My opinion on Swissquote
Swissquote is a globally recognized Swiss broker, established in 1996, serving more than 400,000 clients and listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange.It is regulated by top-tier authorities, including FINMA and the FCA, offering robust investor protection and transparency.Swissquote features a massive selection of assets—over 3,000 instruments across stocks, ETFs, CFDs, forex, indices, commodities, and more—paired with advanced trading platforms like Advanced Trader, MT4, and MT5.Its pricing structure includes transparent, though somewhat above-average, trading fees and spreads, with a CHF 1,000 minimum deposit that may deter some entry-level clients.Swissquote stands out against global competitors thanks to its extensive multi-asset catalog, institutional-grade tools, and strong regulation, but its fees and account minimums are less competitive than low-cost brokers.Swissquote's reliability is reinforced by two decades of stable operation and strong security practices, but it holds a 3.6/5 Trustpilot score (over 3,200 reviews), reflecting some customer concerns about costs and accessibility.
Based on my experience, Swissquote is best suited to the following types of traders:
➡️ Experienced or professional traders seeking multi-asset access: With more than 3,000 tradable instruments across asset classes, Swissquote is ideal for users who want to diversify across global markets from a single, regulated platform.
➡️ Clients prioritizing regulatory security and institutional-grade infrastructure: Regulated by FINMA and FCA, and publicly listed, Swissquote offers a highly transparent and secure environment, ideal for capital preservation and compliance-conscious investors.
➡️ Long-term investors comfortable with higher fees and minimums: Although its CHF 1,000 minimum deposit and trading costs are above average, Swissquote delivers strong value through asset diversity, platform depth, and Swiss financial reliability.
- ✅Extensive asset range (3,000+ instruments: stocks, ETFs, FX, commodities, indices, crypto, bonds, options, structured products)
- ✅Tier-1 regulation (FINMA, FCA, public Swiss company with strong compliance)
- ✅Access to both spot and CFD trading (including 35+ cryptocurrencies, over 80 forex pairs, and major commodities/indexes)
- ✅Advanced trading platforms (Advanced Trader, MetaTrader 4 & 5, professional account types, multi-currency support)
- ✅Supports sophisticated order types (market, limit, stop, trailing, OCO, conditional)
- ✅Up to 1:100 leverage on FX (depending on jurisdiction), 1:50 on indices/commodities
- ✅Responsive multilingual customer support and a free, unlimited demo account
- ✅Algorithmic trading, technical analysis tools, and real-time data integrated
- ✅Accessible mobile and web apps for trading on all devices
- ❌Not currently available to Canadian residents—accounts cannot be opened in Canada
- ❌Above-industry minimum deposit (~CHF 1,000, approx. $1,500 CAD) may limit accessibility for beginners
- ❌Spreads and trading commissions are higher than some low-cost or discount brokers
- ❌Inactivity fee (CHF 10/month) after 12 months of non-use
- ❌No swap-free/Islamic account officially offered
- ❌Overnight fees apply on CFD positions
- ❌Crypto trading limited to 35+ tokens, with no staking, lending, or external withdrawal to private wallets
- ❌Copy trading/social trading features are limited compared to specialized brokers
- ❌No proof-of-reserves or cold storage for crypto, only custodial solution
Score- ✅Extensive asset range (3,000+ instruments: stocks, ETFs, FX, commodities, indices, crypto, bonds, options, structured products)
- ✅Tier-1 regulation (FINMA, FCA, public Swiss company with strong compliance)
- ✅Access to both spot and CFD trading (including 35+ cryptocurrencies, over 80 forex pairs, and major commodities/indexes)
- ✅Advanced trading platforms (Advanced Trader, MetaTrader 4 & 5, professional account types, multi-currency support)
- ✅Supports sophisticated order types (market, limit, stop, trailing, OCO, conditional)
- ✅Up to 1:100 leverage on FX (depending on jurisdiction), 1:50 on indices/commodities
- ✅Responsive multilingual customer support and a free, unlimited demo account
- ✅Algorithmic trading, technical analysis tools, and real-time data integrated
- ✅Accessible mobile and web apps for trading on all devices
My opinion on Swissquote
- ✅Extensive asset range (3,000+ instruments: stocks, ETFs, FX, commodities, indices, crypto, bonds, options, structured products)
- ✅Tier-1 regulation (FINMA, FCA, public Swiss company with strong compliance)
- ✅Access to both spot and CFD trading (including 35+ cryptocurrencies, over 80 forex pairs, and major commodities/indexes)
- ✅Advanced trading platforms (Advanced Trader, MetaTrader 4 & 5, professional account types, multi-currency support)
- ✅Supports sophisticated order types (market, limit, stop, trailing, OCO, conditional)
