Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
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What is Direct Market Access (DMA) ?
Direct Market Access (DMA) allows traders to place orders into an exchange's electronic order book through a broker, rather than relying solely on prices quoted by a market maker or dealing service.
When combined with Level 2 market data, DMA gives traders visibility of displayed buy and sell orders, available volumes and prices at different levels of the order book. Traders can submit their own bids and offers, choose their preferred price and order size, and have orders matched against other market participants.
For active traders, DMA provides greater transparency of displayed market liquidity and more control over order placement, including the opportunity to trade within the quoted spread. Execution depends on available liquidity, order priority and market conditions.
Why use DMA ?
Direct Order Book Access
Place orders into the underlying market through a broker's infrastructure, rather than relying solely on quoted dealing prices.
Level 2 Market Depth
View displayed bids, offers and available volumes across multiple price levels to assess market liquidity.
Advanced Order Control
Set your own order prices and sizes, with access to advanced order types and eligible market auctions.
Greater Market Transparency
See underlying market prices and displayed liquidity, rather than relying solely on a broker's quoted dealing price.
DMA vs Market maker
The key difference between Direct Market Access (DMA) and traditional quoted-price CFD trading is how orders are priced and executed.
With DMA, traders can view underlying market prices and displayed liquidity, submit their own bids and offers, and place orders into the exchange order book through their broker. Orders interact with other market participants and are executed according to available liquidity and exchange rules.
With traditional OTC CFD trading, the provider quotes its own buy and sell prices, typically based on the underlying market. The trader deals against those quoted prices rather than placing an order directly into the exchange order book.
For DMA share CFDs, the broker places the corresponding transaction in the underlying market while the client holds a CFD with the provider.
DMA offers greater visibility and control over order placement, although it does not guarantee better prices, faster execution or reduced trading costs.
DMA CFD Markets you can trade
DMA trading platforms
L2 Dealer
Access a dedicated DMA trading platform with Level 2 market depth, advanced order types and direct interaction with underlying share market order books.
Mobile DMA trading
Access PureDMA through the mobile trading app on iPhone. View limited market depth and place orders directly into the underlying market, subject to account permissions.
API
Develop automated trading solutions using APIs. Specialist DMA connectivity through FIX API is subject to institutional access requirements.
DMA CFD costs
Commission charges
DMA share CFDs are subject to commission charges. In many cases, the commission is the same as for an equivalent OTC share CFD trade.
Exchange fees
Additional exchange or market-data fees may apply, depending on the market or services you want to access.
Other costs
Other charges may apply, including overnight funding and, where relevant, stock borrowing costs.
How to get started
Open your account in a few simple steps
1
Apply
Complete the short Guardian application.
2
Open your IG account
We will introduce you to IG to open a trading account.
3
Fund your account
Add funds securely with IG.
4
Access DMA trading
Enable DMA facilities, subject to approval, and start trading.
Best CFD Broker 2026
Guardian Stockbrokers was named Best CFD Broker 2026 at the ADVFN International Financial Awards.
What our clients say
Trusted by traders across the UK
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Introduction to DMA CFDs
DMA CFDs, also known as Direct Market Access Contracts for Difference, play a crucial role in the financial markets, revolutionising the way traders engage with various assets. In this section, we will delve into the fundamental concepts, empowering you with a solid understanding of their significance.
Definition of DMA CFDs and their role in financial markets:
DMA CFDs are financial instruments that grant traders direct access to the underlying market through a broker's automated trading infrastructure. They enable participants to interact with multiple liquidity providers and exchanges, offering unparalleled transparency and control over trading activities. DMA CFDs provide an innovative approach to trading, aligning with the evolving needs of modern traders.
Explanation of how DMA CFDs differ from traditional CFDs:
DMA CFDs differentiate themselves from traditional CFDs in several key aspects. While traditional CFDs rely on market makers as intermediaries, trading with direct market access allow orders to be routed automatically into the underlying market through the broker, without manual dealer intervention. This direct market access allows traders to interact with the order book and place trades at the best available prices in real-time. Direct market access offer enhanced execution speed, reduced slippage, and increased market visibility, providing a superior trading experience.
Understanding DMA
Direct Market Access (DMA) is a pivotal concept in CFD trading, offering traders unprecedented control and transparency. In this section, we will provide you with an in-depth explanation of DMA and its significance in the world of CFD trading.
In-depth explanation of Direct Market Access (DMA) and its significance in CFD trading:
DMA is a trading mechanism that allows market participants to interact directly with the underlying market, using automated order routing to access the underlying market rather than relying solely on quoted dealing prices. It empowers traders with direct access to liquidity providers, exchanges, and order books, resulting in improved execution quality and pricing transparency. DMA has become a game-changer in CFD trading, enabling greater efficiency and flexibility for traders of all levels.
Overview of how DMA works, including the order routing process:
To understand how DMA works, it is crucial to grasp the order routing process. When a trader places an order through DMA, it is routed directly to the market or exchange where the asset is traded. This direct routing ensures that the order interacts with the order book and matches with existing buy or sell orders in real-time. By accessing multiple liquidity sources, traders can achieve better pricing and faster order execution.
