCM Pros and Cons

In the table below, HYCM’s benefits and drawbacks are displayed for fast comparison.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by FCA and DFSA with segregated client funds

EU clients no longer accepted

Low minimum deposit starting from $20

Limited educational materials

Competitive RAW spreads from 0.1 pips

$10 monthly inactivity fee

Supports MT4, MT5, and proprietary mobile app

No dedicated social trading platform

Wide range of tradable instruments

Trustpilot rating is moderate

Islamic and demo accounts available

Some country restrictions apply

HF Markets

HFM, also known as HF Markets, is a globally recognized multi-asset broker established in 2010, serving over 2.5 million live accounts across 180+ countries.

HF Markets
HFM offers access to more than 1,000 CFD instruments across Forex, stocks, indices, commodities, bonds, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies

The broker operates under multiple regulatory bodies, including CySEC, FCA, DFSA, and FSCA, ensuring a strong compliance framework.

In HFM dashboard, Traders can choose from several account types, including Cent, Zero, Pro, and Premium, with spreads starting from 0.0 pips on Zero accounts and leverage reaching up to 1:2000 under offshore entities.

The broker supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and a proprietary mobile app, alongside HFM copy trading and PAMM solutions. With negative balance protection, segregated client funds, HYCM rebate and a Trustpilot score of 4.6 out of 5, HFM positions itself as a competitive choice for both beginner and advanced traders.

Account Types

Cent, Zero, Pro, Premium

Regulating Authorities

CySEC, FCA, DFSA, FSCA, FSA

Minimum Deposit

From $0

Deposit Methods

Bank wire, credit/debit cards, e-payments, crypto

Withdrawal Methods

Bank wire, cards, e-payments, crypto

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:2000 (offshore entities)

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Mobile App

HFM Pros and Cons

The next table offers a brief snapshot of HFM broker advantages and shortcomings.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple tier-1 and tier-2 authorities

Restricted in several countries including the US

Wide range of tradable instruments (1,000+)

Platform choice limited mainly to MT4 and MT5

Multiple account types with low minimum deposit

Mixed feedback on customer support quality

High leverage options for non-EU clients

Occasional technical issues reported

Copy trading and PAMM investment solutions

Bonuses not available under EU regulation

ActivTrades

ActivTrades is a London-based Forex and CFD broker founded in 2001, serving traders from more than 170 countries worldwide.

ActivTrades
Traders can use MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView, and ActivTrader platform, which offers risk-management tools and fast execution

The broker is primarily regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and operates under additional international regulators, ensuring a strong compliance framework and high client fund protection.

Client funds are held in segregated accounts and protected under the FSCS scheme up to £85,000, with additional private insurance coverage of up to £1,000,000 per client.

After ActivTrades registration, the broker provides access to over 1,000 tradable instruments, including Forex pairs, indices, commodities, shares, ETFs, bonds, and cryptocurrencies.

With spreads starting from 0.5 pips, no minimum deposit requirement, Islamic accounts, and professional leverage up to 1:400, ActivTrades is positioned as a regulation-focused broker suitable for both retail and professional traders.

Account Types

Individual, Professional, Demo, Islamic

Regulating Authorities

FCA, SCB, CMVM, BACEN, CVM

Minimum Deposit

$0

Deposit Methods

Bank Wire, Credit/Debit Cards, Skrill, Neteller, Local Payments

Withdrawal Methods

Bank Wire, Credit/Debit Cards, Skrill, Neteller, Local Payments

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:400 (Professional accounts)

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView, ActivTrader

ActivTrades Pros and Cons

The table beneath highlights the most important strengths and weaknesses of ActivTrades.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by FCA and multiple international authorities

No copy trading or PAMM services

Strong client fund protection and additional insurance

Not available to US traders

No minimum deposit requirement

Limited promotional bonuses

Wide range of tradable instruments (1,000+)

Leverage restricted for retail clients

Multiple platforms including TradingView

FBS

FBS is a global Forex and CFD broker established in 2009, serving more than 27 million users worldwide. The broker operates through multiple regulated entities, including a CySEC-licensed European branch and an offshore entity regulated by the FSC, allowing it to offer flexible trading conditions to international clients.

Client funds in FBS dashboard are held in segregated accounts, and negative balance protection is applied across supported regions.

FBS provides access to over 550 tradable instruments across Forex, indices, commodities, metals, shares, and cryptocurrencies.

Alongside FBS rebate, the broker offers floating spreads starting from 0.7 pips with zero trading commission, making it attractive for cost-sensitive traders. Traders can use MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and the proprietary FBS mobile app, which includes more than 90 technical indicators.

