eToro Trading Platform Review

Established in 2007, eToro is a global trading and investment platform with a substantial client base of more than 38 million people across 75 countries, including the United Kingdom. The broker has built its fintech business around shared knowledge and a collaborative community in which users can learn, invest and develop their trading skills together. A key feature is its social trading functionality, which allows users to follow and replicate the strategies of successful traders.

eToro Contact Information

In the UK, eToro operates through eToro (UK) Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). UK traders have access to over 7,000 financial markets, including a wide selection of more than 6,000 global shares, available to buy directly (spot) or trade through contracts for difference. eToro customers can also trade major global indices, popular commodities and over 50 currency pairs.

While UK regulations restrict trading in cryptocurrency derivatives for retail clients, eToro provides access to over 100 cryptocurrencies for direct investment. With its focus on social trading, a broad range of tradable assets and commitment to transparency under FCA regulation, eToro has become a popular choice for both new and experienced traders in the UK.

Highlights of Trading with eToro

• Fractional Share Investing: The broker allows UK traders to buy fractional shares in companies with high share prices, such as Amazon and Tesla, making these equities more accessible to customers on a budget.
• Smart Portfolios: Pre-built themed investment portfolios such as BigTech, AI-Revolution and Fin-Tech offer hands-off diversification and are managed by eToro’s investment team.
• ProCharts and Advanced Tools: The platform includes technical analysis tools such as ProCharts for experienced traders alongside its beginner-friendly features.
• eToro Club Benefits: Higher-tier members (Silver and above) receive benefits such as lower spreads, priority support and access to exclusive events.
• FSCS Protection: UK clients benefit from up to £85,000 of cover under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, providing additional protection for their funds.

Advantages and Disadvantages of eToro in Brief

Available Markets at eToro

The broker offers a broad range of trading opportunities, with access to over 7,100 financial markets, including shares, dozens of Forex pairs, commodities and more. Cryptocurrencies are available to hold and stake in the UK. The platform caters to a wide range of traders, from beginners to experienced professionals. The broker’s user-friendly proprietary software, combined with its social trading capabilities, further enhances the trading experience.

Forex

UK traders at eToro have access to 56 major, minor and exotic Forex pairs, including popular pairs such as GBP/USD and EUR/USD. All trading takes place through contracts for difference, allowing customers to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying currencies. The broker charges no commissions, earning revenue solely from spreads and swap charges on overnight positions. Spreads for GBP/USD start from 2 pips, while those for EUR/USD begin at 1 pip. Leverage for UK retail clients is capped at 1:30, but professional clients can access ratios of up to 1:400. Social trading remains a key feature, enabling users to replicate the strategies of experienced Forex traders.

• Quotes prices for 56 currency pairs.
• Competitive conditions for Forex trading.
• Charges no commissions on Forex positions.
• Leverage of up to 1:400 for professional clients.
• Enables Forex copy trading.

Average Forex Spread at eToro

Shares

The broker provides UK traders with access to over 6,200 shares across more than 20 global exchanges, combining the reach of an international platform with the convenience of a local broker. Users can invest in whole or fractional shares, which makes share trading accessible even with smaller budgets. The broker may apply a flat $1-$2 transaction fee depending on the exchange. UK investors should note the additional 0.5% stamp duty reserve tax on purchases of UK-listed shares. There are no mark-ups on spreads, helping to keep pricing competitive.

A 0.15% spread applies to share CFD trading, with additional charges for low-priced US shares (under $3). Unlike direct share investments, CFDs allow leverage and short selling but do not confer ownership. A key benefit for long-term investors is automatic dividend payments, credited directly to the account when holding dividend-paying shares. The broker also adheres to strict investor protection standards to safeguard funds and offers tools to help users make more informed trading decisions.

• Over 6,200 shares across 20+ global exchanges.
• Fractional shares are available.
• $1 or $2 flat fee on direct share purchases + 0.5% UK stamp duty.
• Automatic dividend payments for eligible shares.
• 0.15% CFD spread (leverage of 1:5 for retail clients).

