Brokers With Pre-Market Trading
One of the important aspects to consider is the time of day that you invest and there is a compelling case for pre-market trading. Many like to trade when the market is open and at its most volatile. However, with stocks being more accessible and active than ever before, there is a viable option for some investors looking for returns outside of these hours.
This review of brokers offering pre-market trading serves as a guide for anyone wanting to explore the opportunities and advantages of trading in the pre-market period. This includes an explanation of how it works, an evaluation of the good and bad of trading at this time, and finally tips and strategies to assist you. We have also compiled a list of the best brokers with pre-market trading in 2024.
Brokers With Extended Hours Trading
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1
eToro USAInvest $100 and get $10https://www.daytrading.com/ is not an affiliate and may be compensated if you access certain products or services offered by the MSB and/or the BD.
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$10$10SEC, FINRAStocks, Options, ETFs, CryptoeToro Trading Platform & CopyTraderACH Transfer, Debit Card, PayPal, Wire TransferUSD -
2
IGForex trading involves risk. Losses can exceed deposits.
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$00.01 Lots1:30 (Retail), 1:250 (Pro)FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOBCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread BettingWeb, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, AutoChartist, TradingCentralPayPal, Wire Transfer, Mastercard, Credit Card, Visa, Debit CardUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, ZAR, SEK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD -
3
Interactive Brokers
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$0$1001:50FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMAStocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, CryptocurrenciesTrader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentralCheque, ACH Transfer, Wire Transfer, Automated Customer Account Transfer Service, TransferWise, Debit CardUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF -
4
MoomooGet up to 15 free stocks worth up to $2000
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$0$01:2SEC, FINRA, MAS, ASIC, SFCStocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCsDesktop Platform, Mobile AppWire Transfer, ACH TransferUSD, HKD, SGD -
5
FirstradeDeposit Bonus Up To $4000
$0$1SEC, FINRAStocks, ETFs, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Cryptos, FixedOwnACH Transfer, Wire Transfer, Cheque, Automated Customer Account Transfer ServiceUSD
Here is a summary of why we recommend these brokers:
- eToro USA - eToro is a social investing platform that offers short-term and long-term trading on stocks, ETFs, options and crypto. The broker is well-known for its user-friendly community-centred platform and competitive fees. With FINRA and SIPC oversight and millions of users across the world, eToro is still one of the most respected brands in the industry. eToro securities trading is offered by eToro USA Securities, Inc.
- IG - Founded in 1974, IG is part of IG Group Holdings Plc, a publicly traded (LSE: IGG) brokerage. The brand-US offers spread betting, CFD and forex trading across an almost unrivalled selection of 17,000+ markets, with a range of user-friendly platforms and investing apps. For 50 years, IG has maintained its position as an industry leader, excelling in all key areas for traders.
- Interactive Brokers - Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a premier brokerage, providing access to 150 markets in 33 countries, along with a suite of comprehensive investment services. With over 40 years of experience, this Nasdaq-listed firm adheres to stringent regulations by the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC, amongst others, and is one of the most trusted brokers for trading around the globe.
- Moomoo - Moomoo is an SEC-regulated app-based investment platform that offers a straightforward and affordable way to invest in Chinese, Hong Kong, Singaporean, Australian and US stocks, ETFs and other assets. Margin trading is available and the brand offers a zero-deposit account as well as several bonuses.
- Firstrade - Firstrade is a US-headquartered discount broker-dealer with authorization from the SEC. The company is also a member of FINRA/SIPC. With welcome bonuses, powerful tools and apps, plus commission-free trading, Firstrade Securities is a popular online brokerage. It is also quick and easy to open a new account.
eToro USA
"eToro remains a top pick for traders looking for leading social investing and copy trading services. With a low deposit, zero commissions and an intuitive platform, the broker will meet the needs of newer day traders."
