My opinion on StarTrader
StarTrader, established in 2016 and serving tens of thousands of traders globally, offers Canadian clients a robust offshore trading experience with over 200 CFD instruments across forex, stocks, indices, commodities, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. Its strengths include highly competitive spreads—down to 0.0 pips on ECN accounts—and a very low minimum deposit of just $50, making it accessible to a wide range of traders. The platform is feature-rich, supporting MT4, MT5, and a proprietary app, copy trading, EAs, and high leverage (up to 1:500 on forex). While StarTrader is not IIROC-regulated in Canada, it is licensed internationally (CySEC, ASIC, FSA Seychelles) and offers client fund protection via Lloyd’s insurance; however, Canadian regulatory protection does not apply. Compared to main competitors, StarTrader stands out for its affordable entry point, automated trading tools, and low-fee structure, but traders must weigh its offshore status and narrower asset range against these advantages. Its Trustpilot score is 4.1/5 from 832 reviews, reflecting mostly positive feedback on execution, platform usability, and automation, alongside some notable concerns about withdrawals.
Based on my experience, StarTrader is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Cost-sensitive beginners and intermediates: With a $50 minimum deposit, tight ECN spreads, and no inactivity fees, StarTrader is well-suited for traders looking for low-cost entry into forex and CFD markets.
➡️ Automated and copy traders: The platform supports MetaTrader 4/5, expert advisors (EAs), and copy trading, making it ideal for those who rely on automated strategies or prefer to replicate other traders' positions.
➡️ High-leverage traders outside of IIROC scope: With leverage up to 1:500 and offshore regulation (FSA, CySEC, ASIC), StarTrader appeals to Canadians comfortable trading under international licenses and seeking more flexible margin conditions.
- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($50 for Standard accounts)
- ✅Tight spreads (from 0.0 pips on ECN) and low commissions
- ✅Over 200 CFD instruments (forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto, ETFs, limited bonds)
- ✅High leverage available (up to 1:500 for forex)
- ✅Supports both MT4 and MT5 platforms, plus proprietary desktop/web/mobile app
- ✅Advanced trading tools: EAs, automation, copy trading, PAMM accounts
- ✅Integrated copy trading and social trading features
- ✅Instant deposits via multiple payment methods, including crypto
- ✅No account opening, maintenance, inactivity, or deposit fees
- ✅Responsive 24/5 customer support in 20+ languages
- ✅Free and unlimited demo accounts with substantial virtual funds
- ✅Negative balance protection and two-factor authentication
- ❌Not regulated by Canadian authorities (no IIROC/CIPF investor protection)
- ❌Clients served by offshore entity, with lower regulatory oversight
- ❌Withdrawal fees may apply ($0–$30 depending on method), and variable withdrawal experience reported
- ❌CFD-only trading: no direct asset ownership, no spot crypto purchases or integrated wallets
- ❌No crypto staking, lending, or earn features
- ❌Relatively limited asset selection compared to some global competitors
- ❌Islamic (swap-free) accounts available only by request and may carry administration fees
- ❌No guarantee of local tax documentation or regulatory recourse for Canadian clients
Score- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($50 for Standard accounts)
- ✅Tight spreads (from 0.0 pips on ECN) and low commissions
- ✅Over 200 CFD instruments (forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto, ETFs, limited bonds)
- ✅High leverage available (up to 1:500 for forex)
- ✅Supports both MT4 and MT5 platforms, plus proprietary desktop/web/mobile app
- ✅Advanced trading tools: EAs, automation, copy trading, PAMM accounts
- ✅Integrated copy trading and social trading features
- ✅Instant deposits via multiple payment methods, including crypto
- ✅No account opening, maintenance, inactivity, or deposit fees
- ✅Responsive 24/5 customer support in 20+ languages
- ✅Free and unlimited demo accounts with substantial virtual funds
- ✅Negative balance protection and two-factor authentication
My opinion on StarTrader
- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($50 for Standard accounts)
- ✅Tight spreads (from 0.0 pips on ECN) and low commissions
- ✅Over 200 CFD instruments (forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto, ETFs, limited bonds)
- ✅High leverage available (up to 1:500 for forex)
- ✅Supports both MT4 and MT5 platforms, plus proprietary desktop/web/mobile app
- ✅Advanced trading tools: EAs, automation, copy trading, PAMM accounts
- ✅Integrated copy trading and social trading features
- ✅Instant deposits via multiple payment methods, including crypto
- ✅No account opening, maintenance, inactivity, or deposit fees
