Moomoo vs CMC Markets: Comparing Two Popular Trading Platforms

Key takeaways

When it comes to choosing the right trading platform in Australia, many investors are comparing moomoo vs CMC Markets to find the best fit for their needs. Both platforms offer access to Australian and international markets, but they differ in fees, trading tools, and user experience. Australian investors looking for low-cost trading with advanced features are especially interested in how these two brokers stack up against each other.

Moomoo has recently gained attention in Australia for its CHESS-sponsored brokerage, low trading fees starting from just AUD $3 per trade, and a user-friendly multi-terminal app that supports trading across global assets. Meanwhile, CMC Markets is a well-established broker known for its zero-commission trades on smaller Australian share purchases and comprehensive research tools.

This article will explore the key differences between moomoo and CMC Markets to help Aussie investors decide which platform suits their trading style and goals best.

Moomoo vs CMC Markets comparison: how do they compare?

The comparison between moomoo vs CMC Markets highlights how these two popular trading platforms stack up across key areas important to Australian investors. From fees and commissions to the variety of investment options, trading tools, and user experience, understanding their differences can help you choose the platform that best fits your trading style and goals.

This section breaks down how moomoo and CMC Markets perform in critical categories such as brokerage costs on the ASX and US exchanges, types of investment options, trading tools and features, security and regulation, etc.

Let’s dive in!

Fees and commissions

1. Australian (ASX) brokerage fees

• Moomoo charges A$3 or 0.03%, very cost-effective for low-volume traders.

• CMC gives a free first buy (daily, under A$1k), but all subsequent trades invoke higher fees (≥A$11 or 0.10%, with Alpha tier slightly lower).

2. U.S. (NASDAQ & NYSE) brokerage fees

• Moomoo charges a USD 0.99 per trade, but additional settlement and trading fees apply.

• CMC Markets offers zero brokerage for US stocks but applies a 0.6% foreign exchange spread on all international orders.

Types of investment options

In evaluating moomoo vs CMC Markets, it's essential to understand the breadth of investment vehicles each platform offers. Investors need to know whether they can trade domestic and international stocks, ETFs, options, managed funds, or use features like recurring investments.

Below is a breakdown of each platform’s supported asset types and functionality for a clear comparison.

Both moomoo and CMC Markets offer a variety of investment products, but they differ in scope and focus. Moomoo primarily targets stock and options traders, providing access to stocks, ETFs, options, and ADRs across multiple markets including Australia, the U.S. and Hong Kong.

CMC Markets, on the other hand, is well known for its extensive range of CFDs, forex, and spread betting products, alongside stocks and ETFs. This makes CMC Markets more suitable for traders interested in leveraged products and forex, while moomoo appeals more to investors focused on straightforward equity and options trading.

Trading tools and features

Both moomoo and CMC Markets offer a range of trading tools designed to support investors from beginners to more advanced traders.

Moomoo stands out with its advanced charting capabilities, real-time Level 2 market data (especially for US markets), AI-powered market monitors, and a social trading community that allows users to share ideas. It also offers paper trading, which is useful for practising strategies without risking real money.

CMC Markets provides a powerful platform with extensive charting tools, a wide selection of technical indicators, and access to a broad range of markets including CFDs, forex, and spread betting, appealing to traders who want diverse and leveraged products.

User interface and experience

When it comes to user interface and overall experience, both moomoo and CMC Markets offer high-quality platforms tailored for Australian investors, but they focus on slightly different strengths.

Moomoo

• Intuitive & visually appealing: The interface is consistently praised for its clean design, easy navigation, and beginner-friendly layout. Users frequently note its balance between simplicity and advanced tools.

• Cross-platform consistency: Whether on mobile, web, or desktop, moomoo delivers a seamless experience—letting you begin a task on one device and finish it on another without disruption.

• Highly rated mobile app: Both iOS and Android users regularly award it over 4.5 stars, highlighting fluid usability, quick sign-ups, and robust security features like passcode/fingerprint login.

