City Index Trading Broker Review

Written by Christopher Lewis
Christopher Lewis
Christopher Lewis is a professional trader and author specialized in Forex and Crypto trading.
, | Updated: January 29, 2025

City Index, founded in 1983, is a globally recognized online trading platform that offers a range of financial instruments for both beginner and experienced traders. Initially established in London, City Index is part of the GAIN Capital Group, which has expanded its reach to provide comprehensive trading services worldwide. With a strong presence in several countries, City Index is known for offering access to various markets, including forex, indices, commodities, stocks, and more.

At-a-glance Statistics

Number of Tradable FX pairs
Number of Regulators
TrustPilot Rating
Number of TrustPilot Reviews
Traffic & Engagement
  • Total visits, December 2024:182,380
  • Device distribution:
  • Desktop: 48.92%
  • Mobile: 51.08%
  • Visit duration: 00:01:17
Social Traffic
  • Visitors:
  • Youtube: 54.97%
  • LinkedIn: 12.04%
  • Facebook: 4.35%
  • X: 26.64%
  • Other: 2%
Geographic Distribution of City Index Website Traffic

City Index Contact Information

The platform caters to both novice traders looking to learn and experienced investors seeking advanced tools and resources for strategic trading. For beginners, City Index provides educational resources, a user-friendly interface, and a range of simple, straightforward trading options. Advanced traders, on the other hand, can take advantage of the company’s cutting-edge platforms and sophisticated tools to analyze the markets and execute trades efficiently.

City Index is fully regulated by reputable authorities across different regions, ensuring that traders’ funds are safeguarded under strict regulatory oversight. Additionally, the platform supports various trading platforms, including its proprietary web platform and mobile apps, giving users flexibility and convenience. With competitive spreads, leverage options, and advanced charting tools, City Index is suitable for a wide array of traders, from those just beginning their trading journey to seasoned professionals.

General Information about City Index

Regulators Australian Securities and Investments Commission, Financial Conduct Authority, Monetary Authority of Singapore
Min. Deposit $0 ($150 for Singapore and Australia)
Trading Platforms MetaTrader 4, Proprietary Mobile, Proprietary Web, TradingView
Number of Forex pairs 84
Account Security and Protections SSL Encryption, 2FA, Negative Balance Protection, Guaranteed Stop Loss

Account Information

Account Types Standard Account, Premium Account, MetaTrader 4 Account, Corporate Account
ECN Account Not Available
Pro Account Not Available
MAM Account Not Available

Trading Information

Markets Bond Spread Betting, Bonds CFDs, Commodities CFDs, Crypto CFDs, ETF CFDs, Forex CFDs, Indices CFDs, Interest Rate CFDs, Metals CFDs, Share CFDs, Stock Options, Thematic Indices
Min Contact Size 0.01
Min Account Balance USD0
Scalping Allowed Available
Hedging Allowed Available
PAMM Trading Not Available
Swap-free Trading Not Available

Spreads

Market Instrument Account Spread
any AUDUSD Standard Account MIN 0.5 pips
any Bitcoin Standard Account MIN 80 pips
any Ethereum Standard Account MIN 4 pips
any EURGBP Standard Account MIN 1.1 pips
any EURUSD Standard Account MIN 0.7 pips
any GBPUSD Standard Account MIN 1.1 pips
any Gold Standard Account MIN 0.3 pips
any NZDUSD Standard Account MIN 1.4 pips
any Ripple Standard Account MIN 0.7 pips
any USDCHF Standard Account MIN 1.8 pips
any USDCNY Standard Account MIN 7.8 pips
any USDJPY Standard Account MIN 0.6 pips

Leverage

Crypto CFDs 1:2 (FCA | Standard Account)
Forex CFDs 1:200 (ASIC | Pro Account)
Forex CFDs 1:400 (FCA | Pro Account)
Forex CFDs 1:30 (FCA | Standard Account)
Forex CFDs 1:20 (MAS | Standard Account)
Metals CFDs 1:20 (FCA | Standard Account)
Metals CFDs 1:5 (MAS | Standard Account)

Deposit Methods

Visa CardNot Available
MasterCardNot Available
PaypalAvailable
Credit/Debit CardAvailable
AmexNot Available
Bank/Wire TransferAvailable
CryptoNot Available
BitcoinNot Available
SkrillNot Available
NetellerNot Available
Google PayNot Available
Apple PayNot Available
PayidAvailable
USDTNot Available
TetherNot Available
AstropayNot Available

Regulations and Security

City Index is a highly regulated online trading platform, ensuring the safety of its users’ funds and maintaining a transparent and secure trading environment. In the United Kingdom, City Index is fully authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and holds client funds in accordance with the FCA’s client money rules, meaning your funds are always protected in segregated client accounts. Additionally, City Index is a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). In the event of liquidation, clients may be compensated up to £85,000 by the FSCS.

For clients outside the UK, City Index operates under the regulations of various other authorities, such as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Australia and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), ensuring compliance with local regulations.

On the security front, City Index employs advanced encryption technologies and secure trading protocols to safeguard users’ personal information and trading activities. The platform uses industry-standard measures such as SSL encryption to protect sensitive data during online transactions, making it a safe choice for traders worldwide.

Account Types and Features

City Index provides several account types to cater to the needs of different traders. These accounts come with varying features to suit both beginners and experienced traders, each providing access to a wide range of markets and trading tools.

  • City Index Standard Account

    The Standard Account provides access to forex, indices, commodities, and shares. Suitable for both beginners and experienced traders, it offers competitive spreads, leverage, and a seamless trading experience for those engaging in diverse trading across asset classes.

  • MT4 Account

    The MT4 Account grants access to advanced charting, automated trading, and expert advisors (EAs). Ideal for traders who prefer MT4’s user-friendly interface and powerful analysis tools, this account supports forex, indices, and commodities.

  • Corporate Trading Account

    Designed for businesses and institutions, the Corporate Account offers higher deposit limits, multiple user access, and dedicated support. It provides tailored services to meet organizational trading needs and goals.

  • Demo Account

    The Demo Account is ideal for beginners to practice with virtual funds in a risk-free environment. It also allows experienced traders to test strategies and explore new tools without financial risk.

Opening an account with City Index is simple and can be done in just a few steps:

  1. Visit the Website: Head to the City Index website and click the “Open an Account” button to begin the registration process.
  2. Choose Your Account Type: Select the account type that best suits your trading preferences—whether it’s the Standard Account, MT4 Account, Corporate Account, or Demo Account.
  3. Provide Personal Information: Complete the registration form by entering your personal information, including your name, email address, and residential address.
  4. Submit Verification Documents: To comply with regulatory requirements, you will need to submit identification documents (e.g., passport, driver’s license) and proof of address (e.g., utility bills or bank statements).
  5. Make a Deposit: After your identity is verified, you can fund your account using a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets.
  6. Start Trading: Once your account is funded and activated, you can log in to the City Index platform or MT4 to begin trading across various financial instruments.

City Index’s array of account types ensures that traders of all experience levels have the flexibility to choose the account that best fits their needs. Whether you’re a beginner starting with a standard account, a trader looking for the advanced capabilities of MT4, or a corporate client, City Index provides the tools and support to help you succeed.

Trading Platforms

City Index provides a range of trading platforms to meet the diverse needs of traders, whether they are beginners or professionals. The platforms are designed for easy navigation and offer robust features to enhance trading efficiency.

  • City Index Web Trader: A browser-based platform, Web Trader allows traders to access their accounts and place trades directly from their web browser. No downloads are required, making it a quick and convenient option for those who prefer simplicity. It features real-time price quotes, advanced charting tools, and one-click trading, making it suitable for traders on the go.
  • City Index Mobile App: Available for both iOS and Android, the City Index Mobile App offers a fully functional mobile trading experience. Traders can manage their accounts, view live market data, and execute trades from anywhere. The app provides a user-friendly interface, customizable charts, and real-time alerts, enabling traders to stay on top of market movements at all times.
  • MetaTrader 4 (MT4): For traders who prefer a more technical platform, City Index offers MT4, one of the most widely used trading platforms in the world. MT4 provides advanced charting tools, customizable indicators, and the ability to use automated trading systems, such as Expert Advisors (EAs). It’s ideal for forex traders and those who need a robust, customizable platform for technical analysis
  • ProWeb Trader: ProWeb Trader is a more advanced web-based platform, designed for experienced traders. It offers powerful charting tools, real-time alerts, and advanced order execution features, making it perfect for traders who require more flexibility and precision.
  • ProTrader: ProTrader is a downloadable desktop platform that provides advanced trading features, including customizable charting, risk management tools, and fast order execution. It’s best for high-volume traders and those who prefer a professional-grade experience.

    Platform Features

    • Real-Time Market Data: Live price feeds for informed trading decisions.
    • Charting and Technical Analysis: A wide range of customizable indicators and drawing tools.
    • Mobile and Tablet Access: Fully functional apps for trading on the go.
    • Customization: Tailor layouts and settings to your preferences.
    • Multi-Device Support: Trade from desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

Trading Instruments

City Index offers a diverse range of trading instruments, providing traders with numerous options to explore across multiple asset classes. With competitive leverage and tight spreads, traders can access various markets to suit their strategies and risk profiles.

  • Forex

    • Currency Pairs: City Index offers a wide selection of over 80 currency pairs, including popular majors like EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY, along with minor and exotic pairs such as NZD/JPY and USD/TRY.
    • Leverage: Leverage varies depending on the asset and account type, with up to 30:1 leverage available on major currency pairs. This allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller capital investment.
    • Spreads: City Index provides competitive spreads starting from 0.5 pips on popular pairs like EUR/USD, with no hidden fees. Spreads may vary based on market conditions and account type.
  • Commodities

    • Metals: Precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum are available for trading on City Index. With competitive leverage and tight spreads, traders can speculate on these safe-haven assets with ease. Gold and silver are popular choices for hedging against market uncertainty and inflation.
    • Energies: Energy commodities, including crude oil (both Brent and WTI) and natural gas, are available for trading. City Index offers competitive leverage and low spreads on these high-liquidity markets, which are ideal for traders seeking exposure to the energy sector. The leverage on energy products may vary depending on the asset and market conditions.
    • Soft Commodities: City Index also offers a selection of soft commodities such as coffee, sugar, and cocoa. These markets may be more volatile but present unique trading opportunities for those interested in agricultural commodities. Spread and leverage conditions for soft commodities can fluctuate based on market conditions and volatility.
  • Indices

    City Index provides access to major global indices like the FTSE 100, S&P 500, and NASDAQ. Indices offer exposure to the performance of entire markets or sectors, with low spreads and leverage options allowing traders to speculate on market movements with flexibility.

  • Shares and ETFs

    With over 4,000 global stocks and a wide selection of ETFs available, City Index enables traders to speculate on individual companies or diversify their portfolios with baskets of stocks.

Trading Conditions

City Index offers competitive and flexible trading conditions tailored to different trading strategies and asset classes.

  • Leverage
    Leverage options vary depending on the asset. For forex, traders can access leverage up to 30:1, allowing for larger positions with less capital. Leverage for other instruments, like commodities and indices, may differ based on the market and asset class.
  • Spreads
    City Index provides tight spreads, starting from 0.5 pips on major forex pairs like EUR/USD. Commodities such as gold and oil, as well as indices, also benefit from competitive spreads, reducing overall trading costs. The transparent pricing structure ensures no hidden fees.
  • Execution
    The platform offers fast, reliable execution, with minimal slippage during volatile market periods. Orders are filled quickly, ensuring that traders can capture market movements without delays.
  • Order Types
    Traders have access to a wide range of order types, including market, limit, stop, and trailing stop orders. These options allow traders to implement various strategies and manage risk effectively.
  • Account Funding and Withdrawal
    City Index supports multiple funding methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. Withdrawal times typically range from 1-3 business days, with clear and transparent fees.

Deposits and Withdrawals

City Index offers a variety of options for depositing and withdrawing funds, ensuring that traders can easily manage their accounts and execute trades with flexibility. The platform supports several payment methods, with clear processes in place to ensure smooth transactions.

Deposit Methods

Traders can fund their City Index accounts using various methods, including:

  • Bank Transfers: Secure and reliable for larger transactions, with deposits typically processed within 1-3 business days.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard payments are accepted, with deposits usually processed instantly, allowing for quick access to funds.
  • E-wallets: Options such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller offer fast deposits, typically processed within minutes.

City Index does not charge deposit fees, although some third-party payment providers may apply their own charges.

Withdrawal Methods

Withdrawals can be made using the same methods as deposits. Bank transfers generally take 1-3 business days to process, while e-wallet withdrawals are typically faster, often completed within a few hours. Credit/debit card withdrawals may take slightly longer to process, depending on the bank’s procedures.

Processing Times and Fees

City Index strives for transparent and fast processing times. While there are no fees for most deposit and withdrawal methods, traders should be aware of potential third-party charges or fees imposed by their bank or payment provider. Additionally, withdrawal requests may require identity verification for security reasons, which can slightly extend processing times.

Copy Trading and Additional Services

City Index offers innovative features designed to enhance the trading experience, including copy trading and additional services that cater to traders looking for automated or diversified strategies.

Copy Trading

City Index’s Copy Trading feature allows traders to mirror the trades of experienced investors. This service provides an easy way for less experienced traders to access the expertise of successful professionals by automatically copying their trades in real-time. Traders can choose from a range of top traders based on their performance, risk levels, and trading styles, making it ideal for those who want to learn from others or take a more hands-off approach to trading.

Additional Services

City Index also provides access to several useful tools and features to support traders in making informed decisions:

  • Market Analysis: Comprehensive market insights, including daily news, charting analysis, and technical reports, are available to help traders stay updated on market trends and events.
  • Risk Management Tools: City Index offers stop-loss orders, limit orders, and guaranteed stop losses to help traders protect their investments and manage risk effectively.
  • Education and Support: The platform provides a range of educational materials, webinars, and tutorials to help traders improve their skills, along with access to a knowledgeable support team.

Customer Support

City Index prides itself on providing excellent customer support, ensuring that traders can receive assistance when needed. With multiple communication channels and a knowledgeable team, City Index is committed to offering timely and efficient solutions to any inquiries or issues.

  • Support Channels

    • Live Chat: Available 24/5, live chat is the fastest way to get in touch with a representative. It provides real-time responses to urgent queries.
    • Phone Support: For more detailed inquiries, customers can reach City Index by phone. The support team is available during business hours and offers assistance in several languages.
    • Email Support: For less urgent queries, traders can email City Index’s support team. Email responses are typically provided within 24 hours.
  • Knowledge Base and Resources

    In addition to direct support, City Index provides a comprehensive Help Center on its website. The knowledge base includes answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs), guides on account management, trading tools, and educational content, helping users find solutions quickly on their own.

  • Multilingual Support

    City Index offers multilingual customer support to cater to its global client base, ensuring that traders from different regions receive the assistance they need in their preferred language.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Wide Range of Instruments: City Index offers diverse trading options, including forex, commodities, indices, shares, and cryptocurrencies.
  • Competitive Spreads and Leverage: With spreads from 0.5 pips and attractive leverage options, traders benefit from cost-effective trading.
  • Multiple Platforms: Access to Web Trader, MT4, and ProTrader provides flexibility for both beginners and advanced traders.
  • Copy Trading: The copy trading feature lets traders follow successful strategies, ideal for less experienced users.
  • Strong Customer Support: Available 24/5 via live chat, phone, and email, ensuring responsive assistance.

Cons

  • Limited Cryptocurrencies: City Index offers a smaller selection of cryptocurrencies compared to some competitors.
  • Withdrawal Times: Withdrawals via credit/debit cards can take longer than e-wallet options.
  • Fee Transparency: While deposit fees are absent, some withdrawal methods may incur charges, and spreads can fluctuate.

Conclusion

City Index offers a reliable and feature-rich trading platform suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. With a wide range of instruments, competitive spreads, and flexible leverage options, it provides a solid foundation for traders to manage and grow their investments. The availability of multiple account types, including the Standard, MT4, and Corporate Accounts, ensures that traders can choose the best fit for their needs, whether they are trading individually or as part of a business.

The platform’s additional services, such as copy trading and a comprehensive knowledge base, further enhance the overall trading experience. Combined with responsive customer support and a user-friendly interface, City Index continues to be a strong choice for those looking to engage in online trading. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned investor, City Index offers the tools and resources to help you succeed in a dynamic trading environment.

Why You Should Trust RationalFX

When it comes to making informed decisions about forex brokers, it's essential to rely on trustworthy sources. RationalFX, a company with over 17 years of experience since its founding in 2005, has established itself as a credible authority in the industry. With an impressive collection of over 2500 reviews on Trustpilot, boasting a score of 4.2, it's clear that Rational FX has built a reputation for providing reliable and unbiased information.

What sets Rational FX apart is its rigorous evaluation process, which considers over 30 different criteria when selecting forex brokers. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of a broker's service is taken in consideration, including regulation, forex spreads, trading platforms, deposit methods, and reputation. With its wealth of experience, transparent review process, and outstanding customer feedback, Rational FX is a trusted source for anyone seeking reliable information on forex brokers. You can reach us via e-mail at feedback@rationalfx.com or contact us through our social media accounts here: Facebook, YouTube, or leave a feedback here.