Forex Trading Platform Singapore: The Only Guide You’ll Need to Start Right
Written by Akash Khanna
Edited by Samuel Black
Fact-checked by Lisa Khan
Last Updated – 22 July 2025
If you’ve been toying with the idea of venturing into forex trading in Singapore, you’re not alone. More Singaporeans — from fresh grads looking to grow their side hustle to mid-career professionals diversifying beyond CPF and REITs — are exploring SG forex platforms to capitalise on global currency markets.
But with so many options, where do you even start?
The answer: right here. This guide to forex platform Singapore breaks down everything you need to know — from what makes a great FX platform to how to choose the best broker for your needs. We’ll also zero in on three standout platforms: HFM, FBS, and Tickmill, with a strong nod to HFM for its balance of features, support, and value.
Grab your kopi, and let’s begin.
- What Is a Forex Platform, Really?
- Why More Singaporeans Are Trading Forex in 2025
- Top 3 Forex Platforms in Singapore for 2025
- Why HFM Is Our Top Pick for FX Platform Singapore
- Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Forex Platform
- Platform Comparison – MT4 vs MT5 in Singapore
- Forex Broker Account Types Comparison
- Mobile FX Platform Singapore – Trade On-the-Go
- Deposit and Withdrawal Options for Singaporeans
- Education & Support – Who Helps When You Need It?
- VPS Hosting – For the Serious SG Forex Trader
- Singapore Forex Trading: Legal and Regulatory View
- Forex Bonuses and Promotions in Singapore
- Security, Data Protection & Trader Funds
- Which Forex Platform in Singapore Is Best?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is a Forex Platform, Really?
Before jumping into charts and spreads, let’s clarify what a forex platform actually is. A forex trading platform is the software that connects you (the trader) to the forex market. It allows you to open positions, analyse charts, manage trades, and execute strategies in real-time.
Think of it as your cockpit. Whether you’re scalping GBP/USD on your MRT ride or monitoring trades before bedtime, your forex trading platform Singapore needs to be stable, fast, and reliable.
Why More Singaporeans Are Trading Forex in 2025
Singapore’s tech-savvy, financially literate population is turning to forex in Singapore for its:
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24/5 market access
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High liquidity
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Low capital entry
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Remote accessibility
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Flexible time commitment
Whether you’re based in Jurong or Joo Chiat, all you need is a solid broker and a stable internet connection to get started.
Top 3 Forex Platforms in Singapore for 2025
We’ve narrowed it down to HFM, FBS, and Tickmill — three globally reputable brokers with strong offerings for Singaporean traders.
| Broker | Platform Options | Regulation | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| HFM | MT4, MT5, HFM App | CySEC, CMA, FSC | Beginners, pros, EA traders |
| FBS | MT4, MT5, FBS App | IFSC, ASIC | Newbies, budget traders |
| Tickmill | MT4 only | FCA, CySEC | Advanced, scalpers, ECN traders |
Why HFM Is Our Top Pick for FX Platform Singapore
Let’s not beat around the bush — HFM (formerly HotForex) shines for Singapore-based traders. It offers a perfect blend of:
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Low spreads
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MT4 & MT5 access
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Free VPS for algo traders
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Strong regulation
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Excellent customer service
Plus, their mobile trading experience is optimised for fast execution — even while you’re sipping kopi C at a hawker centre.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Forex Platform
Before signing up, every Singaporean trader should consider the following:
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Regulation | MAS, FCA, ASIC, or CySEC-regulated brokers |
| Platform Interface | Simple, responsive, and lag-free (especially on mobile) |
| Spreads & Fees | Low commissions, tight spreads (especially during peak hours) |
| Account Types | Micro, Standard, Zero – based on your strategy |
| Execution Speed | No slippage, no requotes |
| Support | 24/5 live chat or Singapore-friendly support hours |
| Local Funding Options | SGD deposit/withdrawal support |
Platform Comparison – MT4 vs MT5 in Singapore
All three brokers support MT4, with HFM and FBS also offering MT5.
| Feature | MT4 | MT5 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2005 | 2010 |
| Complexity | Basic | Advanced |
| Speed | Fast | Faster |
| Hedging | Yes | Yes |
| Asset Variety | Forex, CFDs | Forex, CFDs, Stocks, Futures |
| Best For | Forex-focused traders | Multi-asset traders |
💡 HFM gives you both, making it suitable whether you’re just starting out or growing your strategy toolbox.
Forex Broker Account Types Comparison
Each broker offers several account types depending on your needs:
| Broker | Account Type | Min Deposit | Spread From | Commission | Leverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HFM | Micro | $5 | 1 pip | None | Up to 1:1000 |
| Zero | $200 | 0.0 pip | Yes | Up to 1:500 | |
| FBS | Cent | $1 | From 1 pip | None | Up to 1:1000 |
| Standard | $100 | From 0.5 pip | None | Up to 1:500 | |
| Tickmill | Pro | $100 | 0.0 pip | Yes | Up to 1:500 |
Mobile FX Platform Singapore – Trade On-the-Go
In fast-paced Singapore, mobile trading isn’t a bonus — it’s a necessity.
| Broker | Mobile App | Features |
|---|---|---|
| HFM | HFM App + MT4/MT5 | Full-featured, real-time trade execution |
| FBS | FBS Trader App | Built-in copy trading and account management |
| Tickmill | MT4 Mobile | Clean, fast, minimalistic |
📱 HFM’s app feels like the DBS digibank of trading — secure, seamless, and Singapore-friendly.
