City Index Review

📊 Overall Summary

City Index is a globally established broker with over 40 years of experience. Regulated by top-tier authorities (FCA, ASIC, MAS), it offers a trust score of 4.4/5 and provides access to over 13,500 tradable instruments including forex, indices, shares, and commodities.

Its trading platforms include a proprietary Web Trader, MetaTrader 4, TradingView integration, and mobile apps, all designed for fast execution and robust market research.

The broker features competitive fee structures—with VIP discounts for active traders—and offers tax-efficient spread betting for UK residents. Client funds are securely held in segregated accounts, ensuring strong investor protection.

FeatureDetails
Overall Score4.5 stars 4.5/5 (Highly Trusted)
Trust Pilot Score4 stars 4.1/5 (Trusted)
RegulationFCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), MAS (Singapore)
Minimum Deposit£100 (Standard Account)
Trading PlatformsProprietary Web Trader, MetaTrader 4, TradingView integration, Mobile Trading Apps
Range of Investments13,500+ tradable instruments (Forex, Indices, Shares, Commodities, Spread Betting, etc.)
Inactivity FeeApproximately £12/month after 1 year of inactivity
LeverageUp to 30:1 (retail, UK/Australia); up to 50:1 (Singapore); higher for professional accounts
Client Fund ProtectionSegregated accounts with FSCS protection (UK)

👍👎 Pros & Cons

City Index boasts a long-standing market reputation, an extensive instrument range, and award-winning platforms. Its robust regulatory oversight and comprehensive educational resources make it appealing to both beginners and active traders.

However, the MT4 platform’s forex spreads can be higher than some competitors, and direct access to physical stocks is limited as trading occurs via CFDs or spread betting.

Additionally, U.S. residents cannot access its forex services, and inactivity fees apply after extended periods without trading. Overall, its strengths—such as advanced technology, diverse market access, and tax-efficient options—counterbalance these limitations.

ProsCons
Established brand with over 40 years of market experienceForex spreads on MT4 can be higher
Regulated by top-tier authorities (FCA, ASIC, MAS)Limited direct stock access (trading is via CFDs or spread betting)
Extremely wide range of instruments (13,500+ markets)Not available for U.S. forex trading
Advanced and award-winning platforms (Web Trader, MT4, TradingView, Mobile Apps)Inactivity fees apply after extended periods of no activity
Comprehensive research, analysis, and educational resourcesSome desktop interfaces may feel less modern compared to competitors
Competitive fee structure with VIP discounts for active traders
Tax-efficient spread betting available for UK residents

📜 Licenses

City Index operates under strict regulatory oversight. It holds licenses from the Financial Conduct Authority (UK), ASIC (Australia), and MAS (Singapore).

These tier-1 regulators enforce rigorous standards, including the segregation of client funds and investor protection measures (for example, FSCS coverage in the UK up to £85,000).

This solid regulatory framework ensures transparency, accountability, and enhanced security, making City Index a trusted broker for traders seeking a safe trading environment.

RegulatorTierJurisdictionKey Protections
FCATier-1United KingdomInvestor protection and FSCS compensation (up to £85,000)
ASICTier-1AustraliaStrict oversight and mandatory segregation of client funds
MASTier-1SingaporeRobust regulatory framework with enhanced investor safeguards

💼 Range of Investments

City Index offers an expansive selection of over 13,500 tradable instruments. Forex traders can choose from roughly 84 currency pairs, while investors interested in indices have access to more than 40 major global benchmarks.

The broker also facilitates trading on over 4,700 shares through CFDs or spread betting, plus a variety of commodities such as gold and oil. Additionally, products like bonds and ETFs are available via CFDs in select regions, and tax-efficient spread betting is offered exclusively for UK residents.

This wide-ranging product suite caters to traders with diverse strategies and risk profiles.

Asset ClassAvailableDetails
ForexYesApproximately 84 currency pairs
IndicesYes40+ major global indices
SharesYesOver 4,700 global shares (available via CFDs/spread betting)
CommoditiesYesTrading in commodities such as gold, oil, and more
Bonds & ETFsYes*Available via CFDs (product availability varies by region)
Spread BettingYesOffered for UK residents with tax benefits
CryptocurrenciesYesIndirect exposure via CFDs (physical cryptocurrencies not available)

*Note: Availability may differ by region.


💰 Commissions & Fees

City Index features a competitive and transparent fee structure. Forex trading is commission-free with costs built into the spread—typically around 1.4 pips for standard accounts, but active traders can achieve spreads as low as 0.74 pips.

