Reviewed by

James Thornton

Regulated by: FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (Australia)

Leverage: Up to 30:1 for retail clients, 400:1 for professional accounts

Assets Available: Forex, Stocks, ETFs, Cryptocurrencies, Commodities, Indices

Available Globally

Broker Overview

Founded in 2007, eToro is one of the pioneers of social trading and remains a leading broker for those seeking a unique trading experience. Regulated across multiple jurisdictions, eToro combines traditional CFD trading with innovative features such as copy trading and the ability to invest in a wide range of assets, including cryptocurrencies. Its proprietary platform is user-friendly but may not appeal to advanced traders who require more technical tools.

 

Trading

Score: 18/20

The proprietary eToro platform is highly intuitive and designed for social trading, allowing users to follow and copy the trades of experienced investors. While excellent for beginners, the platform lacks advanced features like custom indicators and sophisticated charting tools.

Pros:

✔ Intuitive and easy-to-use platform
✔ Social and copy trading features
✔ Accessible mobile app for trading on-the-go

Cons:

❌ Limited advanced trading tools for professionals
❌ No support for MT4 or MT5 platforms

The eToro trading platform is tailored for simplicity and user engagement. Its social trading feature allows users to mimic the strategies of successful traders, providing a unique learning experience for beginners. The copy portfolios feature enables diversification by investing in themes or groups of top traders.

Charting capabilities, however, are basic and lack the customization options found on MetaTrader platforms. While this makes eToro ideal for casual traders, it may not meet the needs of algorithmic or technical traders seeking in-depth tools.

Regulation

Score: 19/20

eToro is regulated by FCA, CySEC, and ASIC, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards. The platform offers negative balance protection for retail clients, and client funds are kept in segregated accounts.

Pros:

✔ Strong regulatory oversight in multiple regions
✔ Negative balance protection for retail clients
✔ Segregated client funds for added safety

Cons:

❌ US clients have limited asset access (crypto only)
❌ Offshore accounts may have fewer protections

With regulation across major jurisdictions, eToro prioritizes client safety through measures like negative balance protection and fund segregation. This ensures that even in volatile market conditions, retail traders are protected from incurring debt.

While eToro is available in the US, offerings are limited to cryptocurrency trading, reducing its appeal for diversified traders in this market. Offshore accounts, while offering flexibility, may lack the same level of security as those under FCA or ASIC regulation.

Spreads, Fees & Commissions

Score: 14/20

eToro’s fee structure is transparent but relatively high. While zero commissions on stocks attract long-term investors, spreads on CFDs and forex are above industry averages. Additionally, withdrawal and inactivity fees may deter infrequent users.

Pros:

✔ No commission on stock trading
✔ Transparent fee structure
✔ No hidden charges

Cons:

❌ Higher spreads on forex and CFDs
❌ Withdrawal fees of $5 per transaction
❌ Inactivity fees apply after 12 months

For stock investors, eToro offers a zero-commission structure, making it a cost-effective option for long-term portfolios. However, forex spreads start at 1.0 pip, which is higher than many competitors, and CFD trading incurs additional overnight fees.

A $5 withdrawal fee applies to all transactions, which can add up for frequent withdrawals. Additionally, accounts inactive for 12 months are charged a $10 monthly inactivity fee, which could erode balances for casual traders.

Deposits & Withdrawals

Score: 16/20

eToro supports a wide range of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. While deposits are generally free, withdrawals incur a fixed fee. Processing times are typically quick, but bank transfers may take longer.

Pros:

✔ Supports multiple payment options, including PayPal
✔ Fast deposit processing times
✔ Low minimum deposit requirements ($10)

Cons:

❌ $5 withdrawal fee
❌ Bank transfers may take 3-7 days

Funding your eToro account is convenient, with most deposits processed instantly for card and PayPal users. The low minimum deposit requirement ($10 in many regions) makes eToro accessible for beginners.

Withdrawals, however, come with a $5 fee, which is uncommon among competitors. Additionally, bank transfers can take up to 7 business days, potentially delaying fund access for some traders.

Customer Support

Score: 15/20

eToro provides 24/5 support via live chat and email. The broker is well-regarded for its innovation and social trading features but has received mixed reviews for response times and platform stability during high-traffic periods.

Pros:

✔ 24/5 live chat and email support
✔ Strong reputation for social trading innovation
✔ Active community engagement

Cons:

❌ No phone support available
❌ Response times can vary during peak hours

The customer support team at eToro is responsive and available during trading hours, with multilingual options to cater to a global audience. Its active community serves as an additional resource for users, offering insights and support from fellow traders.

However, the absence of phone support can be a drawback for those preferring direct communication. During periods of high market volatility, response times for live chat may be slower than usual.

Final Verdict

eToro is a leading choice for beginners and social traders, thanks to its intuitive platform, copy trading features, and commission-free stock trading. However, advanced traders may find the platform lacking in technical tools, and the high forex spreads and additional fees could deter cost-conscious users.

✅ Recommended for social traders and beginners seeking diversification and an engaging platform.

Pros:

Innovative social and copy trading features
Regulated by top-tier authorities
Zero commission on stock trading
User-friendly platform for beginners

Cons:

Higher spreads on forex and CFDs
Limited tools for advanced traders
Withdrawal and inactivity fees

How do I open an account with eToro?

To open an account, visit the eToro website or mobile app, click Sign Up, and provide your email, username, and password. After agreeing to the terms, complete the profile setup, verify your identity, and fund your account to start trading

What documents are required to verify my eToro account?

eToro requires a government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID) and a proof of address (utility bill or bank statement issued within the last 3 months).

Is eToro available in my country?

eToro is available in over 140 countries, including the UK, Australia, and most of Europe. However, it is unavailable in some regions like Canada, Japan, and certain US states. Check the eToro website for a complete list of supported regions.

What is the minimum deposit required to open an account with eToro?

The minimum deposit is $10 for most regions but varies by country. For example, some regions may require a higher initial deposit of $50 or more.

How long does it take to open and verify an eToro account?

The account creation process is instant, but verification can take up to 2 business days depending on the volume of requests and the accuracy of the submitted documents.

Can I open an eToro account without verification?

Yes, you can create an account, but without verification, you cannot deposit funds, trade, or withdraw money. Verification is mandatory to unlock full functionality.

Can I have multiple accounts on eToro?

No, eToro’s terms of service allow only one account per user. Violations may lead to account suspension or closure.

What are the risks of opening an eToro account?

Trading involves risks, including losing your invested capital. eToro also charges fees like spreads, overnight charges, and withdrawal fees, which traders should consider.

Is eToro safe for beginners?

Yes, eToro is beginner-friendly. It offers an intuitive platform, copy trading features, and educational tools to help new traders learn and invest confidently.

What payment methods can I use to fund my eToro account?

You can fund your account using credit/debit cards, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, bank transfers, and other local payment methods depending on your region.

Are there any promotions or bonuses for opening an account with eToro?

eToro does not typically offer bonuses or promotions due to regulatory restrictions.

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