The Best Platform to Invest with Low Commission in South Africa 🇿🇦 [2024]
Invest in digital currencies, stocks, indices and much more
In This Guide
The best trading platform for beginners in 2024
Navigating the world of online trading can be daunting for beginners, especially when choosing the right trading platform. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve reviewed and ranked the best trading platforms for beginners in South Africa in 2024. Our expert panel has assessed these platforms based on their user-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, range of features, and overall reliability.
The best trading platform overall for 2024
Editors picks: our best trading platform
- Copy-Trading
- Worldwide regulation
- Users from 100 countries
- Demo Account
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
- 430+ thousand users
- Publicly traded company
- Very low spreads
- Mobile trading app
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
- 3000+ assets
- Demo trading account
- Market analysis
- Easy-to-use interface
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
- 0 trading commissions
- Free trading signals
- Advanced analytics
- Demo account
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
The top online brokers in South Africa, reviewed
- CopyTrading – a feature to copy top investors
- Worldwide regulation
- Users from over 100 countries
- Demo Account
- Copy-Trading
- Worldwide regulation
- Users from 100 countries
- Demo Account
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview
eToro is the leading social trading platform, allowing beginners to follow and copy the trades of experienced investors. This unique feature, combined with a wide range of assets, makes eToro an excellent choice for those new to trading.
Pros:
- Innovative social trading features with CopyTrader
- Wide range of assets, including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies
- Commission-free stock trading
- Extensive educational resources and community support
Cons:
- Spreads can be higher than some competitors
- Inactivity fees apply
Why Choose eToro?
eToro’s social trading capabilities and user-friendly platform make it perfect for beginners who want to learn from experienced traders while having access to a diverse range of assets.
- 430+ thousand subscribers
- Reputable publicly traded company
- Very low spreads
- Mobile trading app
- 430+ thousand users
- Publicly traded company
- Very low spreads
- Mobile trading app
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview:
Plus500 is renowned for its powerful mobile trading app, making it ideal for traders who prefer to manage their investments on the go. The platform offers a wide range of CFDs, including shares, forex, commodities, and ETFs.
Pros:
- Highly rated mobile app available on iOS and Android
- Commission-free trading with tight spreads
- Advanced risk management tools, such as stop-loss and take-profit orders
- Regulated by multiple top-tier authorities (FCA, ASIC, CySEC)
Cons:
- Limited research and analysis tools compared to some competitors
- Primarily focused on CFDs, not suitable for buying actual stocks
Why Choose Plus500?
If you’re looking for a robust mobile trading experience, Plus500 is a top choice. Its intuitive app, combined with competitive pricing and solid regulatory oversight, ensures a seamless trading experience on the go.
- 3000+ world-renowned trading assets
- Demo trading account
- Daily Market analysis
- Intuitive & easy-to-use interface
- 3000+ trading assets
- Demo account
- Daily Market analysis
- Easy-to-use interface
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview:
Capital.com stands out as the best overall trading platform for beginners due to its intuitive interface, comprehensive educational resources, and competitive pricing. The platform offers access to a wide range of markets, including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with a sleek design
- Extensive educational content, including webinars and tutorials
- AI-powered trading insights to help beginners make informed decisions
- Commission-free trading on most assets
- Regulated by top-tier authorities (FCA, CySEC, ASIC)
Cons:
- Limited advanced trading features for professional traders
Why Choose Capital.com?
Capital.com’s blend of user-friendly features, educational tools, and low costs make it an excellent choice for beginners. The platform’s AI-driven insights and educational resources provide a solid foundation for new traders to build their skills.
- Invest with 0 commissions
- Free trading signals
- Advanced analytical tools
- Demo account
- 0 trading commissions
- Free trading signals
- Advanced analytics
- Demo account
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview
Capex excels in providing educational resources tailored for beginners. The platform offers a comprehensive learning academy, including courses, webinars, and articles to help new traders understand the complexities of the market.