Share CFDs incur commissions, for instance around $0.018 per share with a minimum fee. There are no charges for wire transfers, and funding methods include bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and PayPal.

An inactivity fee of roughly £12 per month applies after prolonged non-activity. Overall, active traders benefit from VIP discounts, making the fee schedule attractive for frequent trading.

Fee TypeDetails
Stock/Share CFDsCommission charged (e.g. around $0.018 per share with a minimum fee)
Forex TradingNo separate commission; fees are built into the spread (e.g. standard EUR/USD spread ≈1.4 pips; active trader spreads as low as 0.74 pips)
Spread BettingCommission-free pricing structure
Options TradingLimited availability; fees may be higher
Margin RatesVary by asset and account type (retail leverage up to 30:1; higher for professionals)
Wire Transfer FeesTypically $0, though specifics depend on region
Inactivity FeeApproximately £12/month after a defined period of inactivity

📱 Mobile Trading Apps

City Index’s mobile apps are designed for seamless trading on the go. Available for both iOS and Android, these apps deliver real-time market data, advanced charting, and swift order execution.

Users enjoy an integrated economic calendar, basic alerts, and the ability to customize watchlists. The mobile interface supports TradingView charting capabilities, allowing traders to draw trendlines and apply technical indicators directly within the app.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, the intuitive design and full functionality ensure you can monitor and manage your trades efficiently wherever you are.

FeatureDetails
iOS Mobile AppYes – Full trading functionality with integrated research
Android Mobile AppYes – Real-time market data, charting tools, and order execution
Economic CalendarIntegrated within the app
Alerts & NotificationsBasic alert functions and notifications available
Charting ToolsIncludes trendlines, technical indicators, and TradingView integration

🖥️ Other Trading Platforms

In addition to its mobile solutions, City Index provides multiple platforms to suit varied trading preferences. The proprietary Web Trader is a browser-based tool offering customizable workspaces, Reuters news feeds, and one-click order execution.

The advanced desktop platform (AT Pro) delivers detailed charting and technical analysis for experienced traders. MetaTrader 4 is available for forex trading, featuring automated strategies via Expert Advisors and extensive customization options.

Furthermore, integration with TradingView enriches the charting experience with social and community-driven insights. Together, these platforms ensure traders can choose the environment that best fits their style and trading needs.

PlatformDetails
Web TraderProprietary browser-based platform with customizable workspaces and Reuters news feed
Desktop (AT Pro)Advanced desktop platform offering detailed charting, analysis, and customizable indicators
MetaTrader 4 (MT4)Popular forex platform with automated trading capabilities and extensive customization
TradingViewIntegrated for superior charting, social trading features, and access to community ideas

🔍 Research & Analysis

City Index equips its clients with a robust suite of research and analysis tools. Integrated with Trading Central, the platform provides technical signals and market insights to help identify trading opportunities.

The Performance Analytics tool offers post-trade reviews and strategy improvement recommendations. Additionally, an economic calendar is built into the platform, enabling traders to track key market events and news releases.

Live Reuters news feeds, regular webinars, and market commentary further enhance the depth of research available. This comprehensive approach ensures that both novice and experienced traders have access to reliable data and expert analysis to inform their trading decisions.

Research ToolDetails
Trading CentralProvides technical signals and in-depth market analysis
Performance AnalyticsPost-trade analysis tool to review and improve trading performance
Economic CalendarIntegrated tool to monitor key market events and economic releases
Market News & WebinarsLive Reuters news feed, educational webinars, and real-time market commentary
Trading IdeasAccess to community-generated ideas via TradingView integration

🎓 Education

City Index is committed to trader education, offering an array of resources designed to improve market knowledge and trading skills. New traders can benefit from live webinars, a structured Trading Academy series, and interactive courses covering topics from risk management to technical analysis.

In addition, there are educational videos and tutorials available online that range from basic introductions to advanced strategies. A detailed investor dictionary (glossary) helps demystify complex trading terms.

With regularly updated content and practical guidance, City Index’s educational tools empower traders to learn and adapt, ensuring a smoother transition from beginner to advanced trading stages.

Educational ResourceDetails
Live WebinarsRegular sessions covering strategies and market updates
Trading AcademyOnline TV series and competitions designed to teach trading fundamentals
Courses & LessonsInteractive modules covering topics from risk management to technical analysis
Educational VideosBeginner to advanced tutorials available online
Investor DictionaryComprehensive glossary of trading terms and concepts

🌍 Regional Restrictions

City Index primarily serves traders in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Singapore. In these regions, clients enjoy full access to its wide range of products and services, including tax-efficient spread betting for UK residents.

