8 Best Forex Brokers for Trading GBP/JPY

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Ryan Hardy sitting before his forex trading desk
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A forex broker is a financial services company that provides traders access to platforms for buying and selling currencies, acting as intermediaries between retail traders and the global currency market. Forex brokers allow both individuals and businesses to trade currencies electronically.

The GBP/JPY pair, often known as “The Beast” due to its volatility, represents the exchange rate between the British pound and the Japanese yen. This currency pair is highly popular among experienced traders looking to capitalize on price movements influenced by economic policies, interest rate changes, and geopolitical factors. Trading the GBP/JPY pair allows investors to speculate on the relative strength of the British pound versus the Japanese yen. The GBP/JPY pair can be traded through spot forex transactions, CFDs (Contracts for Difference), and futures contracts. Many forex brokers offer access to trade the GBP/JPY pair on their platforms, often with competitive spreads and advanced charting tools.

With numerous online forex brokers available, finding the right one for GBP/JPY trading can be challenging. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best forex brokers for trading the GBP/JPY pair. Our goal is to assist you in finding trustworthy partners that align with your trading objectives while ensuring a smooth and efficient trading experience.

A List of Top 8 Forex Brokers for GBP/JPY Trading

  • Pepperstone: Best Overall Forex Broker
  • IC Markets: Best for for Tight Spread
  • ActivTrades: Best for EU and UK Traders 
  • Etoro: Best For Social Copy Trading 
  • BlackBull Markets: Best Broker For Free TradingView
  • Exness: Best for Instant Deposit and Withdrawal
  • XM: Best for Deposit Bonus
  • Eightcap: Best for Smart Trading Tools
  • Avatrade: Best for Automated Trading
  • FBS: Best For High Leverage (as high as 1:3000) 

Best Forex Brokers for GBP/JPY Trading ( Compared and Reviewed)1

Best Overall Broker
Pepperstone

Pepperstone

  • Founded In:  2010
  • Minimum Deposit: $0, Recommended: $200
  • Maximum Leverage: $200:1 for retail traders, 500:1 for professional traders. 
  • Regulations: FCA, ASIC, CySEC, SCB, FSA
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5, cTrader, DupliTrade, TradingView
  • Trading Instruments: Forex, CFD, Crypto CFD, and More
IC Markets

IC Markets

  • Founded In:  2007
  • Minimum Deposit: $200
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:500
  • Regulations: ASIC, CySEC, SCB, FSA, FSCA
  • Trading Platforms: MT4, MT5, Ctrader, Trading Central. 
  • Trading Instruments: Forex, CFD, Crypto CFD, and More
ActivTrade

ActivTrade

  • Founded In:  2001
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:200 for retails traders, and 1:400 for Pro traders
  • Regulations FCA, SCB, CMVM, BACEN and CVM
  • Trading Platforms :MT4, MT5, ActivTrader and Tradingview
  • Trading Instruments: Forex ( Major, minor, exotics), shares, Indices, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, Commodities, Bonds, etc 
eToro

eToro

  • Founded In:  2007
  • Minimum Deposit: $50
  • Maximum Leverage: 30:1 EU, 50:1  USA
  • Regulations: SEC, FINRA, FCA, CySEC, FSA-S, SIPC, 
  • Trading Platforms: eToro Trading Platforms
  • Trading Instruments: Cryptocurrencies, Stocks, Commodities, Currencies
BlackBull Markets

BlackBull Markets

  • Founded In: 2014
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:500
  • Regulations : FCA, ASIC, NFA, or CySEC. 
  • Trading Platforms : MT4,MT5, Ctrader ,Tradingview, Copytrader
  • Trading Instruments: Forex ,Share, CFDs and Commodities
Instant Deposit & Withdrawal
Exness

Exness

  • Founded In:  2008
  • Minimum Deposit: $200
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:2000
  • Regulations :FSA,CBCS,FSC,FSCA, Cysec,FCA,CMA
  • Trading Platforms :MT4, MT5, MetaTrader WebTerminal, MetaTrader Mobile,  Exness Trade App , Exness Terminal
  • Trading Instruments: Forex , Commodities, Stock ,Indices , Crypto
XM

XM

  • Founded In:  2009
  • Minimum Deposit: $5
  • Maximum Leverage: 1000:1
  • Regulations :FSC
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5
  • Trading Instruments: Forex , Commodities, Stock ,Indices , Crypto , Turbo Stocks Equity indices , Precious Metals , Energies 
Eightcap

Eightcap

  • Founded In:  2009
  • Minimum Deposit: $100
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:1000
  • Regulations : ASIC,FCA, CySEC, SCB
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5, TradingView, Webtrader
  • Trading Instruments: Forex,Commodities,Indices,Shares,Crypto
AvaTrade

