AstroPay Brokers 2024
AstroPay is a global money transfer service with a focus on emerging markets. The free e-wallet and payment card provider has partnered with many online merchants, including recognized forex brokers and trading sites. This review will cover its key features and uses, how it works and app download options for wallet fund storage.
We also list the best brokers that accept AstroPay deposits in 2024.
Best AstroPay Brokers
These are the top brokers with AstroPay based on our experts tests:
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1Deriv
Ratings
$50.01 Lots1:1000MFSA, LFSA, BVIFSC, VFSC, FSC, SVGFSACFDs, Multipliers, Accumulators, Synthetic Indices, Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, ETFsDeriv Trader, Deriv X, Deriv Go, MT5, cTrader, TradingViewNeteller, Visa, Skrill, WebMoney, FasaPay, Perfect Money, Diners Club, Banxa, Paytrust, Wire Transfer, Mastercard, Credit Card, JCB Card, Sticpay, Trustly, Volet, Paysafecard, AstroPay, Maestro, Airtm, Boleto, JetonCash, Przelewy24, Bitcoin PaymentsUSD, EUR, GBP -
2Exness
Ratings
$100.01 Lots1:UnlimitedCySEC, FCA, FSCA, CMA, FSA, CBCS, BVIFSC, FSCCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, CryptoExness Trade App, Exness Terminal, MT4, MT5, TradingCentralWire Transfer, Credit Card, Visa, Mastercard, Bitcoin Payments, Boleto, Airtel, Debit Card, Neteller, Skrill, Perfect Money, Sticpay, AstroPay, Cashu, FasaPay, WebMoney, M-PesaUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, INR, JPY, ZAR, MYR, IDR, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, AED, SAR, HUF, BRL, NGN, THB, VND, UAH, KWD, QAR, KRW, MXN, KES, CNY -
3RoboForex$30 No Deposit BonusRoboForex Ltd and its affiliates do not target EU/EEA/UK clients. Please be aware that you are able to receive investment services from a third-country firm at your own exclusive initiative only, taking all the risks involved.
Ratings
$100.01 Lots1:2000IFSCCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, FuturesR StocksTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingViewVisa, iDeal, Trustly, Neteller, Skrill, Giropay, Sofort, Wire Transfer, Rapid Transfer, Alipay, POLi, Perfect Money, MoneyGram, Cashu, SafeCharge, WeChat Pay, Vietcombank Transfer, Volet, ecoPayz, AstroPayUSD, EUR -
4Vantage50% Welcome Deposit Bonus, earn redeemable rewards in the Vantage Rewards scheme
Ratings
$500.01 Lots1:500FCA, ASIC, FSCA, VFSCCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, BondsProTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTradeSkrill, BPAY, JCB Card, AstroPay, Visa, Swift, Neteller, Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, UnionPay, FasaPay, Sticpay, Bitwallet, VoletUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, HKD, SGD, PLN -
5Fusion Markets
Ratings
$00.01 Lots1:500ASIC, VFSC, FSACFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, CryptoMT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, DupliTradeVisa, Skrill, Neteller, Mastercard, PayPal, Bitcoin Payments, FasaPay, Perfect Money, Doku Wallet, Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Dragonpay, Sticpay, Ethereum Payments, TransferWise, AstroPay, PayID, JetonCashUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD -
6Easy Markets
Ratings
€100Variable1:30CySEC, ASIC, BVI, FSCACFDs, Forex, Stocks, Cryptos, CommoditiesMT4, MT5, TradingViewUnionPay, Credit Card, Bitcoin Payments, Debit Card, AstroPay, Perfect Money, WebMoney, Sticpay, Visa, Wire TransferUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, TRY, SEK, CHF, PLN, CZK, MXN -
7FBS
Ratings
$50.01 Lots1:30 (EU & Restricted Countries), 1:3000 (Global)ASIC, CySEC, FSCCFDs, Forex, Indices, Shares, CommoditiesFBS App, MT4, MT5Visa, Neteller, Skrill, Wire Transfer, Rapid Transfer, Mastercard, Credit Card, AstroPay, Maestro, Debit Card, Doku Wallet, FasaPay, Perfect Money, Sticpay, M-Pesa, JCB Card, Bitwallet, PIX PaymentUSD, EUR -
