What is ActivTrades？

Founded in 2001, ActivTrades is a brokerage firm, headquartered in London, with offices in Milan, Nassau, and Sofia. It initially focused on the forex business and then gradually expanded its product ranges, providing trading conditions and service support for clients in more than 140 countries. The company is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and offers a range of trading instruments, including forex, commodities, indices, shares, and cryptocurrencies.

ActivTrades also provides its clients with a variety of trading platforms, including the popular MetaTrader 4 and 5 platforms, as well as its proprietary platform, ActivTrader. The broker aims to provide its clients with a safe and transparent trading environment, offering segregated accounts, negative balance protection, and a range of educational resources.

Pros & Cons

ActivTrades offers a good range of trading instruments, is regulated by a reputable financial authority, and offers various account types with negative balance protection and segregated accounts.

However, some clients have reported issues with trading platform stability.

ActivTrades Alternative Brokers

There are many alternative brokers to ActivTrades depending on the specific needs and preferences of the trader. Some popular options include:

• Darwinex - a regulated broker that offers unique social trading features, with a focus on transparency and competitive pricing.

• Dukascopy - a Swiss-based broker that provides excellent trading technology, including a proprietary trading platform, but it has high account minimums and limited product offerings.

• Hantec Markets - a UK-based broker that offers a user-friendly trading platform and competitive pricing, but its educational resources are limited compared to some other brokers.

Ultimately, the best broker for an individual trader will depend on their specific trading style, preferences, and needs.

Is ActivTrades Safe or a Scam？

ActivTrades is regulated by both the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom and the Securities Commission of The Bahamas (SCB).

The FCA regulation ensures strict adherence to financial standards and integrity within the UK as a Market Maker. Additionally, SCB regulation allows ActivTrades to hold a Retail Forex License in the Bahamas, providing broader international service under reliable oversight.

These dual regulations underscore ActivTrades' commitment to maintaining high regulatory standards and ensuring client security across multiple jurisdictions.

Market Instruments

At ActivTrades, you can trade over 1,000 different CFD instruments across 7 asset classes, including forex, shares, indices, ETFs, commodities, bonds, and spread betting. This provides clients with a diversified portfolio and the opportunity to trade a range of different assets.

Accounts

Traders can open either an Individual Account (which allows them to trade small and micro lots) or a Professional Account (minimum financial portfolio size of $500,000, Dedicated Account Manager) with ActivTrades. Beginner traders can test out the trading interface and get a feel for how the broker works with a free demo account. People who adhere to Sharia law can choose from two more account options: an Islamic (Swap-Free) Account.

Leverage

Leverage is capped at 1:30 in line with the EMSA regulations, the maximum leverage is 1:30 for currency pairs, 1:20 for indices and shares, 1:10 for commodities and 1:5 for cryptocurrencies. While only the Pro account holders can enjoy the maximum leverage of 1:400.

It is important to keep in mind that the greater the leverage, the greater the risk of losing your deposited capital. The use of leverage can both work in your favour and against you.

Spreads & Commissions

ActivTrades' currency spreads begin at 0.5 pips, and its spreads on indices and financial CFDs are also 0.5 pips, both of which are competitively cheap.

It's also important to note that this is not a situation that can be fixed overnight (the underlying Futures price already accounts for the adjustment). Commissions for trading shares as CFDs begin at €1 per side, whereas spread betting on shares incurs no fees beyond 0.10% of the transaction value.

Below is a comparison table about spreads and commissions charged by different brokers:

Trading Platforms

ActivTrades also stands out due to its platform selection, which features not only the company's proprietary platform - ActivTrader but also the popular MT4 and MT5 platforms, as well as a set of unique Add-Ons.

• Web Trading

The ActiveTrades trading platform is web-based, allowing trades to be made directly in the browser; it also has a dedicated app for the iPhone and iPad. The platform has an easy-to-use design but advanced functionality, such as access to more than 90 technical analysis indicators, for seasoned traders of all trading types.

• ActivTrader

The upgraded ActivTrader platform incorporates cutting-edge tools and features to provide a revolutionary trading environment. You can gain exposure to the Forex, Commodities, Financial & Indices, Shares, and Exchange-Traded Funds markets and trade over a thousand CFDs.

• MetaTrader4

ActivTrades' desktop trading platform MT4 is available to those who prefer a more traditional trading experience. In addition, the technology has been upgraded in accordance with the firm's security standards, and the use of sophisticated charts has made it possible to automate the tactics using EAs.

