Platinum
Platinum trading involves speculating on one of the rarest metals in the world. Over 50% of the platinum mined today is acquired by the jewellery industry and the rest is used by the automotive industry as it is a key component of catalytic converters in fuel engines. This 2023 platinum trading guide will break down all you need to know about the commodity, including its history, price economics and how to get started. We have also compiled a list of the best platinum trading brokers below.
Top Platinum Trading Brokers
These are the 7 best brokers for trading Platinum:
#1 - Kwakol Markets
Kwakol Markets is a Nigerian headquartered broker with strong regulatory oversight in Australia and Canada. A great selection of asset classes are available, including synthetic products that simulate realistic market activity. Clients can trade on the MT4, MT5 and cTrader platforms, as well as a copy trading solution whereby a fee is only paid on profitable trades.
"Kwakol Markets is a good option for newer traders with a dedicated learning academy, copy trading and a choice of reliable platforms. New clients can also sign up and start trading in four straightforward steps."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
- Regulator: ASIC, FINTRAC
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, AutoChartist
- Min. Deposit: $1
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:1000
Commodities
Kwakol Markets offers trading of 7 commodities:
- Copper
- Gold
- Natural Gas
- Oil
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Silver
CFD Trading
CFDs are available on a breath of underlying assets, including stocks, indices, commodities, forex and cryptos. High leverage up to 1:500 is available alongside a 0.01 minimum lot size and award-winning software. For the tightest spreads from 0 pips, opt for the Premium account.
Forex Trading
Kwakol Markets offers a wider range of forex pairs than most competitors, with 90+ assets available. Users get fast execution speeds through the ECN model and competitive spreads. On the negative side, not all currency pairs are available on MT4.
Stocks Trading
Trade stocks with zero commissions and ultra-fast trade executions. Clients get exposure to US, EU, Asian and Russian stock markets on both the MT4 and MT5 platforms. Stocks are available as CFDs, so users will not own the underlying shares.
Crypto Trading
Trade cryptos against fiat currencies, other cryptocurrencies and metals like gold. This separates the broker from many alternatives that only offer cryptos paired with the USD. High leverage up to 1:20 on cryptos is available, plus support for Expert Advisors and copy trading.
Pros
- Wide range of free learning resources such as an eBook
- Easy account opening process
- 2FA login security
Cons
- The only base currency is USD
- High deposits for premium features
- Lack of deposit and withdrawal methods
#2 - Pocket Option
Founded in 2017, Pocket Option is a binary options broker offering up/down contracts on forex, stocks and cryptocurrencies. With over 100,000 active users and a global reach, the brand has proven popular with budding traders. Pocket Option also supports dozens of payment methods and has a low minimum trade of just $1.
"We recommend Pocket Option for aspiring binary options traders looking for copy trading services and a low minimum investment."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Binary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices
- Regulator: IFMRRC
- Platforms: MT5
- Min. Deposit: $50
- Min. Trade: $1
Commodities
Pocket Option offers trading of 6 commodities:
- Gold
- Natural Gas
- Oil
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Silver
Forex Trading
Binary and OTC options can be purchased on over 40 foreign exchange pairs. Typical payouts are also decent at 81% and users can trade forex binary options in just a couple of clicks.
Stocks Trading
Trade 30 of the most popular American multinational stocks including Microsoft and Google. Payouts on big brands come in at a decent 92% while indices are available up to 67%.
Crypto Trading
Pocket Option supports major cryptocurrencies on a beginner-friendly app. Over 10 leading cryptocurrencies are available with very high leverage up to 1:1000.
Pros
- Clients accepted from over 95 countries
- Copy trading
- Turbo binary options
Cons
- No MT4 trading platform
- The expiration time is limited on trades
- Only one account type is available
#3 - Uphold
Uphold is a cryptocurrency trading app that allows users to buy, trade and transfer digital assets including 230+ crypto tokens. The app's trading environment also allows crypto staking, trading between various company stocks, and provides users with a debit card that provides rewards and easy multi-currency payments.
