MT5

MT5, or MetaTrader 5, is a multi-asset trading platform developed by MetaQuotes Software Corp. It was released as the successor to MetaTrader 4 and introduced in 2010, though it has undergone continuous development since. MT5 provides access to forex, stocks, futures and CFDs through a single interface, and is offered in desktop, web and mobile editions for brokers and retail traders.

Key features include advanced charting tools across a wide range of timeframes, multiple order types, and market depth data, along with a built-in market for indicators, scripts and automated trading applications. The platform supports automated trading via the MQL5 programming language, which is similar in purpose to MQL4 but is a separate language with advanced features. MQL5 is object-oriented and allows more complex strategies, debugging and testing.

The Strategy Tester in MT5 is designed to enhance backtesting, offering multi-threaded execution, tick data support and portfolio backtesting across multiple symbols, along with optimization options. MT5 also emphasizes multi-asset trading, enabling traders to manage positions across currencies, commodities and equities from one terminal, subject to broker support.

Compared with MT4, MT5 differs in its underlying architecture, order execution model and market coverage, and not all MT4 Expert Advisors are directly compatible with MT5; porting or rewriting code in MQL5 is commonly required. The platform is widely used by brokers and traders for its cross-asset capabilities and integrated marketplace, while MT4 remains prevalent in many markets.