Brokers With Low Minimum Deposit
Brokers with low minimum deposits are great for traders starting out – facilitating quick and easy access to the financial markets. So whilst many forex and stock trading platforms require thousands to open an account, some of the best online brokers offer little or no cash requirement. Here, we explain the benefits and drawbacks of platforms that require minimal capital outlay and list the top brokers with low minimum deposits.
Best Brokers With The Lowest Minimum Deposit
These are the best brokers for new traders with the lowest minimum deposit requirements:
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1NinjaTraderMinimum Deposit: $0
Ratings
$00.01 Lots1:50NFA, CFTCForex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, CryptoNinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignalACH Transfer, Debit Card, Wire Transfer, ChequeUSD -
2Interactive BrokersMinimum Deposit: $0
Ratings
$0$1001:50FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFMStocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, CryptocurrenciesTrader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentralCheque, ACH Transfer, Wire Transfer, Automated Customer Account Transfer Service, TransferWise, Debit CardUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF -
3IGMinimum Deposit: $0Forex trading involves risk. Losses can exceed deposits.
Ratings
$00.01 Lots1:30 (Retail), 1:250 (Pro)FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB, AFMCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread BettingWeb, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentralPayPal, Wire Transfer, Mastercard, Credit Card, Visa, Debit CardUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, ZAR, SEK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD -
4Pocket OptionMinimum Deposit: $5050% Deposit Bonus
Ratings
$50$1MISABinary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, CryptosWeb, MT4, MT5Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Bitcoin Payments, Volet, Perfect Money, Visa, Mastercard, Debit Card, WebMoney, FasaPay, Ethereum Payments, Maestro, JetonCash, AirtelUSD -
5OANDA USMinimum Deposit: $0CFDs are not available to residents in the United States.
Ratings
$00.01 Lots1:50NFA, CFTCForex, Crypto with Paxos (Cryptocurrencies are offered through Paxos. Paxos is a separate legal entity from OANDA)OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartistWire Transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Debit Card, ACH TransferUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD -
6MoomooMinimum Deposit: $0Get up to 15 free stocks worth up to $2000
Ratings
$0$01:2SEC, FINRA, MAS, ASIC, SFCStocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCsDesktop Platform, Mobile AppWire Transfer, ACH TransferUSD, HKD, SGD -
7CapitalcoreMinimum Deposit: $1040% Deposit Bonus up to $2,500
Ratings
$100.01 Lots1:2000IFSAForex, Metals, Stocks, Cryptos, Futures IndicesWebTrader, ProEthereum Payments, Mastercard, Visa, Perfect Money, Bitcoin Payments, Debit Card, Credit Card, PayPalUSD -
8CloseOptionMinimum Deposit: $5$10 Welcome Gift
Ratings
$5$1National Bank of GeorgiaBinary Options on Forex & CryptosOwnPayPal, WebMoney, Mastercard, Perfect Money, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum PaymentsUSD -
9CEX.IOMinimum Deposit: $20
Ratings
$20$1GFSCCryptosTradingViewDebit Card, Credit Card, Wire Transfer, Swift, Skrill, Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Neteller, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, Bitcoin PaymentsUSD, EUR, GBP -
10UpholdMinimum Deposit: $0Terms Apply. Cryptoassets are highly volatile. Your capital is at risk.
Ratings
$0$1CryptosDesktop Platform, Mobile AppWire Transfer, ACH Transfer, Bitcoin Payments, Debit Card, Credit Card, Mastercard, Visa, Ethereum PaymentsUSD, EUR, GBP
This is why we think these brokers are the best in this category:
- NinjaTrader - NinjaTrader is a US-headquartered and regulated brokerage that specializes in futures trading. There are three pricing plans to suit different needs and budgets, as well as ultra-low margins on popular contracts. The brand's award-winning charting software and trading platform also offers a high-degree of customization and superb technical analysis features.