"Uphold provides a convenient one-stop option for investors who want a quick and straightforward way to access crypto markets. It will also serve users looking for crypto staking facilities."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Cryptos, Precious Metals, US Stocks, Environmental Assets
- Regulator: FCA, FinCEN
- Platforms: Own
- Min. Deposit: $0
- Min. Trade: $1
Commodities
Uphold offers trading of 5 commodities:
- Gold
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Precious Metals
- Silver
Stocks Trading
Speculate on large US stocks including Tesla, Amazon, Alibaba and Apple. Uphold also offers equities that will appeal to ESG investors, helping it to stand out from competitors.
Crypto Trading
Buy and sell 250+ crypto assets with fiat currencies or in crypto pairs using a straightforward mobile app or through Uphold's browser-based account homepage. Uphold clients can also earn up to 13% APY by staking one or more out of 32 valid tokens, or send their tokens to an external wallet.
Pros
- Fractional stock trading
- Earn returns on dozens of tokens through crypto staking
- Secure, slick and convenient app that will satisfy most investors' crypto needs
Cons
- Limited customer service contact options
- Limited charting and analysis options compared to specialist exchanges and platforms
- Not as many crypto assets as the most cutting-edge exchanges
#4 - Axofa
Axofa is a forex and CFD broker registered in St Vincent and the Grenadines. The broker offers three account types with access to forex, commodities and indices. With ECN processing, low minimum deposits and no commissions, Axofa could be an attractive option, although the broker does not hold a reputable license.
"Axofa could be a good option for clients looking for social trading features alongside the MT5 platform, and are willing to trade with an offshore brand."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Forex, CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
- Regulator: SVGFSA
- Platforms: MT5
- Min. Deposit: $1
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:1000
Commodities
Axofa offers trading of 6 commodities:
- Gold
- Natural Gas
- Oil
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Silver
CFD Trading
CFDs are available on popular asset classes with a competitive $1 minimum deposit. The broker offers very high, unrestricted leverage of 1:1000, which will amplify both profits and losses.
Forex Trading
Axofa offers 50+ forex pairs with raw spreads and low commissions. On the downside, the broker is not particularly transparent when it comes to their account conditions and fees.
Stocks Trading
A decent selection of 100+ popular international stocks are available. Traders can also test out their strategies in the free MT5 demo account, though the conditions are more limited vs other brokers.
Pros
- MT5 integration
- International broker accepting clients from the USA, India, Indonesia, and Ireland
- Proprietary mobile app
Cons
- Limited verifiable information about the broker’s owners and background
- Inconsistencies between international subsidiaries and website information
- Lack of transparency around pricing
#5 - World Forex
World Forex is an offshore broker registered in St Vincent and the Grenadines, offering commission-free trading with a $1 minimum deposit and 1:1000 leverage. Digital contracts are also available, offering beginners a straightforward way to speculate on popular financial markets.
"World Forex provides both highly leveraged CFDs and digital contracts, making this a good broker for clients who want flexible and rewarding ways to trade. The copy trading service will also appeal to newer traders."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Forex, CFD Stocks, Metals, Energies, Cryptos, Digital Contracts
- Regulator: SVGFSA
- Platforms: MT4, MT5
- Min. Deposit: $1
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:1000
Commodities
World Forex offers trading of 5 commodities:
- Gold
- Oil
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Silver
CFD Trading
World Forex's leveraged CFDs are available on a modest suite of 100+ instruments, including stocks, commodities and forex. Very high leverage up to 1:1000 is available for account balances up to $1000, with lower levels available to accounts with higher balances.
Forex Trading
World Forex offers CFD and digital contract trading on 53 forex pairs, including EUR/USD and GBP/EUR. High leverage is available for CFDs, which can be accessed with competitive spreads on certain account types.
Stocks Trading
World Forex traders can speculate on price movements of 40+ stocks with CFDs and digital contracts with no commissions, tight spreads and high payouts. You can take positions on big names like IBM and American Express.