With a very low minimum deposit of $5, leverage reaching up to 1:3000 via offshore regulation, 24/7 customer support, and Islamic account availability, FBS is positioned as a beginner-friendly yet flexible broker for global traders.

Account Types

Standard, Demo, Islamic

Regulating Authorities

CySEC, FSC

Minimum Deposit

$5

Deposit Methods

Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Cards, E-payment Systems

Withdrawal Methods

Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Cards, E-payment Systems

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:3000

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, FBS Mobile App

FBS Pros and Cons

Below, a structured table compares the main pros and cons of FBS as a broker.

Pros

Cons

Very low minimum deposit ($5)

Only one live account type available

Regulated by CySEC and FSC

Not available in EU, UK, US, and some regions

Zero trading commission

No copy trading or PAMM services

High leverage up to 1:3000

Limited account diversity

User-friendly mobile app with 90+ indicators

Offshore regulation for high leverage

24/7 multilingual customer support

easyMarkets

easyMarkets is a multi-regulated Forex and CFD broker known for its beginner-friendly environment, fixed and variable spread models, and innovative risk-management tools.

Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Cyprus, the broker operates under several regulators, including CySEC, ASIC, FSCA, FSA Seychelles, and FSC BVI, which allows it to serve both retail and international clients.

One of easyMarkets’ key differentiators is its proprietary trading platform, which offers unique features such as dealCancellation and Freeze Rate, designed to reduce execution risk during volatile market conditions. These features are available for all traders after easyMarkets registration.

The broker provides commission-free trading, a low minimum deposit of $25, and access to over 200 instruments across Forex, indices, commodities, metals, cryptocurrencies, shares, and options.

With leverage reaching up to 1:2000 for non-EU clients and strong negative balance protection, easyMarkets positions itself as a solid choice for both new and risk-aware traders.

Account Types

Standard, Premium, Demo, Islamic

Regulating Authorities

CySEC, ASIC, FSA, FSC, FSCA

Minimum Deposit

$25

Deposit Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, Online Payment Systems

Withdrawal Methods

Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Wire, Skrill, Neteller, Online Payment Systems

Maximum Leverage

Up to 1:2000 (Non-EU clients)

Trading Platforms & Apps

Proprietary Platform, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView

easyMarkets Pros and Cons

The following table gives readers an at a glance summary of easyMarkets broker pros and cons.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple authorities (CySEC, ASIC, FSCA, FSA, FSC)

Limited number of tradable assets compared to top ECN brokers

Very low minimum deposit ($25)

No true ECN or RAW spread account

Commission-free trading model

Fixed spreads can be wider during low liquidity

Unique risk-management tools (dealCancellation, Freeze Rate)

No copy trading or PAMM solutions

Supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, and proprietary platform

24/5 support only, not 24/7

High leverage options for non-EU clients

Geo-restrictions in several countries

What is the SCM Regulation?

The Securities Commission Malaysia or SCM is the primary financial regulatory authority responsible for overseeing capital markets and financial intermediaries in Malaysia.

SCM Regulation
SCM operates under the Capital Markets and Services Act and plays a central role in maintaining market integrity, transparency, and investor protection

In the context of Forex trading, SCM does not directly license most offshore retail Forex brokers. Instead, it regulates licensed financial institutions, investment banks, and capital market service providers operating locally.

As a result, many Malaysian traders legally access international brokers regulated by foreign authorities while SCM focuses on warning against unlicensed or fraudulent entities.

Key objectives of SCM include

  • Supervising licensed financial institutions
  • Enforcing compliance with Malaysian financial laws
  • Issuing public alerts against illegal Forex schemes
  • Promoting investor education and risk awareness

How to Verify an SCM Forex Broker?

Verifying a Forex broker under Malaysian regulatory standards requires checking both local and international credentials. Since most retail Forex brokers are not directly licensed by SCM, verification focuses on legitimacy rather than local authorization. Steps to verify a broker include.

  1. Visit the official website of the Securities Commission Malaysia
  2. Search the Investor Alert List to ensure the broker is not blacklisted
  3. Confirm the broker’s international regulation such as ASIC, FCA, or CySEC
  4. Cross check the license number on the regulator’s official website
  5. Review transparency on fund segregation and risk disclosures
SCM-regulated broker verification
To verify a SCM-regulation broker, you must go through 5 steps

Forex Trading in Malaysia

Forex trading in Malaysia is widely practiced by retail and professional traders despite regulatory nuances. While local regulation is strict regarding domestic Forex solicitation, Malaysian residents are legally allowed to trade through internationally regulated brokers.

The market is dominated by online trading platforms offering access to global currency pairs, CFDs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Traders typically rely on brokers regulated by authorities such as ASIC, FCA, or CySEC due to the limited number of locally licensed Forex providers.

