Overview of eToro

eToro is a multi-asset social trading platform that has gained widespread popularity among investors, traders, and social media enthusiasts since its inception in 2007. It offers users access to a wide range of financial instruments, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, indices, and commodities, among others. The platform provides a user-friendly interface that caters to both novice and experienced traders alike, making it one of the most popular trading platforms on the market.

One of eToro's standout features is its social trading capabilities, which allow users to copy the trades of successful traders and build their investment portfolios. The platform has a large community of traders who share insights, strategies, and knowledge, making it an excellent learning resource for traders looking to improve their skills.

Is eToro legit or a scam？

eToro is a legitimate and regulated online brokerage firm that has been operating since 2007. It is licensed and regulated by several reputable financial authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). The company is also a member of the Investor Compensation Fund, which provides additional protection for traders' funds. However, as with any investment platform, there are risks involved in trading, and traders should always be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect their investments.

Pros & Cons

eToro's user-friendly interface, range of trading assets, and social trading features have made it popular among both beginner and experienced traders. However, as with any trading platform, eToro has its pros and cons, which potential users should consider before signing up. In this section, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using eToro as a trading platform.

Market Instruments

eToro offers a wide range of financial instruments for traders to choose from, covering various markets globally. Traders can access more than 2,400 assets, including popular currencies, commodities, indices, and stocks from exchanges around the world. Furthermore, eToro enables traders to trade cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, which has become a popular asset class in recent years due to its high volatility and potential for substantial profits. With this wide range of instruments available, traders can diversify their portfolios and explore various markets to find the best investment opportunities.

Account Types

eToro provides traders with two primary types of accounts to choose from, namely the Retail and Professional accounts. These account types differ in various aspects, such as trading features, account requirements, leverage limits, and the level of regulatory protection they offer.

eToro's Retail account is suitable for most traders and investors. This account type requires a minimum deposit of $500 and provides access to all eToro's trading instruments, including cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, commodities, and more. Retail account holders can also benefit from eToro's social trading features, which allow users to follow and copy other successful traders on the platform. However, retail account holders are limited to a maximum leverage of 1:30, as per regulatory requirements.

eToro's Professional account is designed for experienced traders who meet certain criteria, such as having a minimum of two years of trading experience and meeting certain financial thresholds. This account type provides access to higher leverage of up to 1:400, and allows users to benefit from reduced margin requirements and negative balance protection. However, professional account holders are not eligible for certain investor protection rights, such as compensation schemes, as they are deemed to have a higher level of trading knowledge and experience.

How to open an account with eToro？

To open an account with eToro, you need to follow these steps:

• Go to the eToro website and click on the “Join Now” button.

• Enter your personal information, including your name, email address, and phone number.

• Verify your email address by clicking on the verification link sent to your email. Provide additional information, including your date of birth, address, and tax ID number. Agree to the terms and conditions and submit your application.

• Wait for eToro to review and approve your account, which usually takes a few minutes to a few business days.

• After approval, you can fund your account with preferable payment methods and then start your real trading with this broker.

Demo Account

eToro offers a demo account for traders who want to practice trading strategies without risking real money. The eToro demo account provides $100,000 in virtual money and is valid for an unlimited amount of time, allowing traders to familiarize themselves with the platform and practice their trading skills.

To open a demo account, traders can simply sign up for an eToro account and select the option to use the demo account. It's important to note that the eToro demo account does not require any deposit or funding, making it a risk-free way to test out the platform.

When using the demo account, traders should keep in mind that the virtual money provided is not real, and any profits or losses made are also not real. It's also important to note that while the demo account provides a good introduction to the platform, it may not accurately reflect the actual market conditions and trading experience.

Leverage

eToro offers leverage for trading various financial instruments. The maximum leverage provided by eToro varies depending on the instrument and the jurisdiction of the client. For example, for major forex pairs, eToro offers leverage up to 1:30 for retail clients and up to 1:400 for professional clients. For commodities such as gold and silver, leverage can be up to 1:20 for retail clients and up to 1:100 for professional clients. For stocks, eToro offers leverage up to 1:5 for both retail and professional clients. It is noted that high leverage can amplify your potential returns, but more importantly, it can increase your risks.

Spreads & Commissions (Trading Fees)

eToro's spreads vary depending on the asset being traded. The platform charges variable spreads, which means that the spread can widen or narrow depending on market conditions. The typical spread for major currency pairs such as EUR/USD and GBP/USD is around 3 pips during normal market conditions. However, this can vary depending on market volatility and liquidity.

