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Best CFD Trading Platforms and Brokers in Germany 2024

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Written By
James Barra
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Written By
James Barra
James is an investment writer with a background in financial services. As a former management consultant, he has worked on major operational transformation programmes at prominent European banks. James authors, edits and fact-checks content for a series of investing websites.
» James Barra Profile Page
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Fact Checked By
Jemma Grist
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Fact Checked By
Jemma Grist
Jemma is a writer, editor and fact-checker focused on retail trading and investing. Jemma brings a unique perspective to the forex, stock, and cryptocurrency markets and works across several investment websites as a researcher and broker analyst.
» Jemma Grist Profile Page
Updated
Oct 9, 2024

We’ve identified the best CFD trading platforms and brokers in Germany. Every CFD broker recommended is trusted by our industry experts and active traders and accepts German traders.

Top 10 CFD Trading Platforms in Germany

Following our comprehensive testing of 265 brokers, these 10 platforms continue to stand out as the best for CFD traders in Germany:

Click a broker for details
  1. 1
    Eightcap
    Ratings
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    $100
    0.01 Lots
    1:30
    ASIC, FCA, CySEC, SCB, CNMV
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
    MT4, MT5, TradingView
    Neteller, Skrill, Visa, UnionPay, Credit Card, Debit Card, Bitcoin Payments, Wire Transfer, FasaPay, BPAY, PayPal, Dragonpay, PIX Payment
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, SGD
    Go To Eightcap
  2. 2
    AvaTrade
    79% of retail accounts lose money with this provider.
    Ratings
    4.8 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    $100
    0.01 Lots
    1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro)
    ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBI, FSA, FSRA, BVI, ADGM, CIRO, AFM
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Crypto, Spread Betting, Futures
    WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaFutures, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
    Skrill, Wire Transfer, FasaPay, Mastercard, Perfect Money, Swift, MoneyGram, Credit Card, WebMoney, JCB Card, Debit Card, Neteller, Boleto
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD
    Go To AvaTrade
  3. 3
    Deriv
    Ratings
    3.5 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    3.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    2.5 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    4.2 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    $5
    0.01 Lots
    1:1000
    MFSA, LFSA, BVIFSC, VFSC, FSC, SVGFSA
    CFDs, Multipliers, Accumulators, Synthetic Indices, Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, ETFs
    Deriv Trader, Deriv X, Deriv Go, MT5, cTrader, TradingView
    Neteller, 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 Payments
    USD, EUR, GBP
    Go To Deriv
  4. 4
    IC Trading
    Ratings
    2.8 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3 / 5
    4 / 5
    4 / 5
    2.8 / 5
    3 / 5
    2.2 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    $200
    0.01 Lots
    1:500
    FSC
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, Cryptos, Futures
    MT4, MT5, cTrader, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
    PayPal, Neteller, Mastercard, Visa, Wire Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD
    Go To IC Trading
  5. 5
    Pepperstone
    CFDs and FX are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 74.6% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs.
    Ratings
    4.6 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.1 / 5
    $0
    0.01 Lots
    1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
    FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB
    CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto, Spread Betting
    MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade
    Visa, Mastercard, Credit Card, Debit Card, PayPal, Wire Transfer, POLi, UnionPay, BPAY, Neteller, Skrill, PIX Payment
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD
    Go To Pepperstone
  6. 6
    XM
    74.12% of retail accounts lose money.
    Ratings
    3.8 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    3.3 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.7 / 5
    3.9 / 5
    $5
    0.01 Lots
    1:30
    ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, IFSC
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Commodities, Indices, Thematic Indices, Precious Metals, Energies
    MT4, MT5, TradingCentral
    Credit Card, Debit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Wire Transfer, Perfect Money, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, TransferWise, Visa, M-Pesa
    USD, EUR, GBP, JPY
    Go To XM
  7. 7
    LiteForex Europe
    Ratings
    4 / 5
    3.3 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3.3 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3 / 5
    3.4 / 5
    4.1 / 5
    $50
    0.01 Lots
    1:30
    CySEC, AFM
    CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities
    MT4, MT5
    Neteller, Skrill, Visa, QIWI, Mastercard, Perfect Money, Western Union, Credit Card
    USD, EUR, GBP, CHF
    Go To LiteForex Europe
  8. 8
    eToro
    51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading with this provider. eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.
    Ratings
    4.8 / 5
    4.2 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    3 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4 / 5
    $100
    $10
    1:30
    FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSA, FSRA, MFSA, CNMV, AMF
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Smart Portfolios, Commodities, Futures, Crypto, NFTs
    eToro Web, CopyTrader, TradingCentral
    Visa, Skrill, Neteller, Wire Transfer, Rapid Transfer, Swift, Debit Card, iDeal, Klarna, Sofort, Trustly, Przelewy24
    USD, EUR, GBP
    Go To eToro
  9. 9
    FOREX.com
    20% Welcome Bonus Up To $5000
    74-76% of retail accounts lose money with this provider.
    Ratings
    4.9 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    3.8 / 5
    $100
    0.01 Lots
    1:30
    NFA, CFTC, CIRO, FCA, CYSEC, ASIC, SFC, FSA, MAS, CIMA
    Forex, CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Options, Crypto
    MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
    Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, ACH Transfer
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN
    Go To FOREX.com
  10. 10
    InstaForex
    CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 72.44% 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 the risk of losing your invested funds.
    Ratings
    4 / 5
    3.9 / 5
    4.2 / 5
    4 / 5
    3.9 / 5
    3.7 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    €200 (€1 after account opening)
    0.01 Lots
    1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
    CySEC
    CFDs on Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Forex, Cryptocurrencies, US Synthetic Shares & ETFs, Shares Baskets
    MT4, MT5
    Skrill, Mastercard, Visa, Neteller, Wire Transfer, Przelewy24, Giropay, Rapid Transfer
    USD, EUR, GBP, PLN, CZK
    Go To InstaForex

