eToro
The world's leading social trading network.
Capital at Risk
eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs. 51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Full Analysis
eToro is a unique proposition in the market, blending brokerage services with social networking. Its "CopyTrader" feature is a game-changer for those who want exposure to the markets but lack the time or expertise to manage their own portfolio.
While it is excellent for general trading, UK investors should be aware that the platform operates in USD. This incurs conversion fees, and the ISA offering is a managed service rather than the DIY wrapper found elsewhere.
However, for a fun, engaging, and accessible way to enter the financial markets, eToro is hard to beat.
Real Investing, Explained
Owning the Company
When you buy a stock (or share), you are buying a tiny slice of a real company. If Apple sells more iPhones, your slice gets more valuable. You might also get paid a "dividend" (profit share) just for holding it.
Unlike CFDs, there is no leverage here. If you buy £100 of stock, you pay £100. The worst that happens is the company goes bust and you lose your £100. You can't lose more than you put in.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- CopyTrader™ lets you replicate top investors automatically.
- Extremely user-friendly interface.
- Access to Stocks, ETFs, and Crypto in one place.
- Virtual portfolio to practice.
Cons
- USD base currency means FX fees on deposits/withdrawals.
- ISA is not a flexible DIY wrapper (Managed by Moneyfarm).
- $5 withdrawal fee.
Best For
Social Traders
Connect with millions of users, discuss strategies, and copy the best performers automatically.
Beginners
The platform is designed to be as simple as possible, removing the complexity of traditional brokers.
Multi-Asset Investors
Trade stocks, commodities, and crypto assets from a single, unified wallet.