Whether you’re just getting started or already a seasoned investor, picking the right broker plays a vital role in maximizing your returns and safeguarding your hard-earned nest egg.

It’s important to consider factors like fees, features, customer service—and most important, regulatory compliance. A reliable broker can make the difference between a smooth investing experience and one filled with unnecessary challenges, such as delayed executions or surprise fees.

However, there’s no one-size-fits-all broker.

When choosing a broker, think about the type of investor you are. Are you looking for low-cost trades, or do you prefer access to top-tier research and advanced trading tools? Each broker offers something different, and finding the one that aligns with your goals can make all the difference.

To make your search easier, we’ve evaluated top brokers based on five essential criteria:

  • Regulatory oversight and security: How well is your money protected?
  • Fees and commissions: Are the costs transparent and fair?
  • Trading tools and platform: Does the broker offer a seamless, feature-rich platform?
  • Customer support: Is help available when you need it?
  • Added features: Does the broker provide extra value, like interest on cash balances or advanced trading options?

💡 Cheatsheet

  • Regulation and security: Ensure the broker is regulated by a reputable financial authority and offers protection for your funds.

  • Fee structure: Compare commissions, spreads, and hidden fees to find the most cost-effective option.

  • Trading platforms and tools: Choose a broker with user-friendly, reliable platforms that suit your trading style.

  • Asset variety: Ensure access to the markets and asset classes you plan to trade.

  • Customer support: Check for responsive, quality support through multiple channels.

🏆 Our top pick: eToro

Best value for those looking for a recognized, secure, all-around broker—and an impressive 5.3% interest rate for nearly risk-free cash holdings

  • Earn up to 5.3% in annual interest on your cash balance—one of the most competitive rates in the industry

  • Bullet-proof track record since 2007 with over 30 million trusting clients worldwide

  • Your assets are held safely in top-tier institutions, including JPMorgan, Deutsche Bank, UBP, and others

  • Features CopyTrader™, a unique service that allows you to automatically copy the moves of the most successful investors

Scalable Capital

Best value for those looking for a digital asset manager, with personalized investment strategies provided by robo-advisors.

  • More than just a broker: Scalable’s award-winning investment app offers savings plans, automated investing, and finance management

  • Personalized investment strategies curated by Scalable experts, including rebalancing, trading, tax optimization, deposits, and withdrawals—all included

  • Competitive and transparent flat-rate fee structure

  • Secure asset custody with top-tier German banks

Exante

Best for more savvy investors who are looking for lower trading fees and access to advanced trading tools

  • Access to more than 50 global markets and over 1,000,000 financial instruments across various asset classes

  • Proprietary trading platform and tools tailored for both individual and professional investors

  • Competitive and transparent flat-rate fee structure

  • Some of the lowest and most transparent fees

Trading 212

Best for investors looking for a commission-free platform with a user-friendly interface and access to real-time market data.

  • Zero-commission trading on stocks, ETFs, and other instruments

  • Access to fractional shares and over 10,000 assets across global markets

  • Automated investing based on customizable investment strategies

  • Multiple currency support and no FX fees

  • Earn daily interest on uninvested cash

Interactive Brokers

Best for experienced and professional traders looking for access to global markets, low-cost commissions, and advanced trading tools.

  • Access to over 150 markets in 34 countries and 27 currencies

  • Low commissions starting at $0 with no hidden fees

  • Sophisticated investing platforms for mobile, desktop, and web

  • Tools for portfolio analysis, automation, and multi-currency support

  • Robust research and educational resources for informed decision-making