Wire Transfer Brokers 2024
A bank wire transfer is a payment method used for domestic and international money transfers from one bank to another. But before you login and make a deposit, there are several factors to consider, including the time it takes to transfer cash into your trading account, fees you may have to pay, plus any minimum and maximum transfer limits.
In this guide, we list the best brokers that accept wire transfer deposits in 2024. We also run through the pros and cons of funding your trading account with bank wire transfers.
Best Wire Transfer Brokers
After testing dozens of brokers, these are the 10 highest-rated firms offering wire transfer:
-
1
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 -
2
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 Transfer, ChequeUSD -
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
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 -
5
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 -
6
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 -
7
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 -
8
RedMars
Ratings/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5/ 5
€2500.01 Lots1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)CySEC, AFMCFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, CryptosMT5Credit Card, Wire Transfer, Debit Card, Sticpay, FasaPay, Bitcoin Payments, Trustly, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Klarna, Mastercard, VisaUSD, EUR -
9
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 -
10
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
Here is a short summary of why we think each broker belongs in this top list:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- RedMars - Launched in 2020, Cyprus-based RedMars offers competitive spreads on more than 300 instruments and leverage up to 1:500. Three accounts are available - Standard, Pro and VIP - serving a range of budgets and experience levels, with a fast and fully digital account opening process.
- 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.
- 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.
Wire Transfer Brokers Comparison
| Broker | Minimum Deposit | Instruments | Platforms | Leverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
$100 | Forex, Stocks, Futures, Futures Options | MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral | 1:50 |
|
|
$0 | Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal | 1:50 |
|
|
$0 | Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies | Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentral | 1:50 |
|
|
$10 | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader | - |
|
|
$0 | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting | Web, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, AutoChartist, TradingCentral | 1:30 (Retail), 1:250 (Pro) |
|
|
$50 | Binary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, Cryptos | Web, MT4, MT5 | - |
|
|
$250 | Binary Options, CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto | Online Platform, TradingView | 1:500 |
|
|
€250 | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos | MT5 | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) |
|
|
$0 | Forex, Crypto with Paxos (Cryptocurrencies are offered through Paxos. Paxos is a separate legal entity from OANDA) | OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist | 1:50 |
|
|
$0 | Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs | Desktop Platform, Mobile App | 1:2 |
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."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
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.
- There’s a wealth of educational resources including tutorials, webinars, and a stacked YouTube channel to help you get educated in the financial markets.
- 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
- Funding options are limited compared to leading alternatives like IC Markets and don’t include many popular e-wallets, notably UnionPay and POLi.
- 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.
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
- NinjaTrader is a widely respected and award-winning futures broker and is heavily authorized by the NFA and CFTC
Cons
- There is a withdrawal fee on some funding methods
- Non forex and futures trading requires signing up with partner brokers
- The premium platform tools come with an extra charge
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
- There's a vast library of free or paid third-party research subscriptions catering to all types of traders, plus you can enjoy commission reimbursements from IBKR if you subscribe to Toggle AI.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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
- eToro USA Securities is a trustworthy, SEC-regulated broker that is a member of FINRA and SIPC
- A free demo account means new users and prospective day traders can try the broker risk-free
- The online broker offers an intuitive social investment network with straightforward copy trading on cryptos
Cons
- There's no MetaTrader 4 platform integration for traders who are accustomed to using third-party charting tools
- The proprietary terminal doesn't support trading bots and there are no additional stock market analysis tools
- There's a narrower range of day trading instruments available compared to competitors, with only stocks, ETFs and cryptos
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."
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 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 ProRealTime advanced charting platform is free as long as certain modest monthly trading activity requirements are met
- IG offers an extensive collection of professional and engaging educational resources, including webinars, articles, and analysis
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
- IG has discontinued its swap-free account, reducing its appeal to Islamic traders
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
- The range of payment methods beats the majority of rivals, providing fast, secure and convenient deposits for traders in most countries
- Well-funded traders who deposit $1000+ can qualify for a 2%+ payout boost, more tradable assets and exclusive perks
- The MetaTrader platforms offer integrated analysis with helpful technical summaries for short-term traders
Cons
- 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
- Despite offering competitive payouts up to 92%, binary brokers like IQCent offer higher returns up to 98% based on tests
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
- CFD trading fees are competitive based on tests, including 0.7 pips on major forex pairs such as EUR/USD
- The proprietary terminal offers TradingView-powered charts which deliver dozens of technical indicators and studies
- Keen traders can take part in trading contests with cash prizes
Cons
- The broker is not overseen by a respected regulator, though this is common among binary options firms
- The market analysis is very basic with limited technical summaries and insights from analysts
- There's no automated trading support for algo traders
RedMars
"RedMars is the best fit for experienced day traders familiar with the MetaTrader 5 platform and based in the EU, where the broker is authorized by the CySEC. However, the threadbare education and research tools make it unsuitable for beginners."
