Top 2025 Best Brokers for Trading in the United States

A trading broker is a financial intermediary that allows you to place orders on the markets and trade many assets such as CFDs, Forex, cryptocurrencies or commodities, as an individual.

But what is trading and how does it work? How to choose the right broker to practice online trading?

Discover the top-rated brokers for this year, those who stand out for their quality of service, reliability, and ability to adapt to different market trends. On this page, we have compared brokers with user-friendly platforms, tight spreads, access to MetaTrader 4 or 5, or those offering a unique social experience with copy trading.

What is a Trading Broker? Trading Definition

In the United States, the term "trading" refers to the buying and selling operations that are carried out in the financial markets.

Individuals or professionals who carry out these operations are called "traders."

Trading can be done by professional traders who speculate from the trading floor or on behalf of a financial or stock market institution, but also by individual and independent traders who use online trading platforms for this purpose.

Good to know

Trading differs from traditional investing in that it aims for shorter-term gains and uses specific tools such as leverage to increase market exposure.

Broker trading: definition and role

A broker, is a financial intermediary that allows investors to buy and sell assets in the financial markets. These assets can be diverse: stocks, currencies, commodities, indices, and more. The main role of a broker is to facilitate access to the markets for individual and institutional traders, by providing the platform, tools, and services necessary to carry out transactions.

Brokers play an essential role in the trading ecosystem. They provide platforms for trading that allow users to view real-time quotes, place orders, and analyze markets using technical indicators. In addition, they serve as a link between investors and stock exchanges, transmitting traders' orders to the markets, often in near real-time.

In addition to these basic functions, brokers may offer additional services, such as investment advice, market analysis, or training for beginners. They also play an indispensable role in ensuring the security of transactions and offering leverage that allows traders to increase the value of their positions, although this can increase the risks.

What are the best trading brokers in the United States in 2025?

Choosing the best broker depends on your trading strategy and the assets you are interested in. Whether you are interested in Forex, copy trading, cryptocurrencies, or prefer to use a specific platform like MetaTrader, some brokers stand out for the quality of their services. Here is a selection of the best brokers in the United States in 2025, according to the types of trading practiced.

Best broker for Forex trading

The foreign exchange (Forex) market attracts many traders due to its high liquidity and extended hours. To make the most of Forex trading, several criteria must be considered before choosing a Forex broker :

• Competitive spreads on major currency pairs (such as EUR/USD) help reduce transaction costs, especially for short-term strategies.
• Fast order execution is essential in such a volatile market to limit slippage and ensure precise entry and exit points.
• High leverage, although risky, can be a strategic lever for experienced traders looking to maximize their exposure with limited capital.
• Reliable regulation (SEC, CFTC, FINRA...) guarantees the protection of funds and compliance with industry best practices.
• Recognized platforms such as MetaTrader 4 or 5 (MT4/MT5), or cTrader, offer powerful technical analysis tools and an interface adapted to all trader profiles.

Certain Forex brokers combine these advantages to offer an optimal experience, both for beginners and more advanced traders.

Best Broker for Copy Trading

Copy trading is an ideal solution for investors who want to benefit from the experience of professional traders without actively managing their portfolio. It allows you to automatically replicate the strategies of more experienced traders, while maintaining total control over the amounts invested.

Here are the main criteria to consider when choosing a broker suitable for copy trading:

• Integrated copy trading platforms: Some brokers offer their own social platforms, while others rely on recognized external solutions such as ZuluTrade or Myfxbook.
• Fee structure: Fees can vary between simple spreads, commissions on profits made, or copy fees charged for each transaction copied.
• Variety of assets offered: A versatile broker allows you to copy strategies across different markets such as Forex, stocks, cryptocurrencies, or indices.
• Regulation: As with any financial service, it is essential to ensure that the broker is properly regulated by a recognized authority (such as the SEC or FINRA).

Best Broker for Crypto Trading

Cryptocurrency trading is increasingly attracting investors, drawn to price volatility and opportunities for quick gains. To choose the right crypto broker, several criteria must be taken into account:

• Number of cryptos available: A varied offering allows you to diversify your portfolio beyond the classic Bitcoin or Ethereum, with altcoins with high potential.
• Competitive trading fees: Brokers generally apply spreads or commissions. Comparing fees is essential to optimize profitability.
• Trading platform: An intuitive, fluid interface with technical analysis tools is a real asset, especially for active traders.
• Regulation and security: Even in the crypto universe, it is preferable to go through a regulated intermediary, which guarantees the protection of funds and compliance with compliance standards.