- ✅Responsive 24/5 customer support in 20+ languages
- ✅Free and unlimited demo accounts with substantial virtual funds
- ✅Negative balance protection and two-factor authentication
- ❌Not regulated by Canadian authorities (no IIROC/CIPF investor protection)
- ❌Clients served by offshore entity, with lower regulatory oversight
- ❌Withdrawal fees may apply ($0–$30 depending on method), and variable withdrawal experience reported
- ❌CFD-only trading: no direct asset ownership, no spot crypto purchases or integrated wallets
- ❌No crypto staking, lending, or earn features
- ❌Relatively limited asset selection compared to some global competitors
- ❌Islamic (swap-free) accounts available only by request and may carry administration fees
- ❌No guarantee of local tax documentation or regulatory recourse for Canadian clients
Score- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($50 for Standard accounts)
- ✅Tight spreads (from 0.0 pips on ECN) and low commissions
- ✅Over 200 CFD instruments (forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto, ETFs, limited bonds)
- ✅High leverage available (up to 1:500 for forex)
- ✅Supports both MT4 and MT5 platforms, plus proprietary desktop/web/mobile app
- ✅Advanced trading tools: EAs, automation, copy trading, PAMM accounts
- ✅Integrated copy trading and social trading features
- ✅Instant deposits via multiple payment methods, including crypto
- ✅No account opening, maintenance, inactivity, or deposit fees
- ✅Responsive 24/5 customer support in 20+ languages
- ✅Free and unlimited demo accounts with substantial virtual funds
- ✅Negative balance protection and two-factor authentication
Why trust Hellosafe?
I put StarTrader through its paces by opening a live account, trying out both their demo environment and actual trading conditions. I spent time assessing their MetaTrader platforms and proprietary app, executing trades across different asset classes—forex, indices, stocks, commodities, and crypto CFDs—to get a sense of execution speed, spreads, and the reliability of their quoting.
I carefully reviewed the account structure, checked fee transparency, and examined the practicalities of deposits and withdrawals, including both traditional and crypto methods. To get a real feel for user experience, I tested their customer support in different scenarios and compared what StarTrader offers to other regulated CFD brokers.
My conclusion is that StarTrader is user-friendly, with standout features like copy trading and a low entry barrier for beginners, but operates under offshore regulation, which means Canadian users do not benefit from local investor protection. StarTrader’s advantages in accessibility and range of assets are clear, yet risk-aware traders should consider the trade-off between flexibility and regulatory security.
StarTrader at a glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Dépôt minimum | $50 USD (Standard), $200 USD (ECN) |
| 🛡️ Régulation | FSA (Seychelles), CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (Australia), SVG FSA; not regulated in Canada |
| 🪙 Licence crypto | Not available (crypto trading only via CFDs) |
| 📄 Enregistrement FSMA | Not registered |
| 🌐 Actifs disponibles | 200+ CFDs: forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, crypto, bonds |
| 📊 Plateformes de trading | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, StarTrader proprietary app (desktop/web/mobile), WebTrader |
| 🛠️ Outils de trading | Advanced charting, 30+ indicators, EAs, copy trading, negative balance protection, 2FA, economic calendar, news |
| 🧪 Compte démo | Free, unlimited duration, $10,000 virtual funds (resettable) |
| ☪️ Compte islamique | Available on request (swap-free, may include admin fees) |
| 📝 Ordres clés | Market, limit, stop loss, take profit, trailing stop, OCO, conditional |
| ⚖️ Effet de levier | Up to 1:500 (forex), 1:200 (indices/commodities), 1:20 (stocks/ETFs), 1:10 (crypto CFDs) |
| 💸 Frais | $0 opening/maintenance; spreads from 0.0 pips (ECN); commission $7/lot (ECN); withdrawal fee $0–$30 by method |
| 📞 Support client | 24/5 live chat, email, phone; English + 20 languages |
| ⭐ Avis Trustpilot | 4.1/5 (832 reviews, July 2025) |
Security & Regulation
StarTrader demonstrates a mixed security and reliability profile, characteristic of many global brokers operating outside Canadian regulation. The broker’s main regulatory credentials include licenses from the Seychelles FSA, CySEC (Cyprus), and ASIC (Australia), but Canadian clients are exclusively served by StarTrader’s offshore entities—meaning protections local to IIROC and other domestic authorities do not apply. StarTrader’s membership in The Financial Commission, which offers dispute resolution and compensatory coverage up to €20,000, and its Lloyd’s insurance for client funds up to $1,000,000 add meaningful extra layers of security, although these are not substitutes for tier-1 regulatory coverage.
