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Rankings updated October 2026

Best Brokers For Short Selling 2026

Short sellers aim to profit from market downturns. We’ve found the best brokers for short selling by assessing key factors: markets available to short, fees on short positions, platform quality, account minimums, and our trust in the broker.

Best Brokers For Short Selling in Israel 2026

These are the 6 best platforms based on our findings, offering either direct short selling or short selling through products like derivatives:

Tested with a live trading account Accepts traders from Israel Your capital is at risk. Trade only with funds you can afford to lose.
  1. Our top pick in Israel
    • Demo account
    • Min. deposit: $100
    • Min. trade: 0.01 Lots
    • Demo account
    • Regulator: ASIC, CySEC, FSA, SCB, CMA-Kenya
    • Min. deposit: $200
    • Demo account
    • Min. deposit: $0
    • Min. trade: 0.01 Lots
    73-89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs
    • Demo account
    • Regulator: ASIC, VFSC, FSA
    • Platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, DupliTrade
    • Demo account
    • Regulator: FMA, FSA
    • Min. deposit: $0
    • Demo account
    • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Precious Metals, Crypto
    • Regulator: IFSA

Learn how we test brokers and why you can trust our ratings.

Here is a short summary of why we think each broker belongs in this top list:

  1. AvaTrade 4.9/5 When we tested AvaTrade, short selling proved surprisingly flexible across major forex and CFD markets. Borrow costs were reasonable, averaging around 0.03% daily on forex CFDs and 1.5–2% for equity CFDs, and execution was smooth even during volatile moves. Restrictions were minimal, letting active traders react quickly to market swings. Our hands-on testing highlighted AvaTrade’s reliability for tactical short positions, making it a solid choice for traders who like to go against the trend.
  2. IC 4.8/5 In our hands-on testing, IC delivered smooth short selling with ultra-low borrow costs averaging around 0.02% daily on forex CFDs and roughly 1.2% for equity CFDs on most forex and CFD instruments. Restrictions were minimal, allowing rapid reactions to market swings. Execution was consistently fast, even during busy sessions, making short positions more precise.
  3. Pepperstone 4.8/5 In our hands-on testing, Pepperstone made short selling feel effortless, with very low borrowing costs across forex and CFD markets. Borrow costs averaged about 0.025% daily on forex CFDs and around 1.4% for equity CFDs. Restrictions were light, and execution stayed razor-sharp even during volatile sessions. We found the platform particularly reliable for rapid tactical trades.
  4. Fusion Markets 4.6/5 In testing, Fusion Markets impressed with fast and reliable short selling across major forex and CFD pairs. Borrow costs were very low, around 0.02% daily on forex CFDs and about 1.3% for equity CFDs and restrictions were almost nonexistent, letting us act quickly on market moves. Execution stayed tight even during volatile periods.
  5. BlackBull 4.5/5 When we evaluated BlackBull, short selling felt effortless across forex and CFD markets. Borrow costs were competitive, roughly 0.025% daily on forex CFDs and around 1.4% for equity CFDs and restrictions were minimal, allowing us to act fast on market moves. BlackBull is particularly strong for traders who want low-cost short selling opportunities on a broad range of instruments.
  6. UnitedPips 3.8/5 When we put United Pips to the test, short selling across forex and CFDs was smooth and reliable. Borrow costs were competitive, around 0.03% daily on forex CFDs and roughly 1.7% for equity CFDs, and restrictions were minimal, letting us act fast on market dips. Execution held up well even in volatile conditions.

Best Brokers For Short Selling 2026 Comparison

Best Brokers For Short Selling 2026 Comparison
BrokerShort Selling RatingMinimum Deposit
AvaTrade 4.9 / 5$100
IC 4.8 / 5$200
Pepperstone 4.8 / 5$0
Fusion Markets 4.6 / 5$0
BlackBull 4.5 / 5$0
UnitedPips 3.8 / 5$10

Community Sentiment

See how users rate these brokers based on the average customer ratings submitted on DayTrading.com, plus ratings from Trustpilot, the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Community Sentiment
BrokerOur Users' RatingTrustpilot ScoreTrustpilot ReviewsiOS App RatingAndroid App Rating
AvaTrade 4.3 / 54.8 / 5135904.3 / 54.0 / 5
IC 4.3 / 53.0 / 523.1 / 54.2 / 5
Pepperstone 4.0 / 54.2 / 536954.4 / 54.1 / 5
Fusion Markets 3.6 / 54.8 / 5101274.8 / 54.4 / 5
BlackBull 4.0 / 54.7 / 535173.7 / 53.7 / 5
UnitedPips 4.7 / 53.5 / 5173.0 / 53.0 / 5

AvaTrade

AvaTrade offers active traders everything they need: an intuitive WebTrader, powerful AvaProtect risk management, a smooth 5-minute sign-up process, and dependable support you can rely on in fast-moving markets.