For other assets, such as cryptocurrencies and commodities, eToro's spreads are generally higher. For example, the spread for Bitcoin can range from 0.75% to 5% depending on market conditions.

Non Trading Fees

In addition to spreads and commissions, eToro also imposes a few non-trading fees that traders should take into consideration before trading on this platform. These fees include:

• Withdrawal fee: eToro charges a withdrawal fee of $5 per withdrawal. This fee is relatively low compared to other brokers.

• Inactivity fee: If you don't log in to your eToro account for 12 months, an inactivity fee of $10 per month will be charged to your account. This fee is charged until you log in again or until your account balance reaches zero.

• Overnight fees: eToro charges overnight fees or rollover fees for positions held open overnight. The amount of the fee depends on the instrument traded, the direction of the position, and the size of the position.

• Currency conversion fee: If you deposit funds in a currency different from the base currency of your account, eToro charges a currency conversion fee. The fee is 0.5% of the deposited amount, and it's calculated based on the exchange rate at the time of the conversion.

Trading Platform

eToro offers its proprietary trading platform, which is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, particularly for novice traders. The platform provides a variety of tools and features, including real-time market data, advanced charting tools, and an easy-to-use order entry system.

One of the most notable features of the eToro platform is its social trading functionality, which allows users to follow and copy the trades of successful traders. This feature is particularly appealing to new traders who may lack the knowledge or experience to make their own trades.

In addition to its proprietary platform, eToro also supports the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform, which is widely used by traders around the world. MT4 is known for its advanced charting capabilities, extensive library of technical indicators, and the ability to automate trading strategies through the use of Expert Advisors (EAs).

Here is a comparison table of the trading platform offered by eToro, FP Markets and Exness:

Deposits & Withdrawals

eToro accepts multiple payment methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets such as PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill. The minimum deposit amount is $10, which is relatively low compared to other brokers in the industry. Deposits are usually processed instantly or within one business day, depending on the payment method. eToro does not charge any deposit fees, but some payment providers may have their own fees.

eToro allows you to withdraw funds using the same payment methods as deposits.The minimum withdrawal amount is $30, and there is a withdrawal fee of $5.Withdrawals are usually processed within one business day, but it may take longer for bank transfers.Before making a withdrawal, you need to verify your identity and complete the necessary KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures. eToro also has a policy of returning funds to the original payment method used for deposits, whenever possible.

Customer Support

Customer support is an important aspect of any online brokerage firm, and eToro is no exception. eToro offers various channels for customers to get in touch with its support team. These channels include:

• Live chat: This is available 24/5, Monday to Friday. It is the fastest and most efficient way to get support.

• Email: Customers can send an email to the eToro support team. The response time is usually within 24 hours.

• Phone: Customers can also call the support team during office hours. eToro provides local phone numbers for various countries.

• Social media: eToro has a presence on various social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. Customers can use these platforms to get in touch with the support team.

• FAQ section: eToro offers a comprehensive FAQ section on their website that covers a wide range of topics related to their services, trading, account management, and more. The FAQ section is organized into categories, making it easy for users to find answers to their questions quickly.

Educational Resources

When it comes to educational resources, Toro offers a variety of educational content to help traders improve their skills and knowledge of the financial markets.

These resources include:

• eToro Academy: This is an online education portal that provides traders with a wide range of educational materials, including articles, videos, webinars, and courses on various topics such as trading strategies, market analysis, risk management, and more.

• Trading Guides: eToro also offers a series of trading guides that provide in-depth information on various trading topics, including stocks, commodities, currencies, and indices.

• Market News and Analysis: eToro provides traders with up-to-date news and analysis on the financial markets. This includes daily market updates, weekly market analysis, and other educational content.

• Blog: eToro has a blog that provides traders with the latest news, market analysis, and trading tips.

• Virtual Portfolio: eToro offers a virtual portfolio feature that allows traders to practice trading without risking real money. This is a great way for beginners to gain experience and test out their trading strategies before trading with real money. Here is an instructional video for users to know clearly what Virtual Portfolio is:https://www.youtube.com/watch？v=GWK7uQ98KpM.

Conclusion

Overall, eToro is a reputable and user-friendly online trading platform that offers a wide range of financial instruments and trading options to its clients. Its innovative social trading features, intuitive platform, and excellent customer service make it an attractive choice for both beginner and experienced traders. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as relatively high fees, limited research tools, and a lack of advanced charting capabilities.

