Eightcap Raw Account Guide, Covering Forex Broker Checks, Trading Use Cases, and Risks

A complete guide to the Eightcap Raw Account – understand raw spreads, commissions, minimum deposits, and how this account type compares to others. Learn about broker checks, trading use cases, and key risks.

📖 Contents

What Is the Eightcap Raw Account?

The Eightcap Raw Account is a premium trading account designed for traders who require the tightest possible spreads and are willing to pay a transparent commission in return. Unlike standard accounts that offer commission-free trading with wider spreads, the Raw Account provides access to raw spreads – the actual interbank spreads that liquidity providers offer to the broker – with a small mark-up converted into a per-trade commission.

Eightcap is a globally recognised forex and CFD broker that was founded in 2009. The broker is regulated by multiple tier-1 authorities, including ASIC (Australia), FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), and FSCA (South Africa). The Raw Account is one of three main account types offered by Eightcap, alongside the Standard Account and the Professional (PRO) Account.

The Raw Account is particularly popular among scalpers, day traders, and algorithmic traders who execute a high volume of trades and require minimal slippage and the tightest possible spreads to maximise their profitability.

📌 Key point: The Raw Account is not commission-free. It offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips but charges a commission per lot per side. This structure is designed for active traders who prioritise low spreads over simplicity.

Raw Account Key Features

The Eightcap Raw Account comes with a specific set of features tailored for active traders. The table below summarises the key specifications.

Feature Raw Account Specification
Minimum Deposit $100
Spread Type Raw (from 0.0 pips)
Commission $3.50 per lot per side
Leverage Up to 1:500 (subject to regulatory limits)
Execution Type Market Execution
Platforms MT4, MT5, TradingView
Instruments All instruments (forex, indices, commodities, shares, crypto)
Base Currencies USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD
Islamic Account Available on request
Demo Account Free demo available

Source: Eightcap official account specifications. Spreads are variable and subject to market conditions. Leverage may be restricted for certain jurisdictions (e.g., retail clients under ASIC/FCA are capped at 1:30).

The Raw Account offers access to all instruments available on Eightcap, including over 60 currency pairs, major indices, commodities (gold, silver, oil), shares, and cryptocurrencies. This makes it a versatile choice for traders who want to diversify across multiple asset classes.

Raw vs Standard Account

Choosing between the Raw Account and the Standard Account is one of the most important decisions for Eightcap traders. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison.

Feature Raw Account Standard Account
Spread Type Raw (from 0.0 pips) Variable (from 0.6 pips)
Commission $3.50 per side per lot None
Total Cost (1 lot EUR/USD) ~$7.00 (spread + commission) ~$6.00 (spread only)
Best For Scalpers, day traders, high-frequency traders Beginners, swing traders, low-frequency traders
Minimum Deposit $100 $100

Source: Eightcap official account specifications. Costs are indicative and may vary based on market conditions.

The choice between Raw and Standard accounts depends on your trading style:

📌 Scenario: A day trader executes 20 trades per day, each of 1 lot on EUR/USD. With the Raw Account, the average spread is 0.1 pips ($1) plus $3.50 per side commission ($7 total), costing $8 per trade. Over 20 trades, the daily cost is $160. With the Standard Account, the spread is 0.6 pips ($6) with no commission, costing $6 per trade. Over 20 trades, the daily cost is $120. In this case, the Standard Account is cheaper. However, if the trader switches to gold or exotic pairs where spreads are wider, the Raw Account may become more competitive.

Spreads and Commissions

Understanding the cost structure of the Raw Account is essential for calculating your trading expenses. The Raw Account's cost is the sum of the raw spread and the commission.

Raw Spreads

Raw spreads are the actual interbank spreads provided by Eightcap's liquidity providers. These spreads can be as low as 0.0 pips on major pairs like EUR/USD, but they vary based on market conditions, liquidity, and volatility. Raw spreads are typically tighter than standard variable spreads, especially during high-liquidity periods.

Commission Structure

The Raw Account charges a commission of $3.50 per lot per side. This means that for a standard lot (100,000 units), you pay $3.50 when you open a trade and another $3.50 when you close it. The total round-turn commission is $7.00 per lot.

Total Cost Calculation

To calculate the total cost of a trade on the Raw Account:

📌 Tip: When comparing the Raw Account to the Standard Account, always calculate the total cost per trade based on the instrument you trade most frequently. For pairs with wider spreads (e.g., exotic pairs), the Raw Account often becomes more cost-effective despite the commission.

Who Should Use the Raw Account?

The Raw Account is not for everyone. It is designed for specific types of traders who can benefit from its structure. Below is a checklist to help you decide if the Raw Account is right for you.

  • You are an active trader: You execute at least 5–10 trades per day and rely on tight spreads for profitability.
  • You are a scalper or day trader: Your strategy involves holding positions for short periods and capturing small price movements.
  • You use algorithmic trading: Your Expert Advisors (EAs) or automated strategies benefit from low spreads and fast execution.
  • You trade liquid pairs: You primarily trade major forex pairs like EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY, where raw spreads are tightest.
  • You understand the cost structure: You are aware of the commission and can factor it into your profit calculations.
  • You have sufficient capital: While the minimum deposit is $100, active trading with tight stops may require larger account sizes to absorb drawdowns.

If you are a beginner or trade infrequently, the Standard Account may be a better fit due to its simplicity and commission-free structure. The Raw Account's commission can erode profits for low-frequency traders.

How to Open a Raw Account

Opening an Eightcap Raw Account is a straightforward process. Follow the steps below to get started.

