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Best NDD Brokers 2026

Ram Nisha

Reviewer:

Ram Nisha
Arjun  Mandal

Fact checker:

Arjun Mandal
Modified:
Comments:0
Views:27
31 Min

Unlike traditional dealing desk brokers, non-dealing desk (NDD) brokers route orders directly to liquidity providers via ECN or STP systems, eliminating conflicts of interest and offering market-based pricing.

This guide highlights the top 8 NDD brokers, each evaluated across key metrics including regulation, spreads, account types, leverage, instruments, platforms, and customer support. Our selection features brokers with proven track records.

The list of the best brokers offering non-dealing desk (NDD) account types includes:

Trustpilot Ratings in NDD Brokers

Trustpilot scores offer a snapshot of customer satisfaction and reliability for brokers. By reviewing these ratings, traders can gauge overall user experience, service quality, and trustworthiness before choosing an NDD broker. Here’s how some of the top NDD brokers rank according to user reviews:

Broker

Trustpilot Score

Number of Reviews

Exness

4.8/5 ⭐️

27,602

FP Markets

4.8/5 ⭐️

9,991

IC Markets

4.8/5 ⭐️

51,402

Fusion Markets

4.8/5 ⭐️

6,261

FBS

4.3/5 ⭐️

8,634

Pepperstone

4.2/5 ⭐️

3,214

FxPro

3.5/5 ⭐️

813

XM Group

3.1/5 ⭐️

3,033

Minimum Spreads in NDD Brokers

Low spreads are a key advantage for NDD brokers, allowing traders to minimize trading costs and execute strategies more efficiently. The minimum spread indicates the tightest pricing a broker offers, which is particularly crucial for scalping and high-frequency trading. Let’s compare the minimum spreads offered by leading NDD brokers:

Broker

Minimum Spread

Fusion Markets

0.0 pips

Pepperstone

0.0 pips

Tickmill

0.0 pips

Global Prime

0.0 pips

IC Markets

0.0 pips

Exness

0.0 pips

FxPro

0.0 pips

XM Group

0.6 pips

Available Account Types in NDD Brokers

NDD brokers provide a variety of account types to suit different trading styles, risk preferences, and capital levels. From standard accounts to high-leverage professional accounts, understanding these options helps traders pick the setup that aligns with their goals.

Below is an overview of the account types and leverage limits across popular NDD brokers:

Broker Name

Account Types

Max. Leverage

FxPro

Standard, Raw+, Elite

1:30

AvaTrade

Retail, Professional, Islamic, Demo

1:400

Pepperstone

Standard, Razor

1:500

FBS

Standard

1:500

IC Markets

Standard, Raw Spread, Islamic

1:500

Interactive Brokers

Individual, Joint, Trust, Retirement, Institutional, Non-Professional Advisor

1:1000

XM Group

Standard, Ultra Low, Shares

1:1000

Exness

Standard, Standard Cent, pro, Raw Spread, Zero

Unlimited (Subject to account)

Trading Instruments Available in NDD Brokers

A broker’s range of trading instruments defines the opportunities traders can explore, from forex pairs to commodities, indices, and beyond. The wider the selection, the more flexibility for portfolio diversification.

Here’s a look at how many instruments each NDD broker offers:

Broker

Number of Trading Instruments

FP Markets

10,000+

FxPro

2100+

XM Group

1,400+

Pepperstone

1,200+

FBS

550+

Fusion Markets

250+

Axi

280+

OctaFX

270+

Details of the Top 7 NDD Brokers

Choosing the right Non-Dealing Desk (NDD) broker can significantly impact your trading experience, from execution speed and spreads to platform flexibility and regulatory security.

To help traders navigate the options, we’ve compiled a detailed overview of the top 8 NDD brokers, highlighting their founding history, regulation, account types, trading instruments, leverage, platforms, and key advantages and disadvantages.

Whether you prioritize low spreads, extensive instrument selection, high leverage, or strong regulatory oversight, this guide provides a comprehensive snapshot to make informed decisions before opening an account.