8Grand Capital40% deposit bonus
Ratings
$100.01 Lots1:500FinaComCFDs, Forex, Indices, Shares, Energies, Metals, Cryptocurrencies, Binary OptionsMT4, MT5Wire Transfer, Neteller, FasaPay, Perfect Money, Western Union, RBK Money, Volet, PayRedeem, Debit Card, Credit Card, AstroPay, Paytrust, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum PaymentsUSD, EUR, GBP, JPY, CHF, RUB -
9ActivTradesCashback on Trades
Ratings
$00.01 Lots1:30 (UK and EU), 1:400 (Global & Pro)FCA, CMVM, CSSF, SCBCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, ETFs, Futures, Cryptos (location dependent)ActivTrades, MT4, MT5, TradingViewSkrill, Neteller, Visa, PayPal, Mastercard, Credit Card, Debit Card, Wire Transfer, Sofort, AstroPayUSD, EUR, GBP, CHF -
10GC OptionRisk Free Trading Days
Ratings
$10$1Binary Options on Forex, Metals and CryptosMT4, TradingViewWire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Mastercard, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum Payments, FasaPay, Perfect Money, Paytrust, Maestro, AstroPay, PayRedeemUSD, EUR, GBP, JPY, RUB
Here is a summary of why we recommend these brokers:
- Deriv - Established in 1999, Deriv is an innovative broker now serving over 2.5 million global clients. The firm offers CFDs, multipliers and more recently accumulators, alongside its proprietary derived products which can't be found elsewhere, providing flexible short-term trading opportunities.
- Exness - Established in 2008, Exness has maintained its position as a highly respected broker, standing out with its industry-leading range of 40+ account currencies, growing selection of CFD instruments, and intuitive web platform complete with useful extras like currency convertors and trading calculators.
- RoboForex - RoboForex is an online broker, established in 2009 and registered with the IFSC in Belize. Traders can choose from five accounts (Prime, ECN, R StocksTrader, ProCent, Pro) catering to different needs with trades from 0.01 lots and spreads from 0 pips. RoboForex has also enhanced its offering over the years, adding CFD instruments and launching its stock trading platform, plus the CopyFX system.
- Vantage - Founded in 2009, Vantage offers trading on 1000+ short-term CFD products to over 900,000 clients. You can trade Forex CFDs from 0.0 pips on the RAW account through TradingView, MT4 or MT5. Vantage is ASIC-regulated and client funds are segregated. Copy traders will also appreciate the range of social trading tools.
- Fusion Markets - Fusion Markets is an online broker established in 2017 and regulated by the ASIC, VFSC and FSA. It is best known for its low-cost forex and CFD trading, although its multiple account types and copy trading solutions cater to a range of traders. New clients can sign up and start trading in 3 easy steps.
- Easy Markets - Founded in 2001, easyMarkets is a multi-regulated forex broker offering leveraged trading opportunities on forex, stocks, indices, commodities and crypto. With fixed spreads, an affordable initial deposit, regulation from several reputable bodies and a diverse selection of account currencies, this broker provides simple and straightforward trading solutions to a diverse range of traders.
- FBS - Founded in 2009, FBS is an award-winning CFD broker operating in over 150 countries with a client base exceeding 27 million traders. Traders are supported at every stage of their journey with 24/7 assistance, market analytics, trading calculators, and competitive pricing with zero commissions.
- Grand Capital - Grand Capital is a MetaTrader broker with welcome bonuses, trading competitions and an intuitive copy trading service. Several account types and 400+ assets provide trading opportunities for various types of investors and strategies. New users can also open an account and start trading in a matter of minutes.