Jemma Grist, Reviewer
eToro USA Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | Invest $100 and get $10 |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto |
| Regulator | SEC, FINRA |
| Platforms | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 |
| Minimum Trade | $10 |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- The $10 minimum deposit and straightforward account opening process means beginners can get started quickly
- eToro USA Securities is a trustworthy, SEC-regulated broker that is a member of FINRA and SIPC
- The broker's Academy offers comprehensive learning materials for beginners to advanced-level investors
Cons
- The proprietary terminal doesn't support trading bots and there are no additional stock market analysis tools
- There's no MetaTrader 4 platform integration for traders who are accustomed to using third-party charting tools
- Average fees may cut into the profit margins of day traders
IG
"IG continues to provide a comprehensive package with an intuitive web platform and best-in-class education for beginners, plus advanced charting tools, real-time data, and fast execution speeds for experienced day traders."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
IG Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting |
| Regulator | FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB |
| Platforms | Web, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, AutoChartist, TradingCentral |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:30 (Retail), 1:250 (Pro) |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, ZAR, SEK, DKK, CHF, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- As a well-established broker, IG operates under strict regulatory guidelines in multiple jurisdictions, maintaining a high level of trust
- IG offers an extensive collection of professional and engaging educational resources, including webinars, articles, and analysis
- The ProRealTime advanced charting platform is free as long as certain modest monthly trading activity requirements are met
Cons
- Stock and CFD spreads still trail the cheapest brokers like CMC Markets based on tests
- Beginners might find IG’s fee structure complex, with various fees for different types of trades or services, potentially leading to confusion or unexpected charges
- IG has discontinued its swap-free account, reducing its appeal to Islamic traders
Interactive Brokers
"Interactive Brokers is one of the best brokers for advanced day traders, providing powerful charting platforms, real-time data, and customizable layouts, notably through the new IBKR Desktop application. Its superb pricing and advanced order options also make it highly attractive for day traders, while its diverse range of equities is still among the best in the industry."
Interactive Brokers Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| Instruments | Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies |
| Regulator | FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA |
| Platforms | Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentral |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Minimum Trade | $100 |
| Leverage | 1:50 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF |
Pros
- With low commissions, tight spreads and a transparent fee structure, IBKR delivers a cost-effective environment for short-term traders.
- The new IBKR Desktop platform takes the best of TWS while adding bespoke tools like Option Lattice and Screeners with MultiSort to create a genuinely impressive trading experience for day traders at every level.
- IBKR continues to deliver unmatched access to global stocks with tens of thousands of equities available from 100+ market centres in 24 countries.
Cons
- IBKR provides a wide range of research tools, but their distribution across trading platforms and the web-based 'Account Management' page lacks consistency, leading to a confusing user experience.
- TWS’s learning curve is steep, and beginners may find it challenging to navigate the platform and understand all the features. Plus500's web platform is much better suited to new traders.
- You can only have one active session per account, so you can’t have your desktop program and mobile app running simultaneously, making for a sometimes frustrating trading experience.
Moomoo
"Moomoo remains an excellent choice for new and intermediate stock traders who want to build a diverse investment portfolio. What really stands out is the broker's user-friendly app and the low trading fees."
Moomoo Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | Get up to 15 free stocks worth up to $2000 |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs |
| Regulator | SEC, FINRA, MAS, ASIC, SFC |
| Platforms | Desktop Platform, Mobile App |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Minimum Trade | $0 |
| Leverage | 1:2 |
| Account Currencies | USD, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- Moomoo's analytics and insights are impressive and detailed compared to other brands
- The broker offers access to extended pre-market trading hours
- There are reduced options contract fees from $0.65 to $0
Cons
- It's a shame that there is no 2 factor authentication (2FA), despite the other security features on offer
- There is no phone or live chat support - common options at most other brokers
- There is no negative balance protection, which is a common safety feature at top-tier-regulated brokers
Firstrade
"We recommend Firstrade for beginner investors looking to trade US stocks with no commissions. There is a wealth of free education plus premium-quality research and trading ideas from Morningstar, Briefing.com, Zacks and Benzinga."
Firstrade Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | Deposit Bonus Up To $4000 |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | No |
| Instruments | Stocks, ETFs, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Cryptos, Fixed |
| Regulator | SEC, FINRA |
| Platforms | Own |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Minimum Trade | $1 |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- Premarket trading
- No minimum deposit
- Access to education, research, and tools
Cons
- Some withdrawal fees
- No forex or futures trading
- No demo/paper trading account
How Does Pre-Market Trading Work?
Trading markets are traditionally open between the hours of 9:30 am and 4:00 pm EST. In the case of pre-market trading, however, early risers can trade as early as 4:00 am, depending on their broker.
Previously, access to the pre-market period was difficult for retail traders, but nowadays it is offered by multiple online brokers and trading platforms.
The actual process involved in trading on the pre-market is similar to investing during open hours. You simply start by choosing what it is you want to trade, next specify any trade conditions, and then finalize the trade with the broker. The nuances are in the strategy you adopt, as the pre-market trading period has distinct characteristics.
Pros And Cons Of Brokers With Pre-Market Trading
Positives
- Quick reaction to overnight news – Investing during the pre-market period gives you a head start on anyone who trades on the open market. This means that any developments which could have major implications for stocks and other assets can be taken advantage of earlier by making use of the pre-market window.