Pros:
- Extensive educational resources and learning materials
- User-friendly interface with customizable trading tools
- Wide range of assets, including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies
- Competitive spreads and no hidden fees
Cons:
- Limited social trading features
- Inactivity fees apply
Why Choose Capex?
Capex is perfect for beginners who prioritize education. The platform’s robust learning resources and user-friendly tools help new traders develop their skills and confidence in the market.
- Invest with 0 commissions
- Demo trading account
- Free trading signals
- Advanced analytical tools
- Invest with 0 commissions
- Demo trading account
- Free trading signals
- Advanced analytical tools
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview
Libertex is a popular choice for cost-conscious traders, offering a straightforward fee structure with competitive spreads. The platform provides access to a variety of markets, including forex, stocks, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
Pros:
- Low fees and tight spreads
- User-friendly platform with a clean interface
- Access to a wide range of trading instruments
- Regulated by the CySEC
Cons:
- Limited advanced trading tools for experienced traders
- No social trading features
Why Choose Libertex?
If minimizing costs is your priority, Libertex is a great option. Its low fees and tight spreads make it an attractive choice for beginners looking to maximize their returns.
- More than 6000 products
- Leveraged derivatives in stocks, indices, etc
- World-class customer service
- Long and short orders
- More than 6000 products
- Leveraged derivatives
- Good customer service
- Long and short orders
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview
Exness is known for its tight spreads, making it an ideal platform for cost-effective trading. The platform offers a range of assets, including forex, metals, cryptocurrencies, and indices, with excellent trading conditions.
Pros:
- Competitive spreads starting from 0.3 pips
- No hidden fees or commissions
- User-friendly interface with powerful trading tools
- Regulated by multiple top-tier authorities (FCA, CySEC, FSCA)
Cons:
- Limited educational resources compared to some competitors
- Restricted access in certain jurisdictions
Why Choose Exness?
Exness’s competitive spreads and transparent fee structure make it a top choice for beginners who want to minimize trading costs while enjoying a user-friendly trading experience.
- Real-time portfolio monitoring
- Flexible funding and withdrawal
- Trading tips for beginners and experts
- Smart charts, webinars & Tutorials
- Portfolio monitoring
- Flexible withdrawal
- Trading tips for traders
- Smart charts, & webinars
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview
AvaTrade offers a secure trading environment with robust regulatory oversight and comprehensive trading tools. The platform supports a variety of assets, including forex, stocks, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
Pros:
- Regulated by top-tier authorities worldwide (FCA, ASIC, FSCA)
- Commission-free trading with competitive spreads
- Access to advanced trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4 and 5
- Strong educational resources
Cons:
- Inactivity fees apply
- Some assets only available through MetaTrader software
Why Choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade’s strong regulatory framework and comprehensive trading tools provide a secure environment for beginners to start their trading journey with confidence.
- 3000+ world-renowned trading assets
- Demo trading account
- Daily Market analysis
- Intuitive & easy-to-use interface
- 3000+ trading assets
- Demo trading account
- Daily Market analysis
- Intuitive interface
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview
Fortissio is known for its exceptional customer support, providing personalized assistance to traders at all levels. The platform offers a range of assets and competitive trading conditions.
Pros:
- Excellent customer support with dedicated account managers
- User-friendly platform with a range of trading tools
- Competitive spreads and no hidden fees
- Regulated by the HCMC
Cons:
- Limited educational resources compared to some competitors
- Inactivity fees apply
Why Choose Fortissio?
Fortissio’s outstanding customer support and user-friendly platform make it an excellent choice for beginners who value personalized assistance and competitive trading conditions.
- Invest With 0 Commissions
- Free trading signals
- Advanced analytical tools
- Intuitive & easy-to-use interface
- 0 Commissions
- Free trading signals
- Analytical tools
- Easy-to-use interface
84.97% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Overview
Warren Bowie & Smith provides a range of tools specifically designed for beginners, including educational resources and a user-friendly interface. The platform offers access to various markets, including forex, stocks, and commodities.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with beginner-focused tools
- Comprehensive educational resources
- Competitive spreads and no hidden fees
- Regulated by the FSA
Cons:
- Limited advanced trading features for professional traders
- Inactivity fees apply
Why Choose Warren Bowie & Smith?