Education, risk management, and broker verification are essential due to the presence of unlicensed investment schemes targeting local traders.

What are the Important Factors for Choosing the Best Forex in Malaysia?

Selecting a Forex broker in Malaysia requires a methodical, data focused approach, as traders rely on these platforms to safeguard and execute their capital. The TradingFinder evaluation framework focuses on factors that directly impact trading safety and performance.

  • Regulation and licensing to confirm legal operation and client protection;
  • Trading costs, including spreads, commissions, and non-trading fees;
  • Account types and tradable instruments to match different trading strategies;
  • Trading platforms and apps, such as MT4, MT5, and mobile solutions;
  • Deposits, withdrawals, and verification speed for smooth account management;
  • Customer support quality and Trustpilot feedback as real trust indicators.

These criteria help Malaysian traders compare brokers objectively and select platforms aligned with their trading goals.

Forex trading is legal in Malaysia for individuals who trade through properly regulated international brokers. However, offering Forex trading services or managing client funds without authorization from the Securities Commission Malaysia or Bank NegaraMalaysia is illegal.

  • Individual trading with offshore brokers is permitted
  • Local Forex brokers must be licensed by Malaysian authorities
  • Forex investment schemes and signal selling without approval are prohibited
  • SCM actively issues warnings against illegal operators

What is the Maximum Leverage Offered by Malaysian Brokers?

Forex brokers accessible to Malaysian traders operate under guidelines issued by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SCM).

Maximum leverage capacity in Malaysian forex brokers
Maximum leverage in Malaysian forex brokers is 1:500

Unlike ESMA-regulated jurisdictions in Europe, Malaysia does not enforce a single, fixed retail leverage cap. Instead, leverage limits depend on the broker’s regulatory license, client classification, and risk management policies.

SCM emphasizes risk disclosure, suitability assessment, and fair dealing, allowing brokers to offer higher leverage while requiring clear communication of associated risks. As a result, leverage levels in Malaysia are generally more flexible compared to EU markets.

Asset Class

Typical Maximum Leverage

Major Forex Pairs

Up to 1:500

Minor Forex Pairs

Up to 1:300

Gold & Major Indices

Up to 1:200

Other Commodities

Up to 1:100

Individual Equities (CFDs)

Up to 1:20

Cryptocurrencies

Up to 1:10

Is Negative Balance Protection Available in SCM-Regulated Forex Brokers?

Negative Balance Protection is not explicitly mandated by SCM because most retail Forex brokers serving Malaysians are regulated abroad. However, this protection is commonly provided by brokers regulated under strict international frameworks.

Choosing brokers that explicitly guarantee this feature is critical, especially when trading with leverage or during volatile market conditions.

How is the Taxation of SCM Regulated Forex Brokers?

Malaysia does not impose a specific capital gains tax on Forex trading profits for individual traders. However, taxation depends on the nature of trading activity and income classification.

  • Occasional retail trading profits are often tax free
  • Professional or high frequency trading may be treated as taxable income
  • Income derived from Forex related services may be subject to tax
  • Corporate trading accounts follow business taxation rules

SCM does not directly tax traders but cooperates with Malaysian tax authorities. Traders with significant or consistent profits should consult a local tax professional to ensure compliance with Malaysian income tax regulations.

Forex Trading in Malaysia Compared to Other Countries

Forex trading in Malaysia operates under a more restrictive and compliance focused framework compared to several other Asian and Middle Eastern markets. Oversight is primarily handled by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SCM), which prioritizes investor protection, capital controls, and strict licensing standards.

In contrast, countries such as India, UAE, and Indonesia apply different regulatory models, ranging from highly restrictive domestic rules to more flexible international brokerage access.

The comparison below highlights how Malaysia stands relative to these markets in terms of regulation, leverage, broker accessibility, and trader protection.

Comparison Factor

Malaysia

India

UAE

Indonesia

Primary Regulator

Securities Commission Malaysia (SCM)

Reserve Bank of India (RBI), SEBI

Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), DFSA

BAPPEBTI

Regulatory Framework

National regulation with strict FX controls

Highly restricted retail FX trading

Regulated with free zone frameworks

National regulation with licensed local brokers

Retail Leverage Cap Forex Majors

Up to 1:500 (via offshore brokers)

Not officially defined (FX largely restricted)

Up to 1:30 (DFSA), higher offshore

Up to 1:100

Investor Protection Level

Medium

High (capital controls)

