6 Best Stock Brokers in Ireland (October 2024)
Updated May 20, 2024
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51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with eToro. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
- A list of the Top Stock Brokers in Ireland for October 2024 are:
- Comparison Chart of the Best Stock Brokers in Ireland for October 2024
- Description of the Best Stock Brokers in Ireland for October 2024:
- Types of Broker
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- What to Consider When Choosing a Stockbroker in 2024
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- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
A list of the Top Stock Brokers in Ireland for October 2024 are:
Comparison Chart of the Best Stock Brokers in Ireland for October 2024
Broker
| Regulation CySEC, ASIC, FCA | Fees and Commissions Variable spreads | Trading Platforms eToro Platform, eToro App | ||
Broker
| Regulation Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC | Fees and Commissions Variable spreads | Trading Platforms AvaTradeGO Platform | ||
Broker
| Regulation FCA, EFSA | Fees and Commissions Variable | Trading Platforms Website | ||
Broker
| Regulation Central Bank of Ireland | Fees and Commissions Spread betting, CFDs | Trading Platforms IG Trading Platform | ||
Broker Interactive Brokers | Regulation Central Bank of Ireland, SEC | Fees and Commissions Tiered pricing, options fees | Trading Platforms Trader Workstation, WebTrader | ||
Broker Trade Republic | Regulation BaFin | Fees and Commissions Variable | Trading Platforms Mobile and web |
eToro: Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take two mins to learn more.
IG: Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of IG retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with IG. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
The provider of investment services is Lightyear Lightyear Europe AS for the EU. Terms apply: lightyear.com/terms. Seek qualified advice if necessary.
Description of the Best Stock Brokers in Ireland for October 2024:
Now that you know about the different levels of broker service available to you and the considerations to make before choosing a stock broker, here are some of the best stock brokers to use in Ireland.
This list is not exhaustive, and you should always make sure that a stockbroker is regulated and suitable for your needs before you make any investment.
1. eToro
Pros
- Regulated by FCA, ASIC
- 0% commission on stocks
- Social and copy trading
Cons
- More expensive than most of its competitors
- No MetaTrader platforms
Best for: Traders who are interested in social copy trading
Minimum deposit: $200
Withdrawal fees: $5
Trading assets: Shares, crypto-assets, commodities, forex, ETFs, indices
Regulated by: FCA, CySEC, ASIC
Mobile app: Yes
The Israeli online broker etoro is suitable for both new and more experienced traders.
It offers a good range of technical analysis tools, news feeds and articles and educational resources, and an online community of fellow traders.
Account opening is a fast online process, which generally takes no more than one day, with a minimum deposit of $200.
Customer service is available by live chat and email. The response rate is generally fast and well-informed; however it is not available on a weekend.
To find out more, read our eToro review.
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take two mins to learn more.
2. AvaTrade
Pros
- Worldwide regulated
- Multiple platforms – MT4, MT5, etc.
- Negative balance protection
- 20% welcome bonus
- Educational content
- Wide rage of payments methods
- Fixed spreads
Cons
- You can’t buy stocks
- Quarterly and annual inactivity fees
- Custumer support is not available 24/7
- No bonus for EU based clients
- No US clients accepted
- Imitated crypto assets
AvaTrade is a CFD Regulated broker with +1,000 financial instruments and multiple trading platforms. It has been operating since 2006.
It offers a 20% welcome bonus up to $10,000, according to regulation and a free 21-day demo account with $100,000.
Instruments include:
- Metals
- Commodities
- Stocks
- FX Options
- Oil
- ETFs
- Options
- Crypto currencies
- CFDs
- Indexes
- Shares
- Spread betting
- Indices
- Forex
- Bonds
AVATrade EU Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. (No.C53877) Ava Trade Markets Ltd. is regulated by the B.V.I Financial Services Commission. It is also highly regulated in Australia, South Africa, Japan, Middle East, Cyprus and Israel
You can not trade with AvaTrade in the US, North Korea, New Zealand, Iran or Belgium.
Mínimum deposit of $100, no withdraw limit and no fees.
3. Lightyear
Pros
- Over 3500 international stocks and ETFs
- Simple platform
- Low pricing
- Interest on uninvested funds is 3.25% in EUR.
- Purchasing an ETF is free of Lightyear execution fees
Cons
- You can only buy stocks, gold and ETFs
Lightyear was founded by ex-Wise duo Martin Sokk and Mihkel Aamer to bring a borderless mindset to the European investment world.