Here is a summary of why we recommend these brokers:

  1. Eightcap - Eightcap offers a wide range of trading options with 800+ CFDs across stocks, indices, bonds, commodities, and cryptocurrencies (depending on location), with leverage up to 1:30/1:500. It excels in its tools, notably the AI-enabled economic calendar covering 25+ countries with impact filters (high, medium, low). However, its commodities offering, particularly in softs like cotton and wheat, as well as the limited precious metal and energy assets, is its weakest area.
  2. AvaTrade - AvaTrade's 1250+ leveraged CFD products span a wide range of asset classes including stocks, indices, commodities, bonds, crypto, and ETFs. You can speculate on underlying assets in the broker’s feature-rich web and mobile platforms with market-leading research tools to help discover opportunities.
  3. Deriv - Since broadening its range of CFDs in 2023, Deriv now offers trading on rising and falling prices across hundreds of global financial markets. This includes the firm’s exclusive synthetic indices which imitate real markets but run around the clock for additional trading opportunities.
  4. IC Trading - IC Trading specializes in CFD trading with over 2,250 tradable assets spanning sought-after markets including forex, commodities, indices, stocks, and bonds. Utilizing deep liquidity and cutting-edge bridge technology, the broker provides excellent trading conditions for short-term traders looking for leveraged derivatives.
  5. Pepperstone - Pepperstone maintains its position as one of the fastest and most dependable CFD brokers during our latest round of testing. With execution speeds averaging around 30ms and an outstanding fill rate of 99.90%, the broker ensures a seamless trading experience without requotes or dealing desk interference. It also provides ample trading opportunities across over 1,300 assets.
  6. XM - XM delivers for CFD traders with flexible leverage and a huge range of markets, including bespoke thematic indices for exposure to popular sectors like artificial intelligence. The MT4/MT5 platforms are also fast and dependable while a free VPS is available to qualifying XM traders running algo trading strategies.
  7. LiteForex Europe - LiteForex offers leveraged CFDs on popular asset classes, including currencies, commodities and indices. Traders can choose between the ECN and Classic account depending on their strategy alongside an accessible starting deposit and leading trading software from MetaTrader.
  8. eToro - You can trade CFDs on over 3,000 assets and access rich market data through the integrated TradingView charts. There are also comprehensive free learning tools available for beginners via the eToro Academy, including dedicated CFD trading courses and guides.
  9. FOREX.com - With the ability to take both long and short positions on 5,500+ CFDs across forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, FOREX.com excels. Its exclusive Web Trader platform offers an excellent trading experience, equipped with over 80 technical indicators and average execution speeds of just 20 milliseconds, ensuring an optimal environment for serious day traders.
  10. InstaForex - You can trade CFDs across a range of diverse markets with flexible account types and leverage up to 1:30. With access to both MT4 and MT5, day traders can execute multiple short-term CFD trading strategies using the dozens of pre-integrated technical indicators and graphical objects.