RedMars Quick Facts
| Demo Account | Yes |
|---|---|
| Instruments | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos |
| Regulator | CySEC, AFM |
| Platforms | MT5 |
| Minimum Deposit | €250 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.01 Lots |
| Leverage | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR |
Pros
- The broker supports a range of flexible payment methods, including wire transfers, credit cards, e-wallets, and notably cryptocurrencies
- RedMars offers one of the best platforms for day trading, MT5, hosting 21 timeframes, dozens of analytical tools, flexible templates and algo trading
- The broker is one of a limited number of firms to offer an account specially designed for VIPs with premium support and invites to exclusive events
Cons
- RedMars falls short for newer traders, with little in the way of education, no beginner-friendly platform, a steep minimum deposit, and inadequate support during testing
- The no-frills trading environment offers little beyond the basics, with no Islamic account, PAMM account or copy trading.
- With just 300 instruments, RedMars offers a narrow trading environment, particularly compared to category leaders like BlackBull Markets which offers 26,000 assets
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."
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 broker's API facilitates access to 25 years of deep historical data and rates from 200+ currencies
- There's a strong selection of 68 currency pairs for dedicated short-term forex traders
Cons
- 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
- The range of day trading markets is limited to forex and cryptos only
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
- There are reduced options contract fees from $0.65 to $0
- Moomoo's analytics and insights are impressive and detailed compared to other brands
- It is reassuring that Moomoo holds licenses with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), among others
Cons
- There is no negative balance protection, which is a common safety feature at top-tier-regulated brokers
- 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
How Did We Choose The Best Wire Transfer Brokers?
To identify the top wire transfer brokers, we:
- Searched our library of 500 online platforms to find all those accepting wire transfer payments
- Verified that they support wire transfer deposits and withdrawals for trading
- Listed them by their ranking, using a mix of hard data and personal evaluations from our tests
Wire Transfer Overview
Wire transfer services were originally launched in 1872 by Western Union when the existing telegraph network was used to transmit a money transfer message to another telegraph office. In just five years, almost $2.5 million was being transacted each year.
The modern wire transfer works by passing payment instructions from a sending account to a receiving account through a secure online system, such as SWIFT or Fedwire. Funds are then deposited and normally settled within two business days for international transfers and within a few hours for domestic transfers.
Pros Of Trading With Wire Transfer
Accepted Globally
Wire services are supported globally and are ideal for traders based anywhere in the world. They are also administered by hundreds of reputable financial institutions, including HSBC, Lloyds Bank, Metrobank and Nationwide, as well as online fintechs such as Monzo, Revolut and Starling Bank.
You can find your regional locations by typing into Google “wire transfer near me”.
Offered By Most Brokers
As bank wires are so widely used around the world, traders will have no problem finding a broker that supports the deposit method. In fact, some of the top wire transfer brokers include XM, eToro and Interactive Brokers.
Fast
Wires are sent and received in real time and are usually processed within two business days for international payments (ie: from UK to USA, Canada to UK, or even India to UK) and within a few hours for domestic transfers. Make sure to check with your broker where their receiving bank is located, as this can also affect processing times on their side.
Transfer Options
Wire transfers are normally flexible and can be done using a credit card, over the phone, or in person at your post office or bank.
Note that a wire transfer using a credit card may incur higher fees.
Money Transfer Apps
Money remittance apps have become increasingly popular among traders for their convenience, security, speed and global reach. For example, PayPal and TransferWise can facilitate quick transactions in a wide range of countries, including Canada, Kenya, Egypt, Jamaica and India.
Relatively Safe
Brokers that accept wire transfer deposits are usually safe, as long as you know and trust the receiver. Legitimate wire services will require both parties to prove their identity, so it is important for traders to choose trusted and regulated brokerages that are both transparent and accountable.
Transfer Tracking
Most financial institutions will have tools that allow senders to apply tracking information to a transaction. You can contact customer support at your respective remitting bank or money transfer service if you have any questions. This provides an additional layer of security.
The best wire transfer brokers also have helpful customer support teams that can advise on payment queries.
Cons Of Trading With Wire Transfer
Broker Processing Times
Domestic payment systems such as Automated Clearing Houses (ACH) are processed within 24 hours. However, foreign systems must clear the domestic system as well as the foreign equivalent, therefore adding an extra day to the processing time. In addition, trading brokers will also have their own processing times, sometimes taking up to 7 days for funds to appear in your trading account. Withdrawals can be even longer.
Fees
There is usually a cost to initiate both domestic and international bank wires, which can be high even if you are only depositing a small amount. Therefore, bank wire transfers tend to be more cost-effective for experienced traders who want to deposit or withdraw large amounts of money.
Note that there may also be additional service fees charged by your broker as well as exchange rate fees. For example, sending money from the US to UK could cost you $45-50 plus any other currency conversion and broker fees.
Not Reversible
As a bank wire is processed immediately, it is not possible to reverse a payment or request a chargeback if, for example, the sender or trader has provided the wrong recipient address. This is particularly attractive for scammers who can claim the funds and disappear before the sender even realizes the money has gone missing. This also demonstrates why it’s important to open a trading account with a trusted broker.
Weekend Delays
Whilst you are free to use the service at the weekend, there is no guarantee that your broker will also receive the funds at the weekend. This usually means that money wired on a Friday or Saturday is not received until the start of the following week.
