Wire Transfer Brokers 2025
A bank wire transfer is a payment method used for domestic and international money transfers from one bank to another. But before you login and make a deposit, there are several factors to consider, including the time it takes to transfer cash into your trading account, fees you may have to pay, plus any minimum and maximum transfer limits.
In this guide, we list the best brokers that accept wire transfer deposits in 2025. We also run through the pros and cons of funding your trading account with bank wire transfers.
Best Wire Transfer Brokers
After testing dozens of brokers, these are the 10 highest-rated firms offering wire transfer:
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1
NinjaTrader
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$00.01 Lots1:50NFA, CFTCForex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, CryptoNinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignalACH Transfer, Debit Card, Wire Transfer, ChequeUSD -
2
Interactive Brokers
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$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, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, QuantowerCheque, ACH Transfer, Wire Transfer, Automated Customer Account Transfer Service, TransferWise, Debit CardUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF -
3
eToro USAInvest $100 and get $10Securities trading offered by eToro USA Securities, Inc. (“the BD”), member of FINRA and SIPC. Cryptocurrency offered by eToro USA LLC (“the MSB”) (NMLS: 1769299) and is not FDIC or SIPC insured. Investing involves risk. https://www.daytrading.com/ is not an affiliate and may be compensated if you access certain products or services offered by the MSB and/or the BD.
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$100$10SEC, FINRAStocks, Options, ETFs, CryptoeToro Trading Platform & CopyTraderACH Transfer, Debit Card, PayPal, Wire TransferUSD -
4
FOREX.comActive Trader Program With A 15% Reduction In Costs
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$1000.01 Lots1:50NFA, CFTCForex, Stocks, Futures, Futures OptionsMT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentralWire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, ACH TransferUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN -
5
RedMars
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
€2500.01 Lots1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)CySEC, AFMCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, CryptosMT5Credit Card, Wire Transfer, Debit Card, Sticpay, FasaPay, Bitcoin Payments, Trustly, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Klarna, Mastercard, VisaUSD, EUR -
6
IQCent20% to 200% Deposit Bonus
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$250$0.011:500IFMRRCBinary Options, CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, CryptoOnline Platform, TradingViewCredit Card, Debit Card, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum Payments, Visa, MastercardUSD, EUR -
7
Dukascopy10% Equity Bonus
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$1000.01 Lots1:200FINMA, JFSA, FCMCCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Bonds, Binary OptionsJForex, MT4, MT5Neteller, Wire Transfer, Mastercard, Skrill, Visa, Maestro, Credit Card, Debit Card, Apple Pay, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum PaymentsUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, ZAR, TRY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, PLN, CZK, AED, SAR, HUF, MXN -
8
OANDA USCFDs are not available to residents in the United States.
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$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 -
9
MoomooGet up to 15 free stocks worth up to $2000
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$0$01:2SEC, FINRA, MAS, ASIC, SFCStocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCsDesktop Platform, Mobile AppWire Transfer, ACH TransferUSD, HKD, SGD -
10
CloseOption$10 Welcome Gift
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$5$1National Bank of GeorgiaBinary Options on Forex & CryptosOwnPayPal, WebMoney, Mastercard, Perfect Money, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum PaymentsUSD
Here is a summary of why we recommend these brokers in February 2025:
- 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.
- eToro USA - eToro is a social investing platform that offers short-term and long-term trading on stocks, ETFs, options and crypto. The broker is well-known for its user-friendly community-centred platform and competitive fees. With FINRA and SIPC oversight and millions of users across the world, eToro is still one of the most respected brands in the industry. eToro securities trading is offered by eToro USA Securities, Inc.
- FOREX.com - Founded in 1999, FOREX.com is now part of StoneX, a financial services organization serving over one million customers worldwide. Regulated in the US, UK, EU, Australia and beyond, the broker offers thousands of markets, not just forex, and provides excellent pricing on cutting-edge platforms.
- RedMars - Launched in 2020, Cyprus-based RedMars offers competitive spreads on more than 300 instruments and leverage up to 1:500. Three accounts are available - Standard, Pro and VIP - serving a range of budgets and experience levels, with a fast and fully digital account opening process.
- IQCent - IQCent is an offshore binary options and CFD broker based in the Marshall Islands. The brand continues to offer a range of unique account types with bonuses and perks, including payout boosts, TradeBacks and free rollovers. With 100+ assets, around-the-clock trading and 98% payouts, the firm is popular with aspiring short-term traders.