ETFs

The broker provides a broad selection of over 700 ETFs, allowing traders to invest in diversified portfolios or speculate on price movements with CFDs. The former involves purchasing and holding the underlying asset, while the latter enables short selling and provides access to leverage. The selection covers different asset classes, including ETFs covering commodities, equities, bonds and property. ETFs such as SPY, RSP and AMZA are available, catering to both long-term investors and active traders. Under the regulatory framework governing the platform, leveraged ETF positions are executed as CFDs in some regions.

• A choice of 711 ETFs
• Bond, commodity, equity and property ETFs
• Maximum leverage of 1:5 for ETFs
• No custody fees on ETF investments
• Commission-free ETF trading

Indices

Customers interested in trading indices can choose from eToro’s selection of 24 index CFDs, including popular indices such as the FTSE 100, Euro Stoxx 50, DAX 40 and Dow Jones 30. Both long and short positions are possible because all trading takes place through CFDs. UK traders can also amplify their potential gains with leverage of 1:20 or 1:10, depending on the index. Indices appeal to many UK customers as they offer the potential to capitalise on broader market trends rather than speculate on individual shares.

• Access to 24 major indices, including the FTSE 100 and Euro Stoxx 50.
• Leverage of 1:20 for major and 1:10 for minor indices.
• Minimum spreads from 0.02 points across the range and 1.5 points for the FTSE 100.
• No commissions on index trades.
• Option to replicate the index positions of other traders.

Commodities

At eToro, customers can trade CFDs on soft and hard commodities, including agricultural products, energy, base metals and precious metals. The broker also offers CFDs based on the prices of commodity futures with expiry dates. UK traders can speculate on commodity price movements using leverage of up to 1:20 for gold and 1:10 for all other markets in this group. All commodity trading is commission-free, with trading costs arising solely from spreads. The broker advertises spreads from 2 points for this asset class. Gold positions without an expiry date have minimum spreads of 0.025%.

• A selection of 43 soft and hard commodities.
• Maximum leverage of 1:20 for gold and 1:10 for other commodities.
• Offers CFDs based on commodity futures prices.
• Commodity spreads from 2 pips.
• No commissions on commodity trades.

Cryptocurrency Trading at eToro

UK retail clients can buy, sell and hold a wide range of cryptocurrencies, but cryptoasset derivatives (CFDs) are not available to them due to FCA restrictions. However, UK customers can still trade cryptocurrencies directly, gaining full ownership of the assets they purchase. eToro also supports staking for selected cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to earn additional returns on their holdings.

UK users can stake Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), Ethereum (ETH), Near Protocol (NEAR), Polygon (MATIC) and Tron (TRX). Minimum staking rewards start from $1 or the equivalent in pounds sterling. Users in other countries may have a wider choice of coins, such as Polkadot (DOT) and Cosmos (ATOM), both of which remain unavailable to UK clients at the time of publication. The broker charges a 1% fee for opening or closing cryptocurrency positions. Transferring cryptocurrencies to the eToro Money wallet incurs a 2% fee, while external transfers incur only blockchain network costs.

• Over 100 cryptocurrencies available.
• Staking rewards vary by asset and Club tier; eToro pays customers a percentage of the staking rewards.
• Offers staking for 6 digital assets.
• A 2% fee applies when transferring coins to eToro Money.
• Provides tiered staking returns based on the customer’s eToro Club level.

Trading Costs at eToro

UK traders have access to a transparent, spread-based pricing structure, with commission-free CFD trading across many markets. Although eToro promotes its zero-commission policy, customers should bear in mind that the broker charges CFD traders through the bid/ask spread. Overnight (swap) fees are another cost to consider, as are administrative fees. A fixed 1% fee is also charged when buying and selling cryptocurrencies directly. A range of non-trading costs may also apply. Understanding these fees is essential before opening an account at eToro.

Spreads

At eToro, the spread is the main trading cost customers incur when trading derivatives through contracts for difference. The spread is the difference between an asset’s buy and sell prices. For example, eToro’s GBP/USD and EUR/USD CFD spreads start from 2 pips and 1 pip, respectively, but can widen in response to economic events and other factors. Oil CFDs have minimum spreads from 5 points. Speculating on rising and falling gold prices comes with spreads of at least 0.025%. Although eToro’s spreads are slightly higher than those of other brokers serving UK customers, many traders may accept this given the absence of commissions on Forex trading.

