Broker to Trading

These brokers each offer MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5). AvaTrade has a wider range and greater number of markets than Dukascopy Bank, including FX Options which it provides on a separate platform, and spread betting in the UK in addition to CFD trading. AvaTrade additionally provides a user friendly web trader. Dukascopy Bank's main platform is JForex, on which it has a relatively large number for an ECN broker (though AvaTrade has more overall, on MT5).

At both brokers traders can use, modify and build Expert Advisors (EAs). EAs are automated trading strategies available on MT4 (and MT5). JForex (at Dukascopy Bank) also allows the trader to run automated trading strategies (which are built in a different programming language).

Dukascopy Bank offers ECN trading, operating its SWFX Marketplace ECN and can let traders trade directly into the market if they wish.

AvaTrade is regulated by the CBI in Ireland, the ASIC in Australia, the FSCA in South Africa, the FSA and the FFAJ in Japan and the FSC in the British Virgin Islands.

Dukascopy Bank is regulated by the FINMA in Switzerland.

Quick comparison

Both brokers offer MT4 and MT5, though Dukascopy Bank is an MT4 and MT5 ECN broker. Dukascopy Bank additionally provides JForex (also for ECN trading), while AvaTrade offers MT5 along with FX Options trading on AvaOptions and a web trader.

Minimum deposit and key account features

The minimum deposit for AvaTrade is $/€/£100. The minimum deposit for Dukascopy Bank is $1000.

AvaTrade provides an Economic Calendar on its web site and Trading Central (which provides analysis). Additionally AvaTrade offers AvaSocial which supports social and copy trading. AvaTrade allows the use of EA trading robots.
Dukascopy Bank offers an account type with differing features for higher deposits. A Swap-free (Islamic) account is available as well. Dukascopy Bank offers webinars through the JForex platform. Dukascopy Bank provides traders access to the Swiss Foreign Exchange Marketplace liquidity pools, which it operates. The minimum trade size is 0.01 standard lots (1000 units). Dukascopy Bank does not restrict trading styles. Market News, Research and Trading Tools including an Economic Calendar as well as Videos and Webinars are available on Dukascopy Bank's website.

Markets

AvaTrade offers spread betting (in the UK), in Forex, Indices, Energy and Metals, with 35+ available.
AvaTrade offers CFD trading in Forex, Indices, Energy, Metals, Cryptocurrencies, Stocks, Soft Commodities, ETFs, Bonds and Options, with 1000+ available.
Dukascopy Bank offers Forex, Indices, Energy, Metals, Cryptocurrencies, Stocks and Soft Commodities, with 1000+ available. On MT4, Dukascopy Bank offers Forex, Gold and Silver with 40+ available.

Spreads and leverage

• Dukascopy Bank can offer low Forex spreads plus a commission charge. AvaTrade can offer Forex spreads from 0.9 without a commission charge.

Maximum leverage for AvaTrade (CBI regulated) is . Maximum leverage for Dukascopy Bank (FINMA regulated) is 200:1.

Online trading platforms

AvaTrade offers MT4, MT5, a web trader and AvaOptions as well as apps. Dukascopy Bank provides MT4, MT5 and JForex and apps.

Why AvaTrade or Dukascopy Bank ?

Traders who want to trade on MT4 or MT5 may do so at either. Traders who want to trade using robots, may do so at either. Traders who want to trade on JForex can do this at Dukascopy Bank.

Comparison summary

• Both provide CFD trading
• In the UK, AvaTrade also provides MT4 spread betting
• Each provides MT4 and MT5
• AvaTrade additionally offers a user friendly web trader
• AvaTrade also offers FX Options trading on AvaOptions
• Dukascopy Bank additionally provides JForex
• AvaTrade has a lower minimum deposit ($100 v $1000)
• Dukascopy Bank allows Bitcoin, Ether and Tether deposits