• MetaTrader5

New and improved features take online trading to a whole new level in MetaTrader5. More than 450 CFDs on equities with diverse characteristics and the option to auto-trade are available on the platform, and trading statements are seamlessly integrated.

Overall, ActivTrades' trading platforms are well-designed, user-friendly, and offer a range of advanced features suitable for both beginner and experienced traders. See the trading platform comparison table below:

Trading Tools

In addition to the robust platform itself, a plethora of utility extensions is available to further develop trading functionalities and automation features, as well as to provide decision-making and signaling instruments. The term “indicators” can refer to a wide variety of tools, from those used for making decisions to those used for trading.

Deposits & Withdrawals

ActivTrades accepts deposits via Bank Transfers, Credit/Debit cards, Neteller, Skrill, Sofort, and PayPal, while only Sofort is excluded from withdrawal methods.

Base Currencies:

EUR, USD, GBP or CHF

The minimum deposit is as high as $500.

ActivTrades minimum deposit vs other brokers

Deposits via credit/debit card UK&EEA are charged 0.5% fees, while credit/debit card non-EEA are charged 1.5% fees. Other deposits and all withdrawals are free of charge.

Most deposits are said to take 30 minutes (except for Bank Transfer deposits are processed on the same working day), while all withdrawals can be processed on the same working day.

More details can be found in the table below:

See the deposit & withdrawal fee comparison table below:

Note: Fees and charges are subject to change. This table is only for informational purposes and may not reflect the latest fee structure of the brokers mentioned. It is recommended to always check with the brokers directly for the latest fees and charges.

Customer Service

ActivTrades offers 24/5 multilingual customer service via live chat, telephone: +44 (0) 207 6500 567, +44 (0) 207 6500 500, email: englishdesk@activtrades.com, institutional_en@activtrades.com, request a callback, or messaging online. Help Center is also available. You can also follow this broker on social networks such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Company address: The Loom 2.5, 14 Gower's Walk, London, E1 8PY.

Overall, ActivTrades' customer service is considered reliable and responsive, with various options available for traders to seek assistance.

Note: These pros and cons are subjective and may vary depending on the individual's experience with ActivTrades' customer service.

Education

ActivTrades provides comprehensive educational resources organized by subject, including webinars, seminars, manuals, news & analysis. In addition, you get access to a demo account, robust analytical and technical analysis tools within the platforms and exclusive add-ons that will help you study and trade more effectively.

User Exposure on WikiFX

On our website, you can see that some users have reported scams. Please be aware and exercise caution when investing. You can check our platform for information before trading. If you find such fraudulent brokers or have been a victim of one, please let us know in the Exposure section, we would appreciate it and our team of experts will do everything possible to solve the problem for you.

Conclusion

As a whole, ActivTrades is a regulated broker that provides a wide range of trading instruments and platforms. The company offers several account types and has competitive trading fees with low spreads. The broker also provides negative balance protection and segregated client accounts.

However, ActivTrades has some negative reviews from clients regarding trading platform. Additionally, the broker charges deposit fees for some payment methods. Overall, ActivTrades may be a good option for experienced traders who prioritize low trading fees and a variety of trading instruments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Risk Warning

Online trading involves significant risk, and you may lose all of your invested capital. It is not suitable for all traders or investors. Please ensure that you understand the risks involved and note that the information contained in this article is for general information purposes only.

*Please note that the information in this table is subject to change and you should always refer to the broker's official website for the most up-to-date information.

STARTRADER Information

STARTRADERL's website is operated by three companies, all belonging to the same Group of Companies, which include:

- Startrader (Cy) Ltd

Registration No: HE 421001

Registered Address: 160 Archbishop Makariou III, 1st Floor, 3026 Limassol, Cyprus.

- STARTRADER International PTY Limited

Registration No: 66663183

Physical Address: Level 35, 31 Markets Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.

Registration Address: Flat/RM A, 12/F, ZJ 300, 300 Lockhart Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong.

Tel: +61 2 9925 4396.

- STARTRADER Limited

Registration No: 8427362-1

Physical Address: Block B, Room 2, No.2, Global Village, Jivan's Complex, Mont Fleuri, Mahe, Seychelles.

Register Address: Suite 3, Global Village, Jivan's Complex, Mont Fleuri, Mahe, Seychelles.

Tel: +248 4325865

Email: info@startrader.com

Pros & Cons

STARTRADER offers a wide range of tradable instruments, and generous leverage up to 1:500. The broker also provides multiple trading platforms with advanced charting tools and technical analysis indicators, as well as educational resources for traders.