Fusion Markets

Founded by Phil Horner in 2019, Fusion Markets is a low-cost forex and CFD broker operating under the legal entity Gleneagle Securities Pty Limited. The company is registered in Vanuatu (Company No. 40256) and backed by Gleneagle Securities, which manages over $400 million in client funds.

Fusion Markets Website
Fusion Markets is a non-dealing desk broker

Fusion Markets is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC). Client funds are held in segregated accounts with HSBC and National Australia Bank (NAB), enhancing transparency and operational security across its multi-jurisdictional structure.

After the Fusion Markets registration process, the broker provides access to 250+ instruments, including 55 forex pairs, US share CFDs, indices, commodities, metals, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can use MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and TradingView, with ultra-fast execution speeds averaging 0.02ms and leverage up to 1:500 (VFSC).

According to the Fusion Markets dashboard, the broker offers Zero, Classic, and Swap-Free accounts with spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $0. With no minimum deposit, 30+ funding methods, copy trading (Fusion+), MAM/PAMM solutions, and 24/7 support, it positions itself as a cost-efficient global broker.

Account Types

Zero, Classic, Swap-Free

Regulating Authorities

ASIC, VFSC

Minimum Deposit

$0

Deposit Methods

Bank Wire, VISA/MasterCard, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, PayID, Crypto, Interac, BinancePay

Withdrawal Methods

Bank Transfer, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto, Interac, Jetonbank, DragonPay

Maximum Leverage

1:500 (VFSC) / 1:30 (ASIC Retail)

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), cTrader, TradingView

Fusion Markets Pros and Cons

Below, you can review a balanced overview of Fusion Markets’ main advantages and disadvantages before opening an account.

Pros

Cons

Spreads from 0.0 pips (Zero Account)

No investor compensation scheme

No minimum deposit requirement

Limited in-house educational resources

Regulated by ASIC (Tier-1) and VFSC

No proprietary trading platform

250+ tradable instruments with copy trading support

Restricted in several major countries (e.g., US)

XM Group

Founded in 2009, XM Group serves over 15 million clients worldwide and processes nearly 14 million trades daily. The broker provides access to 1,400+ CFDs, including 55+ forex pairs and 1,200+ global stock CFDs, positioning itself as a high-volume, multi-asset trading provider.

XM Group official website
XM Group is an NDD broker

XM operates through multiple regulated entities, including oversight from Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), and the Financial Services Commission (FSC). This multi-jurisdictional framework enhances transparency and compliance standards globally.

With a minimum deposit of just $5 for various XM deposit methods and leverage up to 1:1000 (depending on entity), XM appeals to both beginners and experienced traders. The broker guarantees order execution without requotes for volumes up to 50 lots and offers negative balance protection for retail clients.

Traders can access MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 across desktop, web, and mobile. Spreads start from 0.6 pips on Ultra Low accounts, and deposits/withdrawals are commission-free. The broker also offers XM copy trading, multilingual 24/7 support, and extensive educational resources.

Account Types

Cent (Micro), STP (Standard / Ultra Low), ECN (Shares-style structure)

Regulating Authorities

FSC, CySEC, FSCA, DFSA

Minimum Deposit

$5

Deposit Methods

Local Bank Transfers, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Cards, E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller, etc.)

Withdrawal Methods

Local Bank Transfers, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Cards, E-wallets

Maximum Leverage

1:1000

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), XM Mobile App

XM Group Pros and Cons

Below is a balanced overview of XM Group’s main advantages and disadvantages to help you evaluate whether this broker aligns with your trading goals:

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple Tier-1 authorities

Inactivity fee after dormancy

Low minimum deposit ($5)

Not available in the US and some countries

1,400+ tradable CFD instruments

Mixed public review ratings

Negative balance protection for retail clients

No proprietary trading platform

Exness

Founded in 2008 by Petr Valov and Igor Lychagov, Exness has grown into a global brokerage serving 700,000+ active traders. The company processes over $4 trillion in monthly trading volume and employs 2,100+ professionals across nearly 100 countries.

Exness website
Exness is a non-dealing desk brokerage

Exness operates under multiple regulated entities, including oversight from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), and Financial Services Authority (FSA). Client funds are segregated, and negative balance protection applies across accounts.

