I use FXCM as my broker, and I access their services through MetaTrader 4. FXCM offers a well-established trading environment with reliable liquidity and robust market data. The integration with MT4 allows me to utilize a wide range of custom indicators and expert advisors, making the trading experience both efficient and familiar.
On the plus side, FXCM provides competitive spreads and a user-friendly interface that is especially appealing for beginners.
However, some traders may find the available account types or margin requirements somewhat limiting.
Overall, FXCM's reliability and the extensive community support associated with MT4 make it a solid choice for my current setup.
FXCM's fee structure is competitive, with spreads that are well-suited to active trading, though it's always a good idea to review their current pricing. For those exploring other options, brokers like Oanda or IG also offer MT4 compatibility with slightly different features or fee structures.

MetaTrader 5 is my go-to platform for backtesting trading strategies. Its extensive access to historical market data and advanced testing capabilities allow me to simulate various market conditions and optimize my algorithms effectively. The platform’s multi-threaded testing environment means I can iterate quickly and refine strategies based on solid historical performance.
Among the key benefits are MT5’s powerful optimization tools and the depth of its historical databases. The more modern interface and comprehensive analytics tools provide a distinct edge over older environments. However, the learning curve can be steeper if you're accustomed to other platforms and coding environment, as the languages and tools differ. Despite this, the added analytical power of MT5 is well worth the effort for thorough strategy development.

For executing live trades, I rely on MetaTrader 4. Its tried-and-tested platform is renowned for its stability, ease of use, and extensive compatibility with a wide array of expert advisors and custom indicators. MT4 reliably delivers real-time market data and order execution, ensuring that my trades are executed efficiently in a live market environment.
MT4's intuitive interface and the broad support network available online make it an excellent tool for live trading, particularly for traders who value consistency and speed. However, while it may lack some of the advanced analytical features introduced with newer platforms, its reliability and familiarity remain major advantages.
To further optimize my live trading, I host MT4 on a Virtual Private Server (VPS). This setup minimizes latency, reduces the risk of downtime, and ensures that trades run 24/7 regardless of my local internet connection. The VPS service costs around €15, depending on your location and the duration. While it is an additional expense, the enhanced stability and faster execution times it provides are invaluable.