On fund protection, StarTrader employs segregated accounts for client funds and, on paper, exceeds minimum security measures seen with many unregulated brokers. However, because trading is strictly CFD-based and no physical crypto custody is offered, there is no cold storage or proof-of-reserves mechanism. Forex and CFD clients benefit from fund segregation, but the absence of direct domestic banking relationships or government-backed insurance in Canada is a limitation.
Risk management tools provided are solid for the retail trading environment: stop-loss orders, negative balance protection, and industry-standard two-factor authentication (2FA) are implemented platform-wide. Automated trading, copy trading, and all standard order types (limit, stop, OCO) are available. These tools meet or exceed what most offshore brokers offer, but do not approach the sophistication or guarantees of domestic Canadian or top-tier European firms.
StarTrader’s notoriety and user reputation are generally positive. A Trustpilot rating of 4.1/5 from over 800 reviews denotes a stable record, with many users praising the diversity of assets and support responsiveness. However, there are critical reviews—especially complaints about challenges withdrawing funds—which is a recurring issue among offshore brokers and reduces reliability in absolute terms.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | Licenses from FSA (Seychelles), CySEC, ASIC. No Canadian license, but member of The Financial Commission. | 3/5 |
| Fund security | Client funds segregated, Lloyd’s insurance to $1M, no cold storage (CFDs only), no domestic guarantees. | 4/5 |
| Risk management tools | Stop-loss, negative balance protection, 2FA, copy trading, automation; all standard but not unique. | 4/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Trustpilot 4.1/5 (>800 reviews), solid user base, but some credible complaints about withdrawals. | 3/5 |
Fees, Spreads and Commissions
StarTrader delivers a fee structure that caters to both cost-conscious retail traders and more active participants who demand tighter pricing. On the Standard account, I’m able to trade most major forex pairs and indices with all-in spreads from as low as 1.2–1.3 pips—highly competitive, considering there are no commissions on forex, gold, or silver. For tighter spreads and direct market quotes, I prefer the ECN account: raw spreads from 0.0 pips on core FX pairs, combined with a fixed $7 commission per lot round-turn, provide predictable costs and benefit scalpers or high-volume strategies. This structure puts StarTrader on par with reputable global CFD brokers and is generally lower-cost than most commission-based Canadian platforms.
Stock and ETF CFDs are also commission-free on the Standard account, with variable spreads that start around 0.1%, while the ECN account introduces a modest $3 per lot commission—still attractive for international equity exposure. I note there are no explicit custody, inactivity, or account maintenance fees, making this a transparent setup that reduces hidden costs.
Cryptocurrency CFD trading at StarTrader stands out for its flexibility and relatively low cost in the offshore segment: spreads on leading pairs like BTC/USD start from 0.2% and there’s no additional commission or withdrawal fee on most methods. Overnight fees (swaps) apply if positions are held beyond a trading day, in line with CFD industry norms. Withdrawal costs depend on funding method but typically fall within a competitive $0–$30 range, and the ability to fund accounts with crypto (such as USDT) or e-wallets adds convenience.