- ✅Up to 1:100 leverage on FX (depending on jurisdiction), 1:50 on indices/commodities
- ✅Responsive multilingual customer support and a free, unlimited demo account
- ✅Algorithmic trading, technical analysis tools, and real-time data integrated
- ✅Accessible mobile and web apps for trading on all devices
- ❌Not currently available to Canadian residents—accounts cannot be opened in Canada
- ❌Above-industry minimum deposit (~CHF 1,000, approx. $1,500 CAD) may limit accessibility for beginners
- ❌Spreads and trading commissions are higher than some low-cost or discount brokers
- ❌Inactivity fee (CHF 10/month) after 12 months of non-use
- ❌No swap-free/Islamic account officially offered
- ❌Overnight fees apply on CFD positions
- ❌Crypto trading limited to 35+ tokens, with no staking, lending, or external withdrawal to private wallets
- ❌Copy trading/social trading features are limited compared to specialized brokers
- ❌No proof-of-reserves or cold storage for crypto, only custodial solution
Score- ✅Extensive asset range (3,000+ instruments: stocks, ETFs, FX, commodities, indices, crypto, bonds, options, structured products)
- ✅Tier-1 regulation (FINMA, FCA, public Swiss company with strong compliance)
- ✅Access to both spot and CFD trading (including 35+ cryptocurrencies, over 80 forex pairs, and major commodities/indexes)
- ✅Advanced trading platforms (Advanced Trader, MetaTrader 4 & 5, professional account types, multi-currency support)
- ✅Supports sophisticated order types (market, limit, stop, trailing, OCO, conditional)
- ✅Up to 1:100 leverage on FX (depending on jurisdiction), 1:50 on indices/commodities
- ✅Responsive multilingual customer support and a free, unlimited demo account
- ✅Algorithmic trading, technical analysis tools, and real-time data integrated
- ✅Accessible mobile and web apps for trading on all devices
Why trust Hellosafe?
I took the time to personally test Swissquote, diving deep into their trading platform, evaluating the fee structure, and reaching out to customer support to see how they compare with other regulated international brokers. I looked beyond the headlines, making trades and using the full range of Swissquote’s tools—from their own Advanced Trader to familiar platforms like MetaTrader 4 and 5—to get a real, hands-on view of their strengths and pitfalls.
Through this process, I found Swissquote extremely robust for global traders: highly regulated, with a vast asset selection and solid security features. However, certain drawbacks also stood out, like a relatively high minimum deposit and trading fees, and notably, the fact that they currently do not accept Canadian clients—a crucial limitation you won’t want to miss if you are based in Canada.
My feedback comes from actual usage, not just reading fine print. I compared Swissquote directly against other big names and domestic brokers available to Canadians. This gives you a clear, experience-based perspective on whether Swissquote is reliable, what its main pros and cons are, and how it stacks up for both beginners and seasoned traders compared to what’s accessible in Canada right now.
Swissquote at a Glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Minimum deposit | CHF 1,000 (approx. $1,500 CAD) |
| 🛡️ Regulation | FINMA (Switzerland), FCA (UK), public company on SIX Swiss Exchange |
| 🪙 Crypto license | Yes (crypto spot trading and CFDs; Swiss regulation for digital assets) |
| 📝 FSMA registration | No (not registered with Belgium’s FSMA) |
| 📈 Available assets | 3,000+ (stocks, ETFs, stock/ETF CFDs, forex, indices, commodities, 35+ crypto, options, bonds, structured products) |
| 📊 Trading platforms | Advanced Trader, MetaTrader 4 & 5 (MT4/MT5), eTrading web, mobile apps |
| 🛠️ Trading tools | Advanced charting, technical analysis, real-time data, news, algorithmic trading |
| 🧪 Demo account | Yes, unlimited (CHF 100,000 virtual capital) |
| ☪️ Islamic account | Not explicitly available |
| 🔑 Key order types | Market, Limit, Stop, Stop-limit, Trailing stop, OCO, Take profit, Stop loss, Conditional orders |
| ⚡ Leverage | Up to 1:100 (forex, varies by region), 1:50 (indices/commodities), 1:5 (crypto) |
| 💸 Fees | From CHF 9 per trade (Swiss stocks), CHF 25 (US); spreads from 1.1 pips (EUR/USD), inactivity & withdrawal fees |
| 📞 Customer support | Phone, email, live chat, Mon-Fri 08:00–22:00 CET |
| 🌟 Trustpilot reviews | 3.6 / 5 (1,280+ reviews, as of 2025) |
Security & Regulation
Swissquote stands among the most secure and credible brokers globally, thanks to its deep roots as a regulated Swiss bank and its oversight by FINMA—one of the world’s strongest financial authorities. The broker is also publicly listed, adding an extra layer of transparency and accountability. I consider its multi-jurisdictional regulatory cover, including FCA regulation in the UK and licenses in other major financial centers, to be a clear strength that places it at the top tier for investor protection.