Exness deposit and withdrawal methods are varied and the broker offers five account types, Standard, Standard Cent, Pro, Raw Spread, and Zero, with spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions between $0.2 and $3.5 per lot. Eligible traders can access unlimited leverage, while margin calls range from 30% to 60%. Also, the broker offers the Exness rebate program with up to $112.5 cashback.

After completing the Exness registration process, traders can access over 200 instruments, including 96 forex pairs, commodities, indices, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. Platforms include MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Exness Terminal, and the Exness Trade mobile app, supporting both manual and algorithmic trading strategies.

Account Types

Cent (Standard Cent), STP (Standard), ECN (Raw Spread, Zero, Pro)

Regulating Authorities

FCA, CySEC, FSCA, FSA, FSC, CMA, CBCS

Minimum Deposit

$10

Deposit Methods

Local Bank Transfers, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Cards, E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller, SticPay), Crypto

Withdrawal Methods

Local Bank Transfers, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Cards, E-wallets, Crypto

Maximum Leverage

Unlimited (Eligibility conditions apply)

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), Exness Terminal, Exness Trade App

Exness Pros and Cons

Below is a concise overview of Exness’ key advantages and disadvantages to help evaluate whether its trading conditions match your strategy and risk profile:

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple top-tier authorities

Restricted in several countries

Spreads from 0.0 pips on select accounts

Limited educational depth for beginners

No deposit or withdrawal fees

Some instruments unavailable on all accounts

Unlimited leverage option (conditions apply)

No traditional deposit bonuses

FP Markets

Established in 2005, FP Markets (First Prudential Markets) is a globally recognized CFD and Forex broker headquartered in Sydney. With over 10,000 tradable instruments, it delivers institutional-grade liquidity, ultra-fast execution, and competitive pricing for retail and professional traders.

FP Markets website
FP Markets is an NDD broker

FP Markets operates under multiple regulators, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC - License 371/18). Client funds are segregated, and negative balance protection is provided across regulated entities to enhance security.

The broker offers Standard and RAW accounts with spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $3 per lot. Maximum leverage reaches 1:500 for eligible clients, while EU/Australian retail traders trade under 1:30 caps in line with regulatory requirements. Users can take advantage of multiple FP Markets deposit and withdrawal options.

Traders access MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader across desktop, web, and mobile. FP Markets supports algorithmic trading, copy trading, FP Markets rebate program, PAMM/MAMM solutions, and multi-asset exposure, including Forex, indices, commodities, ETFs, stocks, and cryptocurrencies.

Account Types

Cent, STP, ECN

Regulating Authorities

VFSC, FSC

Minimum Deposit

$0

Deposit Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Withdrawal Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Maximum Leverage

1:1000

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Doo Prime InTrade

FP Markets Pros and Cons

Below is a balanced overview of FP Markets’ main advantages and disadvantages to help evaluate whether its pricing model, regulation, and platform selection align with your trading strategy:

Pros

Cons

Regulated by ASIC & CySEC (Tier-1 oversight)

Not available to US clients

Spreads from 0.0 pips (RAW account)

No proprietary trading platform

10,000+ tradable instruments

Mixed ratings on some review portals

No deposit/withdrawal fees

Higher minimum deposit ($50) than some competitors

IC Markets

Founded in 2007, IC Markets is a global multi-asset brokerage offering Forex and CFD trading with institutional-grade liquidity. Headquartered in Australia, the broker supports 10 base currencies and provides access to more than 2,200 tradable instruments across global markets.

IC Markets website
IC Markets offers NDD services

IC Markets operates under multiple regulators, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), theCyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the Financial Services Authority (FSA). EU clients benefit from Investor Compensation Fund protection up to €20,000 under CySEC regulation.

The broker offers three primary account types: Standard, Raw Spread (MT4/MT5), and cTrader Raw Spread. Spreads start from 0.0 pips, with commissions from $3 per lot. Maximum leverage reaches 1:500 for eligible clients, while retail traders under ASIC and CySEC trade with 1:30 limits.

