What is the first step to start investing in forex? Choose the right forex trading platform.
As the global financial markets open up, more Taiwanese investors want to enter the 24-hour nonstop currency trading market. But with so many forex platforms available, how do you choose?
This article highlights 7 globally regulated forex brokers, providing a comprehensive platform comparison to help you quickly identify the most suitable investment tool.
Why Taiwanese Investors Need Legitimate Forex Trading Platforms
Unlike traditional bank currency exchanges, legitimate forex platforms open the door for individual traders to access the global currency markets. Through these platforms, you can trade over 100 currency pairs, enjoy leverage from 20x to 1000x, and have 24-hour market opportunities.
However, choosing an unregulated platform carries high risks—no regulatory protection, no guarantee of fund safety, and no recourse in case of disputes.
Therefore, selecting a forex platform regulated by reputable financial authorities (such as ASIC, FSB, FCA) is your first line of defense.
Six Core Criteria for Choosing a Forex Trading Platform
When screening among many forex platforms, focus on these six key aspects:
1. Trading Costs
Beyond spreads and commissions, check for hidden fees—withdrawal fees, account inactivity charges, leverage costs, etc. Some platforms claim zero commissions but compensate through other charges.
2. Market Coverage
Ensure the platform offers trading products that match your preferences. Some only provide 12 currency pairs, while others offer over 100. The more diverse the trading instruments, the broader your options.
3. Regulation and Fund Security
This is the most critical factor. Verify which regulatory bodies oversee the platform, what licenses they hold, and whether investor compensation schemes are in place. Legitimate platforms clearly display their regulation info.
4. Trading Platform and Tools
User experience impacts trading efficiency. Whether using MetaTrader 5 or proprietary platforms, test their usability, charting tools, order execution speed, and overall functionality.
5. Deposit and Withdrawal Convenience
Check supported payment methods, withdrawal speed, and whether local currencies (like TWD) are accepted. These directly affect your liquidity.
6. Customer Service Quality
Can the platform provide timely and effective Chinese-language support? Is there 24/7 live chat? This is crucial during emergencies.
The table below summarizes key info of 7 selected platforms for quick comparison:
Platform Name
Regulator
Trading Assets
Leverage
Trading Costs
Min Deposit
Withdrawal Fee
TWD Deposit
Yuanta Futures
FSB
32 forex + stocks, indices, metals, oil, etc.
20x-30x
0 fee + floating spread
No limit*
Cathay United Bank free
No
Mitrade
ASIC/CIMA
59 forex + stocks, crypto, indices, metals, oil, etc.
1x-200x
0 fee + floating spread
$50
Free monthly withdrawals
Yes
KGI Leverage Broker
Taiwan FSC/CB
12 forex + stocks, indices, metals, oil, etc.
20x-30x
Floating spread + overnight fee
No limit
Cathay United Bank free
No
Far Eastern Bank
Taiwanese Commercial Bank
15 forex pairs
20x
Market-based spread
$10,000+
No
No
IG
ASIC
100+ forex + stocks, crypto, indices, metals, oil, etc.
1x-200x
Floating spread + overnight fee
$50+
Bank transfer $15
No
IC Markets
ASIC
61+ forex + stocks, crypto, indices, metals, oil, bonds, etc.
1x-1000x
Floating spread + commission
$200
No
No
CMC Markets
ASIC/FCA/FMA etc.
27 forex + stocks, crypto, indices, metals, oil, bonds, etc.
1x-500x
Floating spread + commission
No
No
No
*Yuanta Futures has no minimum deposit but recommends over $10,000 USD.
Detailed Overview of 7 Selected Forex Platforms
1. Yuanta Futures—Taiwan’s Local Regulated Choice
As Taiwan’s first futures broker licensed for leverage trading in 2017, Yuanta Futures is well-known locally. Regulated by Taiwan’s FSC Securities and Futures Bureau, it offers MetaTrader 5 with 35 forex pairs.
Highlights:
Zero spread on forex, metals, oil
No overnight fees
Minimum trade size 0.01 lot, highly flexible
24-hour trading Monday to Friday (GMT+8)
Ideal for: Investors preferring local regulation and low-cost trading.
