Top 10 High Leverage Forex Brokers 2024 (Woldwide)

Published :
Written by
Ryan Hardy sitting before his forex trading desk
Fact Checked by
Richard Walz headshoot
Edited by

A forex broker is a company or individual that provides traders access to platforms for buying and selling currencies. Forex brokers serve as intermediaries between traders and the financial markets. They offer access to the market, trading platforms, and other essential services. They also provide leverage, which allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller amount of capital.

Leverage is borrowed capital that enables traders to control a larger trading position with a smaller amount of their own capital. It is expressed as a ratio of 1:100, 1:500, or even higher. High leverage allows traders to increase their market exposure significantly. While it offers the potential for larger profits, it also comes with greater risks, as even small market fluctuations can lead to substantial losses. The amount of leverage available depends on the broker and regulatory restrictions.

Finding a reliable high-leverage forex broker can be challenging, as regulations and offerings vary across brokers. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best high-leverage forex brokers, focusing on those that offer high leverage, low spreads, competitive trading conditions, fast execution, responsive customer support, and user-friendly platforms. This guide is designed to help you choose brokers that provide high leverage while ensuring a secure and efficient trading experience.

A List of Top 10 High Leverage Forex Brokers?

  • Exness: 1: Unlimited 
  • FBS: As high as 1:3000 
  • JustMarkets: As high as 1:3000 
  • FXTM: As high as 1:3000 
  • ThinkMarkets: As high as 1:2000 
  • HFM (HF Markets): as high as 1:2000
  • XM: As high as 1:1000
  • IC Markets: As High as 1:1000 
  • TickMill: As high as 1:1000
  • FP Markets: As high as 1:500
  • Pepperstone: 1:500 for Professional Account 

Best High Leverage Forex Brokers ( Compared and Reviewed)

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
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
Just Markets

Just Markets

  • Founded In:  2012
  • Minimum Deposit: $1
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:3000
  • Regulations : FSA, Cysec, FSCA, FSC
  • Trading Platforms :MT4, MT5
  • Trading Instruments: Forex, CFDs, Gold, Oil
FXTM

FXTM

  • Founded In: 2011
  • Minimum Deposit: $10
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:2000
  • Regulations : CySEC, CMA, FCA, FSCA, FSC-Mauritius
  • Trading Platforms :MT4, MT5 and Mobile Trading
  • Trading Instruments: Forex, Metals, Stocks, Commodities, Indices, cryptocurrency
Thinkmarkets

Thinkmarkets

  • Founded In:  2010
  • Minimum Deposit: $0 (Standard Account), $500 (ThinkZero account)
  • Maximum Leverage: 500:1
  • Regulations : ASIC, CySEC, FCA, FSA, FSC, NZFMA, DFSA, JFSA, FSCA, CIMA
  • Trading Platforms : MT5, ThinkTrader, ThinkCopy
  • Trading Instruments:  Forex, cryptocurrencies, shares CFDs, indices, metals, and commodities. 
HFM (HF Markets)

HFM (HF Markets)

  • Founded In:  2010
  • Minimum Deposit: $5
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:1000
  • Regulations : FCA, DFSA , FSCA ,FSA,CMA
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5, HFM Platform
  • Trading Instruments: Forex,Metals,Energies,Indices,Stocks,Commodities,Bonds,ETFs,Cryptos
XM

XM

  • Founded In:  2009
  • Minimum Deposit: $5
  • Maximum Leverage: 1000:1
  • Regulations : ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, FSCA, FSC in Belize (Global)
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5
  • Trading Instruments: Forex , Commodities, Stock ,Indices , Crypto , Turbo Stocks Equity indices , Precious Metals , Energies 
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
Tickmill

Tickmill

  • Founded In:  2014
  • Minimum Deposit: $100
  • Maximum Leverage: 1:500
  • Regulations : FCA, CySEC, FSA, FSA (Labuan), and FSCA
  • Trading Platforms :MT4, MT5, WebTrader Platform, MetaTrader for Mac , Tickmill Mobile App
  • Trading Instruments: Forex, stock, indices, commodities, bonds, cryptocurrencies, Futures & options
Instant Deposit & Withdrawal
FP Markets

FP Markets

  • Founded In:  2005
  • Minimum Deposit: 100 AUD or equivalent.
  • Maximum Leverage: 500:1
  • Regulations: ASIC, CySEC, SVGFSA, FSCA
  • Trading Platforms : MT4, MT5, cTrader, WebTrader, IRESS
  • Trading Instruments: Forex, Shares, Metals, Commodities, Indices, Digital Currencies, Bonds, ETFs 

What is a Forex Broker?