Traders can choose between MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, cTrader Web, and IC Markets mobile apps. The infrastructure supports scalping, algorithmic trading, IC Markets rebate program, Expert Advisors, and high-frequency strategies with market execution and deep liquidity pools.

Account Types

Cent, STP, ECN

Regulating Authorities

VFSC, FSC

Minimum Deposit

$0

Deposit Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Withdrawal Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Maximum Leverage

1:500

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Doo Prime InTrade

IC Markets Pros and Cons

Below, we outline IC Markets’ main advantages and disadvantages to help you assess whether its pricing structure, regulation, and trading environment align with your strategy.

Pros

Cons

Spreads from 0.0 pips (Raw accounts)

$200 minimum deposit

Regulated by ASIC & CySEC

Limited leverage (1:30) for EU/AU retail clients

2,200+ tradable instruments

No proprietary trading platform

Strong reputation (high Trustpilot rating)

Not available to US clients

Pepperstone

Founded in 2010 in Melbourne, Pepperstone has grown into a global Forex and CFD broker serving over 400,000 clients. The company processes an average of $9.2 billion in daily trading volume, positioning itself as a high-liquidity provider for retail and professional traders.

Pepperstone website
You can access this NDD broker through Pepperstone’s official website

Pepperstone operates under multiple top-tier regulators, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), and the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), ensuring strong compliance and fund segregation.

Upon completing the Pepperstone registration process, the broker offers Standard and Razor accounts with spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $3.5 per side. Traders can access over 1,200 instruments across Forex, indices, commodities, shares, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, with leverage up to 1:500 and order sizes from 0.01 to 100 lots.

Supported platforms include MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView, and Pepperstone’s proprietary app. With 10 base currencies and instant execution, the broker supports scalping, hedging, Pepperstone rebate program, Expert Advisors, and copy trading integrations for diversified strategies.

Account Types

Cent, STP, ECN

Regulating Authorities

VFSC, FSC

Minimum Deposit

$0

Deposit Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Withdrawal Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Maximum Leverage

1:500

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Doo Prime InTrade

Pepperstone Pros and Cons

Below is a concise overview of Pepperstone’s key advantages and disadvantages to help evaluate whether its trading conditions, regulatory framework, and platform selection align with your investment goals.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by multiple Tier-1 authorities

No deposit bonuses or promotions

Spreads from 0.0 pips (Razor account)

Limited passive investment solutions

1,200+ tradable instruments

PAMM accounts not available

Supports MT4, MT5, cTrader & TradingView

Certain countries restricted

FxPro

Established in 2006, FxPro has evolved into a global multi-asset broker serving over 7.8 million client accounts. With more than 635 million orders executed and company capital exceeding €120 million, FxPro combines scale, stability, and institutional-grade infrastructure for modern traders.

FxPro is regulated by top-tier authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), alongside the Securities Commission of The Bahamas (SCB). Client funds are segregated, and negative balance protection applies across entities.

The broker provides access to 2,100+ instruments after FxPro verification process, including Forex, shares, indices, metals, energies, futures, and cryptocurrencies. Traders benefit from execution speeds under 12 milliseconds, spreads from 0.0 pips on Raw+ accounts, and leverage up to 1:500 depending on jurisdiction.

FxPro supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, WebTrader, and its proprietary mobile app. With copy trading via FxPro CopyTrade, Islamic accounts, rich FxPro dashboard, and algorithmic trading support, the broker delivers flexible solutions for beginners and advanced traders alike.

Account Types

Cent, STP, ECN

Regulating Authorities

VFSC, FSC

Minimum Deposit

$0

Deposit Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Withdrawal Methods

Local Bank Transfers, E-wallets, International Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Card

Maximum Leverage

1:30

Trading Platforms & Apps

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Doo Prime InTrade

FxPro Pros and Cons

Below is a balanced overview of FxPro’s main advantages and disadvantages to help determine whether its pricing model, platform ecosystem, and regulatory coverage align with your trading objectives.