Crypto Trading
Traders can access CFDs on crypto assets through World Forex's dedicated W-CRYPTO accounts, which offer leveraged cryptocurrency trading with spreads from zero. We rate that you can trade on 10 cryptos paired with the USD and EUR, while crypto-crypto pairs are also available.
Pros
- Several different account types with varied pricing structures
- Low deposit of $1
- Educational content
Cons
- Weak regulation
- No negative balance protection
- Withdrawal fees apply
#6 - Scope Markets
Scope Markets offers day trading and investing in multiple spot and CFD instruments. The group of brokers is regulated in several locations, including Belize, Kenya and South Africa. Users get competitive trading conditions, a range of payment methods, strong support and can get started in a few straightforward steps.
"Scope Markets will appeal to traders seeking highly leveraged CFDs and spot investment products on the powerful MetaTrader 5 platform. The Scope Markets Group stands out for its range of trading tools and educational materials."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Forex, Stocks, Commodities etc.
- Regulator: CMA, FSC, FSCA
- Platforms: MT4, MT5
- Min. Deposit: $50
- Min. Trade: 0.01 lots
- Leverage: 1:2000 (location dependent)
Commodities
Scope Markets offers trading of 6 commodities:
- Gold
- Natural Gas
- Oil
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Silver
CFD Trading
Scope Markets clients can trade CFDs on a good selection of asset classes including forex, precious metals, energies, indices and global shares. The award-winning broker also offers a decent suite of educational materials and a YouTube channel to support aspiring traders.
Forex Trading
Scope Markets offers MT5 trading for a range of major, minor and exotic currency pairs with high leverage and a low starting deposit. Multilingual 24/5 support is also available to support forex traders.
Stocks Trading
Scope Markets offers stock trading on popular markets, alongside cash and futures indices. Clients can speculate on major stocks from US, EU, Australia, and more with competitive fees and reliable trading software.
Crypto Trading
Go long or short on popular cryptos like Bitcoin, Ethereum and Ripple with leveraged CFDs and competitive spreads. Depending on the jurisdiction, different regulations apply. CFDs on cryptocurrencies are not offered in all jurisdictions.
Pros
- Multi-regulated group
- MT4 and MT5 platform integration
- Regular market news, updates and webinars
Cons
- Regulatory scrutiny varies between countries
- Limited trading instruments
#7 - Just2Trade
Just2Trade is a reliable multi-regulated broker registered with FINRA, NFA and CySEC. The company has 155,000 clients from 130 countries and stands out for its huge suite of instruments and additional features, including a social network, robo advisors and a funded trader programme.
"Traders seeking a multi-asset broker with an exceptional range of 35,000+ assets, market-leading software and low trading fees should consider Just2Trade. The Try2BFunded program will also appeal to users seeking funded trading accounts."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Stocks, ADRs, ETFs, Futures, Options, Commodities, Bonds
- Regulator: CySEC, NFA, FINRA, Bank of Russia
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, TradingCentral
- Min. Deposit: $100
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:20
Commodities
Just2Trade offers trading of 5 commodities:
- Gold
- Oil
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Silver
CFD Trading
With CFDs on 20+ Polish and 30+ US stocks, as well as energies and seven global stock indices covering US, UK, European, Australian and Japanese markets, Just2Trade offers a superb selection of global assets.
Forex Trading
Traders can access a decent range of 60+ major, minor and exotic forex pairs through standard and ECN accounts with tight spreads from 0.5 and 0.0, respectively. Execution speeds are also faster than most competitors at 50ms, which will appeal to active forex day traders.
Stocks Trading
As well as Just2Trade's 50+ stock CFDs, traders can access a huge variety of thousands of stocks traded on US and international exchanges. The chance to build an investment portfolio and benefit from dividends sets Just2Trade apart from most CFD brokers.
Crypto Trading
Traders can speculate on a modest selection of the largest cryptos by market cap including Bitcoin. On the downside, crypto trading is only available to clients from Asia which is more restrictive than many alternatives.
Pros
- Competitive fee schedule and high-quality trade executions
- Regulated and trustworthy with authorization from FINRA, NFA & CySEC
- Try2BFunded trader development program with funded accounts for clients who reach profit benchmarks
Cons
- Research tools such as stock screeners require third-party applications
- Cryptocurrency is only available in Asia
- Few standard educational resources compared to other brokers
What Is Platinum Trading?