Best CFD Trading Platforms and Brokers in Germany 2024 Comparison

Best CFD Trading Platforms and Brokers in Germany 2024 Comparison
Broker CFD Trading EUR Account Minimum Deposit Markets Platforms Leverage
Eightcap logo
✔ ✔ $100 CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto MT4, MT5, TradingView 1:30
AvaTrade logo
✔ ✔ $100 CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Crypto, Spread Betting, Futures WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaFutures, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade 1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro)
Deriv logo
✔ ✔ $5 CFDs, Multipliers, Accumulators, Synthetic Indices, Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, ETFs Deriv Trader, Deriv X, Deriv Go, MT5, cTrader, TradingView 1:1000
IC Trading logo
✔ ✔ $200 CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, Cryptos, Futures MT4, MT5, cTrader, AutoChartist, TradingCentral 1:500
Pepperstone logo
✔ ✔ $0 CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto, Spread Betting MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
XM logo
✔ ✔ $5 CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Commodities, Indices, Thematic Indices, Precious Metals, Energies MT4, MT5, TradingCentral 1:30
LiteForex Europe logo
✔ ✔ $50 CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities MT4, MT5 1:30
eToro logo
✔ ✔ $100 CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Smart Portfolios, Commodities, Futures, Crypto, NFTs eToro Web, CopyTrader, TradingCentral 1:30
FOREX.com logo
✔ ✔ $100 Forex, CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Options, Crypto MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral 1:30
InstaForex logo
✔ ✔ €200 (€1 after account opening) CFDs on Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Forex, Cryptocurrencies, US Synthetic Shares & ETFs, Shares Baskets MT4, MT5 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)

Eightcap

"Eightcap delivers in every area for day traders with a growing selection of charting platforms, education via Labs, and AI-powered tools. Now sporting 120+ crypto CFDs, it's also become a stand-out choice for crypto trading, winning our 'Best Crypto Broker' award two years in a row."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

Eightcap Quick Facts

FTSE Spread1.2
GBPUSD Spread0.1
Stocks Spread0.03 (Apple Inc)
Leverage1:30
RegulatorASIC, FCA, CySEC, SCB, CNMV
PlatformsMT4, MT5, TradingView
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, SGD

Pros

  • After bolstering its roster in 2021, Eightcap offers one of the most extensive selections of cryptocurrency CFDs in the market, with crypto/fiat pairs, crypto/crypto pairs, plus crypto indices for broader exposure to the market.
  • Eightcap stands out with a selection of powerful trading tools and resources, including MT4 and MT5, the innovative algorithmic trading platform Capitalise.ai, and more recently the 50-million strong social trading network TradingView.
  • With tight spreads from 0 pips, low commission fees, and high leverage up to 1:500 for certain clients, Eightcap provides cost-effective and flexible trading conditions that can accommodate an array of strategies, including day trading and scalping.

Cons

  • The demo account expires after 30 days and can only be extended upon request - a notable inconvenience compared to the likes of XM with its unlimited demo mode.
  • Despite a useful library of educational guides and e-books in Labs, Eightcap still trails IG’s comprehensive toolkit for aspiring traders with its dedicated IG Academy app and 18 course categories.
  • In spite of an increasing variety of tools, Eightcap doesn't offer industry favorites like Autochartist or Trading Central, which offer cutting-edge charting analytics, live news, and market insights for short-term traders.
Visit Eightcap
Eightcap Review

AvaTrade

"AvaTrade offers the full package for short-term traders. There is powerful charting software, reliable execution, transparent fees, and fast account opening with a low minimum deposit."