Pros

Cons

Regulated by FCA, CySEC & other authorities

No 24/7 customer support (24/5 only)

2,100+ tradable instruments

Inactivity fees after 6 months

Fast execution under 12ms

Limited bonus promotions

Multiple professional platforms (MT4, MT5, cTrader)

Not available in the US & some countries

How We Choose the No Dealing Desk Brokers

Selecting a trustworthy Non-Dealing Desk (NDD) broker is a critical decision, as traders rely on these platforms to execute their strategies and safeguard their capital. At Trading Finder, we take this responsibility seriously, applying a rigorous, transparent, and objective methodology to evaluate every broker.

Our team of seasoned forex market specialists examines 19 key metrics, ranging from regulatory oversight and account types to spreads, trading platforms, instruments, customer support, and educational resources, to provide a comprehensive and balanced assessment.

Methodology for choosing NDD brokers
Forex methodology for choosing the best NDD brokers

By combining expert knowledge with hands-on testing and user feedback, Trading Finder ensures that every broker we recommend meets high standards of reliability, transparency, and trading efficiency.

This methodology empowers traders to make informed choices, minimize risk, and access the tools and services that best align with their individual goals and trading styles.

What is No Dealing Desk (NDD)?

No Dealing Desk brokers route client orders directly to the market without a broker acting as counterparty. This means trades go straight to liquidity providers like banks, hedge funds, or other institutions with no internal price manipulation.

NDD execution typically uses ECN (Electronic Communication Network) or STP (Straight Through Processing) systems to match or route orders automatically. Traders benefit from transparent pricing and a reduced conflict of interest versus dealing desk brokers.

Key Features:

  • Direct order routing to liquidity providers
  • No broker taking the opposite trade
  • Raw or variable spreads
  • Execution via ECN or STP models
  • Greater pricing transparency

The Pros and Cons of No Dealing Desk (NDD) Brokers

NDD brokers offer transparent execution and potentially tighter spreads, often benefiting scalpers and high-volume traders. They do not manipulate prices or trade against clients, reducing conflict of interest.

However, variable spreads can widen during news events, and many NDD brokers charge commission fees, which may increase trading costs compared with simpler fixed-spread models. Here is an overview of the pros and cons:

Advantages

Disadvantages

No dealing desk interference

Spreads can vary with volatility

Potential for tight market-based pricing

Commission fees per trade

Access to deeper liquidity pools

More complex pricing for beginners

Faster execution speeds

Possible slippage issues

How Do NDD Brokers Operate?

No Dealing Desk (NDD) brokers operate differently from traditional dealing desk brokers by connecting traders directly to a network of external liquidity providers instead of executing trades internally.

These liquidity providers can include major banks, hedge funds, and other financial institutions that supply real-time market prices. By bypassing a dealing desk, NDD brokers eliminate conflicts of interest where a broker might otherwise trade against the client’s position.

How NDD brokers work
The way NDD brokers operate

There are two primary execution models used by NDD brokers: Straight Through Processing (STP) and Electronic Communication Network (ECN). STP systems automatically route client orders to selected liquidity providers, ensuring trades are executed at the best available market prices.

ECN systems, on the other hand, electronically match buy and sell orders from multiple participants in the network, creating a transparent and competitive marketplace for pricing.

When a trader places an order with an NDD broker, the broker’s advanced technology aggregates price quotes from several liquidity providers. The system then identifies the best available bid and ask prices, allowing the trade to be executed quickly and accurately.

Operational Workflow:

  1. The trader submits a buy or sell order through their trading platform;
  2. The broker routes the order to the STP or ECN network for processing;
  3. Liquidity providers respond with available prices for the requested instrument;
  4. The broker’s system selects the best price from the available options and executes the trade;
  5. The execution confirmation is sent back to the trader, often within milliseconds, ensuring transparency and efficiency.

What Are the Usual Spreads in NDD Brokers?

In No Dealing Desk (NDD) trading environments, spreads are variable and derived directly from the interbank market. This means the difference between the bid and ask prices reflects real-time supply and demand rather than being set or adjusted by the broker.

Unlike fixed spreads offered by some dealing desk brokers, variable spreads in NDD setups provide a more transparent view of true market conditions, giving traders a realistic understanding of pricing at any given moment.