However, U.S. residents are excluded from accessing City Index’s forex trading services due to regulatory constraints. In some European markets, the availability of certain products or account types may be subject to local regulatory requirements.

Prospective clients should verify regional availability and account specifics based on their country of residence to ensure that all desired services and instruments are accessible before opening an account.

RegionAvailabilityNotes
United KingdomYesFull access; spread betting available
AustraliaYesProducts tailored to local regulatory requirements
SingaporeYesAvailable; specific account features and minimum deposits may vary
United StatesNoU.S. residents are not eligible for City Index forex trading
European UnionVariesAvailability subject to local regulatory guidelines

🆚 Broker Comparisons

When compared with competitors like IG and Forex.com, City Index stands out due to its vast instrument range of over 13,500 markets and its award-winning trading platforms.

While IG might offer additional proprietary tools and 24/7 customer support, City Index is competitive with its tax-efficient spread betting options and robust educational resources. Forex.com provides a strong global presence but may have a narrower product offering in certain markets.

Overall, City Index’s combination of advanced technology, diverse market access, and stringent regulatory oversight makes it a compelling option for traders seeking both innovation and security.

FeatureCity IndexCompetitor A (e.g. IG)Competitor B (e.g. Forex.com)
Trading PlatformsWeb Trader, MT4, TradingView, Mobile AppsProprietary platform, MT4, mobileWeb-based, MT4, mobile
Range of Investments13,500+ instruments~12,000 instruments~10,000 instruments
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MASFCA, ASIC, additional regulatorsFCA, CFTC, ASIC
Minimum Deposit£100£250£50
Inactivity Fee~£12/month after inactivityVariesNone
Spread BettingYes (UK only)YesNo
Educational ResourcesExtensive (webinars, academy, videos)Good educational contentExtensive educational resources
Customer Support24/5 support24/7 support24/7 support

*Note: Data are illustrative and subject to change.


❓ Why Choose City Index?

City Index is an excellent choice for traders looking for a blend of heritage and modern technology. With over 40 years of experience, the broker is backed by top-tier regulation (FCA, ASIC, MAS) and offers a vast selection of over 13,500 instruments.

Its platforms—ranging from the proprietary Web Trader to MT4 and mobile apps—ensure fast, reliable execution and advanced analytical tools. Comprehensive research, educational resources, and VIP fee discounts for active traders add further value.

Tax-efficient spread betting in the UK and robust client fund protection (through segregated accounts and FSCS coverage) underscore its commitment to trader security. Supported by the financially strong StoneX Group, City Index is ideal for both active traders and those new to the market who seek transparency, innovation, and a trusted trading partner.

Reasons to Choose City Index
Over 40 years of industry experience and a proven track record
Regulated by top-tier authorities (FCA, ASIC, MAS) ensuring robust client protection
Access to a vast array of markets – over 13,500 instruments
Award-winning and advanced trading platforms across web, desktop, and mobile
Competitive fee structure with VIP discounts for active traders
Comprehensive research, analysis, and educational resources for traders of all levels
Tax-efficient spread betting available for UK residents
Backed by the financially strong StoneX Group

🎯 Final Recommendations

City Index is best suited for traders focused on active trading and who value advanced tools and extensive market access. Beginners will appreciate the comprehensive educational resources, demo accounts, and user-friendly mobile apps.

However, those looking for long-term investment solutions or U.S. residents seeking forex trading alternatives may need to explore other brokers. With its competitive fee structure, solid regulatory framework, and award-winning platforms, City Index offers an attractive option for traders in the UK, Australia, and Singapore.

We recommend opening a demo account to experience its features firsthand, then selecting the account type that best meets your trading needs. Evaluate your regional requirements and trading style to determine if City Index is the ideal choice for your portfolio.

Recommendation CategoryRecommendation
BeginnersIdeal for new traders due to extensive educational resources, demo accounts, and user-friendly platforms
Active TradersExcellent choice for active traders seeking advanced tools, competitive fees, and VIP discounts
Retirement InvestorsNot recommended – City Index is designed primarily for trading rather than long-term investing
International TradersSuitable for traders in the UK, Australia, and Singapore; U.S. residents are not eligible

Forex Risk Disclaimer

Trading forex, derivatives, and cryptocurrencies involves high risk due to volatility, leverage, and limited regulatory protection. The strategies and techniques discussed are not guaranteed to be profitable and may lead to significant losses. Please ensure you fully understand these risks and consult independent advice if needed. For detailed information, learn more about the risks of forex trading.