Jemma Grist, Reviewer

AvaTrade Quick Facts

FTSE Spread0.5
GBPUSD Spread1.5
Stocks Spread0.13
Leverage1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro)
RegulatorASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBI, FSA, FSRA, BVI, ADGM, CIRO, AFM
PlatformsWebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaFutures, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD

Pros

  • Recently introduced AvaFutures offers an alternative vehicle to speculate on over 35 markets with low day trading margins
  • AvaTrade is a heavily regulated and trustworthy broker with licenses from the ASIC, CySEC and more
  • Automated trading is supported through MetaTrader Expert Advisors (EAs), as well as the AvaSocial and DupliTrade tools

Cons

  • A high $2000 minimum investment is required to use DupliTrade, which will be out of reach for many beginners
  • There’s an above-average $50 inactivity fee after three months, though this won't impact active day traders
  • It’s a shame that there are no rebate schemes for serious traders looking for additional perks - CMC Markets would be a better choice here
Visit AvaTrade
AvaTrade Review

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

FTSE Spread1.0
GBPUSD Spread0.4
Stocks Spread0.07
Leverage1:1000
RegulatorMFSA, LFSA, BVIFSC, VFSC, FSC, SVGFSA
PlatformsDeriv Trader, Deriv X, Deriv Go, MT5, cTrader, TradingView
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP

Pros

  • 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.
  • After integrating TradingView and adding MT5 web trader, Deriv now offers a first-class selection of charting tools across desktop, web and mobile devices.
  • Deriv stands out with its innovative products, from multipliers and derived indices to its addition of accumulator options, providing exclusive short-term trading opportunities.

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.
  • Leverage up to 1:1000 will appeal to traders with a large risk appetite but frustratingly there is no ability to flex the leverage in the account area.
  • Apart from the MFSA in the EU, Deriv lacks top-tier regulatory credentials, reducing the level of safeguards like access to investor compensation.
Visit Deriv
Deriv Review

IC Trading

"With superior execution speeds averaging 40 milliseconds, deep liquidity, and powerful charting software, IC Trading delivers an optimal trading environment tailored for scalpers, day traders, and algorithmic traders. "

Christian Harris, Reviewer

IC Trading Quick Facts

FTSE Spread2.133
GBPUSD Spread0.23
Stocks SpreadVariable
Leverage1:500
RegulatorFSC
PlatformsMT4, MT5, cTrader, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD

Pros

  • The simplified and digital account opening process saves time and effort, allowing traders to start trading sooner without extensive paperwork, taking just minutes during testing.
  • Trading Central and Autochartist are valuable tools for in-depth technical summaries and actionable trading ideas and are accessible from within the account area or the cTrader platform.
  • IC Trading provides industry-leading spreads, including 0.0-pip spreads on major currency pairs such as EUR/USD, making it ideal for day traders.

Cons

  • Despite being part of the trusted IC Markets group, IC Trading is authorized by a weak regulator - the FSC of Mauritius, with limited financial transparency and regulatory safeguards.
  • The educational resources are greatly in need of improvement, unless you navigate to the IC Markets website, posing a limitation for beginners in search of a comprehensive learning journey, especially compared to category leaders like eToro.
  • Unlike IC Markets, IC Trading does not support social trading through the group’s IC Social app or the third-party copy trading platform ZuluTrade.
Visit IC Trading
IC Trading Review

Pepperstone

"Pepperstone stands out as a top choice for day trading, offering razor-sharp spreads, ultra-fast execution, and advanced charting platforms for experienced traders. New traders are also welcomed with no minimum deposit, extensive educational resources, and exceptional 24/7 support."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

Pepperstone Quick Facts

FTSE Spread1.0
GBPUSD Spread0.4
Stocks Spread0.02
Leverage1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
RegulatorFCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB
PlatformsMT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD

Pros

  • Now offering spread betting through TradingView, Pepperstone provides a seamless, tax-efficient trading experience with advanced analysis tools.
  • Award-winning customer support is available via telephone, email or live chat with response times of <5 minutes during testing.
  • Pepperstone boasts impressive execution speeds, averaging around 30ms, facilitating fast order processing and execution that’s ideal for day trading.

