When trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs), you may notice that the spreads shown on MetaTrader and on the platform website differ. This discrepancy is typically due to several factors:
1. Real-Time Quotes vs. Delayed Display
Live Price Fluctuations: Spreads— the gap between bid and ask— change as market prices move. MetaTrader shows live quotes, whereas the website may display a time-averaged or lagged spread.
Solution: MetaTrader connects directly to the broker’s servers for real-time pricing, so its spreads closely reflect current market conditions. The website’s spreads often lag or represent intraday averages.
2. Different Data Sources or Quoting Systems
Different Quote Feeds: The website might use a mid-price (average or snapshot), while MetaTrader shows the actual bid/ask. This leads to differences.
Solution: MetaTrader’s bid and ask reflect executable prices. Website spreads can vary depending on how quotes are sourced or aggregated.
3. Liquidity and Market Depth
Liquidity Variations: Market depth (order volume) changes over time. During thin liquidity periods (e.g., off-hours or news events), spreads widen; during high liquidity (e.g., major market opens), spreads tighten.
Solution: Trade during high-liquidity periods. MetaTrader updates spreads instantly, while the website often shows averaged values.
4. Fixed vs. Variable Spreads
Fixed Spreads: The website may advertise fixed spreads (e.g., EUR/USD = 2 pips), whereas MetaTrader displays floating spreads that vary with market conditions.
Variable Spreads: MetaTrader’s spreads float in real time, especially during volatility or low liquidity.
Solution: Check whether your account uses fixed or floating spreads. Websites often show the fixed rate; MetaTrader applies dynamic pricing.
5. Different Order Execution Types
Market vs. Pending Orders: A market order executes at an instantaneous price (spread may differ) while website spreads may reflect pending order levels or historic averages.
Solution: Account for differences in spread when placing market vs. pending orders.
6. Platform-Specific Adjustments
Platform Policies: Some platforms dynamically adjust spreads during slippage or low-liquidity periods, causing MetaTrader spreads to differ from website values.
📌 Tips:
Monitor Spreads Regularly: Spreads reflect market volatility—check them before trading.
Trade in Active Hours: Avoid thin-liquidity periods; trade when markets are most active to minimize spread differences.
Understand Spread Mechanisms: Know if your platform uses fixed or floating spreads and how they adjust under different conditions.
If you have further questions about spread discrepancies or encounter any issues, please contact our customer support team at any time—we’re here to help!