However, there are some downsides, such as regional restrictions and limited account types offered.

Is STARTRADER Legit？

STARTRADER has three entities under regulation:

STARTRADER PRIME GLOBAL PTY LTD is regulated by the Australia Securities & Investment Commission(ASIC) under regulatory license number: 421210.

STARTRADER Limited is offshore regulated by the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) under regulatory license number SD049.

STARTRADER INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD is regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) under regulatory license number 52464.

These regulatory bodies typically require brokers to follow strict operational guidelines intended to protect traders.

Further adding to the broker's credibility is its employment of security measures like segregated client accounts, which refers to the practice of keeping client funds separate from the company's operating funds. It also guarantees negative balance protection, preventing clients from losing more than their account balance. The use of SSL encryption technology ensures secure data transfer.

All these factors suggest that STARTRADER is not a scam and can be considered a legit broker.

However, it's crucial for traders to be cautious and alert. This includes understanding the broker's terms and conditions and researching online reviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of other traders' experiences with the broker.

Market Intruments

STARTRADER offers 800+ market instruments for traders to choose from, providing ample opportunities for traders to invest and diversify their portfolios.

• Forex: STARTRADER offers over 50 currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic currency pairs for forex trading, including EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/JPY, and AUD/CAD, among others.
• Stocks: The broker also provides access to over 700 different stocks, allowing traders to take a position on a wide range of companies across various sectors.
• Commodities: STARTRADER offers more than 10 commodities, providing an opportunity for traders to engage in the trading of both soft (like wheat, cocoa, or coffee) and hard commodities (like gold, oil, or natural gas).
• Indices: They also provide more than 20 indices, tracking various segments of the financial markets, both globally and regionally.
  

Account Types

Apart from free demo accounts, STARTRADER offers two primary live account types.

The Standard account is designed for traders who prefer fixed spreads, and is well-suited for beginners or traders who prefer a simpler trading experience. This account type offers spreads from 1.3 pips and leverage up to 1:500, with no minimum deposit disclosed.

The ECN account, on the other hand, is tailored to more experienced traders who require a more sophisticated trading experience. This account type offers spread as low as 0.0 pips and allows traders to access the interbank market, which can provide greater liquidity and potentially tighter spreads. It also offers competitive leverage up to 1:500 and no minimum deposit is disclosed.

The accepted currencies are AUD, CAD, EUR, GBP, USD, and NZD.

How to Open an Account？

Opening an account with STARTRADER is a straightforward and easy process that can be completed in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: First, visit the STARTRADER website and click on the “OPEN LIVE ACCOUNT”or “OPEN FREE DEMO ACCOUNT” button. You will be prompted to fill out a registration form, which requires you to provide some personal information, such as email address and password.

Step 2: Next, you will need to provide some additional information, such as your preferred account type (Standard or ECN), currency preference, and trading platform preference.

Step 3: After completing the registration form, you will be asked to verify your email address by clicking on a link sent to your email inbox. You will then need to provide proof of identity and address by uploading a copy of your government-issued ID and a recent utility bill or bank statement.

Step 4: Once your account is approved, you can fund your account and start trading immediately. STARTRADER supports a range of payment methods, including Bank wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, Sticpay, Perfect Money, Wise, etc.

Leverage

TARTRADER offers a maximum trading leverage of up to 1:500, which is still relatively high compared to other brokers in the industry. While leverage can magnify potential profits, it can also increase the risks associated with trading.

Spreads & Commissions

While STARTRADER does offer transparent trading fees, the exact commission charges for ECN accounts are different due to the instrument being traded and other factors such as account activity.

For Standard accounts, there are no commissions charged on trades made through the account. Instead, the broker makes money through the spread, which is the difference between the bid and ask price of a financial instrument. The spreads offered by this broker starts from 1.3 pips.

For ECN accounts, the spreads offered by the broker are typically lower, starting from as low as 0.0 pips. However, traders are charged a commission $7 per lot traded.

Trading Platforms

STARTRADER provides four distinct trading platforms: the widely popular and extensively-used MetaTrader 4 (MT4), its newer and more sophisticated version, MetaTrader 5 (MT5), its proprietary WebTrader platform and App.

MT4 (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Webtrader) is renowned for its advanced technical analysis tools, algorithmic trading capabilities, and high-speed trade execution, making it a favored platform amongst traders of all experience levels. It offers traders an array of features, such as customizable charting, real-time quotes, and a vast selection of technical indicators.