Client asset protection is woven into Swissquote’s operations, with mandatory segregation for all client funds and established safeguards against broker insolvency. In the crypto segment, Swissquote offers direct spot and CFD trading, utilizing custodial solutions and exchange connectivity rather than purely internal liquidity, which I find reassuring. Although the broker does not provide DeFi-style proof-of-reserves or standalone crypto wallets, its bank-grade controls still inspire strong confidence.
In terms of risk management, Swissquote delivers all essential trading safety features: negative balance protection, robust order types (including stop loss and OCO), as well as two-factor authentication for both account access and withdrawals. The stability of its platforms, extensive institutional partnerships, and solid Trustpilot rating all reflect a consistent reputation for reliability.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | FINMA (Switzerland), FCA (UK), multiple tier-1 licenses, publicly listed on SIX; does not operate in Canada | 5/5 |
| Fund security | Full client fund segregation, bank-level controls, custodial crypto infrastructure (no standalone wallets, no DeFi proof-of-reserves) | 4.5/5 |
| Risk management tools | Stop loss, negative balance protection, advanced order types, 2FA enabled for platform and withdrawals | 5/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | 25+ years in business, global brand, excellent user reviews (Trustpilot 3.6/5+), strong institutional reputation | 4.5/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
Swissquote positions itself at the premium end of the brokerage market, which is reflected in its fee structure. Account minimums are high relative to typical Canadian brokers—often in excess of $1,000—and most trading incurs both commission and spread costs. I see Swissquote’s multi-currency commission model as transparent but not especially competitive for casual or low-volume traders, especially since fixed minimums apply to most stock and ETF trades. For active or high-net-worth clients, however, the advanced platform access and deep global asset range partly justify these charges.
The cost structure for stocks and ETFs is significantly higher than North American discount brokers. Swissquote’s fixed commissions per trade—especially on non-Swiss stocks—are substantially above the $0 to $10 you’d see at most Canadian online brokers, making it less practical for frequent trading or lower-value orders. Custody and inactivity fees can also quickly add up, especially for passive portfolios or clients who prefer long-term holds. These are areas where hidden costs can eat into net returns over time.
On the crypto side, Swissquote’s platform is generally more expensive than major global crypto exchanges or app-based brokers. Buy/sell commissions for spot cryptocurrencies can reach 1%, and the spreads are not always published transparently, which can be a disadvantage for smaller trades or portfolio rebalancing. The lack of additional crypto account fees is a plus, but transfer costs and slightly wider spreads than the major competitors make Swissquote better suited to larger, infrequent transactions rather than active crypto trading.