Comparison of DMA with other trading methods like Market Makers and STP brokers:
DMA stands apart from other trading methods like Market Makers and STP (Straight Through Processing) brokers. While Market Makers act as intermediaries, taking the opposite side of the trade and providing liquidity, DMA eliminates the need for such intermediaries, enabling traders to directly access the market. This reduces potential dealing-desk conflicts by routing orders automatically into the underlying market without manual dealer intervention and ensures greater transparency.
STP brokers, on the other hand, utilise a hybrid approach, combining elements of both DMA and Market Making. While they forward client orders directly to liquidity providers, there may still be some involvement from the broker in the execution process. In contrast, DMA offers a more direct and unfiltered access to the market, resulting in faster execution speeds and potentially lower trading costs.
By understanding the intricacies of DMA and its distinction from other trading methods, you will gain a comprehensive perspective on the advantages and opportunities it offers. In the subsequent sections, we will delve deeper into the specific advantages of DMA CFDs and explore effective trading strategies to help you optimize your trading performance. Stay tuned for a wealth of valuable insights to elevate your trading journey.
Advantages of DMA CFDs:
Direct market access offer a multitude of advantages that significantly enhance the trading experience for market participants. In this section, we will delve into the details of these benefits, demonstrating why DMA CFDs have gained immense popularity among traders.
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Lower spreads and better pricing transparency:
Traders can enjoy lower spreads compared to traditional CFDs. By accessing the market directly, traders can interact with multiple liquidity providers and exchanges, leading to tighter bid-ask spreads. Additionally, DMA provides enhanced pricing transparency, allowing traders to see the real-time prices in the order book. This transparency empowers traders to make more informed trading decisions.
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Access to multiple liquidity providers and exchanges:
Direct market access grant traders direct access to a wide range of liquidity providers and exchanges. This access enables traders to benefit from competitive pricing and increased market depth. By accessing multiple liquidity sources, traders can execute their orders at the best available prices, maximising their potential profits.
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Faster execution and reduced slippage:
One of the key advantages of direct market access is the significantly faster execution speed. Through direct market access, orders bypass intermediaries, resulting in reduced execution time. This rapid execution helps to minimise the risk of slippage, where trades are executed at different prices than intended. DMA CFDs offer traders the opportunity to enter and exit positions swiftly, taking advantage of market opportunities in real-time.
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Potential for improved order fills and order book visibility:
Traders are provided with improved order fills by directly interacting with the order book. Traders can see the available liquidity at different price levels, enabling them to gauge market depth and adjust their trading strategies accordingly. This increased visibility into the order book empowers traders to make well-informed decisions and potentially achieve more favourable order fills.
By embracing DMA CFDs, traders can harness these advantages to optimise their trading outcomes. In the subsequent sections, we will explore various trading strategies tailored for direct market access, equipping you with risk management techniques, and analyse the potential risks associated with this trading method.
Strategies for DMA CFD Trading
Trading with direct market access opens up a world of possibilities for traders, allowing them to employ various strategies tailored to their trading preferences and goals. In this section, we will provide an overview of popular trading strategies that can be effectively utilised, including scalping, day trading, swing trading, and position trading. Additionally, we will discuss risk management techniques specific to DMA CFD trading.
Overview of popular trading strategies that can be utilised:
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Scalping:
Scalping is a high-speed trading strategy that aims to profit from small price movements. Traders can capitalise on rapid execution speeds and tight spreads to enter and exit trades swiftly, aiming to accumulate multiple small gains throughout the day.
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Day trading:
Day trading involves opening and closing positions within a single trading day, taking advantage of intraday price fluctuations. DMA CFDs provide the necessary speed and liquidity to execute multiple trades during the day, enabling day traders to capitalize on short-term market movements.
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Swing trading:
Swing trading focuses on capturing larger price swings that occur over a few days to weeks. Benefit from the extended market access and flexible position sizing to hold positions for longer durations, aiming to capitalise on significant market trends.
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Position trading:
Position trading involves taking a long-term view on the market and holding positions for weeks to months. DMA CFDs offer traders the opportunity to maintain positions for extended periods, leveraging the benefits of direct market access to stay invested in the market and capture substantial price movements.
Discussion of risk management techniques
While employing strategies, it is crucial to prioritise risk management. Here are some risk management techniques to consider:
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Setting appropriate stop-loss orders:
Implementing stop-loss orders helps limit potential losses and protect trading capital. Determine optimal stop-loss levels based on market conditions and the specific strategy being employed.
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Utilising proper position sizing:
Carefully determine the size of each trade relative to your overall trading capital and risk tolerance. Avoid overexposure to a single position and diversify your trades across different assets to manage risk effectively.
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Regularly reviewing and adjusting strategies:
Markets evolve, and strategies need to adapt accordingly. Regularly review and assess the performance of your strategies, making necessary adjustments to align with changing market conditions.
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Staying updated with market news and analysis:
Stay informed about economic events, news releases, and market trends. Keep an eye on factors that may impact the markets and adjust your trading strategies accordingly.
