Look beyond the advertised spread

A practical framework for comparing spreads, commissions and overnight charges.

FXSort editorial · 02 November 2026

Compare the complete round trip

A minimum advertised spread is not necessarily the spread you will receive. Compare the spread plus opening and closing commissions for the same pair, trade size, account currency and platform.

Include the holding period

If positions remain open overnight, include financing charges. Check the rollover schedule, any administration fees and whether the quoted commission is per side or round trip.

Use a consistent worksheet

Record the account entity, platform, pair, typical spread, commission per side, trade size and expected holding period. Add currency conversion and withdrawal charges where relevant. Avoid comparing a raw spread with a spread-only account without adding commission.

Check current schedules

Costs can vary by region and platform. For example, Pepperstone’s UK account page distinguishes Standard from Razor pricing. Read the current schedule for the account you would actually open.