- ActivTrades - ActivTrades is a UK-headquartered CFD and forex broker established in 2001. The award-winning brokerage has secured licenses from trusted bodies, notably the UK’s FCA, and facilitates trading on over 1000 instruments spanning 7 asset classes, with over 93.60% of orders are executed at the requested price.
- GC Option - GC Option is a binary options broker offering contracts with flexible contract lengths and payouts up to 86% on 27 instruments. This is one of the few binary options brokers to support MetaTrader 4, which it provides alongside two proprietary trading platforms.
AstroPay Brokers Comparison
Deriv
"Deriv is ideal for active traders seeking alternative and unique ways to speculate on global financial markets, from multipliers and accumulator options to its bespoke synthetic indices, which mimic real market movements and are available 24/7, allowing for continuous trading opportunities regardless of market hours."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
Deriv Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
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Instruments | CFDs, Multipliers, Accumulators, Synthetic Indices, Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, ETFs |
Regulator | MFSA, LFSA, BVIFSC, VFSC, FSC, SVGFSA |
Platforms | Deriv Trader, Deriv X, Deriv Go, MT5, cTrader, TradingView |
Minimum Deposit | $5 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:1000 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP |
Pros
- After integrating TradingView and adding MT5 web trader, Deriv now offers a first-class selection of charting tools across desktop, web and mobile devices.
- Although response times trail alternatives in our personal experience, Deriv offers 24/7 support and is one of the few brokers to offer WhatsApp assistance.
- Account funding is a breeze with a very low minimum deposit of $5 and a huge selection of payment options, plus Tether was added to the cashier in 2023.
Cons
- While the Academy launched in 2021 is a step in the right direction, there is limited education on advanced trading topics for seasoned traders and no live webinars to upskill new traders.
- Apart from the MFSA in the EU, Deriv lacks top-tier regulatory credentials, reducing the level of safeguards like access to investor compensation.
- Although there’s a basic blog, there's little in terms of technical analysis or market reports which could help active traders identify potential opportunities.
Exness
"After slashing its spreads, improving its execution speeds and support trading on over 100 currency pairs with more than 40 account currencies to choose from, Exness is a fantastic option for active forex traders looking to minimize trading costs."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
Exness Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
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Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto |
Regulator | CySEC, FCA, FSCA, CMA, FSA, CBCS, BVIFSC, FSC |
Platforms | Exness Trade App, Exness Terminal, MT4, MT5, TradingCentral |
Minimum Deposit | $10 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:Unlimited |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, INR, JPY, ZAR, MYR, IDR, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, AED, SAR, HUF, BRL, NGN, THB, VND, UAH, KWD, QAR, KRW, MXN, KES, CNY |
Pros
- Excellent range of account types for all experience levels, including Cent, Pro plus the introduction of Raw Spread, ideal for day traders.
- Exness was the first brokerage to pass the $1 trillion and $2 trillion marks in monthly trading volumes, highlighting its legitimacy.
- Fast and dependable 24/7 multilingual customer support via telephone, email and live chat based on hands-on tests.
Cons
- Apart from a mediocre blog, educational resources are woeful, especially compared to category leaders like IG which provide a more complete trading journey for newer traders.
- MetaTrader 4 and 5 are supported, but TradingView and cTrader still aren’t despite rising demand from active traders and integration at alternatives like Pepperstone.
- Retail trading services are unavailable in certain jurisdictions, such as the US and the UK, limiting accessibility compared to top-tier brokers like Interactive Brokers.
RoboForex
"RoboForex is great if you want a vast range of 12,000+ day trading markets with ECN accounts, powerful charting and loyalty promotions. It also stands out for stock traders with its user-friendly R StocksTrader platform, featuring 3,000+ shares, fees from $0.01 and sophisticated watchlists."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
RoboForex Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | $30 No Deposit Bonus |
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Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures |
Regulator | IFSC |
Platforms | R StocksTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView |
Minimum Deposit | $10 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:2000 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR |
Pros
- RoboForex offers over 12,000 instruments, providing more short-term trading opportunities than the vast majority of online brokers, with forex, stocks, indices, ETFs, commodities, and futures.