2. Mitrade—Best Platform for Beginners in Asia
Founded in Australia, Mitrade is regulated by ASIC and CIMA. Its simple, proprietary trading interface has won awards like Asia’s Best Forex Broker 2022 and Best Mobile Trading Platform 2023. Unlike complex traditional brokers, Mitrade focuses on ease of use for beginners.
Ideal for: Beginners, small investors, those seeking localized service.
3. KGI Leverage Broker—Taiwan’s Dual Regulation
Regulated by Taiwan’s FSC and Central Bank, KGI Futures is one of Taiwan’s most domestically regulated forex platforms. Its Nano Trading system offers 12 forex pairs and various commodities.
Highlights:
Dual regulation in Taiwan
Free withdrawals via Cathay United, Taishin, China Trust Bank
Can trade overseas indices (additional fee 0.01%-0.50%)
Some products with minimum fees from $5 USD
Ideal for: Those trusting Taiwan regulation and seeking diverse assets.
4. Far Eastern Bank Forex—Bank-Backed Forex Service
Far Eastern International Bank, a major Taiwanese bank with 56 branches, offers forex margin trading. The entry barrier is higher compared to brokers.
Highlights:
Bank-backed credibility
Fixed 20x leverage
Higher minimum deposit (from $10,000 USD)
Suitable for conservative investors preferring bank services
Founded in London in 1974, IG is the longest-standing forex broker worldwide. Listed on the FTSE 250, it has offices in 17 countries, offering thousands of financial markets.
Highlights:
Regulated by ASIC, globally reputable
Over 100 forex pairs
Up to 200x leverage
Major currency spreads from 0.6 pips
Inactive account fee of AUD 18/month after 12 months of inactivity
Ideal for: Those seeking a globally recognized platform with extensive product range.
6. IC Markets—High-Leverage ECN Platform
Founded in Sydney, IC Markets is an ECN forex broker offering some of the highest leverage in the industry. It directly matches orders via electronic communication networks, providing real-time quotes from global banks.
Highlights:
Up to 1000x leverage (highest in the industry)
61+ trading assets
ECN transparency and low spreads
Accepts USD, EUR, and other currencies
No withdrawal fees
Ideal for: Experienced traders seeking maximum leverage and transparency.
7. CMC Markets—London-Listed Multi-Asset Platform
Listed on the London Stock Exchange, CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, FMA, etc. It offers nearly 12,000 CFD products, including stocks, indices, forex, bonds, and more.
Highlights:
Multiple global regulators ensure high credibility
Largest product variety (12,000+ CFDs)
Up to 500x leverage
Highly customizable platform
Inactive account fee of $15/month after 12 months of no trading
Ideal for: Traders interested in multi-asset trading and platform customization.
How Forex Platforms Operate: Dealing Desk vs. No Dealing Desk
Understanding two main order execution modes is key:
Dealing Desk (DD)—Market Maker
The platform acts as the counterparty to your trades. When you place a buy order, the platform offers fixed bid/ask prices, effectively betting against you. They profit from the spread—buy low, sell high.
Features:
Orders often executed within the platform’s internal liquidity pool, not directly on the market
The platform benefits if traders lose money
Fast execution, manageable slippage
Requires trust in the platform’s integrity
No Dealing Desk (NDD)—Direct Market Access
Orders are sent directly to the market, not to the broker. NDD platforms include STP (Straight Through Processing) and ECN (Electronic Communication Network).
Features:
STP: Aggregates quotes from multiple liquidity providers, charges a small commission
ECN: Shows real market prices directly, charges a commission
Transparent pricing from global banks
Usually narrower spreads and lower costs
How to Open an Account on a Forex Platform: A Complete Guide
Using Mitrade as an example, the account opening process is simple and can be completed online:
Step 1: Register
Fill in personal info and submit. Identity verification is quick, usually within 5 minutes.
Step 2: Deposit Funds
Choose your preferred method. Mitrade supports credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), Skrill, Poli, bank transfer, etc. Some support direct TWD deposits to avoid currency conversion losses.
Step 3: Start Trading
Once funded, access the platform to trade popular instruments like EUR/USD, gold, oil, cryptocurrencies, and global indices.
Total time: Usually under 30 minutes.
Common Questions About Forex Platforms
Q1: Why must I choose a regulated platform?
Regulated platforms must adhere to strict standards, ensuring fair and transparent trading. If issues arise, you can file complaints with regulators. Unregulated platforms pose high risks—no recourse if problems occur.