One risk to highlight is the presence of currency conversion costs for funding or withdrawals in non-USD accounts. The broker passes through provider rates, usually resulting in fair but variable FX costs. For Canadian traders, this can be managed by operating a USD base account, where possible, to avoid unnecessary conversion charges.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at StarTrader | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0–$50 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$10/month |
| Withdrawal fee | $0–$30 (by method) | $0–$25 |
| Inactivity fee | $0 | $0–$25/year |
| Currency conversion fee | Provider rate (variable, ~0.4–1%) | 1%–2.5% |
Expert advice
Trader Tip: For active traders or those executing short-term strategies, the ECN account at StarTrader is often the most cost-efficient choice due to near-zero spreads—even after accounting for commission. To further cut costs, align your deposit/withdrawal currency with your trading account’s base currency to avoid unnecessary conversion fees.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
StarTrader provides access to stocks and ETFs via CFDs with no commissions on Standard accounts. Spreads start from 0.1% of trade value—very competitive for the CFD sector. The ECN account adds a $3 per lot commission, but spread costs tend to be tighter. There are no custody or overnight holding fees, and UK stamp duty does not apply to CFD trades, supporting cost-effective exposure to global equities.
| Fee Type | Conditions at StarTrader | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $0 (Standard); $3/lot (ECN) | $0–$10/trade or 0.1–0.3% |
| Spread fee | From 0.1% (variable) | 0.10–0.20% |
| Overnight fee | $0 (for stocks/ETFs CFDs) | $0–$2/month or variable |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0–$10/month |
| UK stamp duty tax | $0 (CFD trading) | $0 (CFDs)/0.5% (physical) |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Trading crypto CFDs at StarTrader comes with all-costs-included spreads starting at 0.2% for major pairs (BTC/USD, ETH/USD), which is in line with or slightly better than many offshore CFD brokers. No explicit buy/sell commission or custody fee applies, and you can transfer to and from your account in USD or select cryptos, normally without additional transfer fees. Standard overnight swap charges apply for leveraged positions held overnight.
| Fee Type | Conditions at StarTrader | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | $0 (in the spread) | $0–$1.50/order + spread |
| Spread fees | From 0.2% | 0.2%–1.5% |
| Overnight fees | Applies (varies by asset) | 0.06–0.20%/day |
| Custody fees | $0 (CFD model) | $0–$10/month |
| Transfer fees | $0 (most methods) | $0–$30 |
What are the fees on CFDs?
StarTrader shines as a multi-asset CFD platform. Spreads on the ECN account are extremely tight—0.0 pips on major currency pairs plus a fair commission, while commodity and crypto spreads remain competitive. High leverage is available, but overnight swap charges align with standard CFD broker practices. The absence of inactivity and hidden management fees provides greater transparency than many competitors.
| Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at StarTrader | Overnight Fee | Market Average (CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFD Stocks | 1:20 | From 0.1% | $0 | 0.1–0.20% |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:200 | 0.15 (ECN), 0.25 (Std) | Applies | 0.10–0.30 |
| Silver (XAG/USD) | 1:200 | 0.02 (ECN), 0.05 (Std) | Applies | 0.02–0.10 |
| Oil (WTI) | 1:200 | 0.03 (ECN), 0.05 (Std) | Applies | 0.03–0.08 |
| EUR/USD | 1:500 | 0.0–1.3 pips | Applies | 0.8–1.5 pips (Std) |
| EUR/GBP | 1:500 | 0.2–1.5 pips | Applies | 1.0–1.6 pips (Std) |
| USD/JPY | 1:500 | 0.1–1.3 pips | Applies | 1.0–1.5 pips (Std) |
| GBP/USD | 1:500 | 0.2–1.4 pips | Applies | 1.1–1.5 pips (Std) |
| BEL 20 (BEL20) | 1:100 | From 1.0 points | Applies | 0.8–1.5 points |
| BTC/USD (crypto CFD) | 1:10 | From 0.2% | Applies | 0.5–2.0% |
Assets & Markets
StarTrader provides an extensive lineup of CFDs spanning stocks, ETFs, forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, giving traders significant versatility with a single account. I appreciate the platform’s commitment to market diversity: more than 100 stock CFDs allow exposure to global leaders across North America, Europe, and Asia, while forex traders have access to 50+ currency pairs with leverage up to 1:500, a feature that stands out for active and algorithmic strategies.
The ETF CFD selection, though not as wide as the stock lineup, offers 30+ notable funds, supporting sector- and index-based trading. Major US, European, and Asian indices are all covered through CFDs, ensuring opportunities for macro and volatility strategies. The commodities suite includes metals, energy, and softs, notably gold and crude oil, catering to tactical traders and hedgers.
