Swissquote Broker at a Glance
- Wide range of assets available: more than 3,000 stocks, 150 ETFs, 30 indices, 50 currency pairs, commodities, bonds, cryptocurrencies
- Swissquote proprietary platform intuitive and complete, available on browser and mobile
- Access to MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 for technical profiles
- Direct trading in stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies and derivatives
- Strict regulation by FINMA (Switzerland) and registration with the SEC
- Client funds segregated in Swiss banks, additional insurance included
- Multi-currency account available, with up to 22 currencies
- Advanced tools: stock screener, fundamental analysis, market reports
- Secure interface with strong authentication (2FA)
- Access to Robo-Advisory and managed solutions
- Inactivity fees of 10 CHF per month after 6 months without trading
- Real stock commissions higher than some competitors
- High currency conversion fees (up to 1%) in the absence of a multi-currency account
- Leverage more limited than other CFD brokers (up to 1:50 for retail clients, as per United States regulation)
- Absence of native copy trading or social trading
- What to think of Swissquote?
- My Opinion on the Security and Reliability of Swissquote Broker
- My opinion on the fees, spreads, and commissions applied to Swissquote
- My opinion on the assets & markets available on Swissquote
- My review of the platform
- Customer Reviews: What Users Think of Swissquote
- Account Opening, Deposits, and Withdrawals on Swissquote
- Conclusion: Should You Invest with Swissquote?
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Watch out!
Swissquote is not available for USA investors. To find out eligibility requirements for this broker, we recommend that you Swissquote's official website.
Swissquote is one of the leading online trading platforms in Switzerland, and also positions itself as a complete digital bank. The platform, rated 3.9/5 based on over 1,900 reviews on Trustpilot, is particularly recognized for the quality of its regulation, its well-designed proprietary interface, and the diversity of its instruments available for purchase in their real form or via CFDs.
I've spent the last 6 months signing up, testing, and thoroughly analyzing Swissquote, and I've sought to compare the platform to other regulated and popular online brokers in the United States.
In short, I was trying to answer questions like: can Swissquote be trusted? Is the platform easy to use and intuitive for beginners? How much does it cost to trade with Swissquote, and can you build a diversified portfolio of assets? What features does the trader offer vs. other online brokers?
So I examined everything: account opening process, management and trading fees, available financial instruments, features, platform simplicity (desktop and mobile), and trading tools, etc. Below, I'm sharing my in-depth analysis of the Swissquote broker (compared to other platforms tested).
What to think of Swissquote?
My Overall Opinion of Swissquote
After several weeks of testing, I can say that Swissquote clearly stands out from the majority of online brokers, notably due to its banking regulation in Switzerland and its hybrid positioning between an investment bank and a trading platform. The platform is solid, reliable, and allows access to both traditional markets (stocks, bonds, ETF) and more dynamic products like CFDs, Forex, or cryptocurrencies.
On the asset side, the offer is among the broadest I have tested: more than 60 global markets accessible, 3,000 stocks, about fifty currency pairs, ETFs, indices, commodities, structured products, and even direct cryptos. The possibility of investing both directly (excluding CFDs) and with leverage is a real plus for mixing long-term and short-term approaches.
Regarding tools, the Swissquote proprietary platform is well-designed, ergonomic, and accessible via browser and mobile application. More technical traders can switch to MetaTrader 4 or 5 depending on their profile. I appreciated the screening tools, fundamental analyses, and integrated news feeds. On the other hand, there is no native copy trading solution, which some may miss.
Fees are higher than at purely CFD or low-cost brokers. For example, stock commissions can reach $10 per order, and conversion fees up to 1%. However, spreads are quite competitive on Forex, especially with the Prime account. Pricing transparency is good, with very few hidden fees.
Finally, in terms of security, Swissquote is, in my opinion, irreproachable: regulated by the FINRA, client funds segregated, additional protection thanks to its status as a bank, and secure access via strong authentication. It is a platform in which I have complete confidence to house a significant portion of my trading capital.
Which Trader Profiles Is Swissquote Suitable For?
