Overall Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2.5/5.0)

Swiss Markets is an offshore STP forex and CFD broker operated by BDS Markets, offering access to forex, indices, commodities, shares, and cryptocurrencies. While the broker markets itself under a Swiss-themed brand name, it is not regulated in Switzerland and instead operates under Mauritius’ FSC—an offshore jurisdiction with limited oversight. With MetaTrader 4 access, multiple account types, and competitive spreads, Swiss Markets attracts budget-conscious traders, but concerns around regulation, transparency, and protection measures make it less appealing for those prioritising safety.

This review explores Swiss Markets’ features, regulatory status, pricing structure, and whether it’s a broker worth considering in 2025.

Key Features

Swiss Markets aims to provide STP execution, fast trade routing, and low spreads through its MetaTrader-based infrastructure.

• Trading Platforms:
  • MetaTrader 4 (MT4) (desktop, web, mobile)
• Markets Offered:
  • Forex, indices, commodities, shares, cryptocurrencies
  • Over 180 instruments
• Account Types:
  • Classic STP, Raw STP – Swiss11, Raw STP – Swiss8, Raw STP – Swiss5
• Leverage:
  • Up to 1:500 (depending on instrument and account type)
• Minimum Deposit:
  • $200
• Funding Methods:
  • Bank wire, Visa/Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, crypto wallets

Regulation and Security

Swiss Markets is not regulated by a top-tier authority. It operates under BDS Markets, regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Mauritius, which offers limited consumer protection.

• Regulated by FSC Mauritius – [Licence No. C119023400]
• Not licensed by FINMA, FCA, ASIC, or CySEC
• No investor compensation fund
• Client funds claimed to be held in segregated accounts
• No guaranteed negative balance protection

This regulatory status may expose clients to higher risk in the event of disputes, insolvency, or mismanagement.

Pricing and Costs

Swiss Markets offers several account types with spread-based or commission-based pricing, aiming to provide flexibility for scalpers and long-term traders.

• Spreads:
  • From 0.0 pips (Raw STP accounts)
  • From 1.1 pips (Classic STP)
• Commissions:
  • Varies by account:
    • $11/lot (Swiss11),
    • $8/lot (Swiss8),
    • $5/lot (Swiss5)
• Deposit/Withdrawal Fees:
  • No deposit fees
  • Withdrawal fees may apply, especially for wire transfers
• Inactivity Fee:
  • Yes, applies after 90 days of inactivity

Educational Resources and Customer Support

Swiss Markets provides limited educational resources, focusing instead on platform usage and general market terms.

• Education:
  • Basic trading glossary
  • MT4 platform tutorials
• Market Analysis:
  • Minimal – blog updates are infrequent
• Customer Support:
  • 24/5 live chat, email, and phone
  • Support available in multiple languages
  • Mixed reviews on response speed and quality

Risk Management Tools

Risk tools are largely dependent on MT4 functionality. Advanced tools such as guaranteed stops are not offered.

• Standard MT4 risk orders (stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stops)
• No guaranteed stop-loss orders (GSLOs)
• No negative balance protection for all clients
• Leverage up to 1:500 increases margin risk

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Multiple account types with raw spread options
• MT4 platform support
• Leverage up to 1:500
• Cryptocurrency CFD trading available

Cons

• Regulated only by FSC Mauritius (offshore)
• Not a Swiss-regulated broker despite the brand name
• No negative balance protection
• Limited educational and analytical resources
• Inactivity and withdrawal fees may apply

Conclusion: Is Swiss Markets the Right Choice?

Swiss Markets may suit experienced traders looking for raw spreads and high leverage, but its offshore regulation and lack of robust investor protection make it a risky choice for newer or conservative traders. Despite the Swiss branding, it offers no connection to Swiss financial regulation, and users should weigh the risks carefully. For those seeking stronger security, better transparency, and top-tier regulation, brokers like AvaTrade, Pepperstone, or IC Markets are more suitable.