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HYCM vs AvaTrade (2026): Which Broker Is Actually Better?
We compare HYCM against AvaTrade across spreads, regulations, platforms, and trading costs. Read our algorithmic breakdown and expert verdict to find out which broker suits your trading style in 2026.
Verdict: It's a Tie
Both HYCM and AvaTrade offer exceptional trading environments with distinct strengths. HYCM is ideal for experienced traders seeking long-established regulated broker, while AvaTrade excels for beginners, copy traders & options enthusiasts. Your choice should depend entirely on whether you prioritize over 45 years operating history or heavily regulated across 7+ jurisdictions.
HYCM vs AvaTrade: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1977 | 2006 |
| Overall Rating | 4.1/5.0 | 4.5/5.0 |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 | $100 |
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.2 pips (Raw) | 0.9 pips (Standard) |
| Maximum Leverage | 1:30 (Retail) | 1:400 (Pro) | 1:400 (Pro) | 1:30 (Retail) |
| MetaTrader 4 | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 | Yes | Yes |
| cTrader | No | No |
| TradingView | No | No |
| Copy Trading | No | Yes (DupliTrade/AvaSocial) |
| Forex Pairs | 40+ | 55+ |
| Deposit Methods | Card, Bank, Skrill, Neteller | Card, Bank, Skrill, Neteller, Wire |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days |
| Execution Type | STP | Market Maker |
HYCM vs AvaTrade: Fee Breakdown
When comparing the trading costs between HYCM and AvaTrade, it's essential to look beyond just the advertised spreads. We must factor in commissions, swap rates, and non-trading fees like deposit or inactivity charges. HYCM offers pricing characterized by $4/lot (Raw) alongside 0.2 pips (Raw) spreads. In contrast, AvaTrade utilizes a model with $0 (Spread only) and 0.9 pips (Standard) spreads. For active, high-volume traders, HYCM provides the superior cost-efficiency curve.
| Fee Type | HYCM | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.2 pips (Raw) | 0.9 pips (Standard) |
| Commission Defaults | $4/lot (Raw) | $0 (Spread only) |
| Execution Model | STP | Market Maker |
| Deposit Fees | None | None |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days |
Safety & Regulation: Is HYCM or AvaTrade Safer?
Trust is paramount in forex trading. Both HYCM and AvaTrade are highly regulated entities, but their jurisdictional footprints differ. HYCM is armed with 2 Tier-1 licenses and has been securing client funds since 1977. AvaTrade, licensed since 2006, counters with 3 Tier-1 regulatory bodies overseeing its operations. AvaTrade holds a slight edge with more top-tier authorities. Both brokers employ strict client fund segregation.
HYCM
Tier 1- Regulators:FCA (UK)CySEC (Cyprus)CIMA (Cayman Islands)DFSA (Dubai)
- Investor Protection: £85,000 (FSCS) / €20,000 (ICF)
- Licensed Since: 1977
AvaTrade
Tier 1- Regulators:Central Bank of IrelandASIC (Australia)FSCA (South Africa)FSA (Japan)ADGM (Abu Dhabi)
- Investor Protection: Up to €20,000 (EU ICF)
- Licensed Since: 2006
Platform & Tools Comparison
The software you trade on dictates your execution speed and analytical depth. Both brokers provide industry stalwarts, but divergencies exist. HYCM equips its clients with MT4, MT5, HYCM App. AvaTrade, on the other hand, grants access to MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, AvaOptions, AvaSocial. If you rely on third-party EA automation, this section heavily dictates your broker choice.
| Feature | HYCM | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 | ||
| MetaTrader 5 | ||
| cTrader | ||
| TradingView | ||
| Proprietary Environment | Yes (AvaTradeGO) | |
| Copy Trading Network | Yes (DupliTrade/AvaSocial) |
Pros & Cons: HYCM vs AvaTrade
HYCM
Pros
- Over 45 years operating history
- FCA and CySEC regulated
- Tight raw spreads from 0.2 pips
- Fixed spread accounts available
- Negative balance protection
Cons
- $100 minimum deposit
- Limited research tools
- Smaller product range
AvaTrade
Pros
- Heavily regulated across 7+ jurisdictions
- Excellent mobile app (AvaTradeGO)
- DupliTrade and AvaSocial copy trading
- AvaOptions for vanilla options
- Strong educational resources
Cons
- Spreads slightly wider than ECN brokers
- Inactivity fee after 3 months
- Not available in the US
Expert Verdict: HYCM vs AvaTrade
When we place HYCM and AvaTrade side-by-side, we observe two distinct philosophies in client servicing. HYCM, licensed since 1977, has carved out a massive niche focusing on experienced traders seeking long-established regulated broker. Their execution model heavily leans into STP, and their platform environment highlights MT4.
Conversely, AvaTrade, operational out of Dublin, Ireland, has architected its infrastructure predominantly for beginners, copy traders & options enthusiasts. Their $0 (Spread only) commission structure combined with 0.9 pips (Standard) spreads makes them a formidable competitor.
The Bottom Line: If your primary directive is over 45 years operating history, and you intend to start with a minimum of $100, HYCM is the logical path forward. If, however, you value heavily regulated across 7+ jurisdictions and require MT4, AvaTrade edges out the competition and earns our recommendation.
HYCM vs AvaTrade: Frequently Asked Questions
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Risk Warning: Forex and CFD trading involves significant risk of loss. 68–80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.|Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive compensation from the brokers listed on this page. This does not influence our rankings or reviews, which are based on independent analysis.
Comparison data updated February 2026. Broker terms, spreads, and conditions vary by region and account type. See our methodology | Full Disclaimer | Privacy Policy