=> For experienced investors who want access to a wide range of instruments while benefiting from a rigorous regulatory framework. Swissquote offers an impressive diversity of markets, with access to over 60 global exchanges, and allows for true long-term investing with actual ownership of stocks and ETFs, which is rare for a trading-oriented platform.
=> For professional or active traders who are looking for stable execution and powerful trading tools like MetaTrader 5 or the in-house eTrading platform. The Prime account, for example, allows you to benefit from reduced pricing conditions from $10,000 deposit, with competitive spreads on Forex and optimized fees for frequent orders.
=> To Forex and CFD traders who want to trade with leverage in a secure environment. Swissquote offers leverage up to 1:50 for retail clients (as per United States regulations) and up to 1:100 for professionals, with a varied choice of currencies, indices, and commodities. Risk management is facilitated by comprehensive stop loss and margin monitoring tools.
On the other hand, Swissquote may be less suitable for small investors or beginner traders looking for low entry fees. The high minimum deposit ($1,000) and fixed brokerage fees per order may deter those who want to start with small positions or test without too much financial commitment.
Swissquote in a few seconds:
Characteristic | Detail |
---|---|
Minimum Deposit | $1,000 |
Regulations | FINMA (Switzerland), MFSA (Malta), DFSA (Dubai), SFC (Hong Kong), FCA (United Kingdom) |
SEC Registration | Yes (as an investment service provider) |
Available Assets | Stocks (60,000+), ETFs (1,700+), cryptocurrencies (35+), currencies (130+), commodities, indices, bonds |
Trading Tools | eTrading (proprietary platform), MetaTrader 4 and 5, Swissquote mobile app |
Demo Account | Yes, available with $100,000 virtual funds |
Copy Trading | Yes, via the MetaTrader platform with integrated plugins and tools |
Islamic Trading | Not available |
Main Options | Stop Loss, Take Profit, Limit Orders, Conditional Orders |
Leverage | Up to 1:50 for retail clients |
Fees | Stocks: from 9 CHF per order Forex: spreads from 0.6 pip Crypto: 1% commission per transaction Inactivity fee: 10 CHF/month after 6 months Withdrawal: 2 CHF per transfer |
Customer Support | By email, phone, contact form, chat (business hours) |
Verified Trustpilot Reviews | Score: 3.9/5 (1,941 reviews) |
Forex: spreads from 0.6 pip
Crypto: 1% commission per transaction
Inactivity fee: 10 CHF/month after 6 months
Withdrawal: 2 CHF per transfer
My Opinion on the Security and Reliability of Swissquote Broker
As a trader, I consider Swissquote to be one of the most reliable brokers on the market. Its status as a Swiss bank, its oversight by the FINMA, and its strict regulatory obligations make it a safe bet for trading with confidence, especially since it is fully authorized to offer its services in the United States.
Indicator | Description | Risk Management |
---|---|---|
Regulatory Compliance | FINMA (Switzerland), MFSA (Malta), FCA (United Kingdom), SFC (Hong Kong), DFSA (Dubai), Regulatory bodies in the United States | Excellent |
Security of Funds | Segregated client accounts, Swissquote is a listed bank, Swiss banking security, no specific insurance but standard banking protection | Very Good |
Risk Management Tools | Stop-loss, take-profit, controlled margins, limited leverage, real-time account monitoring | Very Good |
Reputation & Coverage | Internationally recognized platform, publicly traded, over 400,000 clients, Trustpilot rating 3.9/5 | Very Good |
Swissquote enjoys a solid reputation in the banking and online brokerage world, particularly thanks to its unique status as an online bank. For a trader based in the United States, it's a reassuring choice both from a regulatory and operational standpoint. The tools provided also allow for good control of market risks.
=> In my opinion, Swissquote is one of the few brokers that combines the security of a bank, access to global markets, and robust tools for active trading. It's a player that inspires confidence.
My opinion on the fees, spreads, and commissions applied to Swissquote
What I've noticed with Swissquote is a rather high-end fee structure, in line with its positioning as a Swiss online bank. The fees are clearly displayed, but higher than those of many low-cost CFD brokers, especially for stocks and withdrawals. However, the quality of service, security, and range of instruments offered, in my opinion, justify some of these costs.
