Most new brokers start on a grey label, and that is usually the right call. But as volume and ambition grow, the question appears: should we move to our own MT5 server? Here is how to decide.
Quick Definitions
- Grey label: you run your brand on a provider’s shared infrastructure. See what MetaTrader grey label is.
- Own MT5 server: a dedicated server and admin access, with branded terminals and more control. See our full MetaTrader server option.
Where Grey Label Fits Best
- You are testing a market or brand
- You want to launch in days, not weeks
- You prefer a low monthly cost over a large upfront outlay
- You have a small team and want the provider to handle infrastructure
Signs You Are Ready to Move to Your Own Server
- Volume and revenue justify it. Fixed server costs make more sense once income is steady.
- You need more control. Custom symbols, plugins, liquidity connections or detailed risk rules.
- You want full branding across desktop, mobile and web terminals.
- You want to issue grey labels yourself to partners.
- Your business model changed, for example adding prop trading or institutional clients.
Side-by-Side
| Factor | Grey label | Own MT5 server |
|---|---|---|
| Time to launch | About 24 hours | About 2 days with our package |
| Control | Moderate | High |
| Branding | Brand layer on shared platform | Fully branded apps |
| Cost | Lower monthly entry | Higher |
| Best stage | Launch and validation | Growth and scale |
How to Migrate Smoothly
- Agree migration terms and data export with your provider early
- Plan a cut-over window and notify clients ahead of time
- Test the new server with a pilot group first
- Keep your CRM and traders cabinet continuous so clients notice nothing
This is easier when your CRM is separate from the trading server and talks to it via the Manager API.
Compare the Costs
Full cost breakdown is in MT5 white label cost and setup and the MetaTrader white label guide.
Our Advice
Start with grey label, prove you can acquire and retain clients, then upgrade once the numbers support it. See plans or talk to us about an upgrade path.
