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Is Fusion Markets An ECN Broker? or Market Market? Review broker?

Is Fusion Markets An ECN Broker or Market Maker? Broker Review

Introduction

When choosing a forex broker, one of the most important factors traders consider is whether the broker operates as an ECN (Electronic Communication Network) broker or a Market Maker. Fusion Markets is a well-known forex broker that claims to offer low-cost trading, tight spreads, and fast execution. But is Fusion Markets an ECN broker or a Market Maker? In this in-depth review, we will analyze Fusion Markets' trading model, regulations, spreads, commissions, and overall trading conditions.

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What is an ECN Broker?

An ECN (Electronic Communication Network) broker directly connects traders with liquidity providers, such as banks and financial institutions. These brokers do not act as counterparties to trades but instead match orders between market participants. The key advantages of ECN brokers include:

  • Tighter spreads due to direct market access.

  • Faster execution speeds without dealer intervention.

  • Transparency in pricing and order execution.

  • Variable spreads that change based on market conditions.

What is a Market Maker Broker?

A Market Maker broker, on the other hand, creates its own market and acts as the counterparty to traders' orders. Instead of sending orders directly to liquidity providers, a Market Maker fills orders internally. Some characteristics of Market Maker brokers include:

  • Fixed spreads that may not reflect actual market conditions.

  • Possible conflicts of interest since they profit from traders' losses.

  • Slower execution speeds due to order processing.

  • Less transparency compared to ECN brokers.

Is Fusion Markets an ECN Broker or a Market Maker?

Fusion Markets claims to offer low-cost trading with tight spreads and fast execution. To determine whether Fusion Markets operates as an ECN broker or a Market Maker, we analyze key aspects of its trading model.

Trading Model

Fusion Markets operates on a No Dealing Desk (NDD) model, which means it does not manipulate prices or interfere with orders. The broker claims to use Straight-Through Processing (STP) technology, meaning client orders are directly sent to liquidity providers. This suggests that Fusion Markets is more aligned with the ECN/STP model rather than a traditional Market Maker.

Spreads and Commissions

Fusion Markets offers ultra-low spreads starting from 0.0 pips on major currency pairs. However, it charges a commission of $4.50 per lot on its RAW account, which is a common feature of ECN brokers. Market Maker brokers typically do not charge commissions and instead include costs within wider spreads.

Execution Speed and Slippage

Traders report fast execution speeds with minimal slippage on Fusion Markets. This indicates that Fusion Markets uses direct market access rather than internalizing trades like a Market Maker. Execution speed is a crucial factor in determining whether a broker operates as an ECN broker.

Regulation and Transparency

Fusion Markets is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), a well-respected financial authority. ASIC-regulated brokers are required to maintain transparency and fair trading practices. Fusion Markets also provides Level II market depth, allowing traders to see liquidity and pricing from various providers—another strong indication that it operates as an ECN broker.

Liquidity Providers

Fusion Markets sources liquidity from multiple tier-1 financial institutions. ECN brokers typically aggregate prices from several providers to offer the best available rates. Since Fusion Markets integrates with top-tier liquidity providers, it reinforces the argument that it is an ECN broker rather than a Market Maker.

Fusion Markets Account Types

Fusion Markets offers two main account types:

  1. Classic Account: Designed for beginners, with no commission but wider spreads.

  2. RAW Account: Offers the lowest spreads starting from 0.0 pips but includes a commission of $4.50 per lot.

The RAW account structure, in particular, aligns with the ECN model, as it separates spreads from commissions, unlike Market Makers who bundle costs into spread markups.

Advantages of Trading with Fusion Markets

  • Low-cost trading: Fusion Markets provides some of the lowest trading costs in the industry.

  • Tight spreads and low commissions: Competitive pricing makes it attractive for active traders.

  • Fast execution speeds: Orders are processed quickly with minimal slippage.

  • ASIC regulation: Ensures trader security and transparency.

  • No dealing desk intervention: Reduces the risk of price manipulation.

Potential Drawbacks

  • No fixed spread option: Some traders prefer fixed spreads, which Market Makers offer.

  • Limited asset selection: Fusion Markets focuses primarily on forex and CFDs.

  • No direct social trading: Lacks built-in social trading features found in some competitors.

Conclusion: Is Fusion Markets an ECN Broker?

Based on the evidence, Fusion Markets operates as an ECN/STP broker rather than a Market Maker. Its No Dealing Desk model, ultra-low spreads, commission-based pricing, direct market access, and liquidity provider integration strongly suggest that Fusion Markets provides a true ECN trading environment.

For traders looking for low-cost forex trading, tight spreads, and fast execution, Fusion Markets is an excellent choice. However, those who prefer fixed spreads or additional trading instruments may need to consider alternative brokers.

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