The basic account allows you to trade a very wide range of assets, but it is clearly not the most economical platform for ultra-frequent trading. Spreads are decent on Forex (from 0.6 pips), and fixed fees are mostly visible on stocks, ETFs, or withdrawals. In my opinion, Swissquote is primarily aimed at investors who prioritize a secure framework and reliable tools rather than an aggressive pricing policy.
Let's now look in detail at the broker's fee schedule.
What are the account fees?
Type of Fee | Conditions at Swissquote | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Opening Fee | Free | $5 – $10 |
Management Fee | No annual account maintenance fees, but commissions on each transaction | 0.1 – 0.2 % |
Withdrawal Fee | 2 CHF per transfer in local currency; up to 10 CHF depending on the currency and the country | $5 – $10 |
Inactivity Fee | 10 CHF/month after 6 months of inactivity | $5 – $15 |
Conversion Fee | 0.95% for most foreign currencies; reduced rate for Premium accounts | Variable depending on the brokers |
I found Swissquote's pricing policy to be generally transparent but a bit high on some operations, such as currency conversions or withdrawals. There are no management fees, which slightly compensates, and the account remains accessible without volume conditions. For demanding investors, this is acceptable, but you have to be aware of it.
The minimum deposit of $1,000 is relatively high compared to other online brokers in the United States. This confirms that Swissquote targets a more engaged user profile, who wants to access banking services in addition to a multi-asset trading account.
Trader Tip
To limit conversion fees, I use Revolut or Wise to transfer my funds to CHF or EUR before depositing them. And to avoid inactivity fees, I set a monthly alert to log into the account, even if I'm not trading.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
Type of Fee | Conditions at Swissquote | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Commission | Starting at $9 per transaction (depending on the amount invested and market) | 0.10 % |
Spread Fees | Included in market fees, variable depending on the order book | 0.10 % |
Overnight Fees | No overnight fees if investing in cash; only in CFD | Variable |
Custody Fees | Starting at 0.025% per quarter, with a minimum of $15 | Variable |
Swissquote offers a genuine long-term investment option, with the purchase of stocks and ETFs for cash, which remains rare for a platform also specializing in CFD trading. The fixed fees are clearly higher than at neo-brokers like Trade Republic or Boursorama, but in exchange, you benefit from multi-market access, a quality interface, and Swiss banking support. For more frequent investments or small amounts, these fees may however weigh on profitability.
What are the cryptocurrency fees?
Type of Fee | Swissquote Conditions | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Buy/Sell Fees | 1% per transaction up to $10,000 (decreasing to 0.5% for over $500,000) | 0.75% |
Spread Fees | Included in buy/sell fees | 0.5 – 1% |
Daily Fees | None if direct purchase; CFDs subject to standard overnight fees | Variable |
Custody Fees | No specific custody fees | Variable |
Swissquote remains more expensive than crypto exchanges like Binance, Bybit, or Kraken, but the broker caters to investors seeking a regulated and secure framework for buying cryptos. Purchases are made directly, without leverage by default, and crypto-assets are held by Swissquote in partnership with cold storage solutions. For staking or very frequent operations, it's better to use a specialized platform. For long-term holding, Swissquote is a safe alternative.
What are the CFD fees?
Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at Swissquote | Overnight Fees | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|---|
Stocks | 1:5 | Starting from 0.25% | Variable interest depending on position | 0.10% + fees |
Gold | 1:20 | Starting from $0.25 | Yes, depending on size and duration of the trade | 0.05% |
Oil (WTI) | 1:10 | Starting from $0.03 | Yes | 0.03 – $0.05 |
EUR/USD | 1:30 | Starting from 0.8 pip | Yes, calculated nightly | 1 pip |
EUR/GBP | 1:30 | Starting from 1.0 pip | Yes | 1 pip |
CAC 40 | 1:20 | Starting from 1 point | Yes | 1 – 2 points |
BTCUSD | 1:2 | Starting from $50 | Yes, higher than other assets | 0.75% + commission |
Bonds | Not specified | Variable | Yes | Variable |
I found Swissquote's CFD pricing to be quite competitive on some assets like Forex and indices, but a bit higher on stocks and crypto CFDs. However, the interface allows you to clearly visualize the cost of a position before opening it, which limits unpleasant surprises. Overnight fees are typical but can quickly weigh on long positions. It is therefore better to favor short-term strategies.