Jemma Grist Jemma Grist, Reviewer

AvaTrade quick facts

Demo Account
✔Yes
Instruments
CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Crypto, Spread Betting, Futures
Regulator
ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBI, JFSA, BVI, FSRA/ADGM, AFM, CMA-Kenya, CIRO (via Friedberg Direct)
Platforms
WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaFutures, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
Minimum Deposit
$100
Minimum Trade
0.01 Lots
Account Currencies
USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, ZAR

Pros

  • AvaTrade launched AvaFutures to offer low-margin access to global markets, then expanded in 2025 as one of the first brokers to add CME’s Micro Grain Futures, and then later in the year went further by integrating with TradingView.
  • The WebTrader excelled in our hands-on tests, sporting a user-friendly interface for beginners, complete with robust charting tools like 6 chart layouts and 60+ technical indicators.
  • Support at AvaTrade performed excellently during testing, with response times of 3 minutes and localized support in major trading jurisdictions, including the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Cons

  • The AvaSocial app is good but not great – the look and feel, plus the navigation between finding strategy providers and account management needs upgrading to rival category leaders like eToro.
  • While signing up is a breeze, AvaTrade lacks an ECN account like Pepperstone or IC Markets, which provides the raw spreads and ultra-fast execution many day traders are looking for.
  • AvaTrade’s WebTrader has improved, but work is still needed in terms of customizability – frustratingly widgets like market watch and watchlists can’t be hidden, moved, or resized.

IC

IC (formerly IC Markets) offers superior pricing, exceptionally fast execution and seamless deposits. The introduction of advanced charting platforms, notably TradingView, and the Raw Trader Plus account, ensures it remains a top choice for intermediate to advanced day traders.

Christian Harris Christian Harris, Reviewer

IC quick facts

Demo Account
✔Yes
Instruments
CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, Futures, Crypto
Regulator
ASIC, CySEC, FSA, SCB, CMA-Kenya
Platforms
MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade, Quantower
Minimum Deposit
$200
Minimum Trade
0.01 Lots
Account Currencies
USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD

Pros

  • As a tightly regulated and widely respected broker, IC prioritizes client security and transparency, helping to ensure a reliable trading experience globally.
  • IC offers fast and dependable 24/7 support based on firsthand experience, particularly when it comes to accounts and funding issues.
  • You have access to over 2,250 CFDs across various markets, including forex, commodities, indices, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversified trading strategies.

Cons

  • Interest isn't paid on unused cash, an increasingly popular feature found at alternatives like Interactive Brokers.
  • The breadth and depth of tutorials, webinars and educational resources still need work, trailing alternatives like CMC Markets and reducing its suitability for beginners.
  • While IC offers a selection of metals and cryptos for trading via CFDs, the range is not as extensive as brokers like eToro, limiting opportunities for traders interested in these asset classes.

Pepperstone

Pepperstone stands out as a top choice for day trading, offering razor-sharp spreads, ultra-fast execution, and advanced charting platforms for experienced traders. New traders are also welcomed with no minimum deposit, extensive educational resources, and exceptional 24/5 support (18h a day on weekends).

Christian Harris Christian Harris, Reviewer

Pepperstone quick facts

Demo Account
✔Yes
Instruments
CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto CFDs, Spread Betting
Regulator
FCA, ASIC, CySEC, BaFin, DFSA, SCA, SCB, CMA-Kenya
Platforms
Pepperstone Trading Platform, MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView
Minimum Deposit
$0
Minimum Trade
0.01 Lots
Account Currencies
USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD

Pros

  • After adding spread betting through TradingView, Pepperstone provides a seamless, tax-efficient trading experience with advanced analysis tools for financial spread bettors in supported countries.
  • Pepperstone emerges as a low-cost broker, especially for serious day traders with spreads from 0.0 in the Razor account and rebates up to 30% (index and commodities) and $3/lot (forex) through the Active Trader program.
  • There’s support for a range of industry-leading charting platforms including MT4, MT5, TradingView, and cTrader, catering to various short-term trading styles, including algo trading.