Best Trading Broker with MT4 or MT5

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) are essential platforms in the world of online trading. Recognized for their stability, compatibility with Expert Advisors (EAs), and advanced technical analysis tools, they are used by both beginners and experienced traders.

To get the most out of these platforms, it is recommended to choose a broker that:

• Offers MT4 and/or MT5 without restrictions, with all functionalities available (customizable indicators, automated trading, advanced order management, etc.);
• Offers competitive spreads, especially on major markets such as Forex, indices or commodities;
• Has leverage adapted to the user's profile (with options up to 1:50 in some cases);
• Is regulated by a recognized authority in the United States, guaranteeing the security of funds and the reliability of the platform.

How to find the best broker for trading?

Choosing the best broker for trading is important if you want to succeed in your investments. A good broker will allow you to maximize your chances of gains while minimizing risks, thanks to powerful tools, competitive fees, and quality customer support. Here are the main criteria to consider to find the broker that best suits your needs and your investor profile.

• Regulation and Security: The first criterion to verify is the broker's regulation. It must be regulated by a recognized financial authority, such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom, the CySEC in Cyprus. Solid regulation ensures that the broker adheres to strict standards of transparency, fund security, and fair treatment of clients. The security of your funds and personal data should always be the priority.
• Fees and Commissions: Fees represent a significant portion of your trading costs. They include commissions per transaction, spreads (the difference between the buying and selling price), and possibly account management fees. Opt for a broker whose fees are clear and competitive, in order to minimize the impact of these costs on your potential gains. Watch out for brokers who offer very tight spreads but impose high commissions, and vice versa.
• Trading Platform: The quality of the trading platform is another fundamental element. A good platform must be intuitive, reliable, and offer quick access to market information. It should offer technical analysis tools (indicators, advanced charts), an ergonomic interface, and the ability to use advanced orders such as stop or limit orders. Some brokers offer popular platforms like MetaTrader 4 or 5, while others have developed their own tools.
• Available Assets: Depending on your investment strategy, you will want to choose a broker that offers a wide range of assets: stocks, Forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, etc. Check if the assets that interest you are available, and if the broker offers advantageous trading conditions on these assets (leverage, spreads, etc.). The diversity of financial products allows you to vary strategies and spread risks.
• Leverage and Margins: Leverage allows you to amplify your exposure to the market, which can increase your gains but also your losses. Some brokers offer higher leverage than others, which can be attractive to experienced traders but risky for beginners. Check that the broker offers leverage levels that are in line with your risk tolerance, and that it provides clear explanations of the required margins. The maximum leverage for retail traders in the United States is according on the regulation.
• Customer Service and Educational Resources: Good customer service is essential, especially in the event of a technical problem or urgent question. Check that the support is easily reachable, ideally in several languages, and that the response times are reasonable. In addition to support, some brokers offer educational resources: tutorials, webinars, articles, to help you develop your trading skills. For beginners, these resources are a valuable asset.
• User Reviews: User reviews and online tests are also a good source of information. They allow you to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each broker according to the experience of real customers. Keep in mind, however, that each experience is subjective: you must cross-reference several sources of opinions to obtain a global and balanced picture.

How to Trade with an Online Broker

Getting started with online trading involves several key steps: from opening an account to using the trading platform, including managing funds and risks. Here's an overview of the standard process offered by most online brokers.

1. Open a Trading Account

The first step is opening an account with a regulated broker. This process generally includes:

• Online Registration: You must complete a form with your personal information (name, email address, phone number), and then choose your country of residence.
• Identity verification (KYC): To comply with international regulations, it is mandatory to provide a valid identity document and proof of address. This verification ensures account security and prevents fraud.
• Choosing an account type: Brokers offer different types of accounts (standard, commission-free, with reduced spreads, etc.) adapted to various trader profiles.

2. Deposit Funds

Once the account is activated, the next step is to fund it:

• Deposit methods: most brokers accept payments by credit card, bank transfer or e-wallets such as Skrill, Neteller or PayPal.
• Minimum amount required: the minimum initial deposit varies depending on the broker, but is often around $100 to $250. It is advisable to start with sufficient capital to properly manage risk, especially when using leverage.