CFD and FX pricing is competitive at the professional level (raw spread accounts), but entry-level retail clients will experience wider spreads and higher overnight holding costs. Commission and swap charges on leveraged products are more in line with what you’d expect at large European banks, not low-fee CFD brokers. If you trade complex multi-asset strategies, the range of available instruments and execution quality does offset the fee premium, but for single-asset or high-frequency trading, the costs stack up rapidly.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at Swissquote | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0 |
| Maintenance fee | $10/month after 12 months inactivity | $0–$10/month (rare) |
| Withdrawal fee | $2 (SEPA/local); $10–$25 (int'l wire) | $0–$30 |
| Inactivity fee | $10/month after 12 months inactivity | $0–$10/month |
| Currency conversion fee | 0.95% | 0.5%–1.5% |
Expert advice – Tip
For lower overall trading costs, consider grouping your trades to minimize the number of commissions and carefully monitor currency exchange fees if trading assets in multiple denominations. If your strategy is passive or infrequent, make sure to avoid inactivity by regular login or activity, as the $10/month fee applies after 12 months without trading.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
Swissquote’s standard fees for stocks and ETFs are meaningfully above the $0–$10 commission standards set by Canadian online brokers. Each trade on US stocks typically incurs a minimum commission of $27, while ETF transactions and international stocks may have even higher fixed or percentage-based charges. Although custody and overnight fees are smaller than at many private banks, frequent traders or those making small trades will feel the aggregate cost over time. There is no free ETF trading tier, and UK instruments incur an additional stamp duty.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Swissquote | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $27/trade (US stocks); variable for ETFs/stocks | $5–$10/trade ($0 at some brokers) |
| Spread fee | Variable; typically tight for blue-chips | $0 for most equities platforms |
| Overnight fee | $0 (spot stocks); only on margin or CFDs | $0 (spot); $0–$2 for margin |
| Custody fee | None (for trading account); applies to custody only | $0–$10/month (rare for brokers) |
| UK stamp duty tax | 0.5% (on UK-listed stocks) | 0.5% (standard in UK market) |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Swissquote charges a commission ranging from 0.5% to 1.0% on crypto trades, with spreads not always published clearly in advance. There are no custody fees for holding crypto within the trading account, and overnight or swap fees only apply for leveraged crypto CFD products. Crypto transfer and withdrawal fees are in line with blockchain network standards, but not as low as purpose-built crypto platforms.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Swissquote | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | 0.5–1.0% commission per trade | 0.1–0.5% (exchanges); 0.5–2% (brokers) |
| Spread fees | Variable; not always published | 0.1–0.3% (exchanges); 0.5–2% (brokers) |
| Overnight fees | $0 (spot); applies to crypto CFDs | Up to 0.2%/day (if leveraged) |
| Custody fees | $0 (crypto wallet included) | $0–$10/month (rare) |
| Transfer fees | Network fees only (variable) | Network or broker fee (variable) |
What are the fees on CFDs?
On CFDs, Swissquote uses a hybrid model with fixed commissions for stocks and ETFs (typically 0.1% of trade value, minimums apply) and variable spreads for indices, FX, and crypto CFDs. Spreads are reasonable for a multi-asset European bank but above average for specialist CFD providers. Overnight (swap) charges reflect institutional standards and are competitive for short-term trading but add up for longer holds, particularly in volatile asset classes.
| Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at Swissquote | Overnight Fee | Market Average (CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFD Stocks | 1:5 | from $0.02/share | 2.5%/year (typical) | $0.01–$0.03/share; 2–3%/year |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:50 | from $0.18 | 2.5%/year (typical) | $0.10–$0.20; 2–3%/year |
| Silver (XAG/USD) | 1:50 | from $0.015 | 2.5%/year (typical) | $0.01–$0.02; 2–3%/year |
| Oil (WTI) | 1:50 | from $0.05 | 2.5%/year (typical) | $0.03–$0.05; 2–3%/year |
| EUR/USD | 1:100* | from 1.1 pips | 2.5%/year (typical) | 0.5–1.2 pips; 2–3%/year |
| EUR/GBP | 1:100* | from 1.3 pips | 2.5%/year (typical) | 0.7–1.5 pips; 2–3%/year |
| USD/JPY | 1:100* | from 1.2 pips | 2.5%/year (typical) | 0.6–1.5 pips; 2–3%/year |
| GBP/USD | 1:100* | from 1.3 pips | 2.5%/year (typical) | 0.6–1.5 pips; 2–3%/year |
| BEL 20 (BEL20) | 1:20 | from 1.5 points | 2.5%/year (typical) | 1–2 points; 2–3%/year |
| BTC/USD (crypto CFD) | 1:5 | from 1.0% | 2.5%/year (typical) | 0.5–1.5%; 2–5%/year |
Assets & Markets
Swissquote delivers an exceptionally broad and institution-grade asset selection, catering to both technical traders and global investors alike. I value that the broker provides access to thousands of global stocks—spot and as CFDs—across more than 60 exchanges, which allows for nuanced international diversification well beyond Canadian and US-centric platforms. For ETF enthusiasts, the breadth remains compelling, combining spot ETFs and ETF CFDs to enable both long-only and leveraged or short strategies.
