Top Stock Trading Apps in Europe

To identify the premier stock and share trading apps for investors across Europe, we've devised a system that assesses each broker's key strengths and weaknesses. Criteria taken into account encompass regulatory adherence within Europe (ESMA), supported stocks & equities, user experience, EUR deposit methods, and fees. 

Jump into the list below for a comprehensive evaluation of the top five stock trading platforms in Europe.

1. eToro

eToro solidifies its status as the leading stock trading platform in Europe, providing investors with extensive access to over 3,000 equities, ETFs, currencies, commodities, and more. The platform boasts over 30 million users and is regulated and authorized by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), making it a reliable broker for investing in Europe.

eToro distinguishes itself with social trading features such as Copy Trading and a Virtual Account, enabling users to enhance their abilities with EUR 100K in demo funds. The online broker is consistently lauded for its contemporary interface, iOS & Android Apps, reasonable fees, competitive spreads, and user-friendly deposit options for Euros (EUR).

  • Fees: Zero trading fees and 1% spread.
  • Assets: 3,000+ stocks, ETFs, commodities, currencies, and more.
  • Regulation: Licensed by the European Securities and Markets Authority.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Instant Bank Transfer, SEPA, Giropay, Klarna, Trustly, Visa, Mastercard, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and PayPal.
Best Stock Trading Platform Europe

2. DEGIRO

DEGIRO stands out as a top alternative trading platform in Europe, offering investors a wide range of stocks, ETFs, bonds, CFDs, options and other financial instruments. With a user base exceeding 1 million and ESMA regulation, DEGIRO is a dependable choice for European investors.

The platform is recognized for its low trading fees, advanced trading tools, and user-friendly interface, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. DEGIRO also provides real-time market data, research tools, and quick access to global markets.

  • Fees: Low trading fees and competitive spreads.
  • Assets: 2,500+ stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, and futures.
  • Regulation: Regulated by the European Securities and Markets Authority and the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM).
  • EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA, Bank Transfers, and SOFORT.
DEGIRO Europe

3. Plus500

Plus500 is the top choice for stock CFDs in Europe, providing investors with a wide selection of equities, ETFs, CFDs, commodities, and more. The platform is regulated by ESMA and other financial authorities to over up to 30x leverage on a wide range of markets.

With its intuitive and user-friendly interface, Plus500 caters to both novice and expert traders. The platform offers competitive spreads, leverage options, and risk management tools, along with a free demo account to practice trading strategies.

  • Fees: No trading fees and tight spreads.
  • Assets: 2,000+ stocks, ETFs, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and more.
  • Regulation: Authorized by the European Securities and Markets Authority.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Credit Cards, Debit Cards, SEPA Bank Transfers, Skrill, and PayPal.
Plus500

4. Trade Republic

Trade Republic is the ideal platform for beginners in Europe, offering a streamlined and user-friendly mobile app for trading stocks, ETFs, and derivatives. The platform also offers up to 2% p.a. interest on your cash balances in your account. Regulated by ESMA and other financial authorities, the platform ensures a secure trading environment for European investors.

Trade Republic simplifies the investment process with its flat-fee structure, easy-to-navigate app, and intuitive tools for tracking and managing investments. It's an excellent choice for those new to the world of stock trading.

  • Fees: Flat fee of €1 per trade.
  • Assets: 7,000+ stocks, ETFs, and derivatives.
  • Regulation: Licensed by the European Securities and Markets Authority.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA, Bank Transfers, and Credit Cards.
Trade Republic

5. XTB

XTB serves as a reliable CFD alternative in Europe, offering over 4,000 stocks, ETFs, commodities, forex, and options. The platform is regulated by ESMA and other financial authorities, ensuring a secure and trustworthy trading experience for European investors.

XTB is known for its user-friendly xStation 5 trading platform, which boasts advanced charting tools, fast execution, and a customizable interface. The broker also provides competitive spreads, educational resources, and responsive customer support.

  • Fees: No trading fees and competitive spreads.
  • Assets: 4,000+ stocks, ETFs, commodities, forex, and options.
  • Regulation: Regulated by the European Securities and Markets Authority.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Bank Transfers, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Skrill, and PayPal.
XTB Europe

How to Trade Stocks in Europe

Engaging in the European stock and equities market might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, novices can flourish. Here's a comprehensive guide for a seamless beginning to stock trading as a European resident:

  1. Learn Fundamentals: Acquire key investment principles within the European market.
  2. Set Goals: Outline investment objectives.
  3. Choose a Broker: Pick a European trading platform considering costs, assets, and usability.
  4. Register: Sign up on the selected platform, verifying your identity.
  5. Fund Account: Transfer EUR using bank methods or cards.
  6. Analyze Stocks: Employ platform tools to find stocks matching your goals.
  7. Trade: Purchase stocks, monitor your portfolio. Stay updated on global market trends for effective trading.

Who Regulates the Stock Market in Europe?

In Europe, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) plays a crucial role in monitoring and regulating securities markets. Founded in 2011, its main tasks include safeguarding investors, ensuring market transparency, and preserving the stability and integrity of the financial system.

ESMA oversees a broad range of entities, such as stock exchanges, securities issuers, brokers, investment funds, and asset management firms. It establishes norms for market participants' behavior, enforces compliance, probes into market misconduct, and levies fines in instances of non-compliance.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, Europe's well-regulated stock market, overseen by bodies like ESMA and ECB, offers investors a secure environment for equity and ETF trading. With an array of user-friendly, cost-effective platforms like eToro, DEGIRO, Plus500, Trade Republic, and XTB, you're equipped to succeed in your investment journey. 

Remember to master the fundamentals, set clear goals, choose a suitable broker, register, fund your account, analyze stocks, and commence trading. Stay informed on market trends and ensure compliance with the regulatory standards for a smooth and fruitful trading experience in Europe's stock market.