Trader Tip
If you trade crypto CFDs, keep a close eye on the overnight fee schedule. Swissquote charges for positions held open after 5:00 PM EST, so it's best to close them before this time to avoid accumulating fees over several days.
My opinion on the assets & markets available on Swissquote
Assets | Type (Direct and/or CFD) | Number | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|
Stocks | Direct + CFD | 60,000+ | 2,500 |
ETFs | Direct + CFD | 9,000+ | 200 |
Cryptocurrencies | Direct + CFD | 35 | 10 |
Currencies | CFD | 80+ | 50 |
Commodities | CFD | 26 | 20 |
Indices | CFD | 26 | 12 |
Bonds | Direct | 500+ | Variable |
NFT | Not Available | - | N/A |
When testing Swissquote, I was impressed by the breadth of the offer. It is one of the few brokers to offer both CFD trading and direct investment in stocks, ETFs and bonds. You can access more than 60 global markets, which opens the door to true international diversification.
The cryptocurrency catalog is a bit more restricted than at specialized exchanges, but it covers the main market capitalizations. What makes the difference in my opinion is the possibility of having direct exposure to all these assets from a single secure banking interface, without multiplying accounts or platforms. It's a real plus for those who want to centralize their wealth management.
My review of the platform
Feature | Verified Details |
---|---|
Mobile App | Yes, via the Swissquote Mobile app on iOS and Android |
Usability | Very clear and professional interface, also suitable for long-term investors |
Compatible Software | Swissquote Web, MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 |
Order Types | Market, limit, stop, trailing stop, take profit orders |
Technical or Chart Analysis | Integrated charting tools, technical indicators available |
Auto Trading / Automated Strategies | Possible via MetaTrader with Expert Advisors (EA) |
Algorithmic Trading | Yes, via MetaTrader 4 and 5 |
Negative Balance Protection | Yes, for retail clients |
Trading Signals | Yes, via Autochartist and Trading Central |
Asset Search and Filter | Yes, very good search engine integrated into the Web interface |
Spot Stock Purchase | Yes, available for over 60,000 international securities |
As a trader, I've found the Swissquote platform to be particularly well-designed for managing a diversified portfolio. The mobile app allows you to track your positions in real-time, the Web and MetaTrader interfaces offer advanced technical tools, and asset searching is fast, fluid, and reliable.
I also appreciated the ability to invest directly in stocks, ETFs, and even bonds, which is not common among online brokers. The platform is aimed at both technical traders and long-term investors, with a truly professional navigation structure.
Trader Tip
Activate smart notifications in the Swissquote app to track your alert levels on the assets you're monitoring in real time. This allows you to react quickly, especially if you are working in parallel or don't always have an eye on your charts.
Customer Reviews: What Users Think of Swissquote
Swissquote has an average rating of 3.9/5 on Trustpilot, based on 1,941 reviews. This is a solid score that generally reflects users' confidence in this online trading-oriented bank. Many customers appreciate the reliability and transparency of the services, although some frustrations arise regarding fees and customer service.
Among the most frequently cited positive points are: the quality of the web and mobile platform, the variety of instruments available, and the stability of the services. The security of funds is also reassuring to many users.
On the criticism side, several users complain about sometimes high fees, especially on withdrawals or stocks. Others point out slow response times from customer support, especially during peak activity. Some comments also mention a lack of clarity in the pricing structure.