- The broker offers two commission-free withdrawals each month in the Free Funds Withdrawal program, helping day traders to minimize transaction costs.
- RoboForex is known for its tight spreads starting from 0 pips and low minimum deposits from $10, making it accessible to those on a budget. The ability to trade with micro lots further lowers the barrier to entry for new traders.
Cons
- Despite 15+ years in the industry and registering with the Financial Commission, RoboForex is authorized by one ‘Red-Tier’ regulator – the IFSC in Belize, lowering the level of regulatory protections for traders.
- While RoboForex offers competitive spreads, some of its account types come with high trading commissions up to $20 per lot, trailing the cheapest brokers, such as IC Markets.
- RoboForex provides a variety of account types, which, while offering flexibility, can be overwhelming for newer traders trying to choose the most suitable option for their trading style. Alternatives, notably eToro, provide a smoother entry into online trading with one retail account.
Vantage
"Vantage remains an excellent option for CFD traders seeking a tightly-regulated broker with access to the reliable MetaTrader platforms. The fast sign-up process and $50 minimum deposit make it very straightforward to start day trading quickly."
Jemma Grist, Reviewer
Vantage Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | 50% Welcome Deposit Bonus, earn redeemable rewards in the Vantage Rewards scheme |
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Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds |
Regulator | FCA, ASIC, FSCA, VFSC |
Platforms | ProTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade |
Minimum Deposit | $50 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:500 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, HKD, SGD, PLN |
Pros
- Vantage has bolstered its algorithmic trading tools for advanced traders with AutoFibo EA identifying reversal opportunities
- It’s quick and easy to open a live account – taking less than 5 minutes
- There are no short-term strategy restrictions with hedging and scalping permitted
Cons
- It's a shame that some clients will need to register with the offshore entity, which offers less regulatory protection
- The average execution speeds of 100ms to 250ms are slower than alternatives based on tests
- A steep $10,000 deposit is needed for the best trading conditions, which include the $1.50 commission per side
Fusion Markets
"Fusion Markets is a standout option for forex traders looking for excellent pricing with spreads near zero, industry-low commissions and recently TradingView integration. It’s a particularly good broker for Australian traders where the company is headquartered and regulated by the ASIC."
Jemma Grist, Reviewer
Fusion Markets Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
---|---|
Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto |
Regulator | ASIC, VFSC, FSA |
Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, DupliTrade |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:500 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- Fusion Markets continues to impress with its pricing that provides tight spreads with below-average commissions that will appeal to active day traders.
- Fusion Markets is set up to support algo traders with a sponsored VPS solution and a 25% discount if you opt for the NYC Servers VPS for MT4 or cTrader.
- The range of charting platforms and social trading features is excellent, with MT4, MT5, cTrader and more recently TradingView, catering to a wide range of trader preferences.
Cons
- The demo account expires after 30 days, limiting its potential as a useful trading tool alongside a real-money account.
- There is no proprietary trading platform or app built with beginners in mind, a notable drawback compared to AvaTrade.
- Fusion Market trails alternatives, notably eToro and IG, in the education department with limited guides and live video sessions to upskill new traders.
Easy Markets
"Casual traders who want a secure and straightforward trading environment will find a good broker in easyMarkets. The fixed spreads and upfront fees will also appeal to newer traders and cost-conscious investors."
