Does Windsor Brokers Use STP, ECN, or Dealing Desk Execution?
When choosing a forex broker, one of the most important factors to consider is the execution model they use. Many traders specifically look for STP (Straight-Through Processing), ECN (Electronic Communication Network), or Dealing Desk models to match their trading strategy. In this article, we explore how Windsor Brokers executes trades, and whether they operate as an STP broker, ECN broker, or use a Dealing Desk.
Understanding the Execution Models
Before we dive into Windsor Brokers’ model, let’s quickly clarify what each term means:
1. STP (Straight-Through Processing)
- Orders are sent directly to the broker’s liquidity providers without manual intervention.
- Typically results in faster execution and fewer requotes.
- The broker earns from spreads, not from taking the opposite side of trades.
2. ECN (Electronic Communication Network)
- A direct connection to a network of liquidity providers, banks, and other traders.
- Often offers raw spreads with a small commission fee.
- Provides high transparency in market pricing.
3. Dealing Desk (Market Maker)
- The broker acts as the counterparty to client trades.
- Prices are generated internally by the broker.
- May lead to potential conflict of interest, but can offer fixed spreads and instant execution.
Windsor Brokers’ Execution Model
Windsor Brokers primarily operates as a No Dealing Desk (NDD) broker, combining elements of STP execution with multiple liquidity providers. This means:
- Orders are routed directly to external liquidity sources.
- The broker does not manually interfere with the trade execution process.
- Clients benefit from competitive spreads and quick order processing.
However, Windsor Brokers is not a pure ECN broker. Instead, it uses aggregated liquidity pools from banks and prime brokers to offer market pricing.
Why This Matters for Traders
Knowing Windsor Brokers’ execution model helps traders decide if it aligns with their strategy:
- Scalpers and Day Traders benefit from STP’s fast execution speed.
- Swing Traders may appreciate the reduced likelihood of requotes and slippage.
- High-volume traders can take advantage of competitive spreads and deep liquidity.
Windsor Brokers Spreads and Commissions
- Prime Account: Variable spreads from 1.0 pip, no commission.
- Zero Account: Raw spreads from 0.0 pips, commission from $8 per lot.
- VIP Zero: Lower commission rates for high-volume traders.
This structure is typical of STP/NDD brokers where pricing depends on market conditions and liquidity.
Pros and Cons of Windsor Brokers’ Execution Model
✅ Pros
- No dealing desk — reduced conflict of interest.
- Direct market access to multiple liquidity providers.
- Competitive spreads and fast order processing.
⚠️ Cons
- Not a pure ECN network.
- Spreads may widen during low-liquidity periods.
Conclusion
Windsor Brokers uses a No Dealing Desk (NDD) STP execution model, routing trades directly to liquidity providers without internal dealing desk intervention. While it is not a pure ECN broker, it offers transparent pricing, competitive spreads, and fast execution suitable for most trading styles.
If you’re looking for a broker with minimal conflict of interest and direct access to liquidity, Windsor Brokers’ execution method could be a strong fit.