FAQs

• Q: Is eToro a regulated broker？

• A: Yes, eToro is a regulated broker. It is authorized and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) in Europe, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Australia.

• Q: What trading instruments are available on eToro？

• A: eToro offers a wide range of trading instruments, including stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, forex, commodities, and indices.

• Q: What is the minimum deposit required to open an account on eToro？

• A: The minimum deposit required to open an account on eToro varies depending on your location and the type of account you choose. For most countries, the minimum deposit is $500.

• Q: Does eToro offer a demo account？

• A: Yes, eToro offers a demo account that allows you to practice trading with virtual funds. The demo account is free and can be used for an unlimited period of time.

• Q: What is eToro's customer support like？

• A: eToro's customer support is available 24/5 and can be reached through email, live chat, and phone. They also have a comprehensive help center and a community forum where you can get answers to common questions and connect with other traders.

It is important to note that the information provided in this review may be subject to change due to the constant updating of the company's services and policies. In addition, the date on which this review was generated may also be an important factor to consider, as information may have changed since then. Therefore, readers are advised to always verify updated information directly with the company before making any decision or taking any action. Responsibility for the use of the information provided in this review rests solely with the reader.

In this review, if there is a conflict between the image and the text content, the text content should prevail. However, we recommend that you open the official website for further consultation.

Pros and cons of CMCMarkets

Pros of CMCMarkets:

• Regulatory Compliance: Being registered in Australia and regulated by reputable authorities like FCA, FMA, MAS, and IIROC, CMCMarkets provides a sense of trust and security for traders.

• Wide Range of Trading Instruments: With access to forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, stocks, treasuries, and ETFs, CMCMarkets offers a diverse portfolio for traders to choose from.

• Flexible Account Options: CMCMarkets provides a variety of account types, including standard and alpha accounts, catering to different trading preferences and experience levels.

• Free Demo Account: The availability of a free demo account allows traders to practice and familiarize themselves with the platform before risking real money.

• Multiple Trading Platforms: CMCMarkets supports the widely used MT4 platform, known for its advanced features, as well as their proprietary platform CMC Markets Invest, offering versatility for traders.

• Educational Resources: The company offers a comprehensive range of educational resources such as video tutorials, glossary, webinars, eBooks, podcasts, and news analysis to help traders enhance their knowledge and skills.

• Customer Support: CMCMarkets provides 24/5 customer support through various channels, including phone, live chat, and social media platforms, ensuring prompt assistance and resolving queries effectively.

Cons of CMCMarkets:

• Maximum Leverage Unknown: The lack of information regarding the maximum leverage offered by CMCMarkets can be a limitation for traders who rely on leverage as a trading strategy.

• Limited Information on Spreads and Commissions: The absence of detailed information about spreads and commissions may make it challenging for traders to accurately assess the cost of trading on the platform.

• Dormancy Fee: CMCMarkets charges a dormancy fee if there is no trading activity for 12 months, which may pose an additional cost for inactive accounts.

• Merchant Fees for Deposits: Deposits made via credit or debit cards attract merchant fees, which can add to the overall transaction costs for traders.

• Withdrawal Restrictions: The limitation on withdrawing funds only up to the initial deposit amount on the registered card may restrict traders' flexibility in managing their funds.

• Limited Availability of Information on Leverage, Deposits, and Withdrawals: The provided information lacks specific details regarding leverage options, minimum deposit requirements, and withdrawal processing times, which may require traders to seek additional clarification.

What type of broker is CMCMarkets？

CMCMarkets is a Market Making (MM) broker, which means that it acts as a counterparty to its clients in trading operations. That is, instead of connecting directly to the market, CMCMarkets acts as an intermediary and takes the opposite position to its clients. As such, it can offer faster order execution speed, tighter spreads and greater flexibility in terms of the leverage offered. However, this also means that CMCMarkets has a certain conflict of interest with their clients, as their profits come from the difference between the bid and ask price of assets, which could lead to them making decisions that are not necessarily in the best interests of their clients. It is important for traders to be aware of this dynamic when trading with CMCMarkets or any other MM broker.