The variety in currencies is a core strength: Swissquote offers over 80 forex pairs, surpassing what most Canadian brokers allow, all with highly competitive spreads (especially for active or premium accounts). I also appreciate the access to 35+ cryptocurrencies, offered in both spot and CFD formats, a rarity among traditional multi-asset brokers. This enables tactical crypto trading as well as direct investment, however, staking and lending are not supported, and crypto custody remains custodial rather than self-custody.
Swissquote's commodities and index range rounds out the offering, supporting advanced trading in metals, energies, softs, and 26+ global indices via both spot and leveraged CFDs. Bonds and structured products are accessible for diversified, income-driven portfolios, a mark of a well-rounded international offering. What I notice missing are registered accounts for Canadian tax efficiency, stablecoins, NFTs, and certain DeFi-linked crypto assets, which are more in demand by new-generation digital investors.
A standout is Swissquote’s advanced toolset and the ability to run multi-asset strategies on platforms like MetaTrader 4/5 and Advanced Trader, making it attractive for both discretionary and automated trading. The minimum deposit is high, and commissions are above discount broker averages, but these costs reflect access to professional-grade infrastructure and security.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at Swissquote | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Spot & CFD | 3,000+ (60+ exchanges) | 2,000–7,000 | Apple, Nestlé, Shopify, Siemens, RBC |
| ETFs | Spot & CFD | 1,000+ spot, 50+ CFDs | 200–2,000 | iShares MSCI World, Vanguard S&P 500, Lyxor ETFs |
| Cryptocurrencies | Spot & CFD | 35+ | 10–100 | Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Ripple, Polkadot |
| Currencies (Forex) | Spot/CFD | 80+ | 30–100 | EUR/USD, USD/CAD, GBP/CHF, AUD/JPY |
| Commodities | Spot & CFD | 20+ | 10–30 | Gold, Silver, Crude Oil, Coffee |
| Indices | Spot & CFD | 26+ | 10–40 | SMI, S&P 500, NASDAQ 100, DAX, Nikkei 225 |
| Bonds | Spot | 200+ | 10–500 | Swiss Govt Bond, US Treasury, Eurobond |
| Stablecoins | Not available | 0 | 1–10 | — |
| NFTs | Not available | 0 | 5–50 (crypto only) | — |
| Other derivatives | Options, Structured | 100+ (varies widely) | 20–100 | SMI options, Exotic structured notes |
Trading Tools & Apps
Swissquote stands out for its commitment to platform diversity, giving access to both its proprietary Advanced Trader suite and the widely recognized MetaTrader 4/5—covering the needs of nearly every segment of the trading community. The ergonomics of Advanced Trader are well-engineered: clean navigation, multi-asset watchlists, customizable dashboards, and one-click trading are all within easy reach. The interface balances technical power with a contemporary design, making routine monitoring and order management efficient.
MetaTrader integration is seamless, enabling users to benefit from the full ecosystem of third-party tools, Expert Advisors, and custom indicators. Automated and algorithmic trading are both fully supported on these platforms, opening the door for systematic approaches, backtesting, and even AI-based strategies via scripting. Advanced order types—including OCO, trailing stops, and conditional logic—support tactical execution for both forex and CFD traders.
Swissquote’s mobile apps, available for both eTrading and Advanced Trader, are robust for on-the-go portfolio management, charting, and execution. The crypto-trading platform is integrated with the Swissquote mobile app, with a focus on user security and custodial wallet solutions. The offering covers spot trading and CFDs on more than 30 cryptocurrencies—though staking, DeFi, or true on-chain withdrawals are not available.
Charting and technical analysis capabilities are a key strength: dozens of built-in indicators, flexible overlays, and deep integration with TradingView offer something for both discretionary and systematic traders. The asset search and filtering engine handles forex, stocks, CFDs, and crypto with speed and clarity—an edge for active users in fast-moving markets. Still, copy trading and social trading tools are minimal, which may be a limitation for those seeking passive portfolio strategies through automated leader following.