3. Using the Trading Platform (e.g., MT4/MT5)

Once funds are deposited, you can access your chosen trading platform. The most common are MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5):

• Installation and Connection: The platforms are available for download on computers or as a web version. Once installed, simply log in with the credentials provided by the broker.
• Interface Discovery: MT4/MT5 offer advanced features: real-time chart display, technical indicators, analysis tools, window customization, fast order execution, and automated management via trading robots (EAs).
• Demo Accounts: It is strongly recommended to start with a demo account to familiarize yourself with the interface, test strategies, and understand market mechanisms without risking your capital.

4. Practical Example: Forex Trading on EUR/USD

Let's take the example of a typical operation on the Forex market, by trading the pair EUR/USD:

• Market Analysis: Before opening a position, it is strongly recommended to perform a technical analysis. With MT5, you can use technical indicators (such as moving averages or Bollinger Bands) to identify a trend. Suppose you identify a bullish signal indicating that the euro could strengthen against the dollar.
• Place a Buy Order: On Eightcap's MT5 platform, click "New Order". Select EUR/USD and choose the trading volume (for example, 0.1 lot). Then click "Buy" to open a long position.
• Risk Management: To protect your capital, we recommend placing a stop loss. Let's imagine that you place a stop loss at 50 pips below your entry point to limit your potential losses. You can also set a take profit at 100 pips above your entry point to lock in your gains if the market moves in your favor.

5. Monitor and Close the Position

• Monitoring: With MT5, you can track the progress of your position in real-time. The charts allow you to see if the trend is evolving as expected. You can also adjust your stop loss or take profit based on market movements.
• Closing the position: When the EUR/USD pair reaches your target or you feel the time is right, you can manually close the position by clicking "Close Position". If the take profit or stop loss is reached, the position will close automatically.

6. Analyzing Results and Adjustments

Once the position is closed, analyze the result:

• Gains or Losses: Suppose the EUR/USD reached your 100 pip profit target, meaning that, depending on the volume of your position, you made a proportional profit. For example, with a volume of 0.1 lot, 100 pips could equal approximately $100 profit.
• Trading log: Use the journal integrated into MT5 to review all the decisions made during this transaction. Understanding what worked well and what can be improved is essential to developing your trading skills.

Good to know

If you are a beginner, we advise you to choose an online broker that will also allow you to follow a dedicated trading training course and offer you a demo account.

Are trading brokers secure in the United States?

Investor security is a paramount concern when selecting a trading broker. In the United States, brokers are subject to stringent regulations enforced by multiple agencies to ensure the protection of investor funds and maintain the integrity of the financial markets. Here's an overview of the key measures and regulations that safeguard trading brokers in the U.S.:

• Regulation and Supervisory Authorities: Trading brokers operating in the U.S. must be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and are typically members of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), a self-regulatory organization overseen by the SEC. These entities ensure brokers adhere to strict standards of transparency, risk management, and client protection.
• Segregation of Client Funds: Regulated brokers are required to keep client funds separate from their own operational funds. This segregation ensures that investor deposits are held in distinct accounts, protecting them even if the broker encounters financial difficulties.
• Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) Coverage: In the event that a brokerage firm fails, the SIPC provides limited protection to investors. SIPC covers up to $500,000 per customer, including a maximum of $250,000 for cash claims, to recover missing assets.
• Negative Balance Protection: While not mandated by U.S. regulation, some brokers offer negative balance protection voluntarily. This feature ensures that traders cannot lose more than the capital they have invested, even in volatile market conditions.
• Transparency of Information: Brokers regulated in the U.S. must provide clear and detailed information about their trading conditions, including fees, spreads, leverage, and associated risks. This transparency enables traders to make informed decisions and understand the full cost and risk of their investments.
• Data Protection and Technological Security: Brokers in the U.S. are expected to implement advanced security measures to protect clients' personal and financial data. This includes data encryption, secure storage, and robust cybersecurity protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
• FINRA's BrokerCheck Tool: To protect investors from scams and unauthorized brokers, FINRA maintains a public database called BrokerCheck. This tool allows investors to verify the credentials and disciplinary history of brokers and brokerage firms before opening an account.

What are the Broker Fees for Trading?

Here is a table summarizing the different types of fees charged by online brokers, with average rates or amounts as well as an example for each type of fee. This table is designed to give you an idea of the costs you may encounter when using a trading broker.