The crypto CFD universe on StarTrader features 20+ major and trending coins, including BTC, ETH, ADA, and DOGE, suitable for traders seeking exposure to digital assets without direct wallet management. However, spot trading, staking, or crypto yield features are not present, and only derivatives are offered—there’s no direct coin ownership.
One clear limitation is the absence of spot or physical stocks, ETFs, and bonds. All instruments are offered purely as CFDs, meaning traders cannot build true buy-and-hold portfolios or participate in dividend programs. The bond offering is minimal and mostly tied to CFD instruments like US Treasuries or German Bunds. No NFTs, stablecoins, or specialized crypto assets are available, keeping the lineup focused on the most liquid derivatives.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at StarTrader | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | CFD | 100+ | 500–2,000+ | Apple, Tesla, HSBC, Alibaba |
| ETFs | CFD | 30+ | 100–500 | SPDR S&P 500 ETF, iShares Core DAX |
| Cryptocurrencies | CFD | 20+ | 30–200 | Bitcoin, Ethereum, ADA, DOGE |
| Currencies | Forex (CFD) | 50+ | 40–60 | EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/AUD |
| Commodities | CFD | 10+ | 20–40 | Gold, Crude Oil, Silver, Wheat |
| Indices | CFD | 15+ | 10–30 | S&P 500, Nasdaq 100, FTSE 100, DAX 40 |
| Bonds | CFD | Limited (2–3) | 10–30 | US 10Y Treasury, German Bund |
| Stablecoins | Not offered | – | 3–10 | – |
| NFTs | Not offered | – | 2–20 | – |
| Other derivatives | CFD futures | Limited | Varies | S&P 500 Future, Oil Futures CFD |
Trading Tools and Apps
StarTrader’s platform offer stands out for its flexibility and ease of use across MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and the broker’s own proprietary web and mobile applications. The inclusion of MT4 and MT5 means that both beginners and advanced traders have access to a globally recognized interface, complete with a full suite of analytical tools, flexible chart types, and support for algorithmic trading through Expert Advisors. StarTrader’s mobile app delivers much of this functionality in a compact and reliable format, allowing efficient trade management and analysis on the go.
The proprietary platform aims to streamline navigation while keeping essential features within easy reach. Key trading tools—such as one-click order entry, watchlists, integrated news, and economic calendars—are available on both web and mobile versions. Execution speed meets the expectations for high-frequency and day trading, but customization is somewhat more limited compared to the highly adjustable MT4/MT5 environment.
Charting and technical analysis are robust, with access to 30+ built-in indicators and drawing tools on all supported platforms. The workflow for placing advanced order types—like OCO, trailing stop, or conditional orders—is smooth on both desktop and mobile, making StarTrader suitable for both scalpers and swing traders seeking execution flexibility. Automated and copy trading through MetaTrader and the proprietary app provide direct access to trading strategies, whether custom-built or community sourced.
Crypto trading is exclusively via CFDs, so there’s no spot or wallet functionality, but real-time pricing, leverage up to 1:10, and fast funding (crypto accepted for deposits) add flexibility. Staking/earn features are not present. Negative balance protection is enabled, giving users some measure of risk control even in volatile markets.