- Interactive Brokers - Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a premier brokerage, providing access to 150 markets in 33 countries, along with a suite of comprehensive investment services. With over 40 years of experience, this Nasdaq-listed firm adheres to stringent regulations by the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC, amongst others, and is one of the most trusted brokers for trading around the globe.
- IG - Founded in 1974, IG is part of IG Group Holdings Plc, a publicly traded (LSE: IGG) brokerage. The brand-US offers spread betting, CFD and forex trading across an almost unrivalled selection of 17,000+ markets, with a range of user-friendly platforms and investing apps. For 50 years, IG has maintained its position as an industry leader, excelling in all key areas for traders.
- Pocket Option - Established in 2017, Pocket Option is a binary options broker offering high/low contracts on forex, stocks, indices, commodities and cryptocurrencies. With over 100,000 active users and a global reach, the platform continues to prove popular with budding traders.
- OANDA US - OANDA is a popular brand offering exceptional execution, low deposit requirements and advanced charting and trading platform features. The top-rated brand has over 25 years of experience and is regulated by trusted agencies, including the NFA/CFTC. Around the clock support is available for short-term traders, alongside flexible contract sizes and automated trade executions.
- Moomoo - Moomoo is an SEC-regulated app-based investment platform that offers a straightforward and affordable way to invest in Chinese, Hong Kong, Singaporean, Australian and US stocks, ETFs and other assets. Margin trading is available and the brand offers a zero-deposit account as well as several bonuses.
- Capitalcore - Capitalcore is an offshore broker, based in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and established in 2019. Traders can choose from four accounts (Classic, Silver, Gold, VIP) with lower spreads and larger bonuses as you move through the tiers. Where Capitalcore distinguishes itself is its high leverage up to 1:2000 and zero swap fees, though these don’t compensate for the weak oversight from the IFSA and paltry education and research.
- CloseOption - CloseOption is a Georgia-headquartered broker with over a decade in the trading industry. The brand offers high/low binary options trading on forex and crypto markets, with decent payouts, welcome bonuses, 24/7 customer support and intuitive trading software.
- CEX.IO - CEX.IO is one-stop-shop for crypto investors where you can buy and sell popular digital tokens, speculate on prices with margin trading and earn rewards through staking. Since it launched in 2013, more than five million traders have deposited over $7.5 billion. CEX.IO is registered with the FinCEN in the US and the GFSC in the EU.
- Uphold - Uphold is a digital asset platform offering a range of services, from crypto trading and staking to payment cards that provides rewards and easy multi-currency payments. The company was established in 2015 and has enabled $4+ billion in transactions. Uphold is now active in 180+ countries and deals in 200+ crypto and fiat currencies.
Brokers With Low Minimum Deposit Comparison
NinjaTrader
"NinjaTrader continues to meet the demands of active futures traders looking for low fees and premium analysis tools. The platform hosts top-rate charting features including hundreds of indicators and 10+ chart types."
Tobias Robinson, Reviewer
NinjaTrader Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
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Instruments | Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto |
Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
Platforms | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:50 |
Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- NinjaTrader continues to deliver comprehensive charting software for active day traders with bespoke technical indicators and widgets
- Low fees are offered, with $50 day trading margins & commissions from $.09 per micro contract
- NinjaTrader is a widely respected and award-winning futures broker and is heavily authorized by the NFA and CFTC
Cons
- There is a withdrawal fee on some funding methods
- Non forex and futures trading requires signing up with partner brokers
- The premium platform tools come with an extra charge
Interactive Brokers
"Interactive Brokers is one of the best brokers for advanced day traders, providing powerful charting platforms, real-time data, and customizable layouts, notably through the new IBKR Desktop application. Its superb pricing and advanced order options also make it highly attractive for day traders, while its diverse range of equities is still among the best in the industry."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
Interactive Brokers Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
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Instruments | Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies |
Regulator | FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFM |
Platforms | Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentral |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | $100 |
Leverage | 1:50 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF |
Pros
- While primarily geared towards experienced traders, IBKR has made moves to broaden its appeal in recent years, reducing its minimum deposit from $10,000 to $0.