Cons

  • Despite improvements to its range of markets, crypto CFD offerings are still fairly limited compared to other brokers who focus on this area, such as Eightcap, and there's no option to invest in real coins.
  • Execution may not feel as reliable in fast markets as headline speeds suggest. In our own testing, execution was fast at desired prices, but some community complaints focus on slippage, stop-loss fills and spread-sensitive order triggers during volatile conditions.
  • Pepperstone has removed support for several tools that elevated the trading experience for active retail traders, notably Autochartist, Capitalise.ai and a free VPS for qualifying traders (now only pro traders in some countries).

Fusion Markets

Fusion Markets is a standout option for forex traders looking for excellent pricing with spreads near zero, industry-low commissions and recently TradingView integration. It’s a particularly good broker for Australian traders where the company is headquartered and regulated by the ASIC.

Jemma Grist Jemma Grist, Reviewer

Fusion Markets quick facts

Demo Account
✔Yes
Instruments
CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Regulator
ASIC, VFSC, FSA
Platforms
MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, DupliTrade
Minimum Deposit
$0
Minimum Trade
0.01 Lots
Account Currencies
USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD

Pros

  • Fusion Markets is set up to support algo traders with a sponsored VPS solution and a 25% discount if you opt for the NYC Servers VPS for MT4 or cTrader.
  • The range of charting platforms and social trading features is excellent, with MT4, MT5, cTrader and more recently TradingView, catering to a wide range of trader preferences.
  • Average execution speeds of around 37 milliseconds are noticeably faster than many rivals and can help day traders secure optimal prices in fast-moving markets.

Cons

  • Traders outside of Australia must sign up with weakly regulated global entities with limited safeguards, though in August 2026 they made negative balance protection available to all eligible accounts.
  • The demo account expires after 30 days, limiting its potential as a useful trading tool alongside a real-money account.
  • Fusion Market trails alternatives, notably IG, in the education department with limited guides and live video sessions to upskill new traders.

BlackBull

After improving its trading infrastructure with Equinix servers in London, reducing latency for traders, BlackBull is an obvious choice if you want to day trade stock CFDs with ECN pricing. With competitive spreads and no commission on a growing roster of digital tokens paired with USD, BlackBull also works for active crypto traders.

Christian Harris Christian Harris, Reviewer

BlackBull quick facts

Demo Account
✔Yes
Instruments
CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Crypto
Regulator
FMA, FSA
Platforms
BlackBull Invest, BlackBull CopyTrader, MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist
Minimum Deposit
$0
Minimum Trade
0.01 Lots
Account Currencies
USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, ZAR, SGD

Pros

  • BlackBull is a much greater fit for aspiring traders following the overhaul of its ECN Prime account, now featuring improved spreads averaging 0.16 on EUR/USD and a more accessible minimum deposit of $0 compared to the old $2,000.
  • With two ECN-powered accounts (Standard and Prime), plus Prime+ - an active trader rewards program offering trading rebates - BlackBull accommodates beginners through to high-volume active traders.
  • After partnering with ZuluTrade and Myfxbook, alongside improvements to its own CopyTrader, and finally enabling cTrader Copy, BlackBull offers one of the most comprehensive copy trading experiences we've seen.

Cons

  • Despite a growing selection of 2,180+ assets, including additions to its Asia Pacific indices, they are mainly stocks with an average selection of currency pairs and indices.
  • Unlike most top brokers, BlackBull charges an irritating $5 withdrawal fee, which can detract from the overall cost-effectiveness, especially for active traders who frequently move funds.
  • Although the Education Hub now features improvements like webinars and tutorials, the courses we’ve explored need more focus on explaining the wider economic factors influencing prices.

UnitedPips

UnitedPips is ideal for traders seeking leveraged trading opportunities, the security of fixed spreads, and the flexibility to deposit, withdraw, and trade cryptocurrencies - all in one sleek TradingView-powered platform.

Christian Harris Christian Harris, Reviewer

UnitedPips quick facts

Demo Account
✔Yes
Instruments
CFDs, Forex, Precious Metals, Crypto
Regulator
IFSA
Platforms
UniTrader
Minimum Deposit
$10
Minimum Trade
0.01 Lots
Account Currencies
USD

Pros

  • UnitedPips offers zero swap fees or commissions, which can enhance potential returns for day traders and swing traders looking to control prominent positions with less capital.
  • Although being handed off mid-chat due to shift changes during testing was frustrating, customer support is generally good with quick, helpful responses, and 24/7 support via phone and email for regional teams is a definite advantage.
  • UnitedPips’ platform performs well, with an intuitive design that will appeal to beginners, while the TradingView integration delivers powerful charting tools without overwhelming users, making it straightforward to execute trades efficiently.