Q2: How to verify a platform’s regulation?
Regulated platforms display license numbers. You can:
Check the “About Us” or “Regulation” page on the platform
Record the license number
Verify on the regulator’s official website (e.g., ASIC)
If no clear regulation info is provided, avoid the platform.
Q3: Why do trading costs vary so much?
Profit models differ:
DD platforms profit from spreads and hidden fees, sometimes offering low spreads but higher hidden costs
NDD platforms charge transparent commissions or narrow spreads, making costs clearer
Operational costs and regulatory requirements also influence fees.
Q4: What is the minimum deposit?
It varies: some platforms (like Mitrade) start at $50 USD, others (like Far Eastern Bank) require $10,000 USD or more. Beginners should start with low-threshold platforms to learn before scaling up.
Q5: What is the biggest overlooked risk when choosing a platform?
Many focus on high leverage and low spreads but ignore regulation, fund safety mechanisms, and hidden fees. High leverage means high risk; low spreads may hide additional costs. Always evaluate comprehensively, prioritizing fund security.
Summary
Choosing the right forex platform is the first step toward successful investing. Taiwanese investors can select from local regulated options like Yuanta Futures and KGI, or global giants like Mitrade, IG, IC Markets, and CMC Markets.
Based on the six key criteria, evaluate carefully to find the best fit. Remember: fund safety always comes first over promises of high returns.
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2026 Taiwan Forex Investment Platform Complete Guide: Detailed Comparison of 7 Major Regulated Brokers
What is the first step to start investing in forex? Choose the right forex trading platform.
As the global financial markets open up, more Taiwanese investors want to enter the 24-hour nonstop currency trading market. But with so many forex platforms available, how do you choose?
This article highlights 7 globally regulated forex brokers, providing a comprehensive platform comparison to help you quickly identify the most suitable investment tool.
Why Taiwanese Investors Need Legitimate Forex Trading Platforms
Unlike traditional bank currency exchanges, legitimate forex platforms open the door for individual traders to access the global currency markets. Through these platforms, you can trade over 100 currency pairs, enjoy leverage from 20x to 1000x, and have 24-hour market opportunities.
However, choosing an unregulated platform carries high risks—no regulatory protection, no guarantee of fund safety, and no recourse in case of disputes.
Therefore, selecting a forex platform regulated by reputable financial authorities (such as ASIC, FSB, FCA) is your first line of defense.
Six Core Criteria for Choosing a Forex Trading Platform
When screening among many forex platforms, focus on these six key aspects:
1. Trading Costs
Beyond spreads and commissions, check for hidden fees—withdrawal fees, account inactivity charges, leverage costs, etc. Some platforms claim zero commissions but compensate through other charges.
2. Market Coverage
Ensure the platform offers trading products that match your preferences. Some only provide 12 currency pairs, while others offer over 100. The more diverse the trading instruments, the broader your options.
3. Regulation and Fund Security
This is the most critical factor. Verify which regulatory bodies oversee the platform, what licenses they hold, and whether investor compensation schemes are in place. Legitimate platforms clearly display their regulation info.
4. Trading Platform and Tools
User experience impacts trading efficiency. Whether using MetaTrader 5 or proprietary platforms, test their usability, charting tools, order execution speed, and overall functionality.
5. Deposit and Withdrawal Convenience
Check supported payment methods, withdrawal speed, and whether local currencies (like TWD) are accepted. These directly affect your liquidity.
6. Customer Service Quality
Can the platform provide timely and effective Chinese-language support? Is there 24/7 live chat? This is crucial during emergencies.
2026 Taiwan Forex Platform Rankings Comparison Table
The table below summarizes key info of 7 selected platforms for quick comparison:
*Yuanta Futures has no minimum deposit but recommends over $10,000 USD.
Detailed Overview of 7 Selected Forex Platforms
1. Yuanta Futures—Taiwan’s Local Regulated Choice
As Taiwan’s first futures broker licensed for leverage trading in 2017, Yuanta Futures is well-known locally. Regulated by Taiwan’s FSC Securities and Futures Bureau, it offers MetaTrader 5 with 35 forex pairs.
Highlights:
Ideal for: Investors preferring local regulation and low-cost trading.