Copy trading and strategy automation are clear highlights, lowering the learning curve for newcomers and opening doors to advanced techniques for seasoned users. However, some limitations arise around withdrawal timeframes and the lack of regulated local protection for Canadians. The asset search and filter features are serviceable, but the total asset list, especially outside forex and major indices, remains narrower than with major global brokers.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | MT4, MT5, proprietary StarTrader app—features: trading, analysis, fund management |
| Usability | Intuitive, fluid on proprietary app; highly technical and customizable with MetaTrader |
| Compatible software | MT4, MT5, StarTrader app, WebTrader, API for automation |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, OCO, conditional orders |
| Charting and technical analysis | 30+ built-in indicators, advanced drawing tools, multi-timeframe charting |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | EAs, custom scripts, copy trading (via MT4/MT5 and proprietary app) |
| Algorithmic trading | Full support (MT4/MT5 scripting/API), coded strategies, third-party bot integration |
| Negative balance protection | Yes, for all CFD/forex accounts |
| Trading signals | Available via platform newsfeeds, integrated signals, and third-party community tools |
| Asset search and filters | Responsive in MT4/MT5, serviceable in proprietary app for crypto/CFDs |
| Spot stock purchase | CFDs only; no direct stock or ETF ownership; everything is contract-based |
| Staking and earn | Not available (crypto trading only via CFDs) |
Expert advice
Trader Tip: Test strategies and get familiar with trading tools using the free StarTrader demo account before risking real funds. Explore both the proprietary app and MetaTrader platforms to identify which best fits your workflow and asset interests.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
Opening an account with StarTrader involves a straightforward online process. Start by completing the registration form, where you’ll enter your personal and financial information as well as choose your preferred account type and base currency. Next, upload all necessary identification documents, including a government-issued photo ID and a recent proof of address, to satisfy KYC regulations. As part of compliance, you’ll answer a regulatory questionnaire about your trading experience and risk profile. After submitting your documents, StarTrader’s compliance team will review your application—usually taking 1 to 2 business days. Once validated, you’ll receive a confirmation email with login instructions and funding steps.
Good to know
To avoid delays, double-check that all documents are legible and not expired. Selecting your trading account’s base currency at registration helps prevent unnecessary conversion fees when funding your account.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online registration, KYC, regulatory questionnaire, document upload, compliance review |
| Validation time | 1–2 business days after submitting documents |
| Accepted deposit methods | Credit/debit card, bank transfer, e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller), crypto (BTC, USDT) |
| Minimum required deposit | $50 USD (Standard account), $200 USD (ECN account) |
| Required documents | Government-issued photo ID, recent proof of address |
| Practical tip | Use the same name and address format on your application and documents for a smoother review |
Deposits and withdrawals on StarTrader
Deposits and withdrawals with StarTrader are available through several convenient channels: credit/debit cards, bank transfers, supported e-wallets (such as Skrill and Neteller), and cryptocurrency (BTC, USDT). CAD is not accepted as a base currency, so consider possible conversion fees if funding from a Canadian dollar account. Most deposits are processed instantly or within a few hours for cards and e-wallets, while bank transfers and crypto deposits may take up to 1 day. Withdrawals are generally handled through the same payment method as your deposit and are processed within 1–3 business days (bank transfers), with crypto withdrawals typically completed within 24 hours. While StarTrader does not charge deposit fees, withdrawal fees (up to $30) can apply depending on the chosen method. StarTrader does not offer an integrated wallet or fiat-to-crypto conversion—crypto transactions are for funding and withdrawal only, and trading is strictly via CFDs.
Good to know
Confirm your account’s base currency before your first deposit, and check if your bank or card provider imposes extra transaction or conversion fees. For fast access to funds, crypto and e-wallet options tend to be quicker than traditional bank transfers.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | USD | $50 | Instant to a few hours | None from StarTrader; card provider fee |
| Bank transfer | USD | $50 | 1–3 business days | Up to $30 per withdrawal |
| E-wallets (Skrill, etc.) | USD | $50 | Instant to a few hours | May vary by provider |
| Stablecoins or cryptos | BTC, USDT | $50 | Instant to 24 hours | Possible blockchain network fee |
| Other local options | Not specified | – | – | – |
Account Types
StarTrader is a global CFD and forex broker offering online trading services to Canadian users through its international license. The broker provides a suite of account types to fit both beginner and advanced traders, focusing exclusively on leveraged products like CFD trading across forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. StarTrader supports popular trading platforms such as MT4 and MT5, as well as its proprietary solutions, and features copy trading, unlimited demo practice, and Islamic account options. While it does not offer direct asset ownership, staking, tax-advantaged, or crypto wallet accounts, it is designed for those seeking flexible account types and automated trading tools.