Tobias Robinson, Reviewer
Easy Markets Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
---|---|
Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Cryptos, Commodities |
Regulator | CySEC, ASIC, BVI, FSCA |
Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView |
Minimum Deposit | €100 |
Minimum Trade | Variable |
Leverage | 1:30 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, TRY, SEK, CHF, PLN, CZK, MXN |
Pros
- The Bitcoin base currency account makes it easy to store and trade cryptos without the need for a fiat exchange
- High-quality day trading software is available including TradingView, with 100+ overlays and indicators, plus deep market insights
- Day traders can access an excellent range of risk management tools, including negative balance protection, guaranteed stop loss orders and the proprietary dealCancellation tool
Cons
- There is no VPS service for seasoned algo traders looking to run their automated strategies 24/7
- The broker doesn’t offer any raw-spread or cent account options, which puts it behind top competitors like Vantage
- There's no copy trading service for beginners looking to follow successful strategies, or for experienced traders looking to sell their own strategies
FBS
"FBS is an excellent choice for day traders at every level and budget, with just a $5 minimum deposit and intensive academy for aspiring traders alongside access to MT4, MT5 and highly leveraged trading opportunities up to 1:3000 for experienced traders."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
FBS Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
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Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Indices, Shares, Commodities |
Regulator | ASIC, CySEC, FSC |
Platforms | FBS App, MT4, MT5 |
Minimum Deposit | $5 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:30 (EU & Restricted Countries), 1:3000 (Global) |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR |
Pros
- FBS strikes the balance between robust features and ease of use, with a sign-up process taking <10 minutes, an intuitive app, advanced research through Market Analytics & more recently VIP Analytics, plus immersive education through the FBS Academy and Trader’s Blog.
- 24/7 customer support that performed excellently during testing is available, alongside a $5 minimum deposit, high leverage options, and a huge variety of 200+ funding options, making it ideal for traders with small accounts.
- FBS offers lightning-fast execution speeds from just 10 milliseconds, placing it among the industry leaders for highly active traders like scalpers who demand rapid order processing.
Cons
- There are only two base currencies available - EUR and USD - which isn't practical for minimizing currency conversion fees for many global traders, and is especially striking given the broker’s user base spans over 150 nations.
- Although the FBS app offers a terrific mobile trading experience for aspiring traders and MT4/MT5 cater to advanced traders, the absence of cTrader and TradingView, which are increasingly offered by alternatives like Pepperstone, will deter day traders familiar with these platforms.
- Investor protection is only available for clients within the EU, meaning global traders may not be protected if their account goes negative, significantly increasing the risk to your funds.
Grand Capital
"Grand Capital is a good broker for traders familiar with MetaTrader plus passive investors interested in copy trading and LAMM solutions. On the downside, the broker's regulatory credentials lag behind competitors."
William Berg, Reviewer
Grand Capital Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | 40% deposit bonus |
---|---|
Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Indices, Shares, Energies, Metals, Cryptocurrencies, Binary Options |
Regulator | FinaCom |
Platforms | MT4, MT5 |
Minimum Deposit | $10 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:500 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, CHF, RUB |
Pros
- Accessible minimum deposit starting from $10
- Demo competitions with cash prizes
- High leverage up to 1:500
Cons
- Limited regulatory oversight
- High spreads on some assets
- Basic education and market research
ActivTrades
"ActivTrades is an obvious choice for day traders at all levels, with almost unmatched execution speeds of 4ms and a choice of leading trading software, from MT4, MT5 and TradingView to ActivTrader, which sports a simple and elegant interface that aspiring traders will enjoy using."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
ActivTrades Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | Cashback on Trades |
---|---|
Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, ETFs, Futures, Cryptos (location dependent) |
Regulator | FCA, CMVM, CSSF, SCB |
Platforms | ActivTrades, MT4, MT5, TradingView |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:30 (UK and EU), 1:400 (Global & Pro) |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CHF |
Pros
- ActivTrades is highly trusted, boasting 20+ years in the industry, authorization from 3 ‘green tier’ bodies under DayTrading.com’s Regulation & Trust Rating, and it goes the extra mile for UK traders with £1M in investor compensation (exceeding the £85K through the FSCS) in the event of brokerage insolvency.
- ActivTrades provides fast, dependable and multilingual support based on our tests of its live chat, email, and phone assistance, making it excellent for active traders and beginners.
- With execution speeds averaging just 4ms, an order fulfilment rate of 93.6%, and no restrictions on short-term strategies, ActivTrades offers an excellent environment for fast-paced strategies like day trading.