Warren Bowie & Smith’s focus on beginner-friendly tools and educational resources makes it an ideal platform for new traders looking to develop their skills and confidence.
Conclusion
Choosing the right trading platform is crucial for beginners to succeed in the financial markets. Each of these platforms offers unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize low fees, educational resources, or innovative social trading features, there’s a platform on this list that’s perfect for you. Start your trading journey with confidence by choosing one of these top-rated platforms in 2024.
How we chose the best online trading platform in South Africa
Selecting the best online trading platform in South Africa requires a detailed analysis of multiple factors to ensure that traders have access to the most efficient, secure, and user-friendly platforms. Our team has meticulously evaluated various platforms based on a set of key criteria to identify the top option for South African traders. Here’s how we determined that Capital.com is the leading trading platform in South Africa:
Regulation and Security:
- Capital.com is regulated by top-tier global authorities such as the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), ensuring high standards of security and compliance. This regulatory oversight provides South African traders with confidence in the safety of their funds and data.
User Experience and Interface:
- Capital.com offers a seamless and intuitive interface that is ideal for both novice and experienced traders. The platform is designed to simplify navigation and trading, making it easy to execute trades and access various tools and features.
Range of Tradable Assets:
- Capital.com provides access to a diverse range of tradable assets, including global stocks, forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. This wide variety allows South African traders to build a well-rounded and diversified investment portfolio.
Trading Tools and Features:
- The platform is equipped with advanced trading tools that enhance decision-making. These include comprehensive charting options, technical indicators, and real-time data, enabling traders to make informed investment decisions.
Fees and Costs:
- Capital.com is known for its competitive pricing structure, with low spreads and no hidden fees. This makes it an attractive option for cost-conscious South African traders who want to maximize their profitability.
Customer Support:
- The platform provides reliable customer support available 24/7, ensuring that traders can get help whenever they need it. Capital.com’s support team is known for its quick and effective responses.
Educational Resources:
- Capital.com offers extensive educational resources tailored to both beginners and advanced traders. These include tutorials, webinars, articles, and courses, helping traders in South Africa enhance their skills and knowledge.
Conclusion
Our evaluation focused on identifying a platform that excels in regulation, user experience, asset variety, trading tools, fees, customer support, and education. Capital.com emerged as the best online trading platform in South Africa, offering a comprehensive and well-rounded package that meets the needs of traders at all levels.
More about stock trading platforms in South Africa
South Africa’s financial market is one of the most developed on the continent, attracting traders and investors from within the country and abroad. The country offers a variety of trading platforms that cater to different needs and preferences, providing access to both domestic and international markets. Here’s an in-depth look at what Capital.com offers to South African traders:
Access to Global Markets:
- Capital.com provides South African traders with access to global markets, allowing investments in stocks from major exchanges worldwide. This global reach enables traders to diversify their portfolios effectively.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Capital.com adheres to international regulatory standards, offering a secure and transparent trading environment for South African users. The platform is regulated by FCA and CySEC, ensuring that it meets high compliance standards.
Diverse Asset Offerings:
- South African traders can access a wide variety of assets on Capital.com, including equities, forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. This diversity allows traders to align their portfolios with their specific investment strategies.
Advanced Trading Tools:
- Capital.com offers state-of-the-art trading tools, including real-time market data, technical analysis tools, and customizable charts. These tools help South African traders make informed decisions and capitalize on market opportunities.
User-Friendly Interface:
- The platform is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to traders of all levels in South Africa. Capital.com ensures that both beginners and experienced traders can navigate the platform with ease.
Educational Resources:
- Capital.com provides a wealth of educational materials, including tutorials, webinars, and articles. These resources are invaluable for South African traders looking to improve their trading skills and knowledge.
