Best Brokers For Research
Cutting-edge research tools can transform the way you trade. Imagine having a personal trading assistant that provides live charting analysis, insightful market outlooks, timely news updates, and even social sentiment data that reveals whether traders are bullish or bearish on hot stocks like Tesla.
Explore the best brokers for research. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you – investigating and rating the research tools of countless brokers, with each of our recommended trading platforms standing out in the field – providing insights to help you identify short-term trading opportunities.
Top 10 Trading Platforms For Research Tools
Our hands-on tests and analysis show these 10 brokers offer the best research, either through in-house services or third-party integration:
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1
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, CONSOB, AFMCFDs, 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 -
2
FOREX.comActive Trader Program With A 15% Reduction In Costs
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$1000.01 Lots1:50NFA, CFTCForex, Stocks, Futures, Futures OptionsMT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentralWire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, ACH TransferUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN -
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, FINMA, AFMStocks, 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
OANDA USCFDs are not available to residents in the United States.
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$00.01 Lots1:50NFA, CFTCForex, Crypto with Paxos (Cryptocurrencies are offered through Paxos. Paxos is a separate legal entity from OANDA)OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartistWire Transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Debit Card, ACH TransferUSD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD -
5
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 -
6
NinjaTrader
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$00.01 Lots1:50NFA, CFTCForex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, CryptoNinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignalACH Transfer, Debit Card, Wire TransferUSD -
7
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 -
8
InstaTrade
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$10.011:1000BVI FSCFISP, CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos, FuturesInstaTrade Gear, MT4Visa, Mastercard, Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum PaymentsUSD, EUR, RUB -
9
IQCent20% to 200% Deposit Bonus
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$250$0.011:500IFMRRCBinary Options, CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, CryptoOnline Platform, TradingViewCredit Card, Debit Card, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin Payments, Ethereum Payments, Visa, MastercardUSD, EUR -
10
Pocket Option50% Deposit Bonus
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
$50$1MISABinary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, CryptosWeb, MT4, MT5Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Bitcoin Payments, Volet, Perfect Money, Visa, Mastercard, Debit Card, WebMoney, FasaPay, Ethereum Payments, Maestro, JetonCash, AirtelUSD
Here is a short summary of why we think each broker belongs in this top list:
- 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.
- FOREX.com - Founded in 1999, FOREX.com is now part of StoneX, a financial services organization serving over one million customers worldwide. Regulated in the US, UK, EU, Australia and beyond, the broker offers thousands of markets, not just forex, and provides excellent pricing on cutting-edge platforms.
- 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.
- OANDA US - OANDA is a popular brand offering exceptional execution, low deposit requirements and advanced charting and trading platform features. The top-rated brand has over 25 years of experience and is regulated by trusted agencies, including the NFA/CFTC. Around the clock support is available for short-term traders, alongside flexible contract sizes and automated trade executions.
- 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.
- NinjaTrader - NinjaTrader is a US-headquartered and regulated brokerage that specializes in futures trading. There are three pricing plans to suit different needs and budgets, as well as ultra-low margins on popular contracts. The brand's award-winning charting software and trading platform also offers a high-degree of customization and superb technical analysis features.
- 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.
- InstaTrade - InstaTrade, based in the British Virgin Islands, is an online broker specializing in fixed income structured products and active trading through CFDs. Its zero-spread accounts, excellent research notably through InstaTrade TV, and access to the popular MT4 alongside its own web-accessible InstaTrade Gear, make it an attractive option for short-term traders at every level.
- IQCent - IQCent is an offshore binary options and CFD broker based in the Marshall Islands. The brand continues to offer a range of unique account types with bonuses and perks, including payout boosts, TradeBacks and free rollovers. With 100+ assets, around-the-clock trading and 98% payouts, the firm is popular with aspiring short-term traders.
- Pocket Option - Established in 2017, Pocket Option is a binary options broker offering high/low contracts on forex, stocks, indices, commodities and cryptocurrencies. With over 100,000 active users and a global reach, the platform continues to prove popular with budding traders.