• Social trading experience: Includes a community feed where you can follow, post, and learn from other traders—making it feel like a social network built around investing.

• Informative dashboards: Charts, data, and news sections are neatly organized—optimizing access to information with minimal clutter.

CMC Markets

Next Generation platform: The flagship desktop interface is award-winning—blending professional-grade tools with an intuitive layout. It supports multiple saved workspace layouts (up to five), enhancing workflow customization.

Clean and consistent mobile/web experience: The Next Generation mobile app mirrors the desktop functionality, offering comprehensive charting, screeners, and order tools. iOS adds fingerprint login for enhanced security.

Third-party integration: Offers MetaTrader 4 for advanced traders requiring automated strategies and extensive customization.

Source from: https://www.cmcmarkets.com/en-au

Security and regulation

Security and regulation are critical factors for Australian investors when choosing between moomoo and CMC Markets. Both platforms are well-regulated and take strong measures to protect client funds and personal information.

Moomoo

• Regulated by ASIC: In Australia, moomoo operates under Moomoo Securities Australia Ltd (ABN 51 095 920 648), which holds an AFSL No. 224663 from the Australian Securities & Investments Commission.

• Client Fund Segregation: Customer assets are held in segregated trust accounts (e.g., CBA, HSBC), ensuring a clear separation from the company's own operational funds.

• CHESS Sponsorship (ASX Trading): As a CHESS-sponsored broker, moomoo grants users full control of their ASX holdings under their personal HIN—enhancing security and transparency.

• Global Regulatory Backbone: Beyond ASIC, moomoo’s parent, Futu Holdings (NASDAQ-listed), maintains licensing across top-tier jurisdictions—including Hong Kong, Canada, Malaysia, the US (SIPC), and Singapore, improving oversight and investor protections.

CMC Markets

• Regulation by ASIC and International Authorities: CMC Markets Australia is regulated by ASIC, alongside licensure in several major jurisdictions, including FCA (UK), BaFin (Germany), IIROC (Canada), MAS (Singapore), DFSA, and FMA.

• Strict Client Money Protections: Client funds are held in major bank trust accounts, segregated from company operating capital. CMC also commits to using its own funds for hedging, not customer assets.

• Transparency & Financial Resilience: As a publicly listed company (LSE: CMCX) and member of the Australian Retail OTC Derivatives Association, CMC demonstrates strong capital adequacy and transparency.

Customer support

Moomoo

• 24/5 live support: Phone lines operate around the clock during trading days, and on non-trading days (weekends or holidays), support runs from 09:30 AET to 21:30 AET. You can reach them at 1300 086 668 (within Australia) or +61 2 7229 5636 (overseas).

• Online inquiry & chat: Through the app under Me > Customer Service, users can submit queries or request a live agent by typing "agent" in the chat interface.

• Email access: Direct support is available via support@au.moomoo.com for Australian customers.

CMC Markets

• 5‑day weekday support: Customer service is available Monday to Friday via phone, email, and live chat—but not 24/7, so time zones can affect accessibility.

• Multilingual assistance: Support is offered in at least nine languages, including English, Chinese, German, French, and Spanish, which is particularly useful for global traders.

Mobile access

In today's fast-paced trading environment, robust mobile platforms are essential. Both moomoo and CMC Markets offer comprehensive mobile apps designed to cater to traders on the go. Here's how they compare:

Both moomoo and CMC Markets provide robust mobile trading platforms. Moomoo stands out with its Level II market data and in-app community features, catering to traders who value depth and social engagement.

On the other hand, CMC Markets offers a broader range of tradable instruments and client sentiment analysis, appealing to those seeking comprehensive market coverage and insights.

Which is best for Aussie investors: moomoo vs CMC Markets

For Australian investors deciding between moomoo and CMC Markets, the choice largely depends on your trading style, investment goals, and priorities around fees and features.

Overall, moomoo tends to be more cost-effective for most retail investors, especially those trading larger amounts or seeking access to a wide range of global markets with advanced tools.

Moomoo offers competitive ASX brokerage fees starting at just AUD 3 per trade, CHESS-sponsored accounts for direct share ownership, and access to over 22,000 products across Australia, the U.S., Hong Kong, and more. Its platform is praised for its modern interface, real-time data, AI-powered insights, and a strong social trading community, which appeals to both beginners and active traders.

CMC Markets, on the other hand, is a well-established broker with a strong reputation for reliability and regulatory compliance. It offers zero brokerage on ASX trades under $1,000 but charges $11 for larger trades, which can make it more expensive than moomoo for frequent or high-value trading.

CMC Markets also provides access to CFDs, forex, and spread betting, making it a better choice for traders interested in leveraged products and a broader asset range. Its platform is robust, with advanced charting and research tools, though some users find its mobile app less comprehensive compared to the desktop version.

So, if you focused mainly on stock and options trading with low fees, broad market access, and a user-friendly, feature-rich platform, moomoo is likely the better choice.

If you prefer a broker with a long-standing market presence, strong regulatory oversight, and access to leveraged products like CFDs and forex, CMC Markets may suit you better.

moomoo vs CMC Markets FAQs

1. How to transfer shares from CMC Markets to moomoo?

Initiate Transfer in moomoo App:

• Open the moomoo app and navigate to:

• Accounts > Transfers > Transfer Stock In > AU Stocks.

• Select CMC Markets as the source broker.

Provide Transfer Details:

• Enter the following information:

• Your Holder Identification Number (HIN).

• List of stocks to transfer, including stock symbols and quantities.

• Your CMC Markets account number.

Submit Transfer Request:

• Review all details for accuracy.

• Submit the transfer request through the moomoo app.

Notify CMC Markets:

• Contact CMC Markets to inform them of the pending transfer.

• Provide moomoo's transfer details, including:

• Brokerage Name: Moomoo Securities Australia Ltd

• PID: 3557 (for CHESS-sponsored accounts)

• Address: Suite 5.01, 570 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000

• Email: settlement@au.moomoo.com

Await Transfer Completion:

• Transfers typically take 7–10 business days, but this can vary.

• Ensure that both accounts are under the same name to avoid delays.

2. Is CMC Markets CHESS-sponsored?

Yes, CMC Markets offers CHESS-sponsored accounts for Australian investors. This means that when you trade ASX-listed shares through CMC Markets, your holdings are registered directly in your name on the CHESS (Clearing House Electronic Subregister System) managed by the ASX. This setup provides you with a unique Holder Identification Number (HIN) and ensures direct ownership of your shares, offering enhanced transparency and security.

It's worth noting that CMC Markets has undergone changes in its CHESS sponsorship arrangements. As of early 2025, CMC Markets Stockbroking Limited announced the novation of its CHESS Sponsorship Agreement to Openmarkets Australia Limited, effective from February 21, 2025. This transition means that while CMC Markets continues to offer CHESS-sponsored services, the CHESS sponsorship is now facilitated through Openmarkets.

3. What are the benefits of investing with moomoo over CMC Markets?

The benefits of investing with moomoo over CMC Markets include generally lower and more transparent fees, especially for ASX and U.S. trades, CHESS-sponsored accounts for direct share ownership, access to a wide range of global markets in one platform, advanced AI-powered trading tools, and a user-friendly, modern interface. Moomoo also offers strong educational resources and 24/5 customer support, making it particularly attractive for cost-conscious and active Australian investors.

4. Is moomoo good for beginners?

Yes, moomoo is good for beginners. It offers an intuitive and powerful platform with advanced tools like real-time data, versatile charts, and paper trading, which allows new investors to practice trading risk-free using virtual money. Moomoo also provides a wealth of educational resources, including tutorials and courses, to help beginners build confidence and improve their trading skills in a supportive environment.

5. How do I sign up with moomoo?

It only takes 3 simple steps to sign up with moomoo.