Choosing a broker is not only about the highest bonus or the lowest advertised spread. European traders should first verify the legal entity, regulator, client-money protections and the conditions that apply to their country.
Regulation and legal entity
Check which company will hold your account and which regulator supervises it. A broker can operate through different entities, with different leverage, protections and product availability.
Costs beyond the headline spread
Compare commissions, overnight financing, withdrawal fees, conversion costs and the difference between standard and professional accounts. Conditions should be checked against the broker's current legal documents.