AvaTrade

  • Founded In:  2006
  • Minimum Deposit: $100
  • Maximum Leverage: 30:1
  • Regulations : ASIC, CBI, FFAJ, FSA, FSCA
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5, Webtrader, Automated Trading
  • Trading Instruments:Forex, Stocks, Commodities, Indices, Crypto CFDs, Bonds, ETFs
Best for Higher Leverage
FBS

FBS

  • Founded In:  2009
  • Minimum Deposit: $5
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:3000
  • Regulations :FSC(Belize) 
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5, Webtrader
  • Trading Instruments: Forex ,  Stock ,Indices , Crypto , Metals , Energies , Forex Exotic

Can I trust these online brokers for GBP/JPY Trading?

Yes, you can trust these brokers. Brokersway recommends brokers based on facts and findings. We evaluate brokers based on 170 data points grouped into 6 macro categories including regulations and security, fees, Trading experience, trading tools, customer support, and trading education. Multiple regulatory authorities regulate these brokers. So they are legit and trusted. Here are the regulations of these brokers

  • Pepperstone: Regulated by 7 regulatory authorities including FCA, ASIC, CySEC, BaFin, DFSA, CMA, and SCB
  • IC Markets: Regulated by 3 Regulatory Authorities including FCA, CySEC, and ASIC
  • ActivTrades: Regulated by 5 Regulatory Authorities including SCB, FCA, CMVM, BACEN, and CVM
  • eToro: Regulated by 7 Regulatory Authorities including SEC, FINRA, FCA, CySEC, FSA-S, SIPC, ADGM
  • BlackBull: Regulated by 2 Regulatory Authorities including FMA, FSA-S
  • Exness: Regulated by 8 Regulatory Authorities including CySEC, FCA, CMA, FSCA,  FSA in Seychelles, CBCS, FSC (Mauritius), and FSC (BVI)
  • XM: Regulated by 5 Regulatory Authorities including ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, FSCA, and FSC in Belize (Global)
  • Eighcap: Regulated by 5 Regulatory Authorities including ASIC, FCA, CySEC, SCB, and FSASVG
  • AvaTrade: Regulated by 9 Regulatory Authorities including ASIC, JFSA, FSA, FSCA, ADGM, CBI, ISA, KNF, IIROC
  • FBS: Regulated by 3 Regulatory Authorities including Cysec, ASIC, FSC-Belize

How Did We Choose the Best Forex Brokers for Trading GBP/JPY?

To choose the best brokers for GBP/JPY trading, we follow the procedures below.

Research

To find the best forex brokers for GBP/JPY trading, we conducted extensive research, focusing on the features, services, and regulations associated with each broker. We analyzed market trends, broker offerings, and user feedback to understand what traders value most. This comprehensive approach allowed us to build a solid foundation for our evaluations.

Data Collection

We gathered data from various reliable sources, including official regulatory bodies, broker websites, and reputable financial news platforms. This data encompassed key metrics such as trading fees, available assets, leverage options, and client support services. Additionally, we considered user reviews and testimonials to gauge trader satisfaction and experiences.

Verification

After collecting data, we verified the information to ensure accuracy and reliability. This step involved cross-referencing details from multiple sources, including regulatory websites and independent reviews. By ensuring that our data is accurate, we aim to present an honest assessment of each broker’s strengths and weaknesses.

Live Testing

We conducted live testing of the shortlisted brokers to provide a real-world perspective. This involved opening demo accounts and executing trades to evaluate the trading platforms, order execution speed, and customer service responsiveness. Our live testing process allowed us to assess each broker’s performance under actual market conditions, providing valuable insights into their functionality.

Scoring

Finally, we scored each broker based on a set of criteria, including regulatory compliance, trading costs, platform usability, available trading instruments, customer support, and overall user experience. Each category was assigned a specific weight, reflecting its importance in the trading process. The scores helped us rank the brokers, ensuring that our recommendations align with the needs and preferences of traders who want to trade GBP/JPY or other Major currency pairs. 

What is a Forex broker?

A forex broker is a financial service provider that connects traders to the forex market, enabling them to buy and sell currency pairs. Brokers provide access to trading platforms where users can manage their trades, monitor currency price changes, and execute orders in real time. Forex brokers play an essential role in linking retail and institutional traders to global liquidity, allowing for 24-hour trading on weekdays.