Cons
- There are no copy trading or social trading features, which is a drawback for traders seeking passive investment opportunities or the ability to mimic the trades of more experienced traders, especially compared to eToro and Vantage.
- Its research tools are good but not great, with a growing ‘Analysis’ hub but no Trading Central or Autochartist for advanced technical summaries which could help aspiring traders identify opportunities in fast-moving markets.
- There's a varied selection of 1000+ markets, such as forex, commodities, indices, and ETFs, but the range of asset classes overall is limited, notably there are zero stocks outside the US, UK and Europe, while BlackBull offers a superior 26,000+ markets.
GC Option
"GC Option is ideal for binary traders seeking access to the MetaTrader 4 platform, as it is one of the only binary options firms that supports it, requiring a $100 deposit to achieve ‘Gold’ status. It’s also designed for short-term traders with contracts ranging from just 1 minute to 48 hours."
William Berg, Reviewer
GC Option Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | Risk Free Trading Days |
---|---|
Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | Binary Options on Forex, Metals and Cryptos |
Platforms | MT4, TradingView |
Minimum Deposit | $10 |
Minimum Trade | $1 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, RUB |
Pros
- The free demo account with $10,000 in virtual funds is an excellent place to learn how binary options work, including the broker’s double touch binaries which aren’t available at most brokers.
- GC Option offers fast and dependable support available 24/7 with response times of under 2 minutes based on testing over several years, and a particularly receptive live chat service.
- GC Option is fairly unique in its position as a binary options broker that provides access to MT4, though you need to achieve Gold status to trade on it.
Cons
- Despite 15+ years in the market and being a spin-off of the established Grand Capital brand, GC Option remains unregulated with limited safeguards for investors.
- Whilst the $10 minimum deposit is low within the industry, over 50% of the withdrawal options incur a charge and many consist of cryptocurrencies or banking solutions in Africa and India.
- The breadth of tradable assets at GC Option needs serious improvement, with just approximately 30 instruments spanning currencies, cryptos and commodities, but zero stocks.
How Did We Choose The Best AstroPay Brokers?
To identify the top AstroPay brokers, we:
- Leveraged our 500-strong database of online brokers and trading platforms, prioritizing all those that accept AstroPay payments
- Verified that they accept support AstroPay deposits and withdrawals for day trading
- Sorted them by their rating, based on over 100 data points and findings from our in-depth tests
What Is AstroPay?
AstroPay LLP is an online payment method, founded in 2009 with the launch of its AstroPay card. It enables customers, including day traders, the opportunity to make online payments without the need for international credit cards.
Initially aimed at South American customers, the company covers all major markets in the Latin American region, providing payment solutions where alternatives are not available, or not functioning properly.
The solution essentially enables digital purchases to be made via payment methods in a local currency with pre-paid cards and e-wallets. Today, the firm’s services span Asia, Latin America, Africa and Europe. The list of brokers that accept AstroPay deposits and withdrawals also spans most major trading jurisdictions.
The company has a head office in the UK with additional offices in the USA. The payment solution currently has over 6 million registered users and has partnered with 1000+ merchants, including top-rated online trading brokers.
How AstroPay Works
AstroPay provides a traditional card solution as well as hosting a range of local alternative payment methods to initiate transactions. This includes PIX in Brazil, M-Pesa in Kenya and JCB Card in Japan. By doing so, the brand helps global traders and customers avoid common issues such as transaction refusals, fraud, plus credit approval requirements. The prepaid Visa card is used in more than 30 million locations worldwide.
The digital wallet enables traders to make transactions in US Dollars or a local currency. Day traders can make deposits and withdrawals directly and seamlessly from online brokerage sites and investing platforms.
You can set configurable daily or monthly limits as well as generate a simple deposit balance from the merchant’s site to track funding history.