- Dukascopy - Established in 2004, Dukascopy Bank SA is a Swiss online bank and brokerage providing short-term trading opportunities on 1,200+ instruments, including binaries. A choice of accounts (JForex, MT4/5, Binary Options) and sophisticated platforms (JForex, MT4/MT5) deliver powerful tools and market data for active 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.
- 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.
Compare The Best Wire Transfer Brokers
| Broker | Minimum Deposit | Instruments | Platforms | Leverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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$0 | Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal | 1:50 |
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$0 | Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies | Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, Quantower | 1:50 |
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$100 | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader | - |
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$100 | Forex, Stocks, Futures, Futures Options | MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral | 1:50 |
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€250 | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos | MT5 | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) |
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$250 | Binary Options, CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto | Online Platform, TradingView | 1:500 |
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$100 | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Bonds, Binary Options | JForex, MT4, MT5 | 1:200 |
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$0 | Forex, Crypto with Paxos (Cryptocurrencies are offered through Paxos. Paxos is a separate legal entity from OANDA) | OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist | 1:50 |
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$0 | Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs | Desktop Platform, Mobile App | 1:2 |
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$5 | Binary Options on Forex & Cryptos | Own | - |
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 |
|---|---|
| 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
- Traders can get free platform access and trade simulation capabilities in the unlimited demo
- Low fees are offered, with $50 day trading margins & commissions from $.09 per micro contract
- You can get thousands of add-ons and applications from developers in 150+ countries
Cons
- The premium platform tools come with an extra charge
- Non forex and futures trading requires signing up with partner brokers
- There is a withdrawal fee on some funding methods
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 |
|---|---|
| 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, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, Quantower |
| 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
- The new IBKR Desktop platform takes the best of TWS while adding bespoke tools like Option Lattice and Screeners with MultiSort to create a genuinely impressive trading experience for day traders at every level.
- With low commissions, tight spreads and a transparent fee structure, IBKR delivers a cost-effective environment for short-term traders.
- The TWS platform has clearly been built for intermediate and advanced traders and comes with over 100 order types and a reliable real-time market data feed that rarely goes offline.
Cons
- Support can be slow and frustrating based on tests, so you might find it challenging to reach customer service representatives promptly or encounter delays in resolving issues.
- 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.
- 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.
eToro USA
"eToro remains a top pick for traders looking for leading social investing and copy trading services. With a low deposit, zero commissions and an intuitive platform, the broker will meet the needs of newer day traders."
eToro USA Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | Invest $100 and get $10 |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto |
| Regulator | SEC, FINRA |
| Platforms | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Minimum Trade | $10 |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- The online broker offers an intuitive social investment network with straightforward copy trading on cryptos
- The low minimum deposit and straightforward account opening process means beginners can get started quickly
- Investors can access Smart Portfolios for a more hands-off approach, covering a range of sectors and markets such as renewable energy and artificial intelligence
Cons
- The proprietary terminal doesn't support trading bots and there are no additional stock market analysis tools
- There's no MetaTrader 4 platform integration for traders who are accustomed to using third-party charting tools
- Average fees may cut into the profit margins of day traders
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."
FOREX.com Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | Active Trader Program With A 15% Reduction In Costs |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Forex, Stocks, Futures, Futures Options |
| Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:50 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN |
Pros
- 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.
- 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.
- FOREX.com offers industry-leading forex pricing starting from 0.0 pips, alongside competitive cashback rebates of up to 15% for serious day traders.
Cons
- FOREX.com's MT4 platform offers approximately 600 instruments, significantly fewer than the over 5,500 available on its non-MetaTrader platforms.
- Despite increasing its range of instruments, FOREX.com's product portfolio is still limited to forex and CFDs, so there are no options to invest in real stocks, real ETFs or real cryptocurrencies.
- Demo accounts are frustratingly time-limited to 90 days, which doesn’t give you enough time to test day trading strategies effectively.
RedMars
"RedMars is the best fit for experienced day traders familiar with the MetaTrader 5 platform and based in the EU, where the broker is authorized by the CySEC. However, the threadbare education and research tools make it unsuitable for beginners."