Examples of client reviews:
D.B (February 12, 2024) : « Very good interface and Swiss reliability, but fees are too high for small portfolios. »
H.H (January 23, 2024) : « The mobile application is very well done, but customer service sometimes takes a while to respond. »
C.R (March 7, 2024) : « Swissquote remains one of the safest platforms to invest, but pay attention to withdrawal fees. »
Account Opening, Deposits, and Withdrawals on Swissquote
Account Opening
Step | Verified Details |
---|---|
Opening Procedure | 100% online through the Swissquote website, with secure electronic signature |
Validation Time | Generally within 24 hours after document verification |
Accepted Deposit Methods | Bank transfer only |
Minimum Amount Required | $1,000 for a real account; demo account accessible without deposit |
Documents to Provide | Proof of identity (card or passport) + proof of address < 3 months |
Advice | Prepare your documents in advance to speed up the process |
Opening an account with Swissquote was straightforward. I found the procedure well-designed, with a secure and fluid interface for submitting documents. Validation was quick, in less than 24 hours in my case. Here are the steps to follow:
- Access the account opening form on the Swissquote website.
- Fill in your personal details and choose the account type (eTrading, Forex/CFD, Robo-Advisor).
- Answer the regulatory financial assessment questionnaire.
- Upload your identity document and a recent proof of address.
- Sign the contract electronically.
- Wait for the confirmation email and log in to your client area.
Good to know
The demo account can be activated once the account opening is validated. It allows you to test the platform with virtual funds on the real Swissquote interface, which is ideal for getting your bearings before investing.
Swissquote Deposits and Withdrawals
Type | Authorized Methods | Available Currencies | Minimum Amounts |
---|---|---|---|
Deposit | Bank transfer (SEPA or SWIFT) | USD, CHF, USD, GBP, JPY, AUD, CAD | $1,000 (or equivalent) |
Withdrawal | Bank transfer only | Account currency | No minimum indicated |
Swissquote offers a highly secure deposit and withdrawal system, though it is a bit more rigid than some other brokers. Bank transfer is the only authorized method, which can extend the processing time (1 to 3 business days on average). However, funds are easily identified, traceable, and fees are transparent.
Trader Tip
To avoid unnecessary exchange fees, open your account in the same currency as your primary bank if possible. This allows you to deposit without conversion, especially if you trade in USD.
Account Types Available on Swissquote
Swissquote offers a structured range of account types suitable for various profiles, from long-term investors to active traders. What sets it apart is the ability to invest both directly in the markets and via CFDs, with a high level of security and a professional interface.
Account Types | Available on Swissquote |
---|---|
Demo Account | Yes, accessible without deposit, with configurable virtual capital |
Islamic Account | No, not available at Swissquote |
Standard/STP Account | Yes, classic eTrading account without fixed commission |
Raw/ECN Account | No ECN account offered |
CFD Account | Yes, dedicated via opening a Forex/CFD account |
Securities Account | Yes, to invest spot on stocks, ETFs and bonds |
Copy Trading | No native copy trading functionality |
Base Currencies of Accounts | EUR, CHF, USD, GBP |
✅ Please note:
Swissquote allows you to open multiple accounts according to your needs: an eTrading account for spot equities, a CFD account for leveraged trading, or a dedicated Forex account. The interface is centralized, but each account is technically separate.
Conclusion: Should You Invest with Swissquote?
After several weeks of testing, I can say that Swissquote is a reliable platform designed for independent and demanding investors. What struck me was the stability of the interface, the richness of the accessible markets (stocks, ETFs, currencies, CFDs, bonds) and the regulatory framework in the United States, which reinforces confidence.
I particularly appreciated the ability to combine a long-term portfolio with a CFD account for more dynamic strategies. The fees are transparent, the user experience is smooth, and the security of funds is at a very good level thanks to regulation and the protection of deposits up to 100,000 CHF.
In summary, Swissquote caters to traders who want a reliable, multi-platform solution capable of covering all needs, from traditional investment to advanced analysis on MetaTrader 5.
Check out the USA's best brokers!Compare brokersIs Swissquote regulated in the United States?