A forex broker refers to a financial service provider that connects traders to the foreign exchange market, enabling them to buy and sell currency pairs. These brokers act as intermediaries, offering trading platforms that facilitate real-time order execution, market analysis, and access to liquidity. They operate continuously during global market hours, ensuring traders can participate in forex trading throughout the week.

Besides currency trading, forex brokers typically offer CFDs on a range of assets, including commodities, indices, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. These contracts allow traders to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying assets. To support trading activities, brokers often provide leverage, analytical tools, and educational resources to help traders develop strategies and make effective trading decisions.

What is Leverage in Forex Trading

Leverage in trading refers to the use of borrowed capital to increase potential returns on an investment. It allows traders to control larger positions with a relatively small amount of their own funds, known as margin. For example, with a leverage ratio of 100:1, a trader can control $10,000 worth of assets with just $100. This amplifies both potential profits and potential losses, making it a powerful but risky tool.

In forex and CFD trading, leverage varies depending on the broker and regulatory conditions. For major currency pairs, leverage can range from 10:1 to 500:1 or higher with offshore brokers. While leverage increases trading opportunities, it also magnifies risks, especially in volatile markets. Traders should employ proper risk management, such as setting stop-loss orders and maintaining sufficient margin levels when using high leverage. They should fully understand leverage’s impact, as it can enhance gains but also lead to substantial losses if the market moves unfavorably.

Common Leverage Ratios of Forex Brokers

Forex brokers offer varying leverage ratios depending on their regulatory status, trading account types, and the jurisdiction in which they operate. Leverage allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller amount of capital, but higher leverage also increases risk. Below is a breakdown of the most common leverage ratios offered by brokers:

30:1

This leverage ratio is common among brokers regulated by strict authorities like the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC (Cyprus). It applies to major currency pairs and reflects efforts to protect retail traders by limiting potential losses. This is considered a conservative option, ideal for new or risk-averse traders.

50:1

Popular in regions like the United States, this leverage is typical for brokers adhering to NFA (National Futures Association) or CFTC (Commodity Futures Trading Commission) regulations. It offers a balance between flexibility and trader safety, primarily for major currency pairs, while some exotic pairs might have lower leverage.

100:1

A standard offering by many offshore brokers and brokers regulated in jurisdictions with more lenient leverage caps. It provides moderate risk and is often available for intermediate traders or in standard trading accounts. This level is also common in emerging markets with developing regulatory frameworks.

200:1

Available from brokers operating in jurisdictions with relaxed leverage rules, such as Seychelles, Mauritius, or other offshore financial hubs. This ratio suits experienced traders who are comfortable managing higher risks and is commonly offered for both major and minor pairs.

500:1

Common among offshore brokers targeting global markets. Many brokers in jurisdictions like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize, or Vanuatu offer this leverage to attract traders looking for higher exposure. It’s popular with scalpers and day traders seeking to maximize returns on smaller market moves.

1000:1

A popular choice among offshore brokers catering to aggressive traders and scalpers. This leverage is often accompanied by additional requirements, such as low spreads and high liquidity, to support rapid trading strategies. Traders should ensure they have robust risk management practices in place.

2000:1

Offered by a few offshore brokers aiming to provide ultra-high leverage for professional traders or those with higher risk tolerance. This level of leverage requires significant trading experience and robust risk management. It’s not usually recommended for beginners due to the high risk of account depletion.

3000:1

Extremely rare and offered only by select brokers in jurisdictions with virtually no restrictions on leverage. It is typically targeted at professional traders and comes with significant margin requirements to prevent account liquidation. Traders must be aware of the heightened risk and potential for rapid losses.

Unlimited Leverage

Some brokers, especially in jurisdictions without strict financial oversight, provide unlimited leverage options. This is marketed as a competitive advantage but is highly risky and not recommended for inexperienced traders. These brokers often impose strict conditions or require substantial trading volumes.

Benefits of High Leverage in Forex Trading

1. Access to Additional Funds

Leverage allows traders to control larger positions with a relatively small initial investment. This means you can gain exposure to more expensive financial instruments without providing full capital upfront. For example, with 100:1 leverage, a £100 deposit lets you control a £10,000 position. This access to additional funds enhances trading opportunities, even for those with limited capital.

2. No Interest on Borrowed Funds

Unlike traditional loans, leveraged trading doesn’t incur interest charges on the borrowed amount. Brokers provide additional funds to amplify your position, allowing you to trade more without incurring extra borrowing costs. This feature is particularly advantageous compared to taking a loan to invest in other assets, where interest payments could erode your profits.