Conclusion
Stock trading platforms in South Africa offer a variety of features and benefits tailored to different trading styles and preferences. Capital.com stands out as the best platform in the South African market, providing the tools and resources necessary to succeed in the dynamic financial market.
What products can I trade with a stock broker in South Africa?
Trading in South Africa offers a wide array of financial products and opportunities, enabling investors to diversify their portfolios and capitalize on market movements. Capital.com provides access to various tradable products that cater to different investment strategies and goals. Here’s an overview of what you can trade with Capital.com:
Equities (Stocks):
- Access to global stocks, including major companies listed on international exchanges.
- Opportunities to invest in diverse sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, and more.
Forex (Foreign Exchange):
- Trade popular currency pairs like EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/ZAR.
- Access less common pairs, providing opportunities for diversification and volatility trading.
Commodities:
- Trade commodities such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
- Invest in energy products like crude oil and natural gas, as well as agricultural commodities.
Indices:
- Trade indices such as the S&P 500, NASDAQ 100, and FTSE 100 to gain exposure to broader markets.
- Access global indices, offering opportunities to trade entire markets.
Cryptocurrencies:
- Trade well-known digital currencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Ripple (XRP).
- Access a growing list of alternative cryptocurrencies for diversification and speculative trading.
Contracts for Difference (CFDs):
- Trade a wide range of assets using leverage, allowing you to amplify your exposure with a smaller capital investment.
- CFDs are available on stocks, indices, commodities, forex, and cryptocurrencies, providing flexibility and variety.
Conclusion
South African traders have a comprehensive selection of financial products available through Capital.com. Whether you’re interested in global stocks, forex, commodities, or cryptocurrencies, Capital.com provides the tools and access needed to succeed in today’s dynamic markets.
Are stock brokers in South Africa regulated?
How Much Money Do I Need to Start Using an Online Broker in South Africa?
Starting your trading journey in South Africa with Capital.com requires understanding the financial commitment involved. The amount of money needed to begin trading can vary based on several factors, including the broker’s requirements, the types of assets you wish to trade, and your personal financial goals. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Minimum Deposit Requirements:
- Capital.com offers a flexible minimum deposit structure, allowing traders to start with as little as $20. This low barrier to entry makes it accessible for beginners.
Factors Influencing Your Initial Investment:
- Trading Goals and Strategy: Define your trading goals and strategies to determine the amount you need to start trading effectively.
- Risk Tolerance: Assess your risk tolerance to decide how much capital you’re willing to risk. It’s essential to start with an amount you’re comfortable losing, especially as you learn the market dynamics.
- Asset Types: Different assets have varying costs and margin requirements. Forex trading often requires less capital than stocks or commodities, depending on leverage and market conditions.
- Leverage Availability: Capital.com offers leverage, allowing you to control larger positions with a smaller initial investment. However, leverage also increases risk, so it should be used cautiously.
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Transaction Fees: Be aware of transaction fees such as spreads, commissions, and withdrawal fees that can impact your overall investment.
- Inactivity Fees: Some brokers charge inactivity fees if your account remains dormant for a certain period. Ensure you understand the fee structure to avoid unexpected charges.
- Educational Investments: Consider investing in educational resources, courses, or tools that can enhance your trading knowledge and skills.
Conclusion
Starting to trade with Capital.com in South Africa requires careful consideration of your financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance. With a low minimum deposit, Capital.com is an attractive option for beginners looking to enter the market without significant financial barriers. By planning your investment carefully and understanding the associated costs, you can embark on your trading journey with confidence and clarity.
Which trading app in South Africa has the best user reviews?
Choosing a trading app with positive user reviews is essential for ensuring a smooth and satisfying trading experience. In the South African trading landscape, several apps stand out due to their user-friendly interfaces, advanced features, and excellent customer support. Here’s a look at the trading app that garners the best user reviews in South Africa:
- User Reviews and Ratings:
- High Ratings: Capital.com’s app consistently receives high ratings on platforms like the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, reflecting its reliability and user satisfaction.