Cons

  • Pepperstone’s demo accounts are active for only 30 days, which may not be not long enough to familiarize yourself with the different platforms and test trading strategies.
  • Pepperstone does not support cTrader Copy, a popular copy trading feature built into the excellent cTrader platform and available at alternatives like IC Markets, though it has introduced an intuitive copy trading app.
  • Despite enhancements to its range of markets, crypto offerings are relatively limited compared to other brokers such as eToro, with no option to invest in real coins.
Visit Pepperstone
Pepperstone Review

XM

"With a low $5 minimum deposit, advanced charting platforms in MT4 and MT5, expanding range of markets, and a Zero account offering spreads from 0.0, XM provides all the essentials for active traders, even earning our ‘Best MT4/MT5 Broker’ award in recent years."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

XM Quick Facts

FTSE Spread1.4
GBPUSD Spread0.8
Stocks Spread0.002
Leverage1:30
RegulatorASIC, CySEC, DFSA, IFSC
PlatformsMT4, MT5, TradingCentral
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, JPY

Pros

  • XM’s Zero account is ideal for day trading with spreads from 0.0 pips, 99.35% of orders executed in <1 second, and no requotes or rejections.
  • XM’s growing roster of 1,000+ instruments provides diverse short-term trading opportunities, with unique turbo stocks, fractional shares, and more recently thematic indices.
  • XM’s customer support has delivered over years of testing, with 24/5 assistance in 25 languages, response times of <2 minutes and now a growing Telegram channel.

Cons

  • XM is falling behind the curve by not offering cTrader and TradingView which are increasingly being favored over MetaTrader for their smoother user experience and superior charting packages.
  • While the XM app stands out for its usability and exclusive copy trading products, the selection of technical analysis tools needs to be improved to meet the needs of advanced traders.
  • XM relies solely on the MetaTrader platforms for desktop trading, so there’s no in-house downloadable or web-accessible solution for a more beginner-friendly user experience with unique features.
Visit XM
XM Review

LiteForex Europe

"LiteForex is a good option for active day traders with variable spreads from 0.0 pips, daily analysis and high-quality training guides. The forex copy system also lets you duplicate the positions of experienced traders."

William Berg, Reviewer

LiteForex Europe Quick Facts

FTSE Spread0.7
GBPUSD Spread0.3
Stocks SpreadN/A
Leverage1:30
RegulatorCySEC, AFM
PlatformsMT4, MT5
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CHF

Pros

  • Low $50 minimum deposit makes LiteForex accessible for beginners
  • A proprietary copy trading system is available which allows you to copy other trading patterns
  • The broker offers a VPS server for experience day traders looking to run their auto strategies continuously

Cons

  • There is no swap-free trading account for Muslim day traders
  • Fees are fairly high, with spreads starting from 2.0 pips in the Classic account and $10 forex commissions in the ECN account
  • There are limited funding methods compared to other brands
Visit LiteForex Europe
LiteForex Europe Review

eToro

"eToro's social trading platform leads the pack with a terrific user experience and active community chat that can help beginners find opportunities. There are also competitive fees on thousands of CFDs and real stocks, plus excellent rewards for experienced strategy providers."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

eToro Quick Facts

FTSE Spread1.5
GBPUSD Spread1.9
Stocks Spread0.57 (Apple)
Leverage1:30
RegulatorFCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSA, FSRA, MFSA, CNMV, AMF
PlatformseToro Web, CopyTrader, TradingCentral
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP

Pros

  • eToro has bolstered its investment offering, most recently with new crypto assets, now offering over 90 digital currencies
  • Charts are powered by TradingView and offer strong technical analysis features, including 9 chart types and over 100 indicators
  • The copy trading app facilitates a best-in-class social environment, with an engaging social feed and community chat

Cons

  • There is a $30 minimum withdrawal amount and a $5 fee, which will affect novices with low capital
  • There are limited contact methods aside from the in-platform live chat
  • The lack of additional charting platforms like MT4 will reduce the appeal for seasoned day traders accustomed to using third-party software
Visit eToro
eToro Review

FOREX.com

"FOREX.com remains a best-in-class brokerage for active forex traders of all experience levels, with over 80 currency pairs, tight spreads from 0.0 pips and low commissions. The powerful charting platforms collectively offer over 100 technical indicators, as well as extensive research tools."