By incorporating these strategies and risk management techniques into your DMA CFD trading approach, you can optimise your trading outcomes while effectively managing risk. In the subsequent sections, we will further explore the risks associated with DMA CFD trading and provide valuable insights to help you navigate the challenges and capitalise on the opportunities presented by this innovative trading method.
Risks and Considerations
DMA CFD trading, like any form of trading, carries inherent risks. It is crucial to understand and manage these risks to ensure a successful and sustainable trading experience. In this section, we will provide an analysis of the risks associated with DMA CFD trading, focusing on liquidity risks, market impact, and the potential for price gaps.
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Liquidity risks:
Traders are exposed to liquidity risks, particularly in fast-moving or thinly traded markets. In situations of low liquidity, executing large orders may be challenging, leading to potential slippage and order fills at less favourable prices. Traders should be cautious and consider implementing risk management techniques, such as setting appropriate order sizes and using limit orders to control execution prices.
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Market impact:
When executing large orders using DMA, there is a possibility of creating market impact. Market impact refers to the effect that a large order has on the market, potentially causing price movements or widening spreads. Traders should be mindful of the size and timing of their orders to minimize the impact on the market and avoid adverse price fluctuations.
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Potential for price gaps:
Price gaps can occur in volatile markets or during news releases, leading to significant price jumps between consecutive trading periods. Traders should be aware of the potential for price gaps, as these gaps may result in slippage and executions at prices different from the intended levels. Traders should consider using stop-loss orders and closely monitor market conditions to mitigate the impact of price gaps.
It is essential to thoroughly assess your risk tolerance and understand the potential risks associated with DMA CFD trading. Traders should conduct thorough research, utilise risk management strategies, and stay informed about market conditions to make informed trading decisions.
With Guardian Stockbrokers, you have already chosen a reliable platform known for its commitment to client satisfaction. However, it is still important to consider certain factors to mitigate potential risks associated with the trading platform.
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Robust risk management tools:
Guardian Stockbrokers offers robust risk management tools that align with your trading strategy. These tools may include stop-loss orders, limit orders, and other risk mitigation features that help protect your capital and manage potential losses effectively.
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Reliable execution:
Guardian Stockbrokers' track record of reliable order execution. Look for transparency in execution speeds and minimal instances of slippage. A reliable execution process is essential for ensuring that your orders are executed promptly and at the desired prices.
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Comprehensive customer support:
Guardian Stockbrokers provides comprehensive customer support services. Prompt and knowledgeable customer support can address any concerns or issues you may encounter while trading. Having access to a dedicated support team can enhance your trading experience and provide peace of mind.
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Regulatory compliance, liquidity sources, and financial stability:
Guardian Stockbrokers complies with relevant regulations and operates under reputable financial authorities. Additionally, assess the liquidity sources they utilize to ensure optimal market access. Lastly, evaluate their financial stability to ensure the safety of your funds and the continuity of their services.
By selecting Guardian Stockbrokers, you have already taken a step towards mitigating potential risks. However, it is still essential to stay vigilant and consider these factors to further safeguard your trading activities. In the subsequent sections, we will continue to provide insights and guidance to optimise your trading experience with Guardian Stockbrokers.
By understanding and managing the risks inherent in DMA CFD trading, traders can navigate the market more effectively and protect their capital. In the subsequent sections, we will provide further insights into effective trading practices and offer guidance to optimise your trading experience.
Comparison with Traditional CFD Trading
DMA CFDs and traditional CFDs differ in several key aspects, impacting market access, execution quality, and transparency. In this section, we will highlight the key differences between DMA CFDs and traditional CFDs, providing you with a clear understanding of how DMA CFDs stand out.
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Market access:
One of the primary distinctions between DMA CFDs and traditional CFDs lies in market access. DMA CFDs provide traders with direct market access, allowing them to interact directly with liquidity providers and exchanges. This direct access enables traders to access a broader range of liquidity sources, potentially leading to tighter spreads and improved pricing.
In contrast, traditional CFDs often involve trading through market makers or dealing desks. Market makers act as intermediaries, offering their own prices to traders. While this approach offers convenience, it may result in wider spreads and potentially less favourable pricing.
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Execution quality:
DMA CFDs provide greater visibility and control over order placement, although execution quality depends on market conditions and available liquidity compared to traditional CFDs. Traders have the ability to access the order book, see available liquidity, and execute trades at the best available prices in real-time. This direct execution process can lead to faster order execution, reduced slippage, and increased transparency.
Traditional CFDs, on the other hand, rely on the pricing and execution provided by market makers. This introduces the possibility of order delays, requotes, or execution at prices less favorable to the trader.
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Transparency:
Transparency is another crucial factor where DMA CFDs and traditional CFDs differ. DMA CFDs offer greater transparency as traders can view the order book and see real-time pricing information. This transparency empowers traders to make more informed trading decisions and better understand market dynamics.
In traditional CFDs, pricing and execution details are often provided solely by the market maker. While market makers strive to provide competitive prices, the pricing process may lack the same level of transparency.
By understanding these key differences, you can make an informed choice regarding the trading method that best aligns with your goals and preferences.