Some MetaTrader 4 brokers let you trade crypto as CFDs — symbols like BTCUSD (Bitcoin) and ETHUSD (Ethereum) — so you take a position on the price without owning coins or holding a wallet. Before anything else, two checks matter: whether your broker offers it, and whether it's permitted where you live.
Several regulators limit or ban crypto derivatives for retail traders. For example, the UK's FCA prohibits selling crypto CFDs and derivatives to retail clients. Always confirm crypto CFDs are legal for you before trading. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Where it's allowed
Availability depends on both your broker and your country. Where it is permitted, crypto trades almost around the clock, including weekends — unlike forex. Where it isn't, a reputable broker simply won't offer it to you, which is a sign the broker is following the rules.
How to trade crypto on MT4
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Check it's offered — and allowed where you are
Not every broker offers crypto CFDs, and some regulators restrict or ban them for retail traders. Confirm both before you start.
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Find the crypto symbol
In Market Watch, look for symbols like
BTCUSDorETHUSD. If hidden, right-click, choose Symbols, and open the Crypto group. -
Open a chart and trade small
Open a chart, press
F9, and use a very small volume — crypto is extremely volatile. Always set a stop loss.
The risks are real
Crypto is extremely volatile, trades 24/7, and is leveraged as a CFD — a fast move can wipe out a position. Use tiny sizes, a firm stop loss, and our lot size calculator, and never risk money you can't afford to lose.
Practise on a free demo first
If crypto CFDs are available and permitted for you, learn the mechanics on a free MT4 demo before risking real money.
⚠ Trading forex and CFDs is high-risk and most retail traders lose money. This is not financial advice.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you open a broker account through our links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Related guides
See also trading gold and indices on MT4, or learn how to use MT4.
Frequently asked questions
Can I trade crypto on MT4?
At some brokers, yes — as CFDs on coins like Bitcoin (BTCUSD) and Ethereum (ETHUSD). You take a position on the price without owning any coins or needing a wallet. Not all brokers offer it.
Are crypto CFDs allowed everywhere?
No. Some regulators restrict or ban crypto derivatives for retail traders — for example, the UK's FCA prohibits the sale of crypto derivatives and CFDs to retail clients. Check the rules in your country before trading, and treat this as general information, not legal advice.
Is trading crypto on MT4 the same as owning Bitcoin?
No. A crypto CFD tracks the price so you can go long or short, but you never hold the actual coins and have no wallet or keys. It's price exposure with leverage, not ownership.
Why is crypto so risky?
Crypto prices are extremely volatile and trade around the clock, and leverage magnifies both gains and losses. It's among the highest-risk things you can trade on MT4 — most retail traders lose money, and you should only ever risk what you can afford to lose.
Which brokers offer crypto on MT4?
It varies — some MT4 brokers list crypto CFDs and others don't, and availability depends on your region. Check the broker's instrument list and confirm crypto CFDs are permitted where you live.
Trading foreign exchange and contracts for difference (CFDs) carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Leverage can work against you as well as for you. You could lose some or all of your deposited funds; do not trade with money you cannot afford to lose. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Nothing on MT4Download.com is financial, investment, or trading advice. Consider your circumstances and seek independent advice if needed.