Best Brokers For Research Comparison
| Broker | Research Rating | Trading Central | Auto Chartist | Minimum Deposit | Markets | Regulator |
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/ 5 | ✔ | ✔ | $0 | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting | FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB, AFM |
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/ 5 | ✔ | ✔ | $100 | Forex, Stocks, Futures, Futures Options | NFA, CFTC |
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/ 5 | ✔ | ✘ | $0 | Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies | FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFM |
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/ 5 | ✘ | ✔ | $0 | Forex, Crypto with Paxos (Cryptocurrencies are offered through Paxos. Paxos is a separate legal entity from OANDA) | NFA, CFTC |
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/ 5 | ✘ | ✘ | $10 | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto | SEC, FINRA |
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/ 5 | ✘ | ✘ | $0 | Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto | NFA, CFTC |
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/ 5 | ✘ | ✘ | $0 | Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs | SEC, FINRA, MAS, ASIC, SFC |
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/ 5 | ✘ | ✘ | $1 | FISP, CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos, Futures | BVI FSC |
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/ 5 | ✘ | ✘ | $250 | Binary Options, CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto | IFMRRC |
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/ 5 | ✘ | ✘ | $50 | Binary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, Cryptos | MISA |
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, AFM |
| 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
- The ProRealTime advanced charting platform is free as long as certain modest monthly trading activity requirements are met
- The proprietary web-based platform continues to caters to traders of all levels, with advanced charting tools and real-time market data useful for day trading
- The IG app offers a superb mobile trading experience with a clean design that helped it secure Runner Up at our Best Trading App award
Cons
- Stock and CFD spreads still trail the cheapest brokers like CMC Markets based on tests
- IG applies an inactivity fee of $12 per month after 2 years, deterring casual investors
- 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
FOREX.com
"FOREX.com remains a best-in-class brokerage for active forex traders of all experience levels, with over 80 currency pairs, tight spreads from 0.0 pips and low commissions. The powerful charting platforms collectively offer over 100 technical indicators, as well as extensive research tools."
FOREX.com Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | Active Trader Program With A 15% Reduction In Costs |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Forex, Stocks, Futures, Futures Options |
| Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:50 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN |
Pros
- Alongside a choice of leading platforms, FOREX.com offers a superb suite of supplementary tools including Trading Central research, SMART Signals pattern scanner, trading signals, and strategy builders.
- The in-house Web Trader continues to shine as one of the best-designed platforms for aspiring day traders with a slick design and over 80 technical indicators for market analysis.
- With over 20 years of experience, excellent regulatory oversight, and multiple accolades including runner-up in our 'Best Forex Broker' awards, FOREX.com boasts a global reputation as a trusted brokerage.
Cons
- There’s no negative balance protection for US clients, so you may find yourself owing more money than your initial deposit into your account.
- FOREX.com's MT4 platform offers approximately 600 instruments, significantly fewer than the over 5,500 available on its non-MetaTrader platforms.
- Demo accounts are frustratingly time-limited to 90 days, which doesn’t give you enough time to test day trading strategies effectively.
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, AFM |
| 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
- IBKR is one of the most respected and trusted brokerages and is regulated by top-tier authorities, so you can have confidence in the integrity and security of your trading account.
- With low commissions, tight spreads and a transparent fee structure, IBKR delivers a cost-effective environment for short-term traders.
- The TWS platform has clearly been built for intermediate and advanced traders and comes with over 100 order types and a reliable real-time market data feed that rarely goes offline.
Cons
- Support can be slow and frustrating based on tests, so you might find it challenging to reach customer service representatives promptly or encounter delays in resolving issues.
- 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.
OANDA US
"OANDA remains an excellent broker for US day traders seeking a user-friendly platform with premium analysis tools and a straightforward joining process. OANDA is also heavily regulated with a very high trust score."
Jemma Grist, Reviewer
OANDA US Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| Instruments | Forex, Crypto with Paxos (Cryptocurrencies are offered through Paxos. Paxos is a separate legal entity from OANDA) |
| Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
| Platforms | OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:50 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- Seasoned day traders can access industry-leading tools, including an MT4 premium upgrade and advanced charting provided by MotiveWave
- The proprietary OANDA web platform continues to deliver a highly competitive charting environment, including 65+ technical indicators powered by TradingView
- Day traders can enjoy fast and reliable order execution
Cons
- The range of day trading markets is limited to forex and cryptos only
- There's only a small range of payment methods available, with no e-wallets supported
- It's a shame that customer support is not available on weekends
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."
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 broker's Academy offers comprehensive learning materials for beginners to advanced-level investors
- A free demo account means new users and prospective day traders can try the broker risk-free
- eToro USA Securities is a trustworthy, SEC-regulated broker that is a member of FINRA and SIPC
Cons
- There's a narrower range of day trading instruments available compared to competitors, with only stocks, ETFs and cryptos
- 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
NinjaTrader
"NinjaTrader continues to meet the demands of active futures traders looking for low fees and premium analysis tools. The platform hosts top-rate charting features including hundreds of indicators and 10+ chart types."