RedMars Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos |
| Regulator | CySEC, AFM |
| Platforms | MT5 |
| Minimum Deposit | €250 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR |
Pros
- Clients in the EU, in particular, can trade with peace of mind knowing RedMars is authorized by the CySEC with up to €20K compensation available through the ICF in the event of bankruptcy
- The broker is one of a limited number of firms to offer an account specially designed for VIPs with premium support and invites to exclusive events
- Getting started on RedMars is incredibly easy - you can be up and running in just a few minutes based on tests
Cons
- While RedMars' spreads are within industry averages, they don't offer a significant edge over the cheapest day trading brokers we've personally used, notably IC Markets
- The no-frills trading environment offers little beyond the basics, with no Islamic account, PAMM account or copy trading.
- RedMars falls short for newer traders, with little in the way of education, no beginner-friendly platform, a steep minimum deposit, and inadequate support during testing
IQCent
"IQCent will appeal to day traders looking for a straightforward binary options and CFD trading platform with low fees, a range of accounts, and copy trading. Getting started takes less than 1 minute and a $250 deposit. "
IQCent Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | 20% to 200% Deposit Bonus |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Binary Options, CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto |
| Regulator | IFMRRC |
| Platforms | Online Platform, TradingView |
| Minimum Deposit | $250 |
| Minimum Trade | $0.01 |
| Leverage | 1:500 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR |
Pros
- The broker's 24/7 customer support is fast and reliable, responding within 1 minute during tests
- IQCent is one of the few binary options brokers that also offers a copy trading service for hands-off traders
- The broker offers up to 98% payouts on binary options, which is more than alternatives like Pocket Option, only offering up to 92%
Cons
- The market analysis is very basic with limited technical summaries and insights from analysts
- The broker is not overseen by a respected regulator, though this is common among binary options firms
- IQCent trails binary brokers like Quotex with its narrow investment offering of around 100 assets with no stocks
Dukascopy
"If you’re an experienced trader, Dukascopy provides the tools you need: JForex for algorithmic strategies, competitive spreads from 0.1 pips, leverage up to 1:200, and the peace of mind of using a Swiss-regulated bank and broker."
Dukascopy Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | 10% Equity Bonus |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Bonds, Binary Options |
| Regulator | FINMA, JFSA, FCMC |
| Platforms | JForex, MT4, MT5 |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:200 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, ZAR, TRY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD, PLN, CZK, AED, SAR, HUF, MXN |
Pros
- Dukascopy is regulated by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) as both a broker and a bank, ensuring top-tier financial security and adherence to strict standards.
- Dukascopy features some of the best research we’ve seen, even a professional TV studio in Geneva covering financial news, market analysis, and daily insights from professionals.
- The proprietary JForex platform is highly advanced, offering tools for algorithmic trading, extensive charting, and access to deep liquidity for short-term traders.
Cons
- Dukascopy's withdrawal fees are higher than most competitors we’ve tested, particularly for bank wire transfers, which may deter traders who require frequent access to their funds.
- While JForex is feature-rich, it has a steep learning curve, making it less suitable for beginner traders who might prefer simpler platforms.
- While Dukascopy provides some educational resources and 24/7 support, the complexity of its platforms and tools required extensive testing and may overwhelm newer 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."
OANDA US Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| 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
- There's a strong selection of 68 currency pairs for dedicated short-term forex traders
- The broker offers a transparent pricing structure with no hidden charges
- Beginners can get started easily with $0 minimum initial deposit
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."
Moomoo Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | Get up to 15 free stocks worth up to $2000 |
|---|---|
| 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
- It is reassuring that Moomoo holds licenses with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), among others
- The ‘Moomoo Token’ generates dynamic passwords for transaction security - a unique and helpful safety feature
- There are reduced options contract fees from $0.65 to $0
Cons
- There is no phone or live chat support - common options at most other brokers
- It's a shame that there is no 2 factor authentication (2FA), despite the other security features on offer
- There is no negative balance protection, which is a common safety feature at top-tier-regulated brokers
CloseOption
"CloseOption is a good pick for traders seeking a user-friendly binary options platform with high payouts and joining bonuses."
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
- Multiple global payment methods are available
- Free demo account
- The user-friendly platform is compatible with most web browsers
Cons
- CloseOption is not regulated by a well-regarded trading authority
- Clients need to deposit $50,000+ to qualify for the best payouts
- Binary options are only available on fiat and digital currencies
How Did We Choose The Best Wire Transfer Brokers?
