1. What Is an ECN Broker?
Before evaluating Headway, let’s clarify what an ECN broker is. An Electronic Communication Network (ECN) broker connects traders directly to liquidity providers—banks, hedge funds, and institutional participants—without dealing desk intervention.
Key benefits of an ECN broker:
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Tighter spreads
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Faster execution
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Transparent pricing
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True market depth
This model contrasts with market makers, who often take the opposite side of your trade and may mark up spreads.
2. Is Headway a True ECN Broker?
As of 2025, Headway Markets presents itself as a multi-asset forex and CFD broker offering competitive trading conditions. But is it a true ECN broker?
✅ Yes, Headway offers ECN-style accounts—but with some clarifications:
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Headway provides raw spread accounts, with spreads starting from 0.0 pips.
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These accounts are typically paired with commission-based pricing, a signature of ECN brokers.
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Trade execution is advertised as STP (Straight Through Processing) and/or ECN, depending on the account type.
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Headway connects clients to Tier-1 liquidity providers, ensuring minimal slippage during high-volume trades.
⚠️ Note: Not all accounts on Headway are ECN. Be sure to choose the appropriate account type that explicitly states ECN conditions.
3. ECN Account Features at Headway
Here are the features commonly associated with Headway’s ECN-type account:
| Feature | ECN Account at Headway |
|---|---|
| Spread | From 0.0 pips |
| Commission | Yes (per lot basis) |
| Execution model | ECN/STP |
| Minimum deposit | Low (varies by region) |
| Slippage | Minimal |
| Scalping & EA allowed | Yes |
| Market depth (Level 2) | Partial |
These features make Headway suitable for:
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Scalpers
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Day traders
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News traders
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Algorithmic traders using EAs
4. How to Open an ECN Account with Headway
If you’re interested in trading via ECN infrastructure at Headway:
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Go to the official website: https://hw.site
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Click “Open Account” and register.
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Choose the ECN or Raw Spread Account from the account types.
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Verify your identity (KYC process).
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Fund your account using bank transfer, crypto, or e-wallets.
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Start trading with MT4 or MT5 platform.
5. Pros and Cons of ECN Trading on Headway
✅ Pros:
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Ultra-low spreads starting from 0.0 pips
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Fast execution with direct market access
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No dealing desk intervention
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Ideal for scalping and HFT strategies
❌ Cons:
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Commission fees apply (per lot)
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May require higher minimum deposits for ECN account
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Execution speed depends on internet/server latency
6. Comparison: Headway vs Other ECN Brokers
| Feature | Headway ECN | Exness Raw | IC Markets ECN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spread from | 0.0 pips | 0.0 pips | 0.0 pips |
| Commission | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Regulation | Offshore | Tier-1 | Tier-1 |
| Min. Deposit | Low | $200 | $200 |
| MT4/MT5 Support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
While Headway is newer compared to industry giants, it is gaining traction due to its flexibility, bonuses, and user-friendly onboarding.
7. Final Verdict: Is Headway an ECN Broker?
✅ Yes, Headway provides ECN-like trading conditions via its Raw Spread or Pro accounts, offering tight spreads and commission-based pricing with direct access to liquidity providers.
However, always verify the account type you’re selecting during registration. Not all account types offer ECN execution.
If you’re a trader looking for low spreads, fast execution, and transparency, Headway’s ECN accounts are a viable option—especially for traders based in Asia and Africa where onboarding is fast and localized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does Headway use a dealing desk?
A: No, Headway’s ECN and STP accounts use non-dealing desk (NDD) execution.
Q2: Can I use scalping and EAs on Headway ECN accounts?
A: Yes, both scalping and algorithmic trading are allowed.
Q3: Is Headway regulated?
A: Headway is registered offshore. Always check the latest regulatory status before depositing funds.
💡 Want to Trade with Headway ECN?
👉 Sign Up for a Headway ECN Account (example link) and experience raw spread trading today.