2. Mitrade—Best Platform for Beginners in Asia
Founded in Australia, Mitrade is regulated by ASIC and CIMA. Its simple, proprietary trading interface has won awards like Asia’s Best Forex Broker 2022 and Best Mobile Trading Platform 2023. Unlike complex traditional brokers, Mitrade focuses on ease of use for beginners.
Highlights:
Ideal for: Beginners, small investors, those seeking localized service.
3. KGI Leverage Broker—Taiwan’s Dual Regulation
Regulated by Taiwan’s FSC and Central Bank, KGI Futures is one of Taiwan’s most domestically regulated forex platforms. Its Nano Trading system offers 12 forex pairs and various commodities.
Highlights:
Ideal for: Those trusting Taiwan regulation and seeking diverse assets.
4. Far Eastern Bank Forex—Bank-Backed Forex Service
Far Eastern International Bank, a major Taiwanese bank with 56 branches, offers forex margin trading. The entry barrier is higher compared to brokers.
Highlights:
Ideal for: Investors favoring bank-backed, lower-risk options.
5. IG—Oldest Global Broker
Founded in London in 1974, IG is the longest-standing forex broker worldwide. Listed on the FTSE 250, it has offices in 17 countries, offering thousands of financial markets.
Highlights:
Ideal for: Those seeking a globally recognized platform with extensive product range.
6. IC Markets—High-Leverage ECN Platform
Founded in Sydney, IC Markets is an ECN forex broker offering some of the highest leverage in the industry. It directly matches orders via electronic communication networks, providing real-time quotes from global banks.
Highlights:
Ideal for: Experienced traders seeking maximum leverage and transparency.
7. CMC Markets—London-Listed Multi-Asset Platform
Listed on the London Stock Exchange, CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, FMA, etc. It offers nearly 12,000 CFD products, including stocks, indices, forex, bonds, and more.
Highlights:
Ideal for: Traders interested in multi-asset trading and platform customization.
How Forex Platforms Operate: Dealing Desk vs. No Dealing Desk
Understanding two main order execution modes is key:
Dealing Desk (DD)—Market Maker
The platform acts as the counterparty to your trades. When you place a buy order, the platform offers fixed bid/ask prices, effectively betting against you. They profit from the spread—buy low, sell high.
Features:
No Dealing Desk (NDD)—Direct Market Access
Orders are sent directly to the market, not to the broker. NDD platforms include STP (Straight Through Processing) and ECN (Electronic Communication Network).
Features:
How to Open an Account on a Forex Platform: A Complete Guide
Using Mitrade as an example, the account opening process is simple and can be completed online:
Step 1: Register
Fill in personal info and submit. Identity verification is quick, usually within 5 minutes.
Step 2: Deposit Funds
Choose your preferred method. Mitrade supports credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), Skrill, Poli, bank transfer, etc. Some support direct TWD deposits to avoid currency conversion losses.
Step 3: Start Trading
Once funded, access the platform to trade popular instruments like EUR/USD, gold, oil, cryptocurrencies, and global indices.
Total time: Usually under 30 minutes.
Common Questions About Forex Platforms
Q1: Why must I choose a regulated platform?
Regulated platforms must adhere to strict standards, ensuring fair and transparent trading. If issues arise, you can file complaints with regulators. Unregulated platforms pose high risks—no recourse if problems occur.
Q2: How to verify a platform’s regulation?
Regulated platforms display license numbers. You can:
If no clear regulation info is provided, avoid the platform.
Q3: Why do trading costs vary so much?
Profit models differ:
Operational costs and regulatory requirements also influence fees.
Q4: What is the minimum deposit?
It varies: some platforms (like Mitrade) start at $50 USD, others (like Far Eastern Bank) require $10,000 USD or more. Beginners should start with low-threshold platforms to learn before scaling up.
Q5: What is the biggest overlooked risk when choosing a platform?
Many focus on high leverage and low spreads but ignore regulation, fund safety mechanisms, and hidden fees. High leverage means high risk; low spreads may hide additional costs. Always evaluate comprehensively, prioritizing fund security.
Summary
Choosing the right forex platform is the first step toward successful investing. Taiwanese investors can select from local regulated options like Yuanta Futures and KGI, or global giants like Mitrade, IG, IC Markets, and CMC Markets.
Based on the six key criteria, evaluate carefully to find the best fit. Remember: fund safety always comes first over promises of high returns.