During periods of high liquidity, such as major market sessions when trading activity peaks, spreads can narrow considerably, sometimes reaching near 0.0 pips on major currency pairs. This allows traders to enter and exit trading positions at minimal cost, which is particularly advantageous for scalpers and high-frequency trading strategies.

However, spreads in NDD environments are dynamic, and they can widen during times of market volatility, low liquidity, or unexpected economic events. Traders must therefore be aware that while spreads can be extremely tight under optimal conditions, they are not guaranteed to remain constant.

Spread Characteristics:

  • Variable, not fixed
  • May tighten during peak market hours
  • Can widen in volatile conditions
  • Tighter than many dealing desk models

How Much NDD Brokers Charge as Non-Trading Fees?

Non-trading fees in No Dealing Desk (NDD) brokerage accounts can vary widely depending on the broker and the type of account selected. While NDD brokers are known for offering tight spreads and transparent pricing, traders should still be aware of additional costs that can impact overall profitability.

NDD non-trading fees
Non-Trading fees in NDD brokers

Common non-trading fees include withdrawal charges, inactivity fees for dormant accounts, and general account maintenance costs. These fees are separate from trading costs and are typically designed to cover administrative or operational expenses.

Other fees to consider include overnight or swap fees, which apply to positions held past the end of the trading day, particularly in leveraged accounts. Inactivity fees are charged when an account remains dormant for a certain period, incentivizing regular trading or account closure.

Funding and withdrawal charges may apply depending on the deposit method, such as wire transfers, credit cards, or e-wallets, and can vary from broker to broker.

Typical Fees:

  • Commission per lot (ECN)
  • Swap/overnight fees
  • Inactivity and service fees
  • Funding/withdrawal charges

Who Should Take Advantage of an NDD Forex Broker?

No Dealing Desk (NDD) forex brokers are particularly well-suited for traders who prioritize speed, transparency, and direct access to market liquidity. These brokers eliminate the conflict of interest that can occur when a broker acts as a counterparty, allowing client orders to flow directly to external liquidity providers.

This makes NDD accounts ideal for active traders, scalpers, and algorithmic trading systems that rely on fast execution and minimal interference.

Traders who require precise pricing and low-latency execution, especially during volatile market events such as economic releases or geopolitical news, benefit significantly from NDD brokers.

The direct market access provided by NDD platforms ensures that orders are executed at competitive, market-driven prices, reducing the risk of slippage and requotes that can occur with dealing desk brokers. Scalpers, in particular, gain an advantage because tight spreads and rapid execution are critical for implementing high-frequency strategies successfully.

Institutional and professional traders also find NDD brokers advantageous due to access to deep liquidity pools, which allows them to place large orders without causing significant market impact.

Best Suited For:

  • Scalpers and day traders
  • High-frequency traders
  • Institutional and professional traders
  • Those needing deep liquidity

Why the NDD Forex Brokers Need Regulation?

Regulation is a cornerstone of trust and safety in the forex industry, particularly for No Dealing Desk (NDD) brokers who provide direct access to liquidity markets. By operating under the oversight of reputable financial authorities, regulated NDD brokers are required to follow strict rules that ensure transparency, proper handling of client funds, and fair trade execution.

NDD broker regulation
The necessity of regulation for NDD brokers

Regulated brokers must maintain segregated accounts for client funds, ensuring that traders’ capital is kept separate from the company’s operational funds. This segregation minimizes the risk of losing client money in the event of a broker’s insolvency.

Additionally, these brokers are obligated to meet minimum capital requirements, adhere to regular financial reporting standards, and undergo periodic audits, all of which reinforce the broker’s reliability and operational stability.

For traders, choosing a regulated NDD broker provides peace of mind and additional layers of protection. Strong oversight from authorities such as the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), or the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) ensures that brokers follow strict guidelines for transparency, reporting, and dispute resolution.

Regulatory Benefits:

  • Client fund safety
  • Fair trade execution standards
  • Transparency in pricing and fees
  • Dispute resolution frameworks

Availability of Swap-Free Accounts in NDD Brokers

Some NDD brokers offer swap-free (Islamic) accounts that eliminate overnight interest charges for eligible traders. This can be important for those adhering to specific financial rules or strategies.