The rest of the Lightyear team has been behind many financial products you know and love, like Revolut, Robinhood.
Richard Branson, investor in Lightyear and founder of Virgin Group says:
“For too long, financial markets have been overly complex with high barriers to entry and confusing jargon. Martin, Mihkel and the Lightyear team are lifting the lid on the world of investing – making it more transparent whilst empowering people through education – to choose the products which are right for them.”
Key Features:
- Over 3500 international stocks and ETFs
- Simple and intuitive platform
- Lightyear has no account or custody fees
- Free to deposit by bank transfer.
- Investing in ETFs is free of Lightyear execution fees.
- Multi-currency account
- You can hold balances in sterling, euros and US dollars at the same time
- By keeping your funds in your preferred currency, you can avoid the need to convert them back and forth each time you want to purchase a foreign instrument, which saves you money.
- Web platform
- Earning calls
4. IG
Pros
- Highly regulated
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
- Over 10,000 instruments
- Available in the UK and US
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- High fees
- No deposit compensation scheme for US accounts
- No copy trading
- Inactivity fees
IG invented spread betting in 1974 and today is the world’s leading online trading provider with more traders trusting them with their money than anyone else
IG is authorised and regulated by the FCA and provides traders access to over 18,000 markets. IG offers more 24-hour indices than any other provider, and extended hours on over 70 key US stocks
For those who prefer to own the underlying asset, IG offers access to over 13,000 global shares and ETFs, or a wealth portfolio managed by one of their experts.
Benefits:
- Advanced platform and charting – L2 dealer, ProRealTime and MT4
- Demo account
- Extended trading hours
- Extensive range of products
- Daily expert analysis & educational resources
- Round-the-clock customer service
- Negative balance protection for retail clients
Based on revenue (published financial statements, October 2022). 24/7 excludes the hours from 10 pm Friday to 8 am Saturday (UK time), and 20 minutes just before the weekday market opens on Sunday night.
Your capital is at risk. Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
5. Interactive Brokers
Pros
- Regulated
- Wide range of offerings
- Low commission
- Socially responsible
- 24/5 customer support across multiple channels
Cons
- No additional platforms
- Inactivity fees
Best for: Advanced traders with experience in research and data tools
Minimum deposit: $0–$110,000, depending on the type of account you open
Withdrawal fees: None
Trading assets: Shares, forex, ETFs, futures, commodities, bonds, mutual funds
Regulated by: IIROC, FSA, MAS, SFC, FCA, CFTC
Mobile app: Yes
This online broker has no presence in Ireland and as such does not offer trading via the Irish Stock Exchange (ISEQ). However, it does offer a wide range of trading assets from many other countries.
Interactive Brokers provides a broad range of educational tools and resources, and free access to an extensive range of research materials.
The account opening process is fully online and generally takes no more than two days to process. Customer service is available by phone, email, online chat, or iBot, Monday to Friday.
6. Trade Republic
Pros
- 4% interest on uninvested funds
- Largest array of ETFs in Europe
- Available in Germany, France, Italy and Spain
- Commission-free trading
- User-friendly interface
- Wide investment range
- Straightforward trading experience
Cons
- Limited educational resources
- Potential additional fees
- Platform limitations
Trade Republic, a German-based fintech company, has been expanding its services across Europe, including Ireland.
Trade Republic is known for its streamlined and user-friendly mobile app, which is designed to make investing simple and accessible for everyone, from beginners to more experienced investors.
One of the key attractions of Trade Republic is its offer of commission-free trading. This can be particularly appealing for investors looking to save on transaction costs, making it a competitive choice in the Irish market.
Trade Republic provides access to a broad range of investment options including stocks, ETFs, and derivatives. This variety allows Irish investors to diversify their portfolios across different asset classes.
As a German-based company, Trade Republic is regulated by the German financial regulatory authority, BaFin, which adds a level of trust and security for investors.
The platform adopts a minimalist approach, focusing on ease of use and essential functionalities. This can be appealing for those who prefer a straightforward, no-frills trading experience.
Besides commission-free trading, it's important for Irish investors to understand other potential costs, such as foreign exchange fees or fees for certain types of transactions, if applicable.
Trade Republic may offer fewer educational resources compared to some larger, more established brokers. This is an important consideration for beginners who might need more guidance and learning tools.
Understanding the level and quality of customer support is essential, especially for investors who might need assistance in navigating the app or addressing trading issues.