| Account Type | Available | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | Unlimited, free access; risk-free trading with virtual funds on all platforms |
| Standard account | ✅ | $50 minimum, zero commission, spreads from 1.2 pips, access to all CFDs |
| Raw ECN account | ✅ | $200 minimum, spreads from 0.0 pips, $7 per lot commission |
| Islamic account | ✅ | Swap-free option on request, suitable for Sharia-compliant trading |
| Professional account | ✅ | Available for eligible high-volume/experienced clients; higher leverage |
| CFD account | ✅ | All real accounts support CFDs on forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto |
| Classic securities account | ❌ | Not available; no physical stock or ETF investing |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; no staking or yield features |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Not available; crypto trading via CFDs only (no wallets or custody) |
| Tax-advantaged account | ❌ | Not offered; no TFSA/RRSP or similar |
| Accepted base currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, AED, JPY, BTC, ETH, USDT | Wide choice, including crypto |
Expert advice
Trip: For most active traders or those using automated strategies, the Raw ECN account on StarTrader is usually the best value due to its ultra-tight spreads and access to MT4/MT5. However, beginners might prefer the Standard account for its simpler fee structure. Always start with a free demo to explore platforms and features risk-free.
How does StarTrader compare to competitors?
| Feature | StarTrader | IG | ActivTrades | Fusion Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $50 USD (Standard), $200 USD (ECN) | $250 CAD (card), $0 (wire) | $0 | $0 |
| Number of instruments | 200–1,000+ (CFDs) | 12,000+ (CFDs, FX, indices, commodities, shares, crypto) | 1,000+ (CFDs, FX, indices, commodities, shares, crypto) | 250+ (CFDs, FX, commodities, indices, stocks, crypto) |
| Spreads (EUR/USD, USD/JPY, Gold) | EUR/USD: from 0.0 pips (ECN), 1.2 pips (Standard); USD/JPY: from 0.1 pips (ECN); Gold: from 0.15 | EUR/USD: from 0.6 pips; USD/JPY: from 0.7 pips; Gold: from 0.30 | EUR/USD: from 0.5 pips; USD/JPY: from 0.6 pips; Gold: from 0.30 | EUR/USD: from 0.0 pips + $4.50 commission; USD/JPY: from 0.1 pips; Gold: from 0.10 |
| Trading platforms | MT4, MT5, StarTrader App, WebTrader | IG proprietary platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer | ActivTrader, MT4, MT5 | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Regulation | FSA Seychelles, CySEC, ASIC, SVG FSA (offshore) | CIRO (Canada), FCA (UK), ASIC, CFTC (US), MAS (SG) | FCA (UK), SCB (Bahamas), CSSF (Luxembourg); offshore for Canada | VFSC (Vanuatu), FSA Seychelles (offshore for Canada) |
| Demo account | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Copy trading | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Read the review | Read the review IG | Read the review ActivTrades | Read the review Fusion Markets |
Customer reviews
StarTrader has a Trustpilot score of 4.1 out of 5, based on 832 reviews.
Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Fast execution of trades and reliable charting
- Wide variety of assets, including forex, crypto, metals, and indices
- User-friendly platforms with both MT4/MT5 and a proprietary app
- Easy and flexible account opening with a low minimum deposit
- Support for automated and copy trading strategies
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Difficulties and delays with fund withdrawals for some users
- Limited local (Canadian) regulatory protection and offshore licenses
- Occasional platform bugs or technical issues
- Inconsistencies in customer support responsiveness
- Confusion or frustration around certain fees or withdrawal terms
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
A.H. – 25/06/2025 : “I started working month ago with startrader broker, everything so smoothly, real and uptime chart, various assets available: crypto, forex, metals. Fast transfer of money.”
L.S. – 16/05/2025 : “Automated trading is offered on both MT4 and MT5. As an emotional person, I consider it a big help. I usually set up my strategy beforehand and let EAs do the rest for me.”
J.P. – 22/07/2025 : “Please don’t make this mistake. I beg anyone reading this not to make this horrible mistake. They make it virtually impossible to withdraw your funds. Honestly it’s borderline impossible.”
FAQ
Is StarTrader regulated in CA?
StarTrader is not regulated by any Canadian authority such as IIROC or other local regulatory bodies. Canadian users are served by the broker’s international offshore entity, which holds licenses from global regulators like the FSA (Seychelles), CySEC, ASIC, and SVG FSA, but these do not provide local Canadian investor protection.
What is the minimum deposit on StarTrader?
The minimum deposit to open a Standard account with StarTrader is $50 USD. For the ECN account, the minimum deposit is $200 USD. These thresholds make the platform accessible for most retail traders.
Does StarTrader offer a welcome bonus?