Cons

  • Unlike brokers such as IG, UnitedPips is an offshore broker not regulated by any 'green tier' financial authorities, raising concerns for traders seeking assurance and protection under well-established regulatory frameworks.
  • UnitedPips' selection of tradable instruments is still minimal, comprising a bare minimum selection of forex, metals and crypto. There are no equities, indices or ETFs, which may be a drawback for experienced traders looking for diverse opportunities.
  • UnitedPips lacks comprehensive research, while the educational content for beginner traders is woeful. Compared to brokers like eToro, which offers tutorials, webinars, and advanced courses, UnitedPips offers minimal resources to help new traders understand key concepts.

Comparing Short Selling Brokers

Based on our exhaustive tests, the best brokers for short selling are trusted and offer a range of markets, low fees, excellent platforms, and accessible minimum deposits.

We unpack these comparison factors and our methodology below.

Trust

When we put together this list, our top priority was choosing trustworthy short selling brokers.

Only those who meet our stringent trust standards, including having up-to-date regulatory credentials and earning a solid reputation with our in-house experts, make the cut.

  • eToro continues to distinguish itself through its stellar record with 25+ million users and authorization from multiple tier-one regulators including the US SEC and UK FCA.

Markets

Short selling brokers provide opportunities to profit when an asset’s price decreases, either through products like contracts for difference (CFDs), which aren’t allowed in all countries including the US, or by directly loaning the asset, such as stocks, to traders to rebuy later at a lower price.

We look for short selling brokers that offer a diverse range of markets, ensuring traders can capitalize on shorting opportunities across company shares, stock indices, currencies, or crypto tokens.

  • AvaTrade excels for its extensive market offerings, allowing short positions through derivatives across 1,250+ stocks, indices, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.

Fees

Short selling fees on Moomoo app
Moomoo – short selling fees

Short selling can involve certain fees including transaction costs, interest charged on borrowed funds, as well as standard interest rates on margin accounts.

We only select short selling brokers that offer highly competitive rates, but more than this we seek out those that offer good value for money by reviewing the total costs and how the services on offer weigh up.

Brokers frequently adjust their rates, so we also periodically review pricing structures to make sure short sellers have the latest information.

  • Moomoo shines for its low fees with zero commissions and competitive short selling rates that vary depending on daily market supply.

Platforms

Traders need a fast, smooth and responsive platform or app to get the best results while short selling.

However, what separates the best short selling brokers for us is their valuable insights into securities that can be shorted, including the quantity available and alerts to significant changes in short interest rates and costs, to support decision-making.

  • Interactive Brokers stands out with its comprehensive IBKR’s Securities Loan Borrow (SLB), offering real-time updates on shortable quantities, live and historical borrowing rates, and more throughout the day.

Methodology

Compiling our list of the top short selling brokers involved a 5-step, hands-on approach:

  1. Regulatory credentials – We went beyond the details advertised, verifying each broker’s license on the relevant agency’s website to ensure it was valid.
  2. Trading fees – We compared fees comprehensively – examining commissions, interest on borrowing, and any additional costs – to ensure brokers offer a cost-effective environment for short sellers.
  3. Platform quality – Putting platforms and tools to the test, we actively placed paper trades, assessing their suitability specifically for short selling.
  4. Trading markets – We investigated the markets and instruments available for short selling to ensure users have ample trading opportunities.
  5. Account opening – Recognizing the importance of accessibility, we verified that the minimum deposit required to open an account was reasonable, helping new short sellers get started.

FAQ

What Is Short Selling?

Short selling involves borrowing an asset to sell it in a bet that its price will drop, allowing you to buy it back at a later date and pocket the difference in price (minus any fees).

Alternatively, short sellers can speculate on falling prices using derivatives like contracts for difference (CFDs) in countries that allow it, whereby you don’t take ownership of the underlying asset.

Can Anyone Short Sell?

Thanks to the wide availability of online brokers, it is easier than ever to short stocks and other securities today. If you are able to sign up with the brokers on our list, then you can start short selling.

What Are The Benefits Of Short Selling?

Shorting can be a lucrative trading strategy when it comes off. Asset prices do not normally rise indefinitely, and short selling gives traders an opportunity to anticipate price drops and make money from the inevitable.

What Are The Risks Of Short Selling?

If you had bought one Bitcoin in 2019 for $5000, the maximum amount you would have risked losing was $5000 if the price went to zero. But in fact, the price rose to a peak above $60,000, so if you had shorted Bitcoin you would have potentially lost more than $55,000 (excluding any fees).

This illustrates how a short trade can be riskier than a straightforward buy, as there is no limit to how high an asset’s price can rise.