High

Medium

Negative Balance Protection

Broker dependent

Not standardized

Mandatory under DFSA

Broker dependent

Client Fund Segregation

Required for licensed entities

Mandatory for regulated entities

Mandatory

Mandatory

Broker Transparency Requirements

High compliance standards

Very strict

Very strict

Moderate

Broker Availability

Limited local, broad offshore access

Very limited

Broad local and international

Mainly local brokers

Access to International Brokers

Restricted but common via offshore

Highly restricted

High global access

Limited

Typical Trading Platforms

MT4, MT5, WebTrader

Limited access

MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView

MT4, MT5

Maximum Loss Protection

Depends on broker policy

Capital restricted environment

Cannot lose more than deposit

Depends on broker

Tax Treatment of Forex Profits

Subject to income tax

Taxed as income or business gains

Generally tax free for individuals

Taxable under income rules

Conclusion

Forex trading in Malaysia operates within a strict regulatory and compliance driven environment, overseen by the Securities Commission Malaysia.

While local licensing for retail Forex brokers is limited, Malaysian traders commonly access global markets through internationally regulated brokers supervised by authorities such as the Financial Conduct Authority, Australian Securities and Investments Commission, and Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission.

Selecting the best Forex broker in Malaysia depends on regulatory credibility, trading costs, platform quality, leverage structure, and risk protection features such as segregated funds and negative balance protection.

Broker rankings are established through a comprehensive evaluation process defined by the TradingFinder forex methodology, which analyzes key factors such as regulatory standing, trading fees, and the range of available account types to ensure objective and data driven comparisons.

FAQs

Is Forex trading legal for Malaysian residents?

Yes, Forex trading is legal for Malaysian individuals when they trade through internationally regulated brokers. However, offering Forex services or managing client funds locally without approval from the Securities Commission Malaysia is considered illegal under Malaysian law.

Does SCM directly regulate retail Forex brokers?

SCM does not directly license most retail Forex brokers targeting Malaysian traders. Instead, it supervises licensed financial institutions and focuses on issuing warnings against unlicensed or fraudulent Forex schemes operating domestically.

Why do Malaysian traders use offshore Forex brokers?

Due to limited local licensing options, Malaysian traders typically access global markets through offshore brokers regulated by authorities such as FCA, ASIC, or CySEC. This approach allows access to competitive trading conditions and international platforms.

How can traders verify if a Forex broker is safe in Malaysia?

Traders should check the SCM Investor Alert List to ensure the broker is not blacklisted, then verify the broker’s foreign license directly on the regulator’s official website. Transparency around fund segregation and risk disclosures is also essential.

What role does Trustpilot play in broker evaluation?

Trustpilot provides user generated feedback that reflects real trading experiences. While not a regulatory authority, its ratings help traders assess customer satisfaction, execution quality, and support responsiveness across brokers.

What trading platforms are commonly available to Malaysian traders?

Most brokers accessible from Malaysia support platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, and sometimes TradingView. Platform availability often depends on the broker’s regulatory structure and target market.

Are non-trading fees important for Forex traders in Malaysia?

Yes, non-trading fees such as inactivity charges or withdrawal fees can significantly impact long term profitability. Traders should review these costs carefully, especially if they trade infrequently.

What types of instruments can Malaysian traders access?

In addition to Forex pairs, many brokers offer CFDs on indices, commodities, metals, cryptocurrencies, and global equities. The exact range depends on the broker’s licensing and cross border permissions.

Is there a fixed leverage cap in Malaysia?

Malaysia does not impose a single fixed leverage cap like ESMA jurisdictions. Leverage levels depend on the broker’s foreign regulation, client classification, and internal risk management policies.

Is negative balance protection mandatory for Malaysian traders?

Negative balance protection is not mandated by SCM. Its availability depends on the broker’s international regulator, making it crucial for traders to confirm this feature before opening an account.

How are Forex trading profits taxed in Malaysia?

Malaysia does not apply a specific capital gains tax on casual Forex trading. However, frequent or professional trading activity may be classified as taxable income under Malaysian tax law.

What factors are most important when choosing a Forex broker in Malaysia?

Key factors include regulatory credibility, trading costs, platform quality, account types, fund safety, and real user feedback. These elements directly affect trading risk and execution reliability.

How does TradingFinder evaluate Forex brokers?

TradingFinder uses a data driven methodology that reviews regulation, fees, account structures, platforms, deposits and withdrawals, and verified trust signals to rank brokers objectively.

Are local Malaysian Forex investment schemes safe?

Many locally promoted Forex schemes are unlicensed and carry high risk. SCM frequently issues warnings against such operations, and traders are advised to avoid guaranteed profit claims.

How does Malaysia compare to other countries in Forex regulation?

Malaysia applies a compliance focused framework with strict controls on domestic Forex activities, while allowing offshore access. Compared to countries like the UAE or India, broker availability and leverage flexibility differ significantly.

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