Commissions

The broker uses a zero-commission model for most forms of trading, meaning no additional commission is charged when opening or closing positions. This applies to contracts for difference on shares, ETFs and other assets, helping to keep trading costs down. However, the platform earns revenue through spreads and overnight fees.

Buying and selling shares directly can be commission-free for UK customers; trading on some exchanges may incur a $1-$2 fee for customers in other regions. There are no custody or overnight fees, but the broker levies 0.5% stamp duty reserve tax on electronic purchases of UK-listed shares. UK traders also incur a 1% commission when buying and selling cryptocurrencies on the spot market.

Swap Fees

eToro clients should be aware of the financing charges that apply to overnight positions. Overnight fees, also known as swap charges, are applied daily from Monday to Friday, with weekend fees charged at three times the standard rates. The broker applies triple swap charges to currencies and most commodities on Wednesdays.

Leveraged positions in oil, natural gas, indices, exchange-traded funds and most shares incur triple fees on Fridays, while those in Saudi shares are subject to triple swap charges on Thursdays. Swap rates vary by asset and market conditions and change frequently, so traders should monitor them regularly. The table below provides an overview of the overnight costs observed on 22 April 2025.

Non-Trading Fees

At eToro, there are no fees for opening or maintaining an account, and deposits are free. Traders with GBP-denominated accounts may incur conversion fees of 0.75% when transacting in other currencies. Withdrawals from sterling-denominated accounts are also free of charge, but withdrawals from USD-denominated investment accounts attract an additional $5 fee.

An inactivity fee of $10 is charged each month if an account has remained dormant for 12 or more months. As we have already mentioned, UK members of the eToro Club can apply for exclusive Visa-branded debit cards. Replacing a card may cost £10 to £80, depending on the member’s current level in the eToro Club. ATM withdrawals exceeding £2,000 per month for Silver to Platinum members and £10,000 for Platinum+ and Diamond members attract a 1% charge.

Trading Platforms Supported by eToro

The broker’s proprietary platform has been designed for ease of use, catering to beginners while still offering advanced features for experienced traders. It provides access to over 7,100 financial markets, including shares, Forex pairs, commodities and indices, tradable through contracts for difference. UK clients can also invest directly in shares and cryptocurrencies.

The platform is accessible through a web browser and mobile apps, allowing users to trade across devices. Key features include CopyTrader, which allows users to replicate the positions of expert traders, and Smart Portfolios, which are pre-built investment strategies based on themes such as driverless cars. The broker also provides advanced tools such as ProCharts for technical analysis.

• Geared towards UK Traders: The platform supports multiple account currencies, including GBP and EUR.
• Social Trading: This is a key aspect of trading at eToro, enabling users to interact with each other and learn from a global community of traders.
• Broad Range of Markets: eToro’s platform provides a choice of 7,100 trading instruments, including currency pairs, exchange-traded funds and commodities, among others.
• Versatility: The platform is available through a web-based interface and a mobile app, allowing users to trade smoothly across all mobile and desktop devices.
• Features: Advanced tools such as ProCharts for technical analysis, one-click trading and trailing stop-loss orders are integrated into the platform.

Mobile Trading at eToro

The eToro mobile app provides a convenient and intuitive way to manage a portfolio and trade on the go. UK customers can download the native app from Google Play or the App Store, provided their devices meet the minimum system requirements. The user-friendly interface is easy to navigate and provides access to the broker’s broad range of financial markets. The app supports biometric authentication for added security.

Account Types Available at eToro

The broker offers a variety of account types to meet the differing needs of its large customer base. Its retail account is suitable for beginners and small-scale traders. An investment account is available to UK clients looking to buy, sell and hold shares directly. A professional account is also available, as is a corporate account designed for businesses that want to trade in financial markets. The corporate account is intended for legal entities rather than individuals. There is also a demo account suitable for both complete beginners and traders who simply wish to test a strategy.

Retail Account

The personal account is designed for retail traders interested in speculating on price movements across various assets. It offers a range of features, including the ability to copy other traders and invest in Smart Portfolios. Available leverage is limited to 1:30, and account holders have access to negative balance protection. For UK clients, the account requires a minimum first deposit of $50 and $10 for subsequent deposits. Retail clients are subject to minimum margin requirements and qualify for investor compensation in the unlikely event of eToro becoming insolvent.