Types of Broker
If you decide to take the plunge into the trading markets, by investing in assets such as shares, commodities or cryptocurrencies, your first step will be to find a suitable stock broker whose service is available in your country of residence.
A stock broker buys and sells investment assets on your behalf in return for a commission fee, acting as intermediary between you and the trading markets.
The type of stock broker you opt for will depend on what level of assistance you require, whether that is a fully managed service, an advice only service or one that places you in complete control.
There are three types of stock broker:
Full-Service Broker
Pros
- Saves you time by handling your portfolio and transactions for you
Cons
- The most expensive type of stock broker and you have less control than with other service types
Offers a complete portfolio management service, including investment research and advice, making transactions for you, portfolio analysis and building, tax advice, and general wealth management.
Discount Brokers
Pros
- Less expensive than a full-service broker and provides more control
Cons
- Advice is not provided so you are fully responsible for research
Offering a less extensive service, a discount broker does not offer financial advice but will carry out trading transactions under your instructions.
Online Stock Brokers
Pros
- Less expensive than a full-service broker and puts you in complete control
Cons
- This type of broker does not offer a personalised advisory service
Providing direct access to an online trading platform, online stock brokers are generally more suited to experienced traders. This type of stock broker offers educational and research resources.
Not sure you are ready to make that leap yet? Read Signs You Are Ready To Live Trade.
What to Consider When Choosing a Stockbroker in 2024
As with any financial venture, trading carries a level of risk and one element of that risk is the stock broker you use. Before you decide which broker to invest through, you should consider all of the following factors:
What Level of Service Do You Want?
Before you look around at available stock brokers, decide what level of service you want from them:
- Do you want a fully-managed service that will handle the process for you with wide-ranging research and advice?
- Are you confident enough to make your own trading decisions and therefore only need your broker to carry out your transactions?
- Do you want to carry out transactions online but would also like access to research tools and education resources?
- Would you like a one-to-one, personalised service?
Is the Stock Broker Suitably Regulated?
It is always recommended that you check what level of regulation a stock broker carries, whether it is regulated in multiple countries, and who the regulatory bodies are.
Any stock broker operating in Ireland must have permission to trade there from the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) but multiple regulation is a good sign of a stock broker’s trustworthiness.
A stock broker’s website should clearly state whom they are regulated by.
What Trading and Non Trading Fees are Charged?
Stock brokers make their money from a range of trading and non-trading fees charged to their clients. You should always check what fees you will be liable for before you decide to invest with a stock broker.
For instance, some stock brokers charge a percentage fee, while other charge a flat-fee. Consider the following:
- Is there a maximum commission charge or no upper limit at all?
- Will you be charged an inactivity fee if your account is left dormant for a number of months?
- Are there deposit and/or withdrawal fees?
If the information is not readily available, ask the stock broker for clarification.
Are there Minimum Investment Thresholds?
Does the stock broker require a minimum deposit to trade through them? For instance, some require you to make a minimum deposit of €100 or $100 before you can begin to trade with that broker.
Even where there is not an overall minimum investment threshold, the stock broker may require a minimum investment amount to trade in particular assets, such as commodities or shares.
Investor Reviews and Word of Mouth Recommendations
Consider which stock brokers are recommended by investors and review sites. Which have a good or bad reputation with traders?
Research a wide range of stock broker reviews to get a well-rounded picture of a stock broker’s performance.
Do bear in mind that different traders require different levels of service from a stock broker and may be interested in other trading assets than your personal preference. Locate reviews from traders who share your needs, level of expertise and trading choices.
What Assets Can You Trade?
If you are interested in trading a particular asset, for instance cryptocurrency or forex forex, it will be to your advantage to use a stock broker who not only trades in that asset but has a good reputation among the trading community for that type of investment.
There is no sense in using a stock broker who does not offer the trading asset you are interested in.
What Trading Platforms Does the Stock Broker Offer?
A trading platform is a piece of software which allows trading transactions, monitoring and reporting. Trading platforms can be accessed online or downloaded.
The more control you want over your trading, especially if you wish to carry out transactions yourself, the more important it is that your stock broker offers a trading platform that suits your needs.
Find out which trading platform the stockbroker provides and ask:
- What type of access do you have to that platform?
- What type of analysis tools does the platform provide?
- How customisable is it?
- Does it suit your level of trading knowledge?
- Is access to the platform free or do you have to pay a fee?
