Top Stock Trading Apps in Ireland

In our quest to identify and rank the leading stock trading platforms and apps available in the country, we've established a unique ranking system that assesses the products and services of each platform. Particular factors we consider include adherence to Irish regulations, supported assets, fees, user interface, EUR deposit methods and overall security. Below we have provided a high-level overview of the best stock trading platforms in Ireland.

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1. eToro

eToro is regarded as the best overall trading platform in Ireland. It’s a platform that can be tailored to suit beginners and advanced traders. What sets eToro apart from its competitors is its social trading network, where users can interact, share ideas, and even replicate the trades of successful investors with the copy trading feature. The platform is also known for its wide range of tradable assets, from stocks and commodities to fiat currencies. eToro's user-friendly interface makes it an excellent choice for Irish traders seeking a platform that delivers on all fronts.

  • Fees: Zero trading or deposit fees and 1% spread.
  • Assets: 3,000+ Stocks, ETFs, Commodities, Currencies, Indices, and more.
  • Regulation: Licensed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA Transfers, Bank Transfers, Trustly, Debit Cards, Credit Cards, Sofort, Klarna, and PayPal.

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2. Trading 212

Taking the second spot is Trading 212, recognised as the best platform for beginners in Ireland. Trading 212 has carved out a niche in the market by providing a user-friendly and intuitive platform, making it easy for new traders to navigate the complexities of stock trading. The platform also offers educational resources to help beginners understand the basics of trading and investing. Trading 212 offers a "practice mode", allowing users to trade with virtual money before diving into the real market, significantly reducing the learning curve for newcomers.

  • Fees: Zero trading fees and competitive spreads.
  • Assets: 10,000+ global stocks, ETFs, and fractional shares.
  • Regulation: Licensed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and Financial Supervision Commission.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Faster Payments, Bank Transfers, Debit Cards, Credit Cards, PayPal, and Google Pay.

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3. DEGIRO

DEGIRO is ranked third and is considered the best trading platform for institutional investors in Ireland. DEGIRO provides a robust and reliable platform that caters to the specific needs of institutional investors, including advanced trading tools, comprehensive market data, and a wide range of tradable assets. With low fees, the platform is designed for large-volume trading, making it a preferred choice for institutional investors. Additionally, DEGIRO's efficient customer service and rigorous security measures ensure a secure and seamless trading experience.

  • Fees: €1 handling fee and €2 commission fee for ETFs.
  • Assets: Stocks, ETFs, Bonds, Futures, Funds, Commodities, and more.
  • Regulation: Licensed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Bank Transfers, Bank Wires, Debit Card or Credit Card

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4. Bitpanda 

Bitpanda claims the fourth position as the best multi-asset trading platform in Ireland. It distinguishes itself by offering an extensive range of tradable assets, including stocks, ETFs, and even precious metals. Its seamless interface and easy-to-use features make trading across different asset classes a breeze, a significant advantage for traders wishing to diversify their portfolios. Bitpanda also offers innovative features like auto-invest and price alerts, making it a versatile platform for the modern trader.

  • Fees:  Zero trading or deposit fees and competitive spreads.
  • Assets: Wide range of stocks, ETFs, forex, and more across global markets. 
  • Regulation: Regulated by the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA).
  • EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA, Apple Pay, Sofort, Credit/Debit Card, EPS, Skrill & Neteller.

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5. Plus500

Rounding up the top five is Plus500, renowned for its low and transparent fee structure. Plus500's straightforward pricing model, with no commission on trades, makes it an attractive platform for cost-conscious traders. The platform is also known for its variety of tradable instruments and easy-to-use interface, making it suitable for traders of all levels. Plus500 also provides advanced risk management tools and 24/7 customer support, ensuring traders have all the resources they need for a smooth trading experience.

  • Fees: Moderate, variable based on the type of transaction.
  • Assets: Acess to an extensive range of stocks, indices, ETFs, commodities and options.
  • Regulation: Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Cards, PayPal or Skrill.

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How to Buy Stocks in Ireland for Beginners

Starting your investment journey in Ireland may feel overwhelming for novices, but with this concise and straightforward guide, Irish investors can thrive. Let's explore some advice that will help you succeed on this journey:

  1. Establish Objectives and Approach: Identify your investment aims and select an approach that resonates with them.
  2. Learn and Understand: Begin by familiarising yourself with the fundamentals of risk management, how stock markets operate, and investing.
  3. Pick an Investment Platform: Review the range of investment platforms available. Opt for one that caters to your requirements, provides competitive rates, and delivers a user-friendly experience.
  4. Set Up an Account: Sign up and finish any required verification procedures once you've chosen your ideal investment platform.
  5. Deposit Funds into Your Account: Decide on your preferred method, whether through a credit/debit card, bank transfer, or another option to deposit some Euros.
  6. Analyse Shares: Utilise the platform's tools and resources to pinpoint the most promising shares that align with your investment objectives.
  7. Execute a Trade: Ultimately, execute a market or limit order and closely monitor your investments regularly.

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Who Regulates the Stock Market in Ireland?

The regulatory body responsible for supervising and regulating securities markets in Ireland is the Central Bank of Ireland. Its primary function is to protect investors, maintain market transparency, and uphold the stability and integrity of the financial system in Ireland. It monitors various market entities, such as stock exchanges, securities issuers, brokers, investment funds, and asset management firms. It establishes and enforces standards for the conduct of market participants, investigates potential market misconduct, and imposes penalties for non-compliance.

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Bottom line

In summary, the Ireland stock market is well-regulated and offers investors a secure environment for trading. The best stock trading platforms in Ireland are eToro, Trading212, DEGIRO, Bitpanda & Plus500, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks. Whether you are a seasoned trader or just starting, choose the platform that suits your investment style and goals. With these basics in mind, you can embark on your investment journey and watch your portfolio grow!