3. Magnified Profit Potential

Leverage significantly boosts your profit potential. Even minor price movements in your favor can result in substantial gains due to the larger position size. For instance, investing £100 with 100:1 leverage can give you exposure to £10,000. If the market moves by 1%, your return would be based on the £10,000 position, not just your initial £100. This magnification makes high leverage attractive to short-term traders seeking quick profits.

4. Low Initial Investment Requirement

One of the key benefits of leverage is that it lowers the barrier to entry in forex trading. You can start trading with a small deposit—sometimes as low as £100—while still accessing larger positions. This makes forex trading more accessible to retail traders who might not have significant capital.

5. Capital Efficiency

Leverage allows you to utilize your trading capital more efficiently. Since you only need to deposit a fraction of the total position value (known as the margin), you can allocate the remaining funds to other investments or trading opportunities. This flexibility enables better diversification and the potential to spread risk across multiple assets.

6. Increased Market Access

High leverage provides access to major currency pairs and high-value markets that might otherwise be unaffordable. This expanded access means you can participate in more trading opportunities, including those with higher volatility or potential returns. It also allows traders to explore more complex strategies, such as hedging, without tying up large amounts of capital.

Risks of High Leverage in Forex Trading

While high leverage offers significant profit potential, it also introduces substantial risks. Here are the risks of high leverage of forex trading

1. Amplified Losses

Just as leverage magnifies profits, it also magnifies losses. A small adverse movement in the market can result in significant financial loss, sometimes exceeding your initial investment. For example, with 100:1 leverage, a 1% move against your position can wipe out your entire capital.

2. Margin Calls

High leverage increases the risk of receiving a margin call. If your account balance falls below the required margin level, your broker may automatically close your positions to prevent further losses. This can happen quickly, especially in volatile markets, leaving little room for recovery.

3. Market Volatility Impact

Forex markets can be highly volatile, and price fluctuations are common. High leverage amplifies the impact of these fluctuations, making it easy for trades to swing from profit to loss in a short time. This volatility requires constant monitoring and quick decision-making.

4. Emotional Stress

Trading with high leverage can lead to significant emotional stress. The potential for large gains and losses can cause traders to make impulsive decisions, abandon their strategies, or overtrade, leading to poor outcomes.

5. Limited Room for Error

With high leverage, even small mistakes or miscalculations can have significant consequences. A minor oversight in market analysis or timing can lead to outsized losses, reducing the margin for error compared to trading with lower leverage.

6. Over-Leveraging Temptation

The allure of high returns may tempt traders to over-leverage, opening positions larger than their capital can comfortably support. This approach increases the risk of account depletion and financial ruin, especially for inexperienced traders.

7. Risk of Account Wipeout

In extreme scenarios, high leverage can lead to a complete wipeout of your trading account. If a leveraged position moves sharply against you, losses can escalate quickly, potentially erasing your entire balance within minutes.

8. Slippage and Gaps

During periods of high volatility or low liquidity, slippage can occur, where your trade is executed at a different price than expected. With high leverage, even a small slippage can result in significant losses. Similarly, market gaps during major news events can dramatically impact leveraged positions.

Which broker offers the highest leverage in the world?

Exness, FBS, JustMarkets, and FXTM are known for providing the highest leverage globally. The leverage offered by these brokers is as follows:

  • Exness: Unlimited leverage
  • FBS: Up to 1:3000
  • JustMarkets: Up to 1:3000
  • FXTM: Up to 1:3000

Do regulated forex brokers offer high leverage?

Regulated forex brokers offer fixed leverage according to the guidelines set by their respective regulators. For example, brokers regulated by the FCA, ASIC, and CySEC typically offer leverage up to 1:30 for retail traders. However, many regulated brokers provide professional accounts where leverage can go as high as 1:500. Additionally, some regulated brokers operate offshore entities that offer significantly higher leverage, sometimes up to 1:1000 or more.

Do Professional Traders Use High Leverage?

Yes, professional traders often use high leverage, especially day traders, scalpers, and those employing short-term strategies. High leverage allows them to control larger positions with less capital, maximizing potential returns. However, professionals manage the associated risks carefully.

Many brokers in FCA, ASIC, and CySEC jurisdictions offer professional accounts. These professional accounts can offer leverage up to 1:500, compared to the 1:30 cap for retail traders. Experienced traders use this higher leverage to take advantage of small price movements efficiently.

How Much Leverage is Right for a Forex Trader?