Christian Harris, Reviewer

FOREX.com Quick Facts

Bonus Offer20% Welcome Bonus Up To $5000
FTSE Spread1.0
GBPUSD Spread1.3
Stocks Spread0.14
Leverage1:30
RegulatorNFA, CFTC, CIRO, FCA, CYSEC, ASIC, SFC, FSA, MAS, CIMA
PlatformsMT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN

Pros

  • FOREX.com offers industry-leading forex pricing starting from 0.0 pips, alongside competitive cashback rebates of up to 15% for serious day traders.
  • With over 20 years of experience, excellent regulatory oversight, and multiple accolades including runner-up in our 'Best Forex Broker' awards, FOREX.com boasts a global reputation as a trusted brokerage.
  • The in-house Web Trader continues to shine as one of the best-designed platforms for aspiring day traders with a slick design and over 80 technical indicators for market analysis.

Cons

  • There’s no negative balance protection for US clients, so you may find yourself owing more money than your initial deposit into your account.
  • Demo accounts are frustratingly time-limited to 90 days, which doesn’t give you enough time to test day trading strategies effectively.
  • Funding options are limited compared to leading alternatives like IC Markets and don’t include many popular e-wallets, notably UnionPay and POLi.
Visit FOREX.com
FOREX.com Review

InstaForex

"InstaForex maintains its position as a top forex broker, with more currency products than most rivals. The tight spreads and low minimum deposits make it accessible to all experience levels, especially those familiar with the MT4 and MT5 platforms."

William Berg, Reviewer

InstaForex Quick Facts

FTSE SpreadAv. Floating 100 pips
GBPUSD SpreadAv. Floating 0.6 pips
Stocks SpreadCommissions as low as 0.1%
Leverage1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
RegulatorCySEC
PlatformsMT4, MT5
Account CurrenciesUSD, EUR, GBP, PLN, CZK

Pros

  • The broker is a particularly good pick for serious forex traders, with over 100 currency pairs, tight spreads from 0.0 pips and a market-leading selection of curated forex market resources
  • InstaForex delivers a superb day trading environment, with the powerful MT4 and MT5 platforms offering dozens of technical analysis tools, automation capabilities and multiple order types
  • The broker is accessible for beginners, with low minimum deposits and zero-commission trading available.

Cons

  • Customer support is available only in EN, CZ, PL, and SK.
  • The broker provides trading instruments only in the form of CFDs.
  • The broker’s website and client cabinet feel outdated and difficult to navigate for newcomers
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How We Chose The Best CFD Trading Platforms In Germany

To identify the best CFD trading platforms in Germany, we took all the brokers in our 265-strong database, pinpointed those that accept traders from Germany, and then sorted them using their overarching rating, which considers key components for CFD traders:

Trust

Only CFD trading platforms we trust, after verifying their regulatory credentials, track record, and the observations of our hands-on testers made our top list.

For German investors, choosing a CFD broker regulated by the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin) will often provide the best safeguards.

That said, CFD providers not directly overseen by the BaFin are still permitted to accept German traders via the EU passporting scheme, allowing them to operate with authorization from their domestic regulator.

IG Germany CFD trading platform BaFin license details
IG – BaFin License

The BaFin is a ‘Green-Tier’ regulator that’s stepped up its oversight of CFD providers in recent years. Its General Administrative Act of 2019 introduced restrictions that mandated CFD brokers in Germany must satisfy 5 requirements:

  1. Leverage limits, varying depending on the underlying asset.
  2. Negative balance protection so you can’t lose more than your deposit.
  3. CFD positions closed out when the initial margin is 50% of the original margin.
  4. Clear risk warnings that articulate the potential for loss.
  5. A ban on providing trading bonuses.
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Check if a CFD broker is regulated by the BaFin by entering their name or license number in its Database of Companies.
  • IG is a BaFin-regulated CFD broker, deemed our ‘safest’, with 50+ years experience, 13 regulatory licenses, and a clean record based on our experts’ real-money trading experiences over years.

Leverage Trading

Only CFD brokers with transparent leverage and margin requirements made our shortlist.

Leverage is a critical component of CFD trading, allowing you to multiply your buying power and trading results in return for an outlay, known as ‘margin’.

Let’s say I believe the share price of Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW: FRA) is going to rise in the short term as the sale of its electric vehicles surpasses industry forecasts. A CFD provider offering me 1:5 leverage would allow me to multiply my €1,000 outlay by 5, giving me €5,000 in trading power.