Tobias Robinson, Reviewer
NinjaTrader Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| Instruments | Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto |
| Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
| Platforms | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:50 |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- NinjaTrader continues to deliver comprehensive charting software for active day traders with bespoke technical indicators and widgets
- You can get thousands of add-ons and applications from developers in 150+ countries
- Traders can get free platform access and trade simulation capabilities in the unlimited demo
Cons
- Non forex and futures trading requires signing up with partner brokers
- There is a withdrawal fee on some funding methods
- The premium platform tools come with an extra charge
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
- The ‘Moomoo Token’ generates dynamic passwords for transaction security - a unique and helpful safety feature
- Moomoo is a Member of FINRA and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), adding another level of security for prospective clients
- The broker offers access to extended pre-market trading hours
Cons
- There is no phone or live chat support - common options at most other brokers
- It's a shame that there is no 2 factor authentication (2FA), despite the other security features on offer
- There is no negative balance protection, which is a common safety feature at top-tier-regulated brokers
InstaTrade
"Although InstaTrade offers active trading on a comprehensive platform, it stands out with its fairly unique Fixed Income Structured Product (FISP), providing passive investment opportunities with up to 50% returns in 6 months if conditions are met. "
InstaTrade Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| Instruments | FISP, CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos, Futures |
| Regulator | BVI FSC |
| Platforms | InstaTrade Gear, MT4 |
| Minimum Deposit | $1 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 |
| Leverage | 1:1000 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, RUB |
Pros
- InstaTrade claims to "guarantee" returns through the structured element of its passive trading solution (FISP), with applications approved within 24 hours.
- InstaTrade delivers an excellent suite of charting tools for day traders with its web trader comprising 250+ indicators, 11 chart types and a user-friendly design.
- InstaTrade TV, consisting of video interviews and valuable market insights spanning equities, cryptos and more, helps identify opportunities and inform short-term trades.
Cons
- InstaTrade sports one of the most cluttered websites and client cabinets in the industry, potentially overwhelming new traders, especially compared to XTB’s intuitive trading journey and resources.
- InstaTrade’s growing educational tools provide valuable information for aspiring traders, but still trail category leaders like eToro with no structured course based on experience level.
- Marketing of the FISP, especially phrasing around the “guarantee of profitability” and the “elimination of risks of trading on financial markets” raises concerns.
IQCent
"IQCent will appeal to day traders looking for a straightforward binary options and CFD trading platform with low fees, a range of accounts, and copy trading. Getting started takes less than 1 minute and a $250 deposit. "
IQCent Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | 20% to 200% Deposit Bonus |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Binary Options, CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto |
| Regulator | IFMRRC |
| Platforms | Online Platform, TradingView |
| Minimum Deposit | $250 |
| Minimum Trade | $0.01 |
| Leverage | 1:500 |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR |
Pros
- Keen traders can take part in trading contests with cash prizes
- The broker offers up to 98% payouts on binary options, which is more than alternatives like Pocket Option, only offering up to 92%
- IQCent is one of the few binary options brokers that also offers a copy trading service for hands-off traders
Cons
- The market analysis is very basic with limited technical summaries and insights from analysts
- IQCent charges a punitive $10 monthly inactivity fee if you fail to place at least 1 trade per month
- IQCent trails binary brokers like Quotex with its narrow investment offering of around 100 assets with no stocks
Pocket Option
"Pocket Option excels for its easy-to-use web platform which provides a best-in-class user experience for short-term binary traders. The $50 minimum deposit is also accessible for beginners while opening an account is really easy. Looking at the negatives, Pocket Option still trails alternatives in its market offering and regulatory credentials."
Pocket Option Quick Facts
| Bonus Offer | 50% Deposit Bonus |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Instruments | Binary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, Cryptos |
| Regulator | MISA |
| Platforms | Web, MT4, MT5 |
| Minimum Deposit | $50 |
| Minimum Trade | $1 |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- Well-funded traders who deposit $1000+ can qualify for a 2%+ payout boost, more tradable assets and exclusive perks
- The range of payment methods beats the majority of rivals, providing fast, secure and convenient deposits for traders in most countries
- The web platform shines for its straightforward design and usability that will appeal to beginners looking to speculate on popular financial markets in a few clicks
Cons
- You need to deposit $1000 to access the extended list of 250+ assets, otherwise just 130+ assets are available
- Pocket Option offers a slimmed down iteration of the MT4 and MT5 that doesn't provide the full charting package for advanced traders
- The maximum binary contract length of 4 hours is restrictive for longer-term trading strategies. Alternatives like Videforex offer binaries up to 1 month
How We Chose The Best Brokers
We rate brokers’ research offerings from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Then we’ve ranked them by this research rating to reveal the very best.
