Alpari International is a global forex and CFDs brokerage firm. This broker offers forex and CFD trading across a wide range of markets with low spreads and low-cost trading conditions. This broker also offers a decent range of trading accounts that are well suited to all levels of traders, regardless if they were novices or experts.
Alpari Regulation and Security
Alpari is a trading brand of Alpari International, one of the most established and most trusted brokerage groups in the industry. Alpari is an umbrella for many more brokers, and holds over 20 years of experience in the markets. Alpari operates under the regulation of the Financial Services Commission of the Republic of Mauritius through its parent company, Exinity Limited.
As part of its many security measures, Alpari offers negative balance protection, which protects traders from sudden market changes that come with numerous risks. If the market suddenly changes against the trades favor, the trader is still guaranteed that his or her account funds will not drop into negate balance.
Furthermore, Alpari holds a membership on the Financial Commission, a third party dispute resolution that focuses on forex and CFDs brokers. If a trader files for dispute and the Financial Commission sides with his or her claim, then Alpari will have to compensate the trader for his lost funds for up to EUR 20,000 maximum.
Alpari Platform Services
Alpari offers two noteworthy platforms: the classic MT4 and MT5. Both developed by MetaQuotes, the two platforms remain as the most well-known and most-used platforms in the industry.
MetaTrader 4&5
Alpari International provides both MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 in their web versions. Both have a dealing desk, Autochartist, and algorithmic trading. The two also provide a high level of flexibility, which includes advanced charting tools and easy navigation. Both MT4 and MT5 also offer a customization feature that allows each trader to set the platform according to their preferences. Both versions of the two platforms are available in iOS, Android, WebTrader, and Desktop.
When it comes to the level of compatibility between the trader’s skills and the sophistication of the platform, both MT4 and MT5 are well-suited for beginners and professionals. All levels of traders, especially beginners, are encouraged to begin with MT4 since this platform has a user-friendly and intuitive interface. It also works well for expert traders since the platform is highly sophisticated.
Alpari Direct Platform
For more experienced traders looking for higher volumes of trade, the Alpari International Direct platforms are also available. This platform has only been recently enhanced and updated, and made to cater to advanced investors with all the additional features added on the platform. This platform also offers a high level of sophistication and efficiency, and directly connects traders to the markets.
Alpari Trading Conditions
Alpari offers decent trading conditions that are on the same level as its peers. It is well known for offering some of the lowest margins for forex trading, making it one of the most popular choices for traders.
Spreads & Commission
Alpari International offers spreads that begin at 0.4 pips for major currency pairs, which are some of the lowest on the market. Spread levels commonly vary for each trading account, and some accounts offer tighter spreads than others. The Micro MT4 account offers spreads that begin from as low as 1.7 pipes for major Forex pairs.
The standard MT4 account offers spreads that begin from 1.2 pips for major Forex pairs. On the other hand, a more experienced trader will likely prefer the ECN account, which offers spreads that begin from as low as 0.4 pips for major currencies. Note that professional traders seeking to trade individual stocks will need to open an ECN Pro account. The two other accounts do not offer individual stock trading.
Leverage
The leverage levels on Alpari generally differ for each account type. The MT4 Micro Account can provide a leverage of up to 1:400 maximum. The ECN account, as well as the standard MT4 account provide a leverage of up to 1:1000 maximum.
The amount of leverage, beginning from 1:1000, generally decreases as the notional size of open positions increases. For example, a total notional value of $8 million will lead the leverage to fall to 1:25. If the trader is looking to trade individual stocks and cryptocurrencies, the maximum leverage offered is less due to regulatory rules.
Alpari International also advises traders that certain levels of multipliers and particular products are not available to those based in the countries under the European Economic Area due to legal and regulatory restrictions.
Alpari Review Conclusion
To sum it all up, Alpari offers competitive trading conditions that are most suited for professional traders looking for a wide range of account types to choose from. The spread and leverage levels offered at Alpari are industry-standard. This broker also offers accounts that provide tight spreads, while other accounts can go higher. Alpari offers low margins for forex trading, which means that it is also a good option for professional currency traders.