• Spreads: Spreads are fees charged by brokers automatically on each position taken by the trader. It represents a slight difference between the buying price and the selling price of a financial product. Depending on the broker and the asset chosen, the spread can be fixed or variable. In the case of a variable spread, the cost of this spread will vary depending on market volatility. Spreads represent the broker's main compensation.
• Swap fees: The swap is a fee charged on a position between two market sessions. They mainly concern traders practicing swing trading. Thus, every time you keep a position open from one day to the next, fees are charged to your account as a charge. The amount of these fees varies according to the broker's internal policy as well as according to volatility.
• Withdrawal fees: Although not applied by all brokers and for all types of withdrawals, these fees may be charged when the trader withdraws money from their trading account. Note, however, that depending on the withdrawal method chosen, it is possible to obtain free withdrawals from most brokers.
• Conversion fees: As the name suggests, these fees are applied to currency exchanges. A conversion may be applied by a broker if you invest in an asset denominated in dollars with the euro. 
• Account maintenance fees: While these fees have become increasingly rare over time, some brokers still practice them and these are general fees. They can be billed monthly, quarterly, or annually.
• Inactivity fees: Some brokers also charge inactivity fees, which are applied when the trader does not use their trading account for a certain period of time. Most often, these fees are only charged after 12 months or 24 months of inactivity. But some brokers apply them after 6 months. The amount of inactivity fees will also vary according to the broker's policy and we advise you to check these before registering.
• Specific stock fees: Stock trading will also involve certain specific fees with some brokers. This may include subscription fees or additional commissions on the spread. Most often, these are fees charged in order to have access to foreign market data in real time.
• Guaranteed stop-loss order fees: Finally, some brokers also charge for the use of guaranteed stop-loss orders even if this practice is also increasingly rare.

Which broker is best for trading with a demo account?

One of the most effective ways to learn online trading is to use a demo account with a free demo account. These accounts are indeed offered by many brokers and allow you to both test the proposed platform and practice using different strategies before risking your own money. 

The demo account is funded with virtual capital that can be unlimited or limited. This is virtual money that you will use to make your investments under real market conditions. Similarly, the length of time you can use a demo account will vary from broker to broker.

The trading demo account allows you to take advantage of several benefits, including: 

• The possibility to learn without taking risks: A demo account will allow you to speculate in real market conditions without risking your own capital and therefore losing it.
• The possibility to learn how to use the platform: Also from a demo account, you will also be able to test most of the features offered by your broker's trading platform. This will allow you to practice using its features and tools safely.
• The possibility to test trading strategies: Finally, the demo account also has the advantage of allowing you to test different trading strategies in parallel in order to detect the best solution and the best method.

How Much Can You Earn With a Trading Broker?

It is, of course, difficult to say precisely how much you can earn from trading, as your earnings depend primarily on your experience, level of knowledge, and initial investment.

If you take the time to train and practice with a demo account, your potential earnings will also depend on the type of strategy you implement.

• With a Swing trading strategy, you can expect an optimal return of around 10% per month.
• With a Day trading strategy, you can expect an approximate return of 30% or more per month by spending 5 to 6 hours per day trading.

Of course, the amount you can earn as a retail trader will also depend on the amount you invest in the trading platform. Indeed, a 10% return on an account with a deposit of $1,000 represents only $100, whereas if you deposit $10,000 you could earn up to $1,000 per month with an effective strategy.

Are Trading Profits Taxable in the United States?

Yes, trading profits are taxable in the United States. These profits are considered capital gains and are subject to taxation based on how long the asset was held before being sold. The tax treatment differs between short-term and long-term capital gains:

• Short-Term Capital Gains: If you sell an asset you've held for one year or less, the profit is considered a short-term capital gain. These gains are taxed at your ordinary income tax rates, which range from 10% to 37% in 2025, depending on your taxable income and filing status.
• Long-Term Capital Gains: Profits from the sale of assets held for more than one year are classified as long-term capital gains. These are taxed at reduced rates of 0%, 15%, or 20%, depending on your taxable income and filing status.
• Additional Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT): High-income earners may be subject to an additional 3.8% NIIT on net investment income, including capital gains. This applies to individuals with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) over $200,000 and married couples filing jointly with MAGI over $250,000.
• Capital Losses: If your capital losses exceed your capital gains, you can deduct up to $3,000 ($1,500 if married filing separately) of the excess loss against your ordinary income each year. Unused losses can be carried forward to offset gains in future years.
• Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Investments held in tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and HSAs are not subject to capital gains taxes while the funds remain in the account. Taxes are typically due upon withdrawal, depending on the account type.

All our guides on trading in the United States

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.