CFD trading conditions on German BMW shares at AvaTrade
AvaTrade – BMW CFD Conditions

The BaFin, in line with other regulators in Europe, requires authorized CFD brokers to provide leverage up to a maximum of:

  • AvaTrade is one of the best CFD brokers with leverage up to 1:30 for German traders. It also stands out for its bespoke risk management tool, AvaProtect, which insures against large losses.

Trading Markets

Only CFD brokers that provide access to popular markets made our list of recommended firms.

After years of using CFD trading platforms that accept German traders, we’ve observed that the top providers facilitate access to stocks, indices, forex, commodities and cryptocurrencies.

This provides short-term traders, including day traders, with ample opportunities to speculate on rising and falling prices across various regions, economies and sectors.

Infographic showing popular CFD day trading markets in Germany
Popular CFD Trading Markets In Germany
  • Pepperstone shines with its excellent selection of CFDs spanning German markets, including the EUR/USD, German equities, the DAX index, plus funds like the iShares MSCI Germany ETF.

CFD Trading Fees

Only providers with competitive CFD trading fees, an assessment we make by regularly logging and analyzing charges on key markets, made our pick.

Low fees, notably spreads and /or commissions, are critical for day traders using CFDs, as a large volume of transaction costs can cut into profits.

That said, our years in the CFD trading industry have shown it’s important to balance pricing with tools, order executions, and research features.

For example, it may be worth paying more for CFD brokers that provide analyst insights into events that will affect equities listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange or economic calendars that track major announcements from Germany’s central bank, the Deutsche Bundesbank.

German CFD broker Eightcap's economic trading calendar
Eightcap Economic Calendar – German Filters
  • Eightcap excels for its low CFD trading fees with spreads from 0.0, plus its AI economic calendar that lets you filter by German events and helpfully assigns a low, medium and high impact rating.

Charting Platforms

Only firms with user-friendly and powerful CFD trading platforms, following our extensive testing, made our recommendations.

The MetaTrader suite, MT4 and MT5, are still the most widely available charting platforms at CFD providers in Germany. Yet, with their clunky design and increasing competition from alternatives like cTrader and TradingView, users have more choices than ever.

These third-party platforms excel for their charting packages, featuring dozens of indicators and various timeframes for experienced short-term traders.

However, newer CFD traders may benefit from more modern, web-accessible CFD platforms designed in-house. After testing a long row of platforms, we’re finding these can sport a more intuitive design and user-friendly workspace for beginners.

  • AvaTrade consistently delivers in the platform department. It offers the MetaTrader package, as well as proprietary software with a genuinely intuitive look and feel, plus integrated pattern recognition tools and real-time sentiment data.

Account Funding

Only CFD brokers with secure, affordable and accessible payment methods made our selection.

We know from first-hand experience using CFD trading platforms that convenient funding can make for a smooth experience, while withdrawal issues and high charges can be extremely frustrating.

Analysis from Rapyd shows that e-wallets are increasingly favored by Germans, while bank cards are experiencing a decline. PayPal is the most popular e-wallet, though Sofort and Giropay also make the list of the 10 most used online payment methods.

  • eToro accepts CFD traders in Germany with a low $10 minimum deposit and supports popular payment methods, including PayPal, Sofort and debit cards. Our experts have also personally traded on the eToro platform for years with no withdrawal issues.

FAQ

Who Regulates CFD Trading Platforms And Brokers In Germany?

The Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin), also known as the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority, regulates CFD trading platforms and brokers operating in Germany.

The BaFin is a trusted regulator that requires authorized CFD brokers to provide various safeguards to retail investors, notably negative balance protection, leverage limits and clear risk warnings.

However, CFD trading platforms without direct BaFin authorization can also provide services to German traders through the EU passporting scheme, which enables operations throughout the EU with their home regulator’s endorsement.

How Much Money Do I Need To Open A CFD Trading Account In Germany?

After evaluating 265 brokers, we’ve found you usually need between €0 and €250 to start trading CFDs in Germany.

Having said that, Pepperstone stands out with its €0 minimum deposit, making it an excellent option for German CFD traders with less starting capital.

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