AstroPay Card
AstroPay’s first product, the service was primarily aimed at individuals in emerging markets, with no access to international credit or debit cards. The popular prepaid card is available to use virtually or as a physical card for online purchases, including at AstroPay brokers.
To redeem a card, simply top up using a variety of methods, including paying by cash, bank transfer, or direct debit. On the deposit page of your broker’s account, simply select AstroPay as the payment solution.
Gift cards and vouchers are available as additional top-ups.
AstroPay Visa Card
Introduced in 2022, users can apply for a Visa debit card through the brand’s mobile app. Traders can then use the card with most brokers that accept Visa.
The main difference between both card types is that AstroPay cards are fixed-amount cards, whereas with the Visa debit card, you can use your wallet balance.
Cryptocurrency
This solution allows customers to trade digital currencies without paying high fees to buy, trade, transfer, or hold crypto.
There are several cryptocurrencies you can buy on the app including Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, and Cardano. Alternatively, you can purchase digital money via established exchange platforms like Binance with an AstroPay card, and withdraw crypto assets to your branded personal wallet for storage.
Wallet
The e-wallet is available as a free download to iOS and Android (APK) devices. Visit the Google Play or Apple App store. You can top up your wallet or buy an AstroPay voucher via the payment link. Pay, deposit, withdraw, send and receive money all from one interface.
Similar apps include Venmo, Stripe, Skrill and Neteller.
Deposit & Withdrawal Times
Brokers that accept AstroPay normally offer instant payments at the deposit stage. This means your funds should be available immediately. Remember though, traders will need to load their wallet or virtual/physical AstroPay card with funds, which can add to timescales.
Some AstroPay brokers also have their own processing times, which can cause delays. Vantage, for example, offers instant account funding via AstroPay, regardless of the depositing currency. RoboForex, on the other hand, has a maximum one working day deposit and withdrawal processing time for payments made with the brand.
Fees & Charges
Trading payments made with the solution are low cost, as well as convenient.
Currency exchange rate fees may apply if you are depositing in a currency outside of your account denomination. Nevertheless, FBS, Vantage and easyMarkets, for example, do not charge day traders a fee for either deposits or withdrawals made via AstroPay cards or wallet transfers. RoboForex, however, applies a 0.5% withdrawal charge.
Note, it is free to sign up for an AstroPay account.
Security
Our expert review found this is a secure and safe payment gateway solution for online traders. AstroPay is incorporated in the UK under the trading name Larstal Limited, registration number 901001. The company is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under the 20211 Electronic Money Regulations.
It is reassuring to see top-tier oversight from a reputable authority, increasing the likelihood of fund protection and providing access to compensation schemes if something were to go wrong.
AstroPay is also PCI-DSS compliant, which means credit and debit card transactions are secure, and data is protected against theft.
New users must comply with KYC requirements during account sign-up. In addition, day traders can set up an OTP solution via SMS for account access. A 5-digit code will be provided to authenticate your login each time you initiate a deposit or withdrawal to your trading account.
Pros Of AstroPay Brokers
Benefits of brokers that accept AstroPay deposits include:
- Convenient – Day traders in emerging markets can pay with their local currency. Cheap and swift forex conversion is ideal for trading account deposits. With that said, check AstroPay brokers also offer accounts in your local currency.
- Safe – You can pay for goods and services using a range of currencies, without revealing your personal banking details. All credit and debit card transactions are processed in line with PCI-DSS compliance.
- Seamless With Global Establishments – AstroPay offers fast and reliable money transfers on a global scale. The solution works seamlessly with many established payment operators like Visa, MasterCard, American Express and UnionPay. There is also a growing list of AstroPay brokers.