Beyond currency trading, forex brokers commonly provide other financial instruments, including commodities, indices, stocks, and cryptocurrencies, which are offered as CFDs. CFDs enable traders to speculate on price changes without actually holding the assets, while brokers may offer leverage to increase trading volume. Many brokers also support traders with analysis tools, market news, and resources to help make well-informed trading choices.

What is GBP/JPY ?

The GBP/JPY currency pair represents the exchange rate between the British pound (GBP) and the Japanese yen (JPY). Known for its volatility, GBP/JPY is highly sensitive to economic data and geopolitical events from both the UK and Japan. The pair is influenced by factors such as interest rate decisions from the Bank of England (BoE) and the Bank of Japan (BoJ), along with economic indicators like UK GDP, inflation data, and Japan’s trade balance. GBP/JPY is also impacted by market risk sentiment, as both currencies are associated with different levels of risk appetite, with the pound generally seen as a riskier asset compared to the yen, which is often viewed as a safe haven during periods of market uncertainty.

GBP/JPY is commonly available for trading through forex brokers as a spot pair or via Contracts for Difference (CFDs), giving traders the opportunity to speculate on its price movements based on economic events, political developments, and central bank policies. The pair’s high volatility provides potential for significant price swings, making it attractive for traders seeking opportunities in both short-term and longer-term trades. Key events such as Brexit developments, BoJ interventions, and global economic shifts can cause sharp movements in GBP/JPY. For traders, GBP/JPY offers the potential for both high rewards and risks, with opportunities to capitalize on both UK and Japanese economic trends and the broader global market sentiment.

How to Trade GBP/JPY Forex Online

To trade GBP/JPY, you need to have a solid understanding of the GBP/JPY pair. This currency pair represents the exchange rate between the British pound and the Japanese yen, and it is known for its volatility and liquidity, often experiencing large price swings due to the differences in interest rates and economic conditions between the UK and Japan. The Bank of England (BoE) and the Bank of Japan (BoJ) play significant roles in driving the pair’s movements, alongside key economic data from both countries. Next, develop your skills in market analysis and create a trading strategy that will help you generate effective trading signals. Start GBP/JPY trading by practicing and refining your strategies on a demo account to gain confidence without risking real money. Once you’re ready, you can follow this step-by-step guide to start live GBP/JPY trading:

Step 1: Choose a forex broker and open a trading account.
Step 2: Verify your account, fund it, and download the trading platform if required.
Step 3: Select the GBP/JPY pair and create a new order.
Step 4: Set your trade parameters, including trade volume, stop loss, and take profit levels.
Step 5: Place your order by clicking ‘buy’ or ‘sell.’
Step 6: Monitor your trade and close it when you achieve your target. This completes the GBP/JPY trade.

What Affects the Price of GBP/JPY Pair

The GBP/JPY exchange rate is influenced by a combination of economic factors, central bank policies, and global risk sentiment, reflecting the economic relationship between the United Kingdom and Japan. The movement of the pound and the yen is shaped by their respective economic conditions, geopolitical factors, and market demand for safe-haven assets. Below are the primary drivers of the GBP/JPY exchange rate:

1. Bank of England (BoE) Monetary Policy

The monetary policy decisions of the Bank of England (BoE) significantly impact the value of the British pound. When the BoE raises interest rates to combat inflation or foster economic stability, the pound tends to strengthen, which can push the GBP/JPY rate higher. Conversely, if the BoE cuts interest rates or engages in quantitative easing to stimulate economic growth, the pound may weaken, leading to a lower GBP/JPY rate. Market expectations of future BoE actions based on economic data, such as inflation and employment reports, are critical in shaping GBP/JPY movements.

2. Bank of Japan (BoJ) Monetary Policy

The Bank of Japan (BoJ) plays a key role in determining the value of the Japanese yen. The BoJ’s commitment to low interest rates and monetary easing policies, including asset purchases, often leads to a weaker yen. As a result, a dovish stance by the BoJ generally supports a higher GBP/JPY rate. However, any indication of a shift towards tightening, such as reducing asset purchases or increasing interest rates, can strengthen the yen and drive the GBP/JPY rate lower. Traders closely monitor BoJ meetings and inflation reports to anticipate any changes in policy that could affect the yen.

3. Inflation Rates in the UK and Japan

Inflation in the UK and Japan is a crucial factor influencing the GBP/JPY rate. Rising inflation in the UK often leads to expectations of interest rate hikes by the BoE, which strengthens the pound and could drive the GBP/JPY rate higher. On the other hand, persistent low inflation in Japan keeps the BoJ in a dovish stance, typically weakening the yen and supporting a higher GBP/JPY. Conversely, low inflation in the UK may prompt a more accommodative BoE policy, potentially weakening the pound and putting downward pressure on GBP/JPY.