Swap-free options may be available on certain account types and sometimes include higher spreads or altered fee structures to compensate for the removed swaps.

Swap-Free Features:

  • No interest on overnight positions
  • Often available on ECN or STP accounts
  • May include adjusted cost structure
  • Suitable for long-term traders

Considerations When Choosing an NDD Broker

When selecting an NDD broker, review execution speed, regulation, fee transparency, platform quality, and customer service. Tight spreads alone are not enough; reliable infrastructure and fair pricing matter.

Also consider account types offered, minimum deposits, and educational resources, which can improve your trading experience and flexibility.

Key Considerations:

  • Regulatory status and capital adequacy
  • Real spreads vs commission cost
  • Trading tools and platform quality
  • Support and educational resources

NDD Brokers vs. Dealing Desk Brokers vs. STP Brokers

NDD Brokers bypass a dealing desk, routing orders via ECN or STP, enhancing transparency and reducing conflicts of interest.

Dealing Desk Brokers act as the counterparty and may set fixed spreads but can manipulate prices and requote during volatility. STP Brokers are technically NDD but differ from pure ECN in routing and fee structure.

Here is a detailed comparison:

Parameter

NDD Brokers

Dealing Desk (Market Maker)

STP Brokers

Order Routing

Orders routed directly to liquidity providers (banks, ECNs) without internal dealing desk

Orders executed internally; broker may act as counterparty

Orders automatically routed to external liquidity providers

Spread Type

Variable spreads; often raw spreads from liquidity pool

Fixed or variable spreads set by broker

Variable spreads aggregated from liquidity providers

Commission

Usually charged (especially ECN accounts)

Often no commission; revenue from spread

Often no separate commission; markup included in spread

Conflict of Interest

Low; broker does not trade against client

Higher; broker may profit from client losses

Low; broker passes trades externally

Transparency

High; market-based pricing

Lower; prices may be broker-controlled

Moderate to high

Execution Speed

Fast; direct access to liquidity

Fast; internal execution

Fast; automated routing

Market Access

Deep liquidity from multiple providers

Limited to broker’s internal pricing

Access through selected liquidity providers

Conclusion

Choosing the right Non-Dealing Desk (NDD) broker can make a significant difference in your trading experience, from execution speed and pricing transparency to access to liquidity and trading tools. In this guide, we reviewed the top 8 NDD brokers, evaluating them on key factors such as Trustpilot ratings, spreads, leverage, account types, trading instruments, and regulatory oversight.

Brokers like Exness, with over $4 trillion in monthly trading volume, and IC Markets, with more than 51,000 Trustpilot reviews averaging 4.8/5, demonstrate the reliability and scale that active traders value. Meanwhile, brokers like FP Markets offer an impressive 10,000+ instruments, providing exceptional flexibility for portfolio diversification.

For a deeper dive into how we evaluate brokers, explore our detailed Forex methodology article.

FAQs

What is a No Dealing Desk (NDD) broker?

A No Dealing Desk broker is a type of brokerage that routes client orders directly to liquidity providers such as banks, hedge funds, or other financial institutions without acting as a counterparty. Orders are executed through ECN (Electronic Communication Network) or STP (Straight Through Processing) systems, ensuring that pricing is transparent, execution is fast, and conflicts of interest are minimized compared to traditional dealing desk brokers.

How do NDD brokers differ from dealing desk brokers?

Unlike dealing desk brokers, which may manipulate prices, requote trades, or act as the opposing party, NDD brokers send orders directly to the market. This allows traders to receive raw or variable spreads sourced from real market conditions, which results in greater transparency and faster execution, making NDD brokers particularly suitable for scalpers and algorithmic traders.

What are the advantages of using an NDD broker?

NDD brokers provide transparent execution because they do not interfere with trades. They often offer tighter spreads, faster trade execution, and access to deep liquidity pools. The absence of a dealing desk reduces conflicts of interest, which benefits traders who rely on accurate pricing and low latency, such as high-frequency or professional traders.

Are there any disadvantages of NDD brokers?