The right leverage for a forex trader depends on their experience level, risk tolerance, and trading strategy:

  1. Beginners:
    Lower leverage (e.g., 1:10 to 1:30) is generally recommended. It helps minimize risk while learning market dynamics and developing trading skills without significant capital loss.
  2. Intermediate Traders:
    Traders with some experience might use moderate leverage (e.g., 1:50 to 1:100). This balance allows for reasonable profit potential while still managing risk effectively.
  3. Experienced or Professional Traders:
    Advanced traders often use higher leverage (up to 1:500 or more) when permitted. They typically employ strict risk management and are comfortable handling market volatility. High leverage suits strategies like scalping or day trading, where small price movements are multiplied for potential gains.

Higher leverage magnifies both profits and losses, so you should manage risk properly to avoid significant losses. Always choose leverage based on your comfort with risk and market experience.

Maximum Leverage Limits Set by Different Forex Regulators

The maximum leverage allowed in forex trading varies depending on the regulations imposed by financial authorities in different jurisdictions. Here’s an overview of the maximum leverage offered by key regulators worldwide:

Regulators 

Maximum Leverage 

FCA

1:30

ESMA (Europe) 

1:30

CySEC

1:30

ASIC

1:30

NFA 

1:50

IIROC 

1:500

BaFIN 

1:30

MAS 

1:20

FSA in JAPAN

1:10

DFSA 

1:30

CMA 

1:400

SCB 

1:200

Offshore 

From 1:500 to 1:2000 or even more

The leverage varies based on account types, tradable assets, and entities. Nowadays, forex brokers often have multiple entities. If you need high leverage, you may consider trading with the broker’s offshore entity. Additionally, many brokers offer professional accounts that provide leverage as high as 1:500.

Final Verdict:

If you’re a trader looking for high leverage to maximize your trading potential, you can choose a forex broker that offers high leverage, low cost, and secured trading environment. High leverage allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller amount of capital, but it also comes with increased risk. We have thoroughly reviewed and compared the best forex brokers offering high leverage, focusing on those that provide secure trading environments, tight spreads, and robust platforms. Here are the top brokers for high-leverage forex trading:

  • Exness: Known for offering unlimited leverage, Exness is ideal for traders who want instant deposits and withdrawals. 
  • FBS: Offers leverage up to 1:3000, making it one of the highest leverage brokers available. FBS is regulated by Cysec, ASIC, and FSC-Belize,  and provides traders with a wide range of currency pairs and trading tools.
  • JustMarkets: Also offering 1:3000 leverage, JustMarkets provides high-leverage options for experienced traders who seek to amplify their positions while enjoying a user-friendly platform.
  • FXTM: Known for offering leverage up to 1:3000, FXTM is highly regulated and trusted worldwide. It provides a wide range of account types and trading tools to suit both beginners and experienced traders.
  • ThinkMarkets: With leverage up to 1:2000, ThinkMarkets offers competitive conditions for traders seeking higher exposure. It is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FCA, FSA, FSC, NZFMA, DFSA, JFSA, FSCA, and CIMA, providing security and reliability for traders worldwide.
  • HFM (HF Markets): Providing leverage up to 1:2000, HF Markets is suitable for traders looking for high exposure with easy-to-use trading platforms like MetaTrader. It is regulated by FCA, DFSA, FSCA, FSA in Seychelles, CMA, and CySEC 
  • XM: Offering leverage up to 1:1000, XM is a popular broker with a strong reputation for reliability and customer service. It is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, FSCA, and FSC in Belize (Global), ensuring a safe environment for traders.
  • IC Markets: Known for its 1:1000 leverage, IC Markets is a leading broker offering tight spreads and excellent trading conditions. It is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, and FSA, making it a trusted choice for high-leverage forex traders.
  • TickMill: Offering 1:1000 leverage, TickMill is a low-cost broker with excellent execution speeds, ideal for scalpers and high-frequency traders. It is regulated by the FCA, DFSA, FSCA, CySEC, FSA- Labuan, and FSA-S. 
  • FP Markets: Provides leverage of up to 1:500, making it an attractive option for traders who want substantial exposure with moderate risk. FP Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC,  FSA, FSCA, and SVG, ensuring security and trust.
  • Pepperstone: With 1:500 leverage available for Professional Account holders, Pepperstone provides competitive conditions for experienced traders seeking high leverage. It is regulated by top-tier authorities like FCA, ASIC, CySEC, BaFin, DFSA, CMA, and SCB, ensuring safety for traders.

Each of these brokers offers high-leverage options for traders looking to enhance their trading potential. However, it’s important to choose a broker that aligns with your risk tolerance and trading strategy. Whether you’re looking for unlimited leverage or a more moderate 1:500, these brokers offer strong regulatory oversight, secure platforms, and excellent customer support to help you succeed.