To identify the top wire transfer brokers, we:
- Searched our library of 500 online platforms to find all those accepting wire transfer payments
- Verified that they support wire transfer deposits and withdrawals for trading
- Listed them by their ranking, using a mix of hard data and personal evaluations from our tests
Wire Transfer Overview
Wire transfer services were originally launched in 1872 by Western Union when the existing telegraph network was used to transmit a money transfer message to another telegraph office. In just five years, almost $2.5 million was being transacted each year.
The modern wire transfer works by passing payment instructions from a sending account to a receiving account through a secure online system, such as SWIFT or Fedwire. Funds are then deposited and normally settled within two business days for international transfers and within a few hours for domestic transfers.
Pros Of Trading With Wire Transfer
Accepted Globally
Wire services are supported globally and are ideal for traders based anywhere in the world. They are also administered by hundreds of reputable financial institutions, including HSBC, Lloyds Bank, Metrobank and Nationwide, as well as online fintechs such as Monzo, Revolut and Starling Bank.
You can find your regional locations by typing into Google “wire transfer near me”.
Offered By Most Brokers
As bank wires are so widely used around the world, traders will have no problem finding a broker that supports the deposit method. In fact, some of the top wire transfer brokers include XM, eToro and Interactive Brokers.
Fast
Wires are sent and received in real time and are usually processed within two business days for international payments (ie: from UK to USA, Canada to UK, or even India to UK) and within a few hours for domestic transfers. Make sure to check with your broker where their receiving bank is located, as this can also affect processing times on their side.
Transfer Options
Wire transfers are normally flexible and can be done using a credit card, over the phone, or in person at your post office or bank.
Note that a wire transfer using a credit card may incur higher fees.
Money Transfer Apps
Money remittance apps have become increasingly popular among traders for their convenience, security, speed and global reach. For example, PayPal and TransferWise can facilitate quick transactions in a wide range of countries, including Canada, Kenya, Egypt, Jamaica and India.
Relatively Safe
Brokers that accept wire transfer deposits are usually safe, as long as you know and trust the receiver. Legitimate wire services will require both parties to prove their identity, so it is important for traders to choose trusted and regulated brokerages that are both transparent and accountable.
Transfer Tracking
Most financial institutions will have tools that allow senders to apply tracking information to a transaction. You can contact customer support at your respective remitting bank or money transfer service if you have any questions. This provides an additional layer of security.
The best wire transfer brokers also have helpful customer support teams that can advise on payment queries.
Cons Of Trading With Wire Transfer
Broker Processing Times
Domestic payment systems such as Automated Clearing Houses (ACH) are processed within 24 hours. However, foreign systems must clear the domestic system as well as the foreign equivalent, therefore adding an extra day to the processing time. In addition, trading brokers will also have their own processing times, sometimes taking up to 7 days for funds to appear in your trading account. Withdrawals can be even longer.
Fees
There is usually a cost to initiate both domestic and international bank wires, which can be high even if you are only depositing a small amount. Therefore, bank wire transfers tend to be more cost-effective for experienced traders who want to deposit or withdraw large amounts of money.
Note that there may also be additional service fees charged by your broker as well as exchange rate fees. For example, sending money from the US to UK could cost you $45-50 plus any other currency conversion and broker fees.
Not Reversible
As a bank wire is processed immediately, it is not possible to reverse a payment or request a chargeback if, for example, the sender or trader has provided the wrong recipient address. This is particularly attractive for scammers who can claim the funds and disappear before the sender even realizes the money has gone missing. This also demonstrates why it’s important to open a trading account with a trusted broker.
Weekend Delays
Whilst you are free to use the service at the weekend, there is no guarantee that your broker will also receive the funds at the weekend. This usually means that money wired on a Friday or Saturday is not received until the start of the following week.
Payment Speed
It only takes a few minutes to set up and initiate a wire, but bear in mind that international transactions may take a few days to be received by your broker and then released to your trading account.
It may also take several hours for domestic transfers to show in your broker’s account, plus any additional processing times on your brokerage’s side. For example, an ETrade wire transfer out can take three days, whereas FXTM can take up to five days.
Note that financial institutions may also have cut-off times for sending money on the same business day. For example, same-day transmissions are not possible after 5 pm ET at Bank of America and online at Wells Fargo.
The time it takes to receive your money can also be affected by limits imposed by online brokers. Higher amounts might require additional identity verification or security checks. As such, these transactions will take longer to process.