To assign a score for a trading platform’s research services we weigh several elements:
- The range of research tools, with a preference for technical and fundamental summaries, market screeners, news streams, pre-open bulletins, forward-looking insights, and community research.
- The quality of providers, with a preference for excellent in-house insights or third-party tools like Trading Central, Autochartist, TipRanks, and Seeking Alpha.
- The frequency of market insights, with a preference for daily coverage via in-app notifications, email alerts and increasingly video channels to support active day traders.
- The usability of the tools, with a preference for beginner-friendly features integrated directly into the trading platform or app for a seamless user experience.
- The breadth of market coverage, with a preference for insights and actionable trading ideas spanning popular financial markets, such as stocks, forex, indices, and commodities.
- The ability to tailor research tools to individual preferences, with a focus on customizable workspaces, market filters, impact ratings, and the option to set up personal notifications.
What Types Of Research Tools Are Available For Trading?
This depends on the broker but can generally be split into in-house and third-party tools.
XTB, for example, focuses on insights from its in-house analysts with almost hourly news coverage, a filterable stock scanner, a heatmap (forex, US and EU stocks), plus well-presented charting analysis that’s great for short-term traders.
The user experience is also fantastic – I can access all the tools from the top of the web platform in one click, though I’d like to see them carried through to the XTB app too (there is no calendar, heatmap or stock scanner).
Alternatively, IG supplements its superb in-house research with access to leading third-party tools like Autochartist, Trading Central, TipRanks and Reuters, culminating in the best research tools I’ve seen.
The benefits of integrating third-party resources are plentiful; they specialize in what they do so the depth of market coverage is often excellent.
For day traders, in particular, tools like Autochartist also provide fantastic features for short-term trading, notably chart patterns, horizontal support & resistance levels, extreme movements, hourly volatility analysis, plus risk calculators.
My only criticism of IG’s tools is the scatter gun approach to where they’re stored. While TipRanks is available directly in the platform and I added it to my workspace with ease, the financial calendar takes you to a separate web page, while IGTV, which is brilliant for discussing trading opportunities, is located within the IG Community.
This can all make navigation fiddly and potentially overwhelming for newer traders who will understandably want to access everything from one place, preferably the account area or platform.
How Can I Use Research Tools For Online Trading?
To illustrate how you can use market insights from online brokers, let’s walk through an example using real research from Pepperstone.
A report focusing on the tech momentum following a Federal Reserve meeting highlighted Apple’s 7% surge in after-hours trading due to a positive earnings announcement and a $100 billion share buyback, which pushed its stock price above recent highs.
This bullish signal in technology, especially influencing NASDAQ futures, prompts an idea…
I could place a long position on NASDAQ futures early the next morning, expecting a continued uptrend spurred on by the technology sector.
I could set a stop loss below the recent significant low on a 5-minute chart and target a profit near the next resistance level, around 1.5% higher.
If the tech rally persists, I could close my position near my profit target, benefiting from a well-timed entry into technology stocks thanks to research and data from my broker.
Will Research Tools Improve My Trading Results?
Potentially, but only if you understand what they can, and can’t, do.
- They can help you identify markets where there may be trading opportunities, whether due to news events, geopolitical shifts, sector trends, technological innovations, or other influences.
- However, they can’t be relied upon in isolation. You’ll still need to conduct your own analysis to confirm there is an opportunity and how best to capitalize on the opportunity, for example, whether to go long or short, over what duration, and how to approach risk management.
Ultimately, research services can be a valuable tool in your toolkit, but you’ll need the rest of the tools to trade successfully.
FAQ
Which Online Broker Has The Best Research?
Use our list of the best online brokers for research to find the trading platform that best meets your needs. This is because research tools are only one piece of the puzzle.
It’s also important to weigh the broker’s industry standing (only use tightly regulated brokers), trading fees (short-term traders especially need low-cost brokers), market coverage (make sure the assets you want to trade are supported), education (beginners in particular should look for trading guides and demo accounts), and customer support (day traders especially need fast, dependable assistance should they encounter urgent issues).