MT5 (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Webtrader), on the other hand, is the latest version of the MetaTrader platform, offering even more advanced features and capabilities, including enhanced charting and analytical tools, multi-currency support, and a more extensive selection of timeframes. It is also designed to support additional types of assets such as stocks and futures, providing traders with greater market diversity.

STARTRADER's proprietary WebTrader platform, is a web-based trading platform that offers traders a wide range of tools, including real-time quotes, charting tools, and technical analysis indicators, while also providing a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.

STARTRADER also provides an App, allowing users to trade anytime and anywhere. It is available for iOS and Android platforms.

Copy Trading

STARTRADER's offering of a copy trading feature is great for traders who prefer to capitalize on the expertise of successful traders. Copy trading allows traders to directly copy the positions opened and managed by another selected trader. Hence, when the copied trader makes a trade, the same trade is automatically executed in the copying trader's account.

This can be particularly beneficial for novice traders who are still learning the ropes or people who don't have the time to study and monitor the markets consistently. It provides a form of passive management and can be a way to learn and understand more about trading strategies in real-time.

However, it's crucial to remember that all trading involves risks and just because a trader was successful in the past does not guarantee they will be in the future. Always practice risk management and ensure to align copy trading actions with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Trading Tools

STARTRADER offers a suite of impressive trading tools that contribute towards a comprehensive and efficient trading experience.

They provide a Virtual Private Server (VPS) service which allows traders to run automated algorithmic strategies continuously 24/7 on a virtual machine, facilitating more robust connectivity and faster order execution.

Their economic calendar is a vital tool for fundamental analysis, helping traders track important economic events that have the potential to impact financial markets. This can be beneficial for planning trades and managing risk.

In addition, their news room serves as a source for real-time market news, keeping traders updated about significant developments that can cause market volatility.

Deposit & Withdrawal

STARTRADER supports a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods for its clients, with a minimum deposit requirement of $50. The broker allows deposits via several methods, including Bank wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, Sticpay, Perfect Money, Wise, etc. There are zero deposit fees on most payment methods.

Deposits made via bank wire transfer can take 3-5 business days to clear, while deposits made via other methods are typically processed instantly. For withdrawals, clients can use the same methods as for deposits, with processing times varying depending on the chosen method.

To withdraw funds, you should log to “My account” with your username and password. Initiate the request to withdraw funds. Here are some important notifications you should notice when withdrawing funds:

• Withdrawal forms received after 21:00 (GMT) will be processed the following day. If these are received before 07:30 (GMT) theyll be processed on the same day.
• Any International Telegraphic Transfer (TT) fees charged by the banking institution are passed onto the client. Most International TTs are approximately $20.

Bonus & Promotions

There are many promotions available at STARTRADERL, including 20% cumulative bonus up to $10,000, 50% first deposit bonus, 20% subsequent deposit bonus. The registration period is from 00:00 May 13th, 2024 to 23:59 December 31st, 2024 (based on MT4 time).

Affiliate switch bonus is also offered, from 00:00 01.08.2024 to 23:59 31.12.2024 (based on MT4 time). But it is only for FX pairs, Gold, Silver, Oil products and Index. Commodities and Crypto are not applicable.

You can find more detailed info about promotions on their site.

Education

STARTRADER offers some educational resources designed to help traders improve their knowledge and skills in the Forex and CFD markets. These resources include webinars and a knowledge center.

The educational webinars are conducted by market experts who provide traders with insights and analysis on a range of topics, from technical analysis to risk management. The webinars are designed to help traders stay up to date with market developments and make informed trading decisions.

In addition to webinars, STARTRADER also provides traders with a knowledge center, which includes some educational materials such as e-books, videos, and tutorials. These materials are aimed at traders of all levels, from beginners to advanced traders, and cover a wide range of topics such as trading strategies, market analysis, and risk management.

Customer Service

Contact Channel	Details
	LIve chat
	Contact form
	info@startrader.com
	https://www.facebook.com/startrader.intl/
	https://www.youtube.com/@Startrader.international/feature
	https://www.instagram.com/startrader.international/
	https://www.linkedin.cn/incareer/company/startrader-global/
	https://twitter.com/STARTRADER_int
	https://www.tiktok.com/@startraderofficial
	https://t.me/STARTRADER_Official

Q&A

Risk Warning

Online trading involves significant risk, and you may lose all of your invested capital. It is not suitable for all traders or investors. Please ensure that you understand the risks involved and note that the information provided in this review may be subject to change due to the constant updating of the company's services and policies.