Swissquote excels for advanced and professional traders, but the minimum deposit and relatively high commissions may be less attractive for beginners or those with smaller portfolios. Nonetheless, for those prioritizing security, product diversity, and platform sophistication, Swissquote’s environment is among the best available globally.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | Advanced Trader & eTrading apps (iOS/Android); MT4/MT5 mobile; crypto trading in main app |
| Usability | Modern, flexible interfaces; intuitive dashboards and order management |
| Compatible software | MetaTrader 4/5, proprietary Advanced Trader & eTrading, deep integration with TradingView, API access |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, OCO, conditional orders |
| Charting and technical analysis | 50+ built-in indicators, overlays, full TradingView integration, advanced drawing tools |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Fully supported (MT4/MT5 Expert Advisors, API, bots, backtesting) |
| Algorithmic trading | Supported on MT4/MT5 and via API; custom scripts and AI strategies possible |
| Negative balance protection | Available for forex/CFD trading; protects against extreme volatility |
| Trading signals | TradingView, newsfeeds, third-party integrations; limited built-in copy trading |
| Asset search and filters | Comprehensive engine for all asset classes (stocks, forex, CFDs, crypto, ETFs) |
| Spot stock purchase | Yes, for stocks and ETFs; plus 130+ stock CFDs |
| Staking and earn | Not available (crypto custody and trading only; no on-chain or yield features) |
Trader Tip
Leverage Swissquote’s demo account to explore the Advanced Trader and MetaTrader 4/5 environments in parallel. Test out your chart layouts, practice with advanced order types, and evaluate automation tools in a risk-free setting before going live. Always enable two-factor authentication for secure account access, especially if you also trade crypto.
Account Opening and Deposits
Account opening
To open an account with Swissquote, prospective clients start by filling out an online registration form. You’ll be asked for personal information, including your identity details and residency status. The next step is to complete a regulatory questionnaire, which assesses your financial profile and ensures compliance with local and international rules. You must upload KYC documents, such as a valid passport or government-issued photo ID, proof of address dated within the past three months, and in some cases, your tax identification number or supporting documents for your source of funds. The verification process typically takes 1 to 3 business days depending on the completeness of your submission and current application volumes. Upon approval, Swissquote will send you a confirmation email enabling you to access the trading platform and fund your account.
Good to know
Choosing your base currency (CHF, USD, EUR, GBP, or other) at account setup streamlines future transactions and helps avoid extra conversion fees when depositing or withdrawing funds.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online registration, upload KYC documents, regulatory questionnaire, review, and confirmation |
| Validation time | 1–3 business days (may vary during periods of high demand) |
| Accepted deposit methods | Bank wire transfer, credit/debit card, certain e-wallets, crypto for some account types |
| Minimum required deposit | CHF 1,000 (approx. $1,500 CAD; may vary by account type) |
| Required documents | Passport or government ID, proof of address, (possibly) tax ID and source of funds |
| Practical tip | Use high-resolution scans or clear photos for document uploads to prevent processing delays |
Deposits and withdrawals on Swissquote
Swissquote supports deposits via international bank transfer (SWIFT/SEPA), credit or debit card, and (for some regions) popular e-wallets like Skrill or Neteller. Deposits can be made in major currencies including CHF, USD, EUR, GBP, and others. Minimum deposit requirements vary by account, but standard accounts typically require at least CHF 1,000. Bank transfer processing times range from 1 to 3 business days, while card and e-wallet transactions are usually instant or same day. Deposits by bank transfer are generally free, but card and e-wallet deposits may incur fees depending on the payment provider. For withdrawals, funds are returned via bank transfer; the minimum withdrawal amount is typically CHF 10, with SEPA transfers being lower cost and international wire withdrawals incurring higher fees. Swissquote offers crypto trading and custodial storage (no private wallets), and for select accounts, crypto deposits or withdrawals may be available. No fiat-to-crypto conversion is integrated for Canadians; all settlements are through fiat or Swissquote’s internal crypto accounts.