80% of the platinum traded today comes from South Africa, with the rest of production divided between Russia and North America. It is a relatively scarce precious metal and, as a result, tends to trade at a higher unit price. It is estimated that platinum is 15-20 times scarcer than gold. In 2021, 160 tonnes of platinum were mined. In comparison, gold mining totalled 2,600 tonnes and silver, 17,000 tonnes.
Platinum trading does not occur on all stock exchanges. However, the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and the London Platinum and Palladium Market are two major exchanges that support it. In 2019, the global platinum market size was valued at USD 6.5 billion and expected to register a compound annual growth rate of 5.% by 2027.
History Of Platinum Trading
Platinum is considered a precious metal much like gold or silver. However, whilst gold and silver are widely traded around the world, platinum is less so. This is partly due to its scarcity but also because platinum does not have the ancient ties to trade that gold and silver do.
Gold and silver were known to ancient civilisations and were traded much like modern societies exchange currency today. However, platinum as an investment vehicle did not come until much later. In fact, it was not until the late 20th century that the metal was used in trade or investment. When it was first discovered in Colombia in the 17th century, it was actually considered a nuisance because it interfered with gold mining activities. In 1956, the New York Mercantile Exchange introduced platinum futures as a way to diversify the exchange from the predominantly agricultural instruments available.
Platinum coins came later still, in 1997 when the United States Mint launched its first platinum bullion coin, the Platinum American Eagle. Following their release they quickly became the most popular platinum coins in the world, selling at previously unseen premiums.
Fast forward to today and those involved in platinum trading can choose between legal tender coins, bullion bars, futures and options contracts. Platinum continues to be used predominantly by the jewellery and automotive industries but its uses span dental apparatus, surgical equipment and even drugs for cancer treatment. Experts argue that even more excitement could lay ahead for this unique instrument. As we continue to break down trade barriers and introduce previously isolated markets to the global stage, we are seeing accelerated growth. This is particularly exciting for platinum because, as countries become wealthier, they tend to increase their investment in platinum. This is primarily due to the use of platinum catalytic converters and increased demand for luxury items such as jewellery.
Why Do People Trade Platinum?
Store Of Value
Platinum is arguably the rarest of all precious metals. Its unique properties mean that it is in high demand in both the jewellery and automotive industries. Nearly one in five manufactured products uses platinum at some stage of the production process. Demand combined with scarcity drives its unit value.
Insurance Policy
Much like gold, platinum is used as an insurance policy against dollar weakness. You may have heard the term safe-haven asset. Well, it can be applied to platinum too. Investors will hedge in platinum during market slowdowns. Precious metals tend to hold their value, much more so than goods or services. Hedging in platinum protects purchasing power in the long run.
A Bullish View
Platinum trading offers a way to express a bullish view on global growth. As emerging market economies grow, demand for manufactured goods will increase. Platinum currently operates an integral role in the production of cars and, therefore, serves as a way to bet on growth in global industry.
What Influences The Platinum Trading Price?
Platinum is considered a relatively stable instrument, much like other precious metals. It is for this reason that many turn to platinum as a hedging opportunity. However, several factors will cause the price of platinum to fluctuate:
Gold
It is not uncommon to compare the price of platinum and gold. When the market is stable, platinum is considered to be worth roughly twice the price of gold. However, unlike gold and silver, platinum and gold tend to have an inversive relationship. When the price of gold increases, platinum’s value tends to decrease.
Supply & Demand
Platinum is a high value, finite resource that is primarily mined in Africa. Supply issues can affect the price. Major political or economic changes in the African region can affect supply, which, in turn, affects its value.
Industry
Most of the platinum mined is used by one of two industries; jewellery and car manufacturing. Disruption or major changes to either of these industries can have major implications on the platinum trading price.
Today’s Live Platinum Trading Price
How To Trade Platinum
You have a few different options when it comes to platinum trading. The right instrument for you will depend on several factors, including experience level, risk appetite and strategy.
