Introduction

Trading 212 is a popular online brokerage firm that offers commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, alongside CFD trading across a wide range of financial instruments. Established in 2005, it has grown to become a significant player in the retail trading space, particularly known for its user-friendly platform and accessibility for both beginner and experienced investors. Trading 212 operates globally and is regulated by multiple financial authorities, ensuring a secure environment for its users.

Key Features

• Commission-Free Trading: Offers 0% commission on real stocks and ETFs in its Invest account, making it highly attractive for cost-conscious investors.
• Two Account Types: Provides two distinct platforms – “Trading 212 Invest” for real stocks and ETFs, and “Trading 212 CFD” for trading Contract for Differences on forex, commodities, indices, and shares with leverage.
• Fractional Shares: Allows users to invest in fractions of expensive stocks, making it possible to build a diversified portfolio even with a small capital.
• Autoinvest & Pies: A unique feature that enables users to create custom portfolios (Pies) and automate their investments (Autoinvest), simplifying long-term portfolio management and dollar-cost averaging.
• User-Friendly Interface: Both the web platform and mobile app are designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, catering well to beginners while offering sufficient functionality for experienced traders.
• Wide Range of Instruments: Access to thousands of stocks and ETFs from major exchanges, as well as a comprehensive selection of CFDs including forex pairs, cryptocurrencies, indices, and commodities.
• Demo Account: A free practice account with virtual money is available for both Invest and CFD platforms, allowing users to test strategies and get familiar with the platform without risking real funds.
• Strong Regulation: Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the Financial Supervision Commission (FSC) in Bulgaria, offering a layer of security and investor protection.

Pros

• Zero commission on stock and ETF trading is a major advantage.
• Intuitive and easy-to-navigate platform, ideal for beginners.
• Fractional shares open up investment opportunities for smaller budgets.
• Automated investing features (Pies & Autoinvest) are innovative and very useful for long-term investors.
• Extensive selection of global stocks, ETFs, and CFDs.
• Strong regulatory framework provides peace of mind.
• Free demo account is excellent for learning and practice.
• Responsive customer support, primarily through email and live chat.

Cons

• Advanced charting tools are somewhat limited compared to more professional trading platforms.
• Customer support is not available 24/7 via phone, relying mostly on email and in-app chat.
• The CFD account involves high risk due to leverage, which may not be suitable for all investors.
• Currency conversion fees apply when depositing or trading in a currency different from your account’s base currency.
• Spreads on CFDs can be slightly wider for less liquid instruments.
• Not available in all countries, limiting global access.

Pricing

• Trading 212 Invest Account:
  • Commission: 0% on stocks and ETFs.
  • Inactivity Fee: None.
  • Deposit Fees: Free for bank transfers. Credit/Debit card and other instant deposits are free up to a certain cumulative limit (e.g., £2,000), after which a 0.7% fee may apply.
  • Withdrawal Fees: Generally free for bank transfers.
  • Currency Conversion Fee: 0.15% for deposits or trades in a currency different from your account’s base currency.
• Trading 212 CFD Account:
  • Commission: 0% on trades, as costs are incorporated into the bid-ask spread.
  • Spreads: Variable spreads apply, depending on the instrument and market conditions.
  • Overnight Fees (Swap Rates): Charged for holding leveraged positions overnight, varying by instrument and direction (long/short).
  • Deposit/Withdrawal Fees: Similar to the Invest account.
  • Currency Conversion Fee: 0.15% for trades in a currency different from your account’s base currency.