- IBKR continues to deliver unmatched access to global stocks with tens of thousands of equities available from 100+ market centres in 24 countries, most recently the Saudi Stock Exchange.
- There's a vast library of free or paid third-party research subscriptions catering to all types of traders, plus you can enjoy commission reimbursements from IBKR if you subscribe to Toggle AI.
Cons
- TWS’s learning curve is steep, and beginners may find it challenging to navigate the platform and understand all the features. Plus500's web platform is much better suited to new traders.
- IBKR provides a wide range of research tools, but their distribution across trading platforms and the web-based 'Account Management' page lacks consistency, leading to a confusing user experience.
- You can only have one active session per account, so you can’t have your desktop program and mobile app running simultaneously, making for a sometimes frustrating trading experience.
IG
"IG continues to provide a comprehensive package with an intuitive web platform, best-in-class education for beginners, advanced charting tools bolstered by its recent TradingView integration, real-time data, and fast execution speeds for experienced day traders."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
IG Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
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Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting |
Regulator | FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB, AFM |
Platforms | Web, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentral |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:30 (Retail), 1:250 (Pro) |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, ZAR, SEK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- The proprietary web-based platform continues to caters to traders of all levels, with advanced charting tools and real-time market data useful for day trading, while IG has also added TradingView integration.
- IG is amongst the best in terms of its range of instruments, which includes stocks, forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, plus recently added US-listed futures and options, providing ample diversification opportunities.
- The IG app offers a superb mobile trading experience with a clean design that helped it secure Runner Up at our 'Best Trading App' award.
Cons
- Beginners might find IG’s fee structure complex, with various fees for different types of trades or services, potentially leading to confusion or unexpected charges.
- Stock and CFD spreads still trail the cheapest brokers like CMC Markets based on tests.
- While there is negative balance protection in the UK and EU, there is no account protection or guaranteed stop losses for US clients.
Pocket Option
"Pocket Option excels for its easy-to-use web platform which provides a best-in-class user experience for short-term binary traders. The $50 minimum deposit is also accessible for beginners while opening an account is really easy. Looking at the negatives, Pocket Option still trails alternatives in its market offering and regulatory credentials."
Jemma Grist, Reviewer
Pocket Option Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | 50% Deposit Bonus |
---|---|
Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | Binary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, Cryptos |
Regulator | MISA |
Platforms | Web, MT4, MT5 |
Minimum Deposit | $50 |
Minimum Trade | $1 |
Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- The MetaTrader platforms offer integrated analysis with helpful technical summaries for short-term traders
- The range of payment methods beats the majority of rivals, providing fast, secure and convenient deposits for traders in most countries
- Extremely fast and smooth sign-up process that takes less than 2 minutes
Cons
- Despite offering competitive payouts up to 92%, binary brokers like IQCent offer higher returns up to 98% based on tests
- The maximum binary contract length of 4 hours is restrictive for longer-term trading strategies. Alternatives like Videforex offer binaries up to 1 month
- The MISA is a weak regulator with limited investor protection for retail traders
OANDA US
"OANDA remains an excellent broker for US day traders seeking a user-friendly platform with premium analysis tools and a straightforward joining process. OANDA is also heavily regulated with a very high trust score."
Jemma Grist, Reviewer
OANDA US Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
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Instruments | Forex, Crypto with Paxos (Cryptocurrencies are offered through Paxos. Paxos is a separate legal entity from OANDA) |
Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
Platforms | OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:50 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- Seasoned day traders can access industry-leading tools, including an MT4 premium upgrade and advanced charting provided by MotiveWave
- The broker's API facilitates access to 25 years of deep historical data and rates from 200+ currencies
- There's a strong selection of 68 currency pairs for dedicated short-term forex traders
Cons
- The range of day trading markets is limited to forex and cryptos only
- It's a shame that customer support is not available on weekends
- There's only a small range of payment methods available, with no e-wallets supported
Moomoo
"Moomoo remains an excellent choice for new and intermediate stock traders who want to build a diverse investment portfolio. What really stands out is the broker's user-friendly app and the low trading fees."