MetaTrader is one of the most commonly used trading platforms. To find out more, read our MetaTrader Review.
Does the Stock Broker offer Social Copy Trading?
Copy trading is the practice of duplicating the transactions of other (generally more experienced) traders. Social copy trading combines this with learning about trading through research and educational resources to increase your level of expertise.
If you are interested in social copy trading, look for a stock broker who provides copy trading, research/educational resources and a community of traders whom you can interact with.
For more information on this path into trading, read What is Social Copy Trading?
How Can You Interact with the Broker?
Whatever level of service you need, the quality of customer service should be suitable for your needs, for instance:
- 24/7 coverage, 24 hours on weekdays, or 9-5 Monday to Friday?
- Customer service in the language you speak
- Contact by telephone, email, or live chat
- Is there an app available and does it provide sufficient customer care?
Frequently Asked Questions
Ireland is a key part of online trading in Europe. When you are trading with a stock broker in Ireland, you will be trading within the European market.
There are many trusted stock brokers you can use when you are trading within Ireland.
eToro proves to be one of the most popular online stock brokers. It is suitable for all trading levels. eToro also has a great range of analytical tools.
74% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. Don’t invest in unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.
Another trusted stock broker you can use in Ireland is Capital.com. The Captial.com app is great for anyone who wants to get involved with AI trading.
All stock brokers in Ireland are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Market operators must register with the Central Bank of Ireland if they are to trade.
74% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. Don’t invest in unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.
The Central Bank of Ireland also regulates all investors. More than 10,000 firms are regulated, and a considerable amount of these firms also conduct overseas trade.
If you want to be successful as a stock broker it is a good idea to pursue an academic subject related to economics or finance.
Obtaining a degree will give you a good start, but you will also need strong work experience.
During your degree program, it is a good idea to seek out internships and voluntary work. These will not pay well but will give you vital experience that will give you the edge for starting your career successfully.
Before you are ready to enter the world of stock broking, you should register as a stock broker with the Institute of Bankers in Ireland.
To register, you must obtain the Irish Stock Exchange (ISE) certificate. While it is not necessary to register and obtain these extra certificates, they will put you in contact with the right people. You will need help within the stock broking community to have a prosperous career.
Obtaining a license is not essential for stock broking in Ireland. You can still trade on online stock markets without a license. However, if you want to work with big banks or corporations, you will need to obtain a stock broker license.
74% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. Don’t invest in unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.
To get this, you must pass the Irish Stock Exchange (ISE) certificate. If you pass this you will be registered as a professional stock broker.
There are no specific qualifications that a stock broker needs to succeed. People can develop trading strategies by themselves that will deliver them success.
74% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. Don’t invest in unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.
However, stock broking is a finance and market-based career, so any degree in this area will serve you well.
It is also worth considering a degree in an economic or mathematical field. If you want to register as a professional stock broker, you must pass the Irish Stock Exchange (ISE) certificate.
A QFA is a qualified financial advisor. If you want to go into the higher end of financial services, then this is an essential qualification.
The QFA is a diploma and does not take as long as a degree program. There are a total of six examinations that the QFA participant must sit.
On average it takes people around two years to complete the diploma, but if you are not in full-time work or not pursuing another form of higher education, this can be achieved in less time.
If you are interested in communal and social trading, then eToro is one of the best trading platforms for this.
74% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. Don’t invest in unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.
Trading212 is a trading broker that is both suitable for experts and beginners. It operates in various countries and is regulated by the financial conduct authority organizations in Ireland and the UK.
Trading212 is completely safe and is one of the most popular trading platforms that individuals use.
If you are wanting a low-risk investment, then it is a good idea to invest in bonds that mature over time. Reliable stocks are also a good investment strategy, but you may not get a strong turnover in this case.
If you have more money to hand and want a quicker turnover, then the property market is always a lucrative prospect. You can also invest in any small businesses that you feel will be successful in the future.
Final Thoughts
This list of the six best stock brokers in Ireland is not exhaustive and the broker best suited to you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Conisder the following questions:
- How much control do you want over your trading? Would you rather instruct a broker to operate on your behalf or to carry out transactions yourself?
- What assets do you want to trade in?
- Do you need financial advice, research tools, and educational resources from your stock broker?
- How much money do you have to invest?
Before deciding on a stock broker and handing over your money, always do your research to ensure your money is in safe hands.
WikiJob does not provide tax, investment or financial services and advice. The information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk including the possible loss of principal.
51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with eToro. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