Cons Of AstroPay Brokers
Downsides of trading brokers that accept AstroPay include:
- Limited Customer Support – Other than a customer request form and email address, the brand does not provide any other support channels such as a contact number, mailing address or live chat service
- Negative Reviews – It is disappointing to see some negative comments online. Many refer to AstroPay accounts being blocked, slow responsiveness from the customer care email address and an inability to action a withdrawal back to a bank account
- Limited Availability – Although the brand operates on a global scale, it is not widely accepted as a deposit and withdrawal method at some of the biggest brokerage brands. Skrill and Neteller are more established for traders given their favorable e-wallet advantages, high security and cheap fees
How To Deposit Using AstroPay
Firstly, you will need to find brokers that accept AstroPay deposits. The best brokers will provide this information within the payments section of their website, or via the platform interface. Look out for the logo on accepted trading sites.
Next, you will need to create an account with AstroPay. This can be set up directly through the website or via the mobile app. From there, you can apply for a card and top up with popular local payment methods, or reach out to official and authorized resellers.
To deposit to brokers that accept AstroPay, log in to your client portal and head to the payments portal. Here you will need to specify the amount you wish to deposit and enter your card details if applicable. Traders will be directed to the payment interface, connecting to a local financial institution.
Consider minimum deposit requirements, which will vary by AstroPay brokers. Deriv for example, requires initial funding of $5 or equivalent currency. KYC verification may also be required, including the provision of an ID document number.
We have outlined the process simply below:
- Create an AstroPay account
- Load funds into your account
- Use an AstroPay card or e-wallet to deposit to your live trading profile
Supported Countries
AstroPay services are available to traders globally. The solution is available in Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, India, Jordan, Kuwait, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, Uruguay, and more.
Pre-paid card services are accessible to residents in Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Venezuela, Japan, China, Indonesia, Greece, Turkey and more. The company has also expanded to some African countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda and Zimbabwe.
Note, supported payment methods to AstroPay accounts vary by jurisdiction. The most common options used include M-Pesa, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard), bank transfers, e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller), and cash.
Contact Details
The payment method offers limited customer contact channels. Traders are directed to a self-help FAQ center, although information is limited. Topics include how to withdraw money, redeem, merge and pay from an AstroPay card, account verification times, how to delete an account and promo code support.
An online contact form and email address (support@astropay.com) are the only direct methods of contact. There is no toll-free customer care phone number or live chat services, which would provide the fastest response times. Alternatively, the company is active on social media sites including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, though posts are outdated.
Fortunately, the top brokers that accept AstroPay also run active support channels that can help with deposit delays or withdrawal questions.
Is AstroPay Good For Day Trading?
AstroPay is a convenient payment method for online traders, particularly within emerging markets such as Latin America and Africa. The transfer service is swift, secure and cheap, with many established AstroPay brokers not charging fees to deposit funds. That being said, there are some negative reviews, rating the service as poor with issues surrounding fund withdrawals.
Use our list of the top trading brokers that accept AstroPay deposits to get started.
FAQ
Is The AstroPay Card Free To Deposit To Trading Accounts?
It is free to sign up for an AstroPay card. Also, several forex brokers, including FBS, Vantage and easyMarkets, do not charge traders a fee to deposit with the branded card.
Is AstroPay Safe To Use To Deposit To Trading Accounts?
AstroPay is a relatively safe way to deposit and withdraw to a live trading account. The solution is regulated under the Electronic Money rules by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Know-your-customer verification is also required for all new account registrations and you can add OTP authentication for additional reassurance. Despite this, make sure you only trade with recommended brokers that accept AstroPay deposits.
Is AstroPay A Legitimate Deposit Method For Traders?
AstroPay is a genuine and legitimate payment solution used by millions across the world, including online traders. You can link a range of established local payment solutions to your AstroPay account and initiate deposits to your trading profile with the brand.
Can I Fund My Trading Account Using The AstroPay App?
The app is a free e-wallet wallet accepted on hundreds of international sites, including brokers. It is a good option for day traders who want to deposit online without having to provide personal banking details.
Can I Use The AstroPay Card To Make Trading Deposits?
The AstroPay card is accepted by 1000+ partnered merchants, including forex brokers like RoboForex and Vantage. Look out for the logo within your trading platform interface. Alternatively, use our list of the best AstroPay brokers.