Jemma Grist, Reviewer
Moomoo Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | Get up to 15 free stocks worth up to $2000 |
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Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs |
Regulator | SEC, FINRA, MAS, ASIC, SFC |
Platforms | Desktop Platform, Mobile App |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | $0 |
Leverage | 1:2 |
Account Currencies | USD, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- Moomoo's analytics and insights are impressive and detailed compared to other brands
- Moomoo is a Member of FINRA and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), adding another level of security for prospective clients
- The ‘Moomoo Token’ generates dynamic passwords for transaction security - a unique and helpful safety feature
Cons
- It's a shame that there is no 2 factor authentication (2FA), despite the other security features on offer
- There is no phone or live chat support - common options at most other brokers
- There is no negative balance protection, which is a common safety feature at top-tier-regulated brokers
Capitalcore
"The major selling points of Capitalcore are its high leverage options up to 1:2000 and zero commission or swap fees. However, its weak regulatory oversight from the IFSA and non-existent education place it far behind the top brokers."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
Capitalcore Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | 40% Deposit Bonus up to $2,500 |
---|---|
Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | Forex, Metals, Stocks, Cryptos, Futures Indices |
Regulator | IFSA |
Platforms | WebTrader, Pro |
Minimum Deposit | $10 |
Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
Leverage | 1:2000 |
Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- Capitalcore is one of the only brokers to charge zero swap fees, which may appeal to Islamic traders looking to comply with Islamic Finance.
- The Capitalcore platform provides comprehensive charting tools and a wide range of 150+ technical indicators, ideal for detailed market analysis.
- Unlike most brokers, Capitalcore offers an unlimited demo account that takes under 5 minutes to open.
Cons
- The web platform was inconsistent during testing, with occasional technical glitches that meant the trading platform wouldn’t load.
- Capitalcore is not regulated by major financial authorities and has an unproven reputation, raising concerns about the safety of client funds.
- Platform support is limited to proprietary software, so there's no integration with the market-leading MetaTrader or cTrader, which offer built-in economic news and support automated trading.
CloseOption
"CloseOption is a good pick for traders seeking a user-friendly binary options platform with high payouts and joining bonuses."
Tobias Robinson, Reviewer
CloseOption Quick Facts
Bonus Offer | $10 Welcome Gift |
---|---|
Demo Account | Yes |
Instruments | Binary Options on Forex & Cryptos |
Regulator | National Bank of Georgia |
Platforms | Own |
Minimum Deposit | $5 |
Minimum Trade | $1 |
Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- Free demo account
- CloseOption offers weekly trading tournaments with cash prizes
- New traders can get started with a $5 minimum deposit
Cons
- Binary options are only available on fiat and digital currencies
- Clients need to deposit $50,000+ to qualify for the best payouts
- CloseOption is not regulated by a well-regarded trading authority
CEX.IO
"CEX.IO continues to serve a range of crypto investors looking to buy, sell, trade, hold and earn with low fees. The tiered pricing structure will appeal to active traders while rookie investors will enjoy the straightforward platform interface and excellent education."
Tobias Robinson, Reviewer
CEX.IO Quick Facts
Demo Account | No |
---|---|
Instruments | Cryptos |
Regulator | GFSC |
Platforms | TradingView |
Minimum Deposit | $20 |
Minimum Trade | $1 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP |
Pros
- CEX.IO continues to offer competitive pricing with 0.01% taker and 0% maker fees for high-volume traders
- The range of 200+ cryptocurrencies is competitive and will serve more experienced traders
- CEX.IO has remained a trusted crypto exchange since its launch, with 5+ million users
Cons
- The Exchange Plus platform delivers a cluttered interface compared to competitor platforms
- The broker has limited regulatory oversight
- It's a shame that there's no demo account for traders looking to practice strategies
Uphold
"Uphold remains a top choice for crypto investors looking for a one-stop-shop solution to accessing the markets. There are over 250 tokens to buy, sell and trade through flexible platform options."