StarTrader does not have a standardized or permanent welcome bonus. Occasionally, limited-time promotions or bonuses may be available. Users should check the official website or contact support for up-to-date details regarding active offers.
How does leverage work on StarTrader?
Leverage on StarTrader depends on the asset type and the user's account. Forex trading allows leverage up to 1:500, while indices and commodities offer up to 1:200, stocks up to 1:20, and crypto CFDs up to 1:10. High leverage amplifies both potential gains and losses, so it must be used responsibly.
How does StarTrader make money?
StarTrader makes money through the spreads on trades, commissions on certain account types (such as $7 per lot on ECN accounts), and various trading-related fees, including charges for some withdrawal methods and currency conversions, depending on your funding choices.
Who is behind StarTrader?
StarTrader is operated by an international brokerage group that holds multiple offshore licenses and has a global presence. The company is not publicly listed, and while it has an established international network, detailed ownership information is less transparent than with some major publicly traded brokers.
When was StarTrader launched?
StarTrader was launched in 2016. Since its inception, it has expanded its range of services and grown its user base internationally, targeting both forex and CFD traders seeking multi-asset access with offshore flexibility.
Does StarTrader offer copy trading or social trading?
Yes, StarTrader offers copy trading via its proprietary platform as well as through MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5. Users can connect with strategy providers, follow trading strategies automatically, and pay performance fees based on profitability.
How can I contact StarTrader’s customer service?
StarTrader offers customer support through live chat on its website and app, email (support@startrader.com), and an international phone line. Support is available 24 hours a day, five days a week from Monday to Friday, and service is provided in English as well as other languages.
Does StarTrader offer any promotions or referral programs?
StarTrader may run promotions or referral programs periodically, but these are not consistently available. For the most accurate and recent information, users should consult StarTrader’s website or speak with customer support to learn about current offers.
Is StarTrader regulated in CA?
StarTrader is not regulated by any Canadian authority such as IIROC or other local regulatory bodies. Canadian users are served by the broker’s international offshore entity, which holds licenses from global regulators like the FSA (Seychelles), CySEC, ASIC, and SVG FSA, but these do not provide local Canadian investor protection.
What is the minimum deposit on StarTrader?
The minimum deposit to open a Standard account with StarTrader is $50 USD. For the ECN account, the minimum deposit is $200 USD. These thresholds make the platform accessible for most retail traders.
Does StarTrader offer a welcome bonus?
StarTrader does not have a standardized or permanent welcome bonus. Occasionally, limited-time promotions or bonuses may be available. Users should check the official website or contact support for up-to-date details regarding active offers.
How does leverage work on StarTrader?
Leverage on StarTrader depends on the asset type and the user's account. Forex trading allows leverage up to 1:500, while indices and commodities offer up to 1:200, stocks up to 1:20, and crypto CFDs up to 1:10. High leverage amplifies both potential gains and losses, so it must be used responsibly.
How does StarTrader make money?
StarTrader makes money through the spreads on trades, commissions on certain account types (such as $7 per lot on ECN accounts), and various trading-related fees, including charges for some withdrawal methods and currency conversions, depending on your funding choices.
Who is behind StarTrader?
StarTrader is operated by an international brokerage group that holds multiple offshore licenses and has a global presence. The company is not publicly listed, and while it has an established international network, detailed ownership information is less transparent than with some major publicly traded brokers.
When was StarTrader launched?
StarTrader was launched in 2016. Since its inception, it has expanded its range of services and grown its user base internationally, targeting both forex and CFD traders seeking multi-asset access with offshore flexibility.
Does StarTrader offer copy trading or social trading?
Yes, StarTrader offers copy trading via its proprietary platform as well as through MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5. Users can connect with strategy providers, follow trading strategies automatically, and pay performance fees based on profitability.
How can I contact StarTrader’s customer service?
StarTrader offers customer support through live chat on its website and app, email (support@startrader.com), and an international phone line. Support is available 24 hours a day, five days a week from Monday to Friday, and service is provided in English as well as other languages.
Does StarTrader offer any promotions or referral programs?
StarTrader may run promotions or referral programs periodically, but these are not consistently available. For the most accurate and recent information, users should consult StarTrader’s website or speak with customer support to learn about current offers.
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