General information and regulation of CMCMarkets

CMCMarkets is an established brokerage firm registered in Australia and regulated by FCA, FMA, MAS, and IIROC. With over 20 years of experience, they offer a wide range of trading instruments including forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, stocks, treasuries, and ETFs. Traders can access their services through the popular MT4 platform as well as CMC Markets Invest. CMCMarkets provides a flexible account structure with no minimum initial deposit requirement and offers a free demo account for practice trading. They have a strong customer support system, available 24/5, and provide various educational resources to assist traders in their financial journey.

In the following article, we will analyze the characteristics of this broker in all its dimensions, providing you with easy and well-organized information. If you are interested, read on.

Market instruments

CMC Markets provides a diverse range of trading instruments to cater to the needs of different traders. With CFD trading, users have the flexibility to go long or short on a variety of assets including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This allows traders to profit from both rising and falling markets, maximizing their trading opportunities. In addition, CMC Markets offers share investing, enabling users to buy and sell shares and securities across 16 markets. This allows for a comprehensive portfolio diversification and investment in different sectors and industries. Furthermore, CMC Markets provides access to treasuries and ETFs, allowing traders to trade and invest in these financial instruments.

Spreads and commissions for trading with CMCMarkets

CMC Markets offers competitive spreads for major currency pairs, with a live spread form indicating indicative prices. However, it's important to note that spreads may vary, especially during volatile market conditions. The company adopts a transparent commission structure, with commissions varying depending on the specific instruments traded. Traders can refer to the provided information to determine the commission charges applicable to their trades. It is worth mentioning that commissions are subject to minimum charge requirements, such as the minimum commission charge of US$10 for US shares. Additionally, CMC Markets implements a dormancy fee for accounts with no trading activity for 12 consecutive months, based on the account currency. While this fee promotes account activity, traders who remain inactive may incur additional costs. Traders should carefully consider these factors and evaluate their trading strategies to effectively manage spreads, commissions, and other associated costs.

Trading accounts available in CMCMarkets

CMC Markets offers two live account types, Standard and Alpha, providing traders with options that suit their individual needs. The Standard account offers a unique advantage by providing zero brokerage fee for the first buy order up to $1,000. This feature allows traders to make their initial investment without incurring any brokerage costs. On the other hand, the Alpha account offers lower brokerage fees for most buy and sell orders, providing cost-saving opportunities for active traders. It is important to note that different account types may have specific eligibility criteria or minimum balance requirements, and traders should consider these factors when choosing an account type. Additionally, CMC Markets provides a free demo account, enabling traders to practice and familiarize themselves with the platform before opening a live account. Traders have the flexibility to select the account type that aligns with their trading preferences, taking advantage of the benefits offered by each option. It's recommended to review the terms and conditions associated with each account type to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the features, costs, and available support.

Trading platform(s) that CMCMarkets offers

CMC Markets provides traders with two platform options: MT4 and CMC Markets Invest. MT4 is a widely recognized and popular trading platform known for its extensive range of technical indicators and automated trading tools. It offers a user-friendly interface and provides access to a diverse set of features. On the other hand, CMC Markets Invest is a proprietary platform specifically designed for CMC Markets clients. It offers seamless integration with other CMC Markets services and features, providing a cohesive trading experience. While MT4 has a larger community and third-party plugins, CMC Markets Invest may have a learning curve for new users and a smaller community. Traders can choose the platform that suits their preferences, whether they prefer the familiarity and customization options of MT4 or the integrated features of CMC Markets Invest.

Maximum leverage of CMCMarkets

The maximum leverage offered by CMCMarkets is currently unknown. While leverage can provide traders with several advantages, such as greater trading flexibility, potential for higher profits, increased market access, and enhanced trading opportunities, it also comes with certain disadvantages. One of the primary disadvantages is the increased risk exposure, as leverage magnifies both gains and losses. Traders need to exercise caution and implement proper risk management strategies to avoid significant losses. Additionally, the use of leverage requires a good understanding of the market and trading principles to make informed decisions. It's important to note that the lack of information regarding the maximum leverage offered by CMCMarkets may make it difficult for traders to assess the level of risk involved in their trading activities.

Deposit and Withdrawal: methods and fees

The dimension of deposits and withdrawals with CMCMarkets offers several advantages and a few considerations to keep in mind. One of the advantages is the variety of funding options available, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers. The online withdrawal process is convenient, and funds can be withdrawn to registered credit/debit cards. Withdrawal requests are typically processed quickly, ensuring prompt access to funds. Additionally, the overall process is secure to safeguard user transactions. However, it's important to note that there are charges associated with credit card (1%) and debit card (0.6%) payments. Additional charges may apply for bank transfers from outside Australia. Moreover, withdrawals are limited to the initial deposit amount on the registered card, and there may be a requirement for additional information or proof of identity. Despite these considerations, the deposits and withdrawals dimension of CMCMarkets provides flexibility and efficiency for users managing their trading accounts.