• Minimum deposit of $50.
• Leverage of up to 1:30.
• Negative balance protection prevents losses from exceeding the account balance.

Professional Account

The professional account is designed for experienced traders who meet at least two of the following criteria: at least one year of professional experience in the financial sector, a portfolio of over €500,000, and 10 or more transactions of a significant size over the past four quarters.

These eligibility criteria apply because professional accounts are not subject to the 1:30 leverage limit. While this exposes account holders to greater risk, it also gives experienced traders more freedom to increase their position sizes. Negative balance protection and margin close-out restrictions do not apply to professional clients either.

• Leverage of up to 1:400
• The professional account is subject to approval and is not available to all traders
• Professional account holders do not have access to negative balance protection

Demo Account

This is a practice account funded with $100,000 in virtual money, allowing traders to familiarise themselves with the platform and test their strategies without risking real capital. The demo account is automatically available to all registered customers and can be accessed via the “Virtual Assets” tab. Traders can switch between the demo and live accounts at any time and use the demo to gain a sense of the live trading environment. The demo account also allows them to use advanced analysis tools, place stop-loss and take-profit orders and explore different risk levels.

• $100,000 in virtual funds
• User-friendly interface
• Easy switching between demo and live trading
• Practise trading shares, Forex pairs, commodities, indices and ETFs

Customer Support at eToro

UK clients can contact eToro’s support team if they encounter a problem or have a question. The broker provides several ways to obtain assistance, including live chat, where knowledgeable agents respond in real time in under 30 seconds. Clients can also contact the support team via WhatsApp or submit a ticket for less urgent issues. These tickets are answered by email within 48 hours.

Regulatory Background and Compliance

Regulatory compliance is a key aspect of eToro’s operations in the UK market. The social trading and multi-asset broker is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), a tier-1 regulator. The broker first obtained authorisation from the UK regulator in 2013 and operates under reference number 583263.

The company’s UK offices are on the 24th floor of One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London. FCA authorisation allows eToro to serve UK clients legally while complying fully with the UK regulatory framework. It requires the broker to adhere to stringent regulatory standards designed to support client protection.

UK authorisation conditions require eToro to enforce leverage caps to help protect retail clients from excessive risk. Retail clients in the UK can use leverage of up to 1:30 for Forex and 1:5 for individual equities. The broker provides retail clients with negative balance protection and participates in the UK’s Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Client Security at eToro

Client security is among eToro’s main priorities. The broker complies with UK law and ensures that UK clients’ funds are segregated and never mixed with the company’s operating capital. UK clients are entitled to up to £85,000 of FSCS compensation if eToro becomes insolvent.

In line with FCA restrictions on brokers operating in the UK, eToro limits the leverage available to its retail clients. Leverage of no more than 1:30 is available to retail clients trading major currency pairs. Positions in gold, major indices and non-major currency pairs can use maximum leverage of 1:20. The ratios for other commodities and individual shares are capped at 1:10 and 1:5, respectively. These leverage limits reflect the volatility and general risks inherent in each asset class.

eToro also offers a range of security features, including two-factor authentication and SSL encryption, to safeguard personal and financial information. The company provides guidance on how clients can protect themselves from phishing attempts and other online scams, emphasising the importance of verifying the authenticity of communications and being wary of suspicious links. By prioritising client security and adhering to strict regulatory standards, eToro aims to provide a secure and trustworthy online trading environment for its customers.

What UK Traders Say About eToro

UK traders on Trustpilot have mixed opinions about eToro, praising its user-friendly platform but raising concerns about the efficiency of customer support. Many highlight the easy-to-use proprietary platform, describing it as well suited to beginners. Others appreciate the wide range of assets, including 6,200+ shares, ETFs, commodities and currency pairs.

Among the criticisms, some reviewers report slow response times from the customer support team, particularly when resolving account or withdrawal issues. A few mention delays in withdrawals, though most customers on Trustpilot report smooth transactions. Several reviews also criticise the spreads and fees, claiming these are higher than those of competitors, especially for frequent traders.

Positive feedback often focuses on copy trading, a popular feature allowing users to replicate the trades of experienced investors. However, some traders warn that past performance does not guarantee future results. Despite these drawbacks, many clients consider eToro a reasonable choice for occasional investors, particularly those interested in social trading and investing in shares.