Plus500 Broker Review: In-Depth Analysis of Features, Fees & Safety
Reviewer Verdict
Plus500 is a global online trading platform that has been around since 2008. It’s mainly known for its Contracts for Difference (CFDs) which let traders access different financial assets without owning them. The platform is easy to use which makes it popular among beginners. While it’s regulated by several big names in the industry like the FCA in the UK and ASIC in Australia Plus500 doesn’t offer advanced tools that some experienced traders might be looking for. Overall it’s a solid choice for new and intermediate traders who want to start trading CFDs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simple and easy-to-use platform
- Wide range of instruments like forex, stocks, and cryptocurrencies
- No commissions since they work on a spread model
- Regulated by multiple authorities which means added safety
- 24/7 customer support is available
Cons:
- Limited tools for experienced traders
- Doesn’t support MetaTrader or other third-party platforms
- Inactivity fee kicks in after three months
- Educational and research resources are a bit limited
Trust and Safety
Plus500 operates under strict regulations from several authorities around the world. This includes the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission in Australia among others. They also use segregated accounts to store clients’ funds which means your money is kept separate from the company’s funds. This setup makes Plus500 a reliable choice for people who are looking for a secure and regulated broker.
Tradable Instruments
On Plus500 you can trade a variety of CFDs across several categories. These include:
- Forex pairs like EUR/USD and GBP/JPY
- Stocks from popular exchanges
- Commodities such as gold and oil
- Major indices like the NASDAQ and S&P 500
- Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum
This wide selection makes it easy for traders to diversify their portfolios by trading across different assets.
Account Types
Plus500 keeps things straightforward by offering just one standard account type. You can start with a minimum deposit of $100 which is low enough for most beginners. There’s also a free demo account where you can practice trading strategies without risking real money. For experienced traders there’s a Professional Account option that allows higher leverage but comes with fewer regulatory protections. Some might find it a bit limiting to only have one account type available but it keeps things simple.
Commission and Fees
Plus500 doesn’t charge commissions. Instead they make money from the spread between buying and selling prices. These spreads are generally competitive with the EUR/USD spread averaging around 0.8 pips. There are also other fees to be aware of like:
- Overnight funding if you keep positions open past a certain time
- Currency conversion fees if you trade in currencies other than your account’s base currency
- An inactivity fee of $10 per month if you don’t use your account for three months or more
Trading Platforms
Plus500 uses its own proprietary WebTrader platform which is accessible via web browser and mobile app. It’s simple and has a user-friendly interface that provides tools like real-time quotes charting options and basic risk management features like stop-loss orders. However Plus500 doesn’t support popular third-party trading platforms like MetaTrader 4 or MetaTrader 5. For traders who prefer using advanced tools and custom indicators this could be a drawback.
Unique Features
One of the standout features of Plus500 is its clean and intuitive interface. This makes it ideal for beginners who don’t want to get overwhelmed with too many technical details. The platform also provides some risk management tools including guaranteed stop-loss orders on certain assets. While it’s not packed with extra features the focus on simplicity can be a plus for those who value ease of use.
Research and Education
Plus500 provides a basic range of educational materials under its Trading Academy. You’ll find articles and videos covering topics like trading basics and some intermediate strategies. The platform also includes an economic calendar and market news to help you stay informed about events that might impact the markets. However the depth of research tools and educational resources is limited compared to what some other brokers offer. This setup might work fine for beginners but advanced traders could find it lacking.
Customer Support
Plus500 offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and email. Most users find the support team responsive and helpful which is important for traders who might need assistance at any time of the day. However there’s no phone support which might be inconvenient for people who prefer speaking directly to a support agent.
Account Opening
Opening an account on Plus500 is a pretty straightforward process that can be completed entirely online. You’ll need to provide some personal information and verify your identity with documents like a passport or driver’s license. Once that’s done you can start trading with a minimum deposit of $100. The approval process is usually quick with most accounts being approved within a day.
Deposit and Withdrawals
Plus500 offers multiple ways to deposit and withdraw funds including credit cards, bank transfers and e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill. Deposits usually go through instantly depending on the payment method. Withdrawals on the other hand can take a few business days to process. There are no fees for deposits but some withdrawal methods may have fees depending on the provider.
Final Thoughts
Plus500 is a good option for traders who want a simple easy-to-use platform for trading CFDs on various assets. It’s regulated by multiple authorities which adds to its trustworthiness. The platform’s limited tools and lack of third-party platform support might be a downside for more experienced traders but it works well for beginners and intermediate traders.
Contact Info
- Customer Support: Available through live chat and email on their website
FAQs
Is Plus500 safe to use?
Yes. Plus500 is regulated by several well-known authorities and uses segregated accounts to protect client funds.
Does Plus500 charge a commission?
No. Plus500 operates on a commission-free model but earns through spreads.
Can I use MetaTrader on Plus500?
No. Plus500 does not support MetaTrader or any other third-party trading platforms.
Is there an inactivity fee?
Yes. Plus500 charges $10 per month if your account has been inactive for more than three months.
Does Plus500 offer a demo account?
Yes. Plus500 provides a free demo account for traders to practice with virtual funds.