AC Markets 2025 Review: Everything You Need to Know
AC Markets, also known as Advanced Currency Markets (ACM), has established itself in the forex trading landscape since its inception in 2002. This Swiss-based broker offers a range of trading services but has garnered mixed reviews regarding its user experience, regulatory compliance, and trading conditions. Key highlights include its high minimum deposit requirements and relatively high spreads, which may deter some traders.
Note: Its important to recognize that AC Markets operates under different entities in various regions, which can lead to discrepancies in regulations and service quality. This review aims to present a fair and accurate picture based on available data.
Rating Overview
We rate brokers based on extensive research and user feedback to provide a balanced view.
Broker Overview
Founded in 2002, AC Markets is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with additional offices in Zurich, Dubai, Uruguay, and New York. The broker primarily offers forex trading, along with commodities such as gold and silver. Traders can access the platform via multiple trading solutions, including the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and proprietary platforms like Advanced Trader and Advanced Web Trader. AC Markets claims to be regulated by various authorities, including the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA), but the level of oversight varies by region.
Detailed Breakdown
Regulatory Regions
AC Markets is regulated in Switzerland by FINMA, and also claims registration with the Emirates Securities and Commodities Authority (ESCA) in Dubai. However, some sources indicate that the broker operates under different entities in various regions, raising concerns about compliance and oversight.
Deposit/Withdrawal Currencies
Deposits can be made in several currencies, including USD, EUR, CHF, GBP, AUD, and JPY. The broker does not charge fees for deposits or withdrawals, but standard banking fees may apply.
Minimum Deposit
The minimum deposit for a mini account is set at $2,000, while standard accounts require a minimum of $5,000. Institutional accounts have a significantly higher minimum deposit of $50,000, which is considerably higher than many competitors.
Currently, AC Markets does not offer any sign-up bonuses or promotions. This aligns with regulatory standards in many regions, particularly in Europe, where such incentives have been restricted.
Tradable Asset Classes
AC Markets provides access to 39 currency pairs, along with trading in precious metals like gold and silver. However, the range of available instruments is relatively limited compared to other brokers that offer a wider selection of assets, including cryptocurrencies and indices.
Costs (Spreads, Fees, Commissions)
The average spread for major currency pairs in a standard account is around 3 pips, while mini accounts can expect spreads of 4 pips or more. These spreads are considered high compared to other brokers, which may offer lower spreads, potentially impacting trading profitability. AC Markets does not charge commissions, which can be seen as a positive aspect for traders seeking transparency in costs.
Leverage
The maximum leverage offered by AC Markets is 1:100. While this is a standard offering, other brokers may provide higher leverage options, such as 1:500, which can enhance trading potential but also increases risk exposure.
Traders at AC Markets can utilize several platforms, including the Advanced Trader, Advanced Web Trader, and MetaTrader 4. These platforms are designed to be user-friendly and provide various trading tools and resources.
Restricted Regions
AC Markets does not accept clients from the United States, which is a common restriction among many forex brokers due to regulatory challenges.
Available Customer Support Languages
Customer support is available in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Greek, Farsi, and Russian. Support is accessible via phone, live chat, and email, with a generally positive reputation for responsiveness.
Repeated Rating Overview
Detailed Rating Breakdown
Account Conditions: 5/10
AC Markets requires high minimum deposits, which can be a barrier for novice traders. The limited choice of account types may not cater to all trading styles, making it less attractive compared to brokers with more flexible account options.
While AC Markets offers a range of trading platforms and educational materials, the overall resource availability is somewhat lacking. Traders may find better educational support and trading tools with other brokers.
Customer Service and Support: 7/10
The brokers customer service is generally well-rated, with support available in multiple languages. However, the effectiveness can vary depending on the region and specific issues encountered.
Trading Setup (Experience): 5/10
The trading experience at AC Markets is hampered by relatively high spreads and limited asset offerings. Traders may find the trading environment less competitive compared to other brokers.
Trust Level: 4/10
Despite being regulated by FINMA, concerns about the varying regulatory statuses across regions and the high minimum deposit requirements contribute to a lower trust rating.
User Experience: 6/10
User experiences vary widely; while some traders appreciate the trading platforms, others report dissatisfaction with the high costs and limited asset selection.
In conclusion, while AC Markets offers a straightforward trading platform and some positive features, potential traders should carefully consider the high minimum deposits, relatively high spreads, and varying regulatory environments before committing their funds.