William Berg, Reviewer
Uphold Quick Facts
Demo Account | Yes |
---|---|
Instruments | Cryptos |
Platforms | Desktop Platform, Mobile App |
Minimum Deposit | $0 |
Minimum Trade | $1 |
Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP |
Pros
- Fees are competitive based on tests, with 26 underlying platforms helping to source the best prices
- The proprietary app is extremely easy to use with a slick design and navigation
- Uphold continues to remain ahead of the industry, often being one of the first platforms to list new crypto tokens
Cons
- The charting analysis features on the platform trail specialist exchanges
- There is a 2.49% fee if you want to use debit or credit cards
- Customer service is slow based on tests, with limited contact options
Minimum Deposits Explained
Online brokers typically require a deposit to set up an account and start trading. So whether you’re trading stocks or forex, you’ll often need to put down hundreds or thousands before you can open a position. Of course, minimum deposits vary between providers.
Brokers with low minimum deposits can appeal to traders looking to test a live account before investing significant cash. They can also be used to diversify risk exposure by breaking up a large pot between multiple strategies and platforms. Additionally, some strategies can only be tested under real-market conditions, so a paper trading account won’t tick the box.
Market makers, brokers that take the opposing side of trades, generally have the lowest minimums, though ECN forex brokers can also offer little to no deposit requirement. But while capital requirements may vary, it’s important to still choose a broker that’s regulated and offers the trading tools you need to be successful.
For example, brokers in Europe are usually regulated by the CySEC while Australian traders should look for licensing from the ASIC and UK investors for oversight from the FCA. Equally, South African and Kenyan investors should check providers are licensed in their jurisdiction.
Pros
There are several benefits to opening an account with low or no minimum deposit:
- Beginners – New starters can learn about the forex market, for example, without risking more than they can afford.
- Access – If you want to test several markets, you can spread your pot across multiple assets, from indices like the NASDAQ to precious metals such as gold.
- Order size – Brokers with low minimum deposits may accept smaller order sizes which can appeal to those with less cash.
- Resources – Most brokers provide a range of guides, tutorials and tips to help support trading strategies, and a small deposit, even just $1, could grant you access to a company’s suite of tools.
Cons
There are several drawbacks to using brokers with low minimum deposits:
- Scams – There are a large number of retail trading scams online. And some brokers may lower capital requirements to reel traders in. As a result, investors should check a broker is still regulated by the relevant authority and receives positive reviews.
- Hidden fees – Platforms may reduce cash requirements and then charge extra for other trading services, from account inactivity fees to monthly maintenance costs. That’s why it’s important to opt for a legitimate broker with transparent pricing.
Final Word
Online brokers with low or no minimum deposits are a great option for new traders. They connect investors to the financial markets, allowing traders to test a broker’s range of services or refine strategies. However, it’s important not to forget that you still need a legitimate platform with the necessary tools, market access, and regulatory protection. Check out our list of the best brokers with low minimum deposits to start trading today.
FAQ
Why Do Brokers Require A Minimum Deposit?
Online brokers require an initial payment to cover the costs of creating an account and to ensure traders have enough capital to open positions in their chosen market. Minimum deposits vary from several thousand dollars to just $1.
Can I Trade Forex With $1?
Yes, some online brokers offer minimum deposits from just $1, including regulated trading platforms. See our list for leading recommendations and detailed reviews.
Which Online Brokers Have A Minimum Deposit Of $10?
There are a number of trading platforms offering deposits from just $10, including RoboForex and FXTM. Both provide access to a range of leveraged trading products with competitive spreads and reliable customer support.
Who Are The Best HFX Brokers With Low Minimum Deposits?
Some of the best FX brokers with low minimum deposits include Forex.com and XM. They offer an impressive suite of tools and hundreds of trading assets alongside free mobile applications.