Payment Speed
It only takes a few minutes to set up and initiate a wire, but bear in mind that international transactions may take a few days to be received by your broker and then released to your trading account.
It may also take several hours for domestic transfers to show in your broker’s account, plus any additional processing times on your brokerage’s side. For example, an ETrade wire transfer out can take three days, whereas FXTM can take up to five days.
Note that financial institutions may also have cut-off times for sending money on the same business day. For example, same-day transmissions are not possible after 5 pm ET at Bank of America and online at Wells Fargo.
The time it takes to receive your money can also be affected by limits imposed by online brokers. Higher amounts might require additional identity verification or security checks. As such, these transactions will take longer to process.
Wire Transfer Security
Wire transfers are generally very safe, as long as the receiving party, such as a trading broker, is a trusted entity. Information is transmitted through encrypted connections, which may differ depending on your banking or money transfer service.
In terms of regulations, some nations do have stringent policies in place that provide protection against money laundering activities and terrorist funding, including the Office of Foreign Assets Control in the USA and the Wire Transfer Regulation (WTR) in the UK and EU. Organizations like this collect information on transfers over $3,000.
In the US, traders that wish to receive more than $10,000 in one lump sum from the same payer must file Form 8300 to the IRS. So for big amounts, check with your local authority to make sure you comply with regulations.
In cases where there is suspicious activity, the sending bank has the authority to freeze funds and stop the transfer. Whilst this does provide a good level of safety, traders should also ensure that their brokers have measures in place to protect clients.
Investors should also be aware of broker scams where they request a hefty minimum deposit via wire order to open an account. This is often alongside other red flags such as a poorly written website, no transparency around company information and unrealistic trading conditions.
How To Deposit Using Wire Transfer
The wire transfer process is fairly simple. Look out for the logo at your broker and make sure to check any minimum or maximum limits, both with your bank and your trading platform. At IC Markets, for example, the minimum deposit is $200, while XM only requires $5.
Once your broker has provided you with the payment details and a wire transfer receipt, enter the information into your bank’s transfer form, along with the amount, beneficiary address and postal zip code, as well as the purpose of payment. Depending on where you reside or where you’re transferring to, you may need to provide a routing number or a SWIFT code. Once the transfer is complete on your side, you will both receive a confirmation.
The withdrawal process can vary depending on the broker, but traders usually need to fill out a withdrawal form to request a bank wire transfer.
Wire Transfer Fees
Domestic and international wire transfers can be costly. For example, in the US, the online domestic transfer fee at Bank of America and Discover Bank is $30. In Australia, domestic transfers are generally free but international transfers can cost up to $30, plus the foreign exchange margin.
Whilst some brokers do also charge their own fees, many cover the cost of deposits and withdrawals, including XM, FxPro and FP Markets.
Is Wire Transfer Good For Day Trading?
Despite growing competition with e-wallets, bank wire transfers are still the preferred option, particularly among professional traders who transfer larger sums using a credit card, bank account or money transfer app. International and domestic transfers are also safe, especially to and from jurisdictions that are backed by robust regulations.
The main downsides are the fees involved with a wire transfer, as well as the time it takes for funds to clear in your trading account.
Use our list of brokers that accept wire transfer deposits to start trading today.
FAQ
What Is A Wire Transfer And How Does It Work For Day Trading?
A wire transfer is a popular electronic payment method that involves sending a transmission from one bank to another. Wire transfers can be carried out domestically or internationally, including to trading accounts.
Are Wire Transfer Deposits To My Trading Account Safe?
Wire transfers are usually fairly safe, as long as the sender trusts the recipient. With this in mind, traders should ensure that they are investing with a reputable and secure broker.
Are Wire Transfers Free At My Broker?
A wire transfer can cost money, whether it is domestic or international and regardless of how much money you are sending. SWIFT fees, for example, are usually priced at 3-4% of the total amount. By definition, wire transfers are expensive due to handling charges (shipping fees) between banks and currency conversion fees (if sending money internationally).
Does Wire Transfer Work On Weekends?
Generally, a wire transfer will go through on a Saturday from the sender’s side, but clearing times on the recipient’s side tend to slow down at the weekend. Time frames also vary depending on the receiving bank and broker. For example, if your bank is shut on weekends it may take until Monday to receive your funds.
Do Wire Transfer Trading Deposits Take Long?
International wires can take up to two days to be processed, whilst domestic transfers are usually received within a few hours. Note that brokers will have their own processing time frames, sometimes up to seven days.
How Do I Wire Transfer To My Online Broker?
You can wire transfer to your trading broker by signing into your online banking and initiating a payment using a transaction form. You will need the beneficiary address details, transfer amount and reference, as well as a SWIFT or routing number if applicable. You can also send money to yourself (to another bank account you own).
Can A Wire Transfer Trading Deposit Be Cancelled?
It cannot be recalled once it has been initiated at your bank; meaning you need to make sure you are sending to a reliable recipient and that you have entered the transfer details correctly. This is particularly true when multiple scam brokers operate in the retail trading space.