Wire Transfer Security
Wire transfers are generally very safe, as long as the receiving party, such as a trading broker, is a trusted entity. Information is transmitted through encrypted connections, which may differ depending on your banking or money transfer service.
In terms of regulations, some nations do have stringent policies in place that provide protection against money laundering activities and terrorist funding, including the Office of Foreign Assets Control in the USA and the Wire Transfer Regulation (WTR) in the UK and EU. Organizations like this collect information on transfers over $3,000.
In the US, traders that wish to receive more than $10,000 in one lump sum from the same payer must file Form 8300 to the IRS. So for big amounts, check with your local authority to make sure you comply with regulations.
In cases where there is suspicious activity, the sending bank has the authority to freeze funds and stop the transfer. Whilst this does provide a good level of safety, traders should also ensure that their brokers have measures in place to protect clients.
Investors should also be aware of broker scams where they request a hefty minimum deposit via wire order to open an account. This is often alongside other red flags such as a poorly written website, no transparency around company information and unrealistic trading conditions.
How To Deposit Using Wire Transfer
The wire transfer process is fairly simple. Look out for the logo at your broker and make sure to check any minimum or maximum limits, both with your bank and your trading platform. At IC Markets, for example, the minimum deposit is $200, while XM only requires $5.
Once your broker has provided you with the payment details and a wire transfer receipt, enter the information into your bank’s transfer form, along with the amount, beneficiary address and postal zip code, as well as the purpose of payment. Depending on where you reside or where you’re transferring to, you may need to provide a routing number or a SWIFT code. Once the transfer is complete on your side, you will both receive a confirmation.
The withdrawal process can vary depending on the broker, but traders usually need to fill out a withdrawal form to request a bank wire transfer.
Wire Transfer Fees
Domestic and international wire transfers can be costly. For example, in the US, the online domestic transfer fee at Bank of America and Discover Bank is $30. In Australia, domestic transfers are generally free but international transfers can cost up to $30, plus the foreign exchange margin.
Whilst some brokers do also charge their own fees, many cover the cost of deposits and withdrawals, including XM, FxPro and FP Markets.
Is Wire Transfer Good For Day Trading?
Despite growing competition with e-wallets, bank wire transfers are still the preferred option, particularly among professional traders who transfer larger sums using a credit card, bank account or money transfer app. International and domestic transfers are also safe, especially to and from jurisdictions that are backed by robust regulations.
The main downsides are the fees involved with a wire transfer, as well as the time it takes for funds to clear in your trading account.
Use our list of brokers that accept wire transfer deposits to start trading today.
FAQ
What Is A Wire Transfer And How Does It Work For Day Trading?
A wire transfer is a popular electronic payment method that involves sending a transmission from one bank to another. Wire transfers can be carried out domestically or internationally, including to trading accounts.
Are Wire Transfer Deposits To My Trading Account Safe?
Wire transfers are usually fairly safe, as long as the sender trusts the recipient. With this in mind, traders should ensure that they are investing with a reputable and secure broker.
Are Wire Transfers Free At My Broker?
A wire transfer can cost money, whether it is domestic or international and regardless of how much money you are sending. SWIFT fees, for example, are usually priced at 3-4% of the total amount. By definition, wire transfers are expensive due to handling charges (shipping fees) between banks and currency conversion fees (if sending money internationally).
Does Wire Transfer Work On Weekends?
Generally, a wire transfer will go through on a Saturday from the sender’s side, but clearing times on the recipient’s side tend to slow down at the weekend. Time frames also vary depending on the receiving bank and broker. For example, if your bank is shut on weekends it may take until Monday to receive your funds.
Do Wire Transfer Trading Deposits Take Long?
International wires can take up to two days to be processed, whilst domestic transfers are usually received within a few hours. Note that brokers will have their own processing time frames, sometimes up to seven days.
How Do I Wire Transfer To My Online Broker?
You can wire transfer to your trading broker by signing into your online banking and initiating a payment using a transaction form. You will need the beneficiary address details, transfer amount and reference, as well as a SWIFT or routing number if applicable. You can also send money to yourself (to another bank account you own).
Can A Wire Transfer Trading Deposit Be Cancelled?
It cannot be recalled once it has been initiated at your bank; meaning you need to make sure you are sending to a reliable recipient and that you have entered the transfer details correctly. This is particularly true when multiple scam brokers operate in the retail trading space.