Good to know
Always verify both the accepted currencies and your destination account before requesting a withdrawal. Double-check for potential charges from your own bank and Swissquote—international wires may trigger additional fees outside Swissquote’s control.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | CHF, USD, EUR, GBP, others | CHF 1,000 | Instant to 1 business day | Card processing fee (typically 1.75–2.5%) |
| Bank transfer (SWIFT/SEPA) | CHF, USD, EUR, GBP, others | CHF 1,000 | 1–3 business days | Free for incoming, withdrawal: CHF 2+ |
| E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller) | EUR, USD (varies by service) | CHF 1,000 (equiv.) | Instant to 1 business day | Fees vary by provider (typically 1–3%) |
| Stablecoins or cryptos | BTC, ETH, LTC, 30+* (CFD & spot; not always for deposit/withdrawal) | Varies | Up to 1 business day (if permitted) | Network fee, see Swissquote fee schedule |
| Other local options | Not typically available to Canadian users | – | – | – |
Account Types
Swissquote is a global hybrid provider that combines features of a multi-asset broker (covering stocks, ETFs, options, bonds, forex, and CFDs) and a regulated crypto platform, with access to both spot and CFD trading on more than 35 cryptocurrencies. Although Swissquote does not currently accept Canadian clients, its account lineup serves as a leading benchmark internationally. The offering includes demo, standard, and professional accounts, as well as advanced trading tools through MT4, MT5, and proprietary platforms. Crypto-focused features such as cold storage are included, while tax-advantaged (TFSA/RRSP) accounts and Islamic (swap-free) accounts are generally unavailable. Canadian users seeking similar global exposure would need to research alternative international brokers.
| Account Type | Available | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | Unlimited duration, CHF 100,000 virtual capital, all assets and platforms for risk-free practice |
| Standard account | ✅ | Multi-asset (stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, crypto), CHF 1,000 minimum, full platform access |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; all execution via Swissquote or partner market makers |
| Islamic account | ❌ | Not explicitly advertised; may be available on special request, but not core to the Swissquote offer |
| Professional account | ✅ | For eligible high-volume/experienced traders, higher leverage, tiered trading conditions |
| CFD account | ✅ | Forex, commodities, indices, single-stock and ETF CFDs; up to 1:100 leverage (varies by regulation) |
| Classic securities account | ✅ | Direct ownership of stocks, ETFs, bonds, and structured products |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; no crypto staking or DeFi earning features |
| Cold storage account | ✅ | Custodial cold storage for supported crypto assets; high security for crypto holdings |
| Tax-advantaged account | ❌ | No Canadian TFSA, RRSP, or RESP accounts |
| Accepted base currencies | ✅ | Wide selection: CHF, USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, AUD, and others; CAD not default base, but accepted for funding |
Trip
Use the unlimited demo account to fully explore Swissquote’s platforms and instruments before committing funds. If you plan to trade both securities and crypto, check fee structures per asset class and always enable two-factor authentication for maximum security—especially when using cold storage for digital assets.
How does Swissquote compare to competitors?
How does Swissquote compare to competitors?
| Swissquote | Qtrade | Revolut | IFC Markets | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | CHF 1,000 (approx. $1,500 CAD) | $0 | $0 | $1 (Micro Account) |
| Number of instruments | 3,000+ | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Bonds, Mutual Funds) | 4,000+ US stocks, 100+ crypto | 600+ (Forex, CFDs on stocks, indices, crypto) |
| Spreads | EUR/USD: from 1.1 pips USD/JPY: from 1.2 pips Gold: from 0.18 USD | Not available (no Forex/CFDs) Stock commissions from $8.75/trade | Currency exchange markups, high crypto fees (1.5%+) | EUR/USD: from 0.4 pips GBP/USD: from 0.6 pips Gold: from $0.20 |
| Trading platforms | Advanced Trader, MT4, MT5, eTrading | Proprietary Web & Mobile | Revolut App (Mobile & Web), Revolut X | NetTradeX, MT4, MT5 |
| Regulation | FINMA (Switzerland), FCA (UK), others Not available in CA | IIROC, CIPF Member | E-money institution (FCA), not a licensed broker in CA | BVI FSC (Offshore), not regulated in CA |
| Demo account | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Read the review | Read the review Qtrade | Read the review Revolut | Read the review IFC Markets |
USD/JPY: from 1.2 pips
Gold: from 0.18 USD
Stock commissions from $8.75/trade
GBP/USD: from 0.6 pips
Gold: from $0.20
Not available in CA
Customer reviews
Swissquote has a Trustpilot score of 3.6 out of 5, based on over 1,280 reviews as of 2025.
Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Wide range of products, including stocks, forex, CFDs, and crypto
- Advanced and user-friendly trading platforms (Advanced Trader, MT4, MT5)
- Strong regulatory credentials (FINMA, FCA) and public listing
- Reliable trade execution and market data
- Responsive customer service for most inquiries
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