The main drawbacks of NDD brokers are that spreads can vary and may widen during periods of low liquidity or high volatility, which can increase trading costs. Additionally, NDD brokers generally charge commissions per trade, and the pricing structure can be more complex for beginners compared to fixed-spread dealing desk models.

What types of accounts do NDD brokers offer?

NDD brokers typically offer a range of account types to cater to different trading strategies, risk tolerances, and capital levels. Common options include Standard accounts, ECN or Raw Spread accounts, Cent accounts, Zero accounts, Swap-Free accounts for Islamic compliance, and professional or high-leverage accounts. Each account type has different spreads, leverage limits, and features, allowing traders to select one that matches their goals.

What trading instruments are available with NDD brokers?

NDD brokers usually provide access to a wide variety of instruments, including forex currency pairs, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities such as oil and gold, and cryptocurrencies. The number of tradable instruments can vary significantly between brokers, with some offering thousands of instruments, which allows traders to diversify their portfolios across different markets and assets.

How important is regulation for NDD brokers?

Regulation is essential for NDD brokers because it ensures that they operate transparently, segregate client funds, and execute trades fairly. Regulated brokers are subject to capital requirements, reporting standards, and oversight by authorities such as the FCA, ASIC, or CySEC, which reduces the risk of fraud or manipulation and provides a framework for resolving disputes.

Do NDD brokers offer swap-free accounts?

Yes, some NDD brokers provide swap-free accounts, also known as Islamic accounts, which remove overnight interest charges for eligible traders. These accounts are designed for those adhering to specific financial rules or long-term trading strategies, although they may include adjusted spreads or fees to compensate for the absence of overnight swaps.

How do NDD brokers execute trades?

NDD brokers execute trades by connecting traders directly to a network of liquidity providers. When a trader places an order, the broker’s system either matches it with other orders electronically through an ECN or sends it straight to liquidity providers via STP. The system selects the best available bid and ask prices from multiple sources, ensuring fast and transparent execution without manual dealing desk intervention.

What are typical spreads in NDD brokers?

Spreads in NDD brokers are variable and reflect true market conditions. During high liquidity periods, spreads can be extremely tight, sometimes near 0.0 pips on major currency pairs. However, spreads may widen during volatile conditions or periods of low liquidity. Unlike fixed spreads in dealing desk models, NDD spreads provide a more accurate representation of real-time market pricing.

How much do NDD brokers charge in fees?

NDD brokers usually charge commissions per lot traded, particularly for ECN accounts, and may apply swap or overnight fees for positions held overnight. Some STP accounts embed fees into spreads instead of charging separate commissions. Non-trading fees, such as withdrawal charges or account inactivity fees, may also apply depending on the broker’s policies.

Who should use an NDD broker?

NDD brokers are best suited for active traders, scalpers, high-frequency traders, and professional or institutional traders who need precise pricing and fast execution. Traders who manage tight risk controls or rely on algorithmic strategies will particularly benefit from the transparency and liquidity offered by NDD brokers, while beginners may find the variable spreads and commissions more challenging to navigate.

Why is the minimum deposit important when choosing an NDD broker?

The minimum deposit determines how easily a trader can start trading. Brokers with low or no minimum deposits, such as XM Group ($5) or Fusion Markets ($0), allow beginners to access markets without large upfront capital, whereas brokers with higher minimum deposits may cater to professional traders or those with higher trading volumes. It also affects account flexibility and risk management strategies.

How does leverage work with NDD brokers?

Leverage allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller amount of capital. NDD brokers offer a wide range of leverage, from 1:30 for EU/AU retail clients under regulatory limits to unlimited leverage for professional or eligible accounts in some jurisdictions. While high leverage can amplify profits, it also increases risk, so traders must manage positions carefully.

Why should traders consider Trustpilot scores when selecting NDD brokers?

Trustpilot scores provide insight into customer satisfaction, reliability, and overall service quality. A high Trustpilot rating, such as Exness with 4.8/5 from over 27,000 reviews, indicates positive user experiences and consistent broker performance. Evaluating these scores helps traders make informed decisions about broker trustworthiness, responsiveness, and the quality of support services.

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