- Access – The extra hours of the pre-market period give you more opportunities to make trades and generate gains. For anyone that has a busy schedule, it might not always be ideal to be limited to the open market hours so having the alternative of trading during the pre-market session can be a big perk.
- Early Start – The pre-market gives a great indication of what trends may occur during regular trading hours. Any stocks and currency pairs which are trading high during the pre-market will often continue similar trends going into the open market and, similarly, stocks trading lower tend to remain so too.
Negatives
- Competition with experienced traders – The pre-market period can be a risky environment for less experienced traders. Many professional traders like to take advantage of this session and will often have better access to information, more capital, and ultra-fast trade executions and tools.
- Price uncertainty – Prices during the pre-market period can be more difficult to predict in comparison to the open market. The values of assets can differ significantly from what they are during regular hours. Slippage can also impact prices.
- Liquidity shortage – With reduced activity during the pre-market session it can be difficult to find available buyers or sellers, making it difficult to convert your assets into cash at short notice. This shortage can also lead to the prices of securities becoming more volatile.
Strategies Explained
Due to the risks involved with the pre-market, it’s important to go into this trading window with an effective trading strategy and reliable data. Daily investments need to be carefully planned and should be executed with thorough research beforehand.
Firstly, it is important to pay attention to big news announcements. One of the key advantages of the pre-market is the early jump you can get on major price moves which trend exponentially after the extra activity during regular hours. Investments made shortly after news which causes big price moves can be an effective way to generate profits.
Economic indicators also provide valuable information to which you should pay attention when setting your trading strategy. These will give a forecast for the expected values of assets and usually set a precedence for how the price will move. The best brokers with pre-market trading offer a range of technical indicators and drawing tools to help traders forecast upcoming price trends.
Brokers With Pre-Market Trading
- WeBull – A broker offering pre-market trading from as early as 4:00 am, a WeBull account gives you plenty of time to trade before the market traditionally generally. The online app has great tools for assisting with research before investing, however the amount of content it provides may be overwhelming for anyone new to investing.
- TD Ameritrade – Offering pre-market trading 24/5 for certain securities, TD Ameritrade only closes at weekends. Any securities not included in its regular 24/5 window, are available in a pre-market window, from 7:00 am to 9:28 am, providing a good amount of time to make trades. Trading fees are also low.
- Fidelity – One of the world’s largest brokers, Fidelity offers its traders to access the pre-market session. The period for this is shorter than some alternatives with hours being between 7:00 am and 8:00 am. Fidelity also offers around-the-clock customer service and is a suitable platform for all levels of investors.
- Charles Schwab – A sensible broker for any kind of investor, Charles Schwab has pre-market hours of 7:00 am to 8:00 am and provides a 24/7 customer support service which is accessible via phone, email and online chat. The brand also complies with all trading regulations in the regions it operates.
- Robinhood – Robinhood is well known for low costs and has an app that allows for standard retail trading and further investing options. The biggest downside is its pre-market period opening at 9:00 am, therefore giving you a very short window before the open market gets underway. In addition, there are multiple negative user reviews of the brand and questionable brokerage practices and trading limits which mean we do not recommend investing with Robinhood. Consider one of the alternative brands listed here instead.
Final Word
The pre-market session is a volatile period of the day which can make it more difficult to predict for beginners. When explored to its fullest advantage, it can be an opportunity to make trades early and get ahead of the competition. These early hours are an important period of the trading day, have an effect on opening prices and setting the stage for what is likely to happen during the traditional market.
Use our list of the top brokers with pre-market trading to get started today.
FAQ
What Hours Count As Pre-Market Trading?
Generally, pre-market hours are between 4:00 am and 9:30 am EST. But depending on your broker, the pre-market hours available for trading will vary, so check to ensure you know the specific hours you can trade with their service.
How Do You Choose Suitable Assets During Pre-Market Trading?
There is not as much activity during the pre-market period so, as you would expect, it is worth choosing assets likely to gain traction with other investors. Paying attention to any news or economic indicators can act as a good guide for choosing suitable investments. Open your brokerage platform and conduct technical and fundamental analysis. The top brokers provide tools to identify upcoming price patterns, alongside the biggest gainers.
What Is The Best Broker With Pre-Market Trading?
There is no one online broker that is best for everyone so it is worth exploring the different options. Pick the right platform for you based on your level of experience and the hours you would like to have access to the market. Also consider which markets you want access to, from New York-listed exchanges to futures listed in London. Check out our comparison of the best brokers for pre-market trading in 2024 here.