Deposit and Withdrawal Options for Singaporeans
Local traders need reliable, fast, and SGD-friendly options.
| Broker | SGD Support | Deposit Methods | Withdrawal Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| HFM | ✅ Yes | Bank transfer, credit/debit card | 1–2 business days |
| FBS | ✅ Yes | E-wallets, bank transfer | Same day–2 days |
| Tickmill | ✅ Yes | Bank wire, e-wallets | 1–3 business days |
Tip: HFM often processes withdrawals within 24 hours, making it great for active traders who like their profits fast.
Education & Support – Who Helps When You Need It?
| Broker | Educational Content | Customer Support |
|---|---|---|
| HFM | Webinars, eCourses, Market Analysis | 24/5 live chat + multilingual support |
| FBS | Beginner guides, video lessons | 24/5 live chat |
| Tickmill | Webinars, trader tools | Email & live chat |
🧠 If you’re new to forex, HFM’s education portal is like NTUC Learning Hub — but for trading.
VPS Hosting – For the Serious SG Forex Trader
Running an Expert Advisor or trading around the clock? A VPS (Virtual Private Server) can reduce latency and keep you connected 24/7.
| Broker | VPS Offered | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| HFM | ✅ Free | Min. 5 lots/month or $5k balance |
| FBS | ❌ No | External VPS required |
| Tickmill | ✅ Yes | 2+ lots/month trading volume |
⚙️ HFM’s free VPS offering is a big plus for algorithmic traders or anyone using MT4 EAs.
Check out this article if you’re interested for an in-depth coverage of the Best Forex VPS Service Providers.
Singapore Forex Trading: Legal and Regulatory View
Singaporeans can trade forex legally, provided they use regulated brokers. MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore) has not licensed many international brokers directly, but you can still trade with those holding licences from Tier-1 regulators like:
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FCA (UK)
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ASIC (Australia)
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CySEC (EU)
HFM, FBS, and Tickmill are all internationally regulated — just always ensure you sign up via their correct global websites.
Forex Bonuses and Promotions in Singapore
| Broker | Promotion | Details |
|---|---|---|
| HFM | 100% Supercharged Bonus | Get bonus for deposits + cashback rewards |
| FBS | Level Up Bonus | Free $70 to test platform |
| Tickmill | Trader Contests | Monthly competitions with real cash prizes |
🎁 Tip: Use promotions wisely — don’t overtrade just to hit bonus targets. It’s not Sheng Siong cashback, lah.
Security, Data Protection & Trader Funds
Security is no joke, especially when real money is involved.
| Broker | Fund Segregation | SSL Encryption | 2FA Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| HFM | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| FBS | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Tickmill | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
HFM uses bank-grade protection, ensuring your capital is separated from operational funds — a non-negotiable for serious traders.
Which Forex Platform in Singapore Is Best?
Here’s a summarised take on who should choose which broker:
| Trader Type | Recommended Broker |
|---|---|
| Beginner/First-timer | HFM or FBS |
| Scalper/Day Trader | Tickmill |
| EA/Algo Trader | HFM |
| Low Budget Trader | FBS (Cent Account) |
| Education-Focused | HFM |
| All-Rounder | HFM |
🎯 For most Singapore-based traders — from new investors to advanced market analysts — HFM ticks all the boxes. It’s secure, user-friendly, and offers solid support, making it our top recommended forex platform in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Is forex trading legal in Singapore?
Yes, forex trading is legal. You can trade with internationally regulated brokers like HFM, FBS, or Tickmill.
❓ Do I need a MAS-regulated broker?
Not necessarily. Many Singaporeans use brokers regulated by global authorities like FCA, ASIC, or CySEC — which all three brokers here comply with.
❓ What’s the best forex platform for beginners?
HFM is ideal thanks to its education tools, easy account setup, and responsive support.
❓ Can I trade in SGD?
You can deposit in SGD with HFM and FBS, and most platforms auto-convert your funds into USD or your chosen trading currency.
❓ MT4 or MT5 – which one should I choose?
MT4 is perfect for forex trading and widely supported. MT5 is more advanced and suitable if you want to trade stocks and indices too.
❓ Is HFM safe to trade with?
Yes. HFM is regulated by reputable authorities and uses strong fund protection mechanisms including segregation of funds and encrypted transactions.
❓ How much money do I need to start?
With HFM, you can start with as little as USD $5 via the Micro account. FBS starts from $1 on Cent accounts, while Tickmill requires $100.
❓ Can I use forex apps on my phone?
Yes, all three brokers offer mobile trading via MT4 or their own trading apps, ideal for on-the-go traders.
❓ What are PAMM accounts – and do these brokers offer them?
HFM and Tickmill offer some forms of managed solutions, but PAMM accounts are not the primary feature promoted for Singaporeans. Stick to copy trading or self-directed strategies.
❓ Are there hidden fees?
No, but always review spread, commission, and swap costs — especially if you hold trades overnight. HFM is transparent on all fees.
If you’ve been thinking of diving into forex trading in Singapore, the right platform makes all the difference. With robust tools, fast execution, and trustworthy regulation, HFM stands out as the best forex platform Singapore has to offer.