Educational resources in CMCMarkets

The educational resources dimension at CMCMarkets offers a range of advantages to traders and investors. They provide a wide variety of educational materials, including videos, webinars, eBooks, podcasts, news, analysis, guides, and more. The availability of different formats ensures that users can choose the learning style that suits them best. Additionally, CMCMarkets has an official YouTube channel where users can find additional video content. The comprehensive resources, such as the glossary and FAQ section, help users understand key concepts and terms. The inclusion of news and analysis keeps users informed about market developments. Overall, these educational resources are easily accessible and can greatly enhance users' knowledge and understanding of the financial markets.

You may also visit their official YouTube channel to watch more videos. Here is a video about some basic knowledge that every trader should know.

Customer service of CMCMarkets

The customer care dimension at CMCMarkets offers several advantages to users. Firstly, they provide 24/5 contact availability, ensuring that customers can reach out for support during weekdays. The dedicated phone lines for CFD and Share Trading inquiries allow for specialized assistance in each area. Multiple communication channels, including phone, social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube, offer users flexibility in choosing their preferred method of contact. The convenient customer service hours for Share Trading align with market opening hours, enabling timely assistance. Additionally, the physical office address in Sydney provides customers with a sense of trust and security. CMCMarkets' active presence on popular social media platforms allows users to stay updated and engaged. However, it's important to note that there may be limitations to customer support availability on weekends and potential waiting times to connect with a representative.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CMCMarkets is an Australia-registered company that has established itself as a reputable and regulated broker in the financial industry. With over 20 years of experience, they offer a wide range of trading instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, stocks, treasuries, and ETFs. Traders have the flexibility to choose from different account types and access their platform through MT4 or their proprietary platform, CMC Markets Invest. The availability of a free demo account and extensive educational resources further enhance the trading experience for both novice and experienced traders. Customer support is readily available through various channels, ensuring prompt assistance and resolving queries effectively. However, the lack of information on maximum leverage, detailed spreads and commissions, as well as certain fees like the dormancy fee and merchant fees for deposits, could be considered as limitations. Despite these drawbacks, CMCMarkets' strong regulatory compliance, diverse trading offerings, and commitment to providing educational resources contribute to its appeal as a trusted brokerage firm. Traders should conduct thorough research and consider their individual needs before deciding to engage with CMCMarkets or any other broker.

Frequently asked questions about CMCMarkets

• Question: How can I fund my CMCMarkets account？

• Answer: You can fund your CMCMarkets account by using a credit or debit card or by transferring funds from your bank account. Please note that third-party payments are not accepted, and additional charges may apply for bank transfers from outside of Australia.

• Question: What are the trading platforms offered by CMCMarkets？

• Answer: CMCMarkets provides two trading platforms: MT4 and their own platform called CMC Markets Invest. These platforms offer a range of features and tools to support your trading activities.

• Question: Is there a minimum initial deposit required to open an account with CMCMarkets？

• Answer: No, CMCMarkets does not require a minimum initial deposit. You can start trading with any amount you are comfortable with.

• Question: Does CMCMarkets offer a demo account？

• Answer: Yes, CMCMarkets provides a free demo account that allows you to practice trading with virtual funds. It's a great way to familiarize yourself with the platform and test your trading strategies without risking real money.

• Question: How can I contact customer support at CMCMarkets？

• Answer: You can contact CMCMarkets' customer support team by calling their phone number 1300 303 888. They are available 24/5 for CFD inquiries and have specific hours for Share Trading inquiries. You can also reach out to them through their official social media channels or visit their office in Sydney, Australia.

• Question: What are the trading instruments available on CMCMarkets？

• Answer: CMCMarkets offers a wide range of trading instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, stocks, treasuries, and ETFs. This provides you with various options to diversify your trading portfolio.

• Question: Does CMCMarkets charge any fees for deposits or withdrawals？

• Answer: CMCMarkets does not charge any fees for deposit or withdrawal operations. However, please note that payment systems may have their own fees, and internal currency conversion rates may apply.