- ETFs: Platinum is traded as an ETF on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) under the ticker symbol LSE: PHPT and both PPLT and PLTM are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The advantage of platinum ETFs is that you do not have to store physical platinum bullion, which can be a complicated process. However, if the price of platinum takes off, you are likely to make more money holding platinum bars or coins than investing in ETFs.
- Coins & Bars: Platinum bars or coins will need to be stored and insured. Coins are available from the United States Mint.
- Accounts: Many Swiss banks offer platinum accounts. These provide an opportunity to buy and sell platinum, much like any forex currency. The customer does not actually own the platinum, though, they just have a claim against the bank.
- Futures: A futures contract sets a predetermined time and date to buy or sell platinum. The key advantages of trading futures are that it allows you to hedge against price fluctuation and the contracts often have simpler pricing models than other methods.
- Options: Platinum trading options also let you buy or sell platinum at a set price in the future. However, there is no obligation, so you can decide whether or not you want to go through with the trade. Platinum options allow you to trade with leverage, providing an opportunity to make a big return on a relatively small investment.
Pros Of Platinum Trading
- Low-risk entry
- Relative stability
- Global growth tracker
- Portfolio diversification
- Hedging against downturns
- Widespread application in new technologies
- Responds to trends in the jewellery and automotive industries
Cons Of Platinum Trading
- Political and economic instability may cause supply shortages and volatility
- Relative stability is not great for short-term trading
- Not every broker offers platinum instruments
How To Start Platinum Trading
First things first, you’ll need to find a broker. Finding the right broker is key to long-term, successful trading. Do your research, consider reputation, platforms and tools, as well as pricing, demo accounts and regulation. Check out our comparison guide here.
Once you have found your broker, you will need to outline your strategy and take a position. If you are a more experienced trader, consider one based on the spread between platinum and other precious metals using options or futures. If you are new to platinum trading, you may want to play it safer and trade CFDs. Whichever strategy you choose, always ensure it is underpinned by a robust risk management system to minimise losses.
Finally, monitor your chosen position(s). Analyse the market, confer with experts and ensure you are up to date with the latest news and developments to put you in the best position possible to spot future opportunities.
Final Word On Platinum Trading
Platinum trading has a lot to offer as a tool for investment. Whether you are looking to hedge, store value or invest in global growth, the once-overlooked asset has shown its true value in recent years. As emerging markets continue to grow and the demand for platinum increases, it looks set to continue on a prosperous trajectory. Make sure to choose the right broker and implement a clear strategy with robust risk management to ensure the greatest chance of success. Additionally, we recommend you make the most of courses, analysis ideas and charts.
FAQs
Why Should I Trade Platinum?
Platinum is both rarer and has more uses than gold, yet it is often overlooked when it comes to investment. Platinum presents a good opportunity to diversify your portfolio. Given its ties to the automotive and jewellery industries, the platinum trading value has several avenues for fundamental analysis, on top of the standard technical volatility analysis systems.
What Is The Best Platinum Trading Strategy?
Strategies are dependent on several personal factors, including time, goals, risk appetite and capital. There is no one-shoe-fits-all solution. Popular strategies include breakout trading, scalping, arbitrage and new trading. If you are looking to improve your understanding, there are lots of great university courses, programs, academy courses and groups that you can utilise.
Where & How Can I Trade Platinum?
You can trade platinum online, via mobile or desktop platforms around the world from India to Tokyo, the US to Dubai. As uses for the metal grow, demand for platinum trading has flourished.
How Much Should I Invest In Platinum Trading?
The short answer is to invest whatever you are comfortable with, whether that is £150, £600, £1,000 or £5,000. The biggest mistake you could make is speculating with money you do not have, so be sensible. Ensure your risk management approach is robust and comprehensive to improve your chances.
What Are The Best Platinum Trading Platforms?
There are several brokers and platforms that we recommend for platinum trading, including City Index and eToro. These brokers offer competitive trading conditions, popular platforms and reputable regulation. For more, see here.