The Resignation Threshold Calculation Most Aspiring Full-Time Traders Skip

Several significant changes have occurred at both brokers in 2026. XM expanded their crypto offering to 50+ pairs, improved their mobile app with faster execution, and maintained their $30 no deposit bonus. Exness launched enhanced Social Trading features, reduced Raw Spread commissions from $3.50 to $3.00 per side, and introduced additional payment methods for emerging markets. Spread data from March 2026 shows Exness maintaining its cost advantage: EUR/USD averages 0.6 pips (Pro) vs XM's 0.8 pips (Ultra Low). Both brokers remain well-regulated and profitable for the right type of trader.

For the full analysis, see our related comparison.

For the overall picture, check our complete XM vs Exness comparison, which covers regulation, spreads, platforms, and deposits in one place. Also see our beginner's guide if you are just starting out.

What Changed in 2026

Both brokers have evolved significantly. Here are the most impactful changes for traders choosing between XM and Exness in 2026:

Exness Updates (2026)

• Social Trading expansion: Over 10,000 strategy providers, up from 3,000 in 2024. More choices for copy traders.
• Exness Terminal: Web-based trading platform (no download needed). Trades from any browser with full functionality.
• Expanded crypto CFDs: 35+ pairs including newer altcoins. Swap-free crypto on Islamic accounts.
• CMA Kenya license: Local regulation for East African traders.
• Faster withdrawals: E-wallet withdrawals now average 22 seconds (was 30-60 seconds in 2024).

XM Updates (2026)

• $30 no-deposit bonus maintained: One of the last major brokers still offering a significant no-deposit bonus.
• Enhanced Ultra Low account: Spreads tightened from 0.8 to 0.6 pips on major pairs.
• 1,000+ instruments: Expanded stock CFD offering — trade Apple, Tesla, Amazon from your forex account.
• Improved execution: Average execution speed improved to under 50ms (was 100ms+ in 2024).
• New deposit methods: Apple Pay, Google Pay in select regions.

2026 Head-to-Head Summary

Our 2026 Recommendation

For beginners: Start with XM. The $30 no-deposit bonus lets you test live trading risk-free. XM's educational resources accelerate your learning. The Ultra Low account with 0.6 pip spreads is excellent value at just $5 minimum deposit.

For experienced traders: Exness delivers superior trading conditions — faster execution, higher leverage, better swap rates, faster withdrawals, and an all-in-one mobile app. Once you know how to trade, Exness's conditions give you an edge.

For copy traders: Exness Social Trading is significantly better than XM's MQL5 Signals approach. Lower minimum ($1), performance-based fees, and a dedicated app.

Many traders use both: start on XM with the $30 bonus, learn the basics, then move to Exness once profitable. There is no rule against having accounts on both brokers.