4. Economic Growth Indicators

Economic growth in both the UK and Japan affects the strength of the pound and the yen. Strong GDP growth in the UK tends to support the pound, leading to a higher GBP/JPY rate, while strong economic performance in Japan can strengthen the yen, pushing the pair lower. Key indicators, such as GDP growth, retail sales, and industrial production from both economies, provide traders with insights into each region’s economic health and likely monetary policy responses, impacting the GBP/JPY exchange rate.

5. Safe-Haven Demand and Risk Sentiment

The yen is widely regarded as a safe-haven currency, attracting demand during periods of global uncertainty or market volatility. When risk sentiment turns negative, such as during geopolitical tensions or economic crises, investors tend to flock to the yen, weakening the GBP/JPY pair. Conversely, when market conditions are stable, and risk appetite increases, the yen tends to weaken, supporting the pound and driving the GBP/JPY rate higher. Changes in global risk sentiment, including geopolitical events, financial market fluctuations, and economic crises, heavily influence GBP/JPY movements.

6. Trade Balances and Current Account Data

The trade balances and current account data of the UK and Japan play a key role in determining the strength of the pound and the yen. Japan typically runs a trade surplus, which supports the yen, while the UK has historically run trade deficits, which can weaken the pound. Positive trade data from Japan strengthens the yen, potentially driving the GBP/JPY rate lower, while strong export performance from the UK can support the pound and put upward pressure on GBP/JPY. Regular trade balance reports from both countries provide critical information on the relative strength of each currency.

7. Geopolitical Events and Political Stability

Geopolitical stability and political events in both the UK and Japan can impact the GBP/JPY exchange rate. Political uncertainty, such as Brexit developments in the UK, can weaken the pound, potentially leading to a lower GBP/JPY rate. Conversely, political stability or any positive economic developments in Japan, such as government reforms or trade agreements, can strengthen the yen, driving GBP/JPY down. Global geopolitical events, such as trade wars or regional conflicts, also affect risk sentiment and the demand for safe-haven assets like the yen, influencing the movement of the GBP/JPY pair.

8. Global Commodity Prices

Commodity prices, especially oil, can influence the GBP/JPY exchange rate indirectly. The UK is a net importer of energy, and higher commodity prices often lead to a weaker pound, especially if inflationary pressures rise. In contrast, Japan’s relatively low commodity dependency means that commodity price fluctuations have a more muted effect on the yen. However, rising global energy prices can put additional pressure on Japan’s trade balance, potentially weakening the yen and supporting a higher GBP/JPY rate.

These factors, including central bank policies, economic performance, risk sentiment, and geopolitical events, collectively drive the GBP/JPY exchange rate. Traders closely monitor these variables to understand market dynamics and anticipate future movements in the pair.

Final Verdict:

If you are a trader looking to trade the GBP/JPY currency pair, selecting a broker with low spreads, reliable execution, and strong regulatory credentials is essential. We have thoroughly reviewed and compared the top forex brokers offering GBP/JPY, focusing on those that are licensed, highly rated, and globally trusted. Our evaluation considered regulation and security, fees and commissions, trading conditions, trading tools, customer support, and educational resources. Based on our analysis, the following brokers are the best for trading GBP/JPY:

  • Pepperstone: Best overall for GBP/JPY, offering tight spreads, fast execution speeds, and regulation by leading authorities like ASIC and FCA.
  • IC Markets: Known for its ultra-low spreads, making it a top choice for cost-conscious GBP/JPY traders.
  • ActivTrades: FCA-regulated and trusted by EU/UK traders, providing reliable trading conditions and excellent customer support for GBP/JPY.
  • Etoro: Ideal for social copy trading, allowing GBP/JPY traders to replicate strategies from experienced investors.
  • BlackBull Markets: Provides free access to TradingView, equipping GBP/JPY traders with powerful technical analysis tools.
  • Exness: Recognized for instant deposits and withdrawals, offering seamless transactions for GBP/JPY traders, although it does not serve EU clients.
  • XM: Known for its deposit bonus, making it an attractive option for traders looking to increase their trading capital for GBP/JPY.
  • Eightcap: Offers smart trading tools and plugins, delivering a comprehensive GBP/JPY trading experience.
  • Avatrade: Best for automated trading, supporting various algorithmic strategies for GBP/JPY markets.
  • FBS: High leverage of up to 1:3000, catering to experienced traders seeking greater exposure in GBP/JPY trading.

These brokers provide optimal conditions for trading GBP/JPY, including low spreads, advanced platforms, and robust regulatory compliance. Choose the broker that aligns with your trading style and preferences to trade GBP/JPY confidently.