Swissquote is not directly registered with the SEC, but it operates under the regulatory framework of Switzerland by FINMA. It is a recognized and approved banking institution, which allows it to offer deposit protection up to CHF 100,000.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The minimum deposit depends on the type of account. For an eTrading account (cash equities), no minimum amount is required. For a Forex/CFD account, the minimum deposit is 1,000 units in the base currency (e.g., $1,000 for an account in dollars). This entry barrier makes it more suitable for investors who already have initial capital.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
No, Swissquote does not offer a welcome bonus to clients in the United States, in accordance with applicable financial advertising legislation. The broker also does not promote regular promotional offers.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
The maximum leverage depends on the client's status and the type of asset. For retail clients, the leverage is limited to 1:50 on major Forex pairs, 1:20 on indices, 1:5 on stocks and 1:2 on cryptocurrencies. Professional traders can access higher leverage, up to 1:100 on certain instruments.
How is Swissquote compensated?
Swissquote is compensated through several channels: commissions on stocks and ETFs (minimum $9 depending on the stock exchange), spreads on CFDs and Forex, as well as ancillary fees such as custody and inactivity fees. The entire pricing structure is detailed on their site, with a high level of transparency.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote Group Holding SA is a Swiss online bank listed on the stock exchange (SIX: SQN), founded in 1996. Its headquarters are located in Gland, Switzerland. It also has subsidiaries in London, Dubai, Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong, which strengthens its international presence.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as a company specializing in financial analysis before becoming a full-fledged bank in 2000. Since then, it has continued to develop its online trading and investment services for individuals and professionals.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading?
No, Swissquote does not offer a native copy trading feature like eToro or ZuluTrade. However, traders can use MetaTrader 5 to integrate automated strategies or connect third-party services compatible with the platform.
How to contact Swissquote customer service?
Customer service can be reached by telephone (Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.), by email, and via a contact form on the site. Swissquote also offers an English-speaking customer service. During my tests, the answers were quick (less than an hour by email) and relevant.
Does Swissquote offer promotions?
No, Swissquote does not offer commercial promotions or trading contests. The platform's strategy relies more on reliability and the quality of the offer than on marketing campaigns or bonuses.
Is Swissquote regulated in the United States?
Swissquote is not directly registered with the SEC, but it operates under the regulatory framework of Switzerland by FINMA. It is a recognized and approved banking institution, which allows it to offer deposit protection up to CHF 100,000.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The minimum deposit depends on the type of account. For an eTrading account (cash equities), no minimum amount is required. For a Forex/CFD account, the minimum deposit is 1,000 units in the base currency (e.g., $1,000 for an account in dollars). This entry barrier makes it more suitable for investors who already have initial capital.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
No, Swissquote does not offer a welcome bonus to clients in the United States, in accordance with applicable financial advertising legislation. The broker also does not promote regular promotional offers.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
The maximum leverage depends on the client's status and the type of asset. For retail clients, the leverage is limited to 1:50 on major Forex pairs, 1:20 on indices, 1:5 on stocks and 1:2 on cryptocurrencies. Professional traders can access higher leverage, up to 1:100 on certain instruments.
How is Swissquote compensated?
Swissquote is compensated through several channels: commissions on stocks and ETFs (minimum $9 depending on the stock exchange), spreads on CFDs and Forex, as well as ancillary fees such as custody and inactivity fees. The entire pricing structure is detailed on their site, with a high level of transparency.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote Group Holding SA is a Swiss online bank listed on the stock exchange (SIX: SQN), founded in 1996. Its headquarters are located in Gland, Switzerland. It also has subsidiaries in London, Dubai, Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong, which strengthens its international presence.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as a company specializing in financial analysis before becoming a full-fledged bank in 2000. Since then, it has continued to develop its online trading and investment services for individuals and professionals.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading?
No, Swissquote does not offer a native copy trading feature like eToro or ZuluTrade. However, traders can use MetaTrader 5 to integrate automated strategies or connect third-party services compatible with the platform.
How to contact Swissquote customer service?
Customer service can be reached by telephone (Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.), by email, and via a contact form on the site. Swissquote also offers an English-speaking customer service. During my tests, the answers were quick (less than an hour by email) and relevant.
Does Swissquote offer promotions?
No, Swissquote does not offer commercial promotions or trading contests. The platform's strategy relies more on reliability and the quality of the offer than on marketing campaigns or bonuses.