- Positive Feedback: Users praise the app for its ease of use, comprehensive features, and responsive customer support, making it a preferred choice for many South African traders.
Conclusion
Capital.com’s trading app stands out as the best-rated app among South African traders due to its user-friendly interface, advanced features, and strong regulatory compliance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trader, Capital.com’s app provides the tools and support needed for a successful trading experience in the fast-paced South African market.
How to Buy Stocks in South Africa
Buying stocks in South Africa offers investors access to both local and international markets, providing ample opportunities for traders and investors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to buy stocks in South Africa with Capital.com:
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Broker:
- Selecting a reliable broker is the first step in your stock trading journey. Look for a broker like Capital.com that is regulated by international authorities and offers access to global stocks.
Step 2: Open a Trading Account:
- Account Registration: Visit Capital.com’s website or download their app to begin the registration process.
- Verification Process: Complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) process by submitting identification documents such as a passport or ID card.
- Fund Your Account: Deposit funds into your trading account using available payment methods, such as bank transfers, credit/debit cards, or e-wallets.
Step 3: Research Stocks:
- Company Reports: Analyze financial statements, earnings reports, and other relevant documents to assess a company’s performance and prospects.
- Market Analysis: Leverage tools like Capital.com’s market insights to understand trends and identify promising opportunities.
- Industry News: Stay updated on sector-specific developments and broader economic factors influencing stock prices.
Step 4: Execute Trades:
- Place an Order: Use Capital.com’s platform to search for the desired stock and place an order.
- Monitor Your Investments: Regularly review your portfolio to track performance and make adjustments as needed.
- Diversify Your Portfolio: Consider diversifying your investments across different sectors and asset classes to manage risk effectively.
Step 5: Manage Risk:
- Set Stop-Loss Orders: Protect your investments by setting stop-loss orders to limit potential losses.
- Determine Risk Tolerance: Understand your risk appetite and avoid over-leveraging your positions.
- Regularly Reassess: Continuously evaluate your risk management strategies and adjust them based on market conditions and personal goals.
Conclusion
Buying stocks in South Africa involves selecting a reputable broker like Capital.com, conducting thorough research, and executing trades with informed strategies. With the right tools and approach, investors can capitalize on the opportunities available in South Africa’s vibrant stock market. Capital.com provides a secure and user-friendly platform to support traders in making confident and informed investment decisions.
FAQs
Capital.com is the best trading platform in South Africa. It is highly regarded for its robust regulatory framework, user-friendly interface, and wide range of tradable assets, making it ideal for both novice and experienced traders.
While South Africa’s local regulatory framework is robust, Capital.com is regulated by international bodies such as the UK’s FCA and Cyprus’s CySEC, ensuring a secure and transparent trading environment for South African traders.
Capital.com allows South African traders to start with as little as $20. This low minimum deposit makes it accessible for beginners who are just starting their trading journey.
Yes, with Capital.com, South African traders have access to a broad range of international stocks from major global exchanges, allowing for a well-diversified portfolio.
Capital.com offers several payment methods for South African traders, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and popular e-wallets, making it convenient to fund your trading account.
When choosing a broker, consider factors such as regulation, ease of use, available assets, and customer support. Capital.com excels in all these areas, making it the best choice for South African traders.
Yes, Capital.com provides a highly-rated mobile trading app available on both iOS and Android. The app offers full functionality, allowing you to trade, monitor, and manage your investments on the go.
Conclusion
Navigating South Africa’s trading landscape in 2024 requires understanding the unique aspects of the market and the available platforms. By addressing these frequently asked questions, traders can gain the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in South Africa’s dynamic financial markets. eToro and Plus500 offer the tools, resources, and support necessary to thrive in this competitive environment.
Best trading platforms by country
Which is the best platform for my country?
Determining the best trading platform in your country isn’t straightforward, as it largely depends on your individual needs, budget, and long-term goals. If you’re outside South Africa, our experts have evaluated and rated top brokers in various countries to assist you in finding the one that best suits your requirements.