  • Visit the Eightcap website – Go to the official Eightcap website and click on 'Open Account' or 'Sign Up'.
  • Complete the registration form – Provide your personal details, including name, email, phone number, and country of residence.
  • Select the Raw Account – During the account selection step, choose the 'Raw Account' option. You can also select it later in the client portal.
  • Choose your base currency – Select from USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, or AUD.
  • Verify your identity – Submit proof of identity (passport or ID) and proof of address (utility bill or bank statement) to meet KYC requirements.
  • Fund your account – Make a minimum deposit of $100 using one of the available payment methods (credit card, bank transfer, e-wallet, etc.).
  • Download and log in – Download MT4, MT5, or TradingView, and log in with your Raw Account credentials.
  • Start trading – Once your account is funded and verified, you can begin trading with raw spreads.

Eightcap also offers a demo account for the Raw Account, allowing you to test the trading conditions and platform features without risking real money.

📌 Tip: If you are unsure about which account to choose, open both a Raw demo account and a Standard demo account to compare the trading conditions side by side.

Regulation and Broker Checks

Before opening a Raw Account with Eightcap, it is essential to verify the broker's regulatory status. Eightcap is regulated by multiple tier-1 authorities, providing a strong layer of investor protection.

Regulatory Entities

📌 Verification tip: Always verify Eightcap's regulatory status directly on the official regulator's register. For example, check the ASIC register for AFSL 391441 or the FCA register for 921296. This ensures that the broker's licenses are current and valid.

Clients under the ASIC, FCA, or CySEC entities benefit from robust regulatory protections, including negative balance protection, client fund segregation, and access to compensation schemes (e.g., FSCS in the UK or ICF in Cyprus). Clients under the VFSC entity operate under a different regulatory framework with lower levels of protection.

As the CFTC and IOSCO regularly advise, trading with an unregulated broker significantly increases the risk of fraud and loss. Eightcap's multi-regulatory framework is a strong positive indicator.

Common Mistakes with Raw Accounts

  • ❌ Not calculating the total cost: Many traders overlook the commission when comparing the Raw Account to the Standard Account. Always calculate the total cost per trade, including both the spread and the commission.
  • ❌ Using the Raw Account for low-frequency trading: If you trade less than 5 times per day, the commission may eat into your profits. The Standard Account may be more cost-effective.
  • ❌ Ignoring swap fees: Positions held overnight incur swap fees, which can add up significantly. The Raw Account does not exempt you from swap rates.
  • ❌ Not verifying the regulatory entity: Some traders assume all Eightcap clients are under ASIC or FCA, but the entity depends on your region. Always confirm which entity holds your account.
  • ❌ Not using a demo account: Skipping the demo phase is a common mistake. Eightcap offers free demo accounts for the Raw Account, allowing you to test the trading conditions before depositing real money.
  • ❌ Overlooking leverage risks: Eightcap offers leverage up to 1:500, which can magnify losses as well as gains. Many traders underestimate the risk.

📌 Scenario: A trader opens a Raw Account with Eightcap and starts trading gold. They execute 5 trades per day, each of 1 lot. The commission of $3.50 per side per lot results in $7 per round-turn trade. Over a month (100 trades), the total commission is $700. The trader then realises that the Standard Account, with its wider spreads but no commission, would have been cheaper for their trading volume. By calculating the costs beforehand, they could have chosen the right account.

Risk Warning for Forex Trading

⚠️ Forex and CFD trading carries substantial risk

Eightcap offers leverage up to 1:500, which can significantly amplify both profits and losses. A small adverse price movement can result in the loss of your entire deposit. The CFTC and IOSCO consistently warn that retail forex and CFD trading often results in losses.

Key risks to consider when trading with the Raw Account:

  • Leverage risk: High leverage is a double-edged sword. It can lead to rapid account depletion if the market moves against you.
  • Volatility risk: Forex, commodity, and crypto prices can be highly volatile, especially during economic news releases.
  • Counterparty risk: While Eightcap is well-regulated, there is always a risk of broker insolvency. Segregation of funds provides some protection, but it is not absolute.
  • Regulatory differences: Clients under the VFSC entity do not have access to compensation schemes available under ASIC or FCA entities.
  • Emotional risk: The fast-paced nature of trading can lead to impulsive decisions, chasing losses, or overtrading.

Never trade with money you cannot afford to lose. Consider seeking independent financial advice if you are unsure about your risk tolerance. This article does not constitute personalised financial, legal, or tax advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Eightcap Raw Account?

The Eightcap Raw Account is a premium trading account that offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips with a commission of $3.50 per lot per side. It is designed for active traders who prioritise tight spreads.

What is the minimum deposit for the Eightcap Raw Account?

The minimum deposit is $100 for the Raw Account.

Does the Eightcap Raw Account charge commission?

Yes, the Raw Account charges a commission of $3.50 per lot per side. The total round-turn commission is $7.00 per lot.

What is the difference between Raw and Standard accounts?

The Raw Account offers raw spreads (from 0.0 pips) with a commission, while the Standard Account has wider spreads (from 0.6 pips) with no commission. The Raw Account is better for active traders.

Is Eightcap a regulated broker?

Yes, Eightcap is regulated by ASIC (AFSL 391441), FCA (921296), CySEC (424/23), FSCA (FSP 51928), and VFSC. The level of protection depends on the entity holding your account.

What platforms does Eightcap offer for the Raw Account?

Eightcap offers MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and TradingView for the Raw Account. All platforms are available on desktop, web, and mobile.

Does Eightcap offer a demo account for the Raw Account?

Yes, Eightcap provides free demo accounts for the Raw Account, allowing you to practice trading with raw spreads and commissions without risking real money.

How can I verify Eightcap's regulation?

You can verify Eightcap's regulation by checking the ASIC register (AFSL 391441), FCA register (921296), CySEC register (424/23), or the FSCA register (FSP 51928). Always confirm directly with the regulator.