Best Futures Brokers

Key Fees at Top Brokers

Trading fees matter, but the cheapest option isn’t always the best. We prioritize low-cost brokers that still offer great service and features.

Can I Trust These Futures Brokers?

Yes! Trading Insider only recommends regulated and reputable brokers, each overseen by at least one globally recognized authority. We monitor 30,000+ brokers—and only the best make our list.

Key trust factors include regulation, investor protection, and a proven track record. Check the interactive table below for a full breakdown.

How Trading Insider Selected the Best Futures Brokers

At Trading Insider, we ensure that every broker we recommend meets strict criteria:

✅ Regulation: Each broker is overseen by a trusted financial authority.
✅ Fees & Costs: We compare futures trading fees and withdrawal charges.
✅ Market Access: We assess the range of futures contracts available.
✅ Trading Platforms: We test desktop and mobile platforms for performance.
✅ Real Money Testing: We open accounts and trade with real funds to evaluate service quality.

FAQ

What is a Futures Contract?

A futures contract is a standardized agreement to buy or sell an asset (commodities, indices, or financial instruments) at a set price on a future date. When the contract expires, the seller must deliver the asset, and the buyer must accept it. Futures are traded on regulated exchanges and are used for speculation or hedging.

How to Choose the Best Futures Broker?

When selecting a futures broker, consider:

• Regulation (ensure it’s licensed by a top-tier authority)

• Trading Fees (look for low commissions and tight spreads)

• Market Selection (check available futures contracts)

• Platforms & Tools (test execution speed and research tools)

• Customer Support (ensure responsive and helpful service)

• Demo Account (great for beginners to practice risk-free)

Can Futures Trading Be Profitable?

Yes, futures trading can be highly profitable, but it comes with significant risk. Futures are leveraged products, meaning you can control a larger position with a small amount of capital—increasing both potential gains and losses.

Are Futures Suitable for Beginners?

Futures trading is complex and risky, making it less ideal for beginners. Due to leverage, losses can exceed your initial investment. If you’re new to trading, start with a demo account before risking real money.

How Much Capital Do You Need to Trade Futures?

The required capital varies based on:

• Contract Type (standard, mini, or micro futures)

• Broker’s Margin Requirement (a percentage of contract value)

• Market Volatility (higher volatility = higher margin requirements)

For example, if a natural gas futures contract is worth $50,000 and your broker’s initial margin is 5%, you’ll need at least $2,500 in your account.

Can You Trade Futures with $100?

Technically, yes, but it’s not practical. Most brokers have margin requirements higher than $100. With such low capital, you’d be limited to micro or nano futures, which still carry high risk.

Do You Need a Margin Account for Futures Trading?

Yes. A margin account is required to trade futures, as you’ll be borrowing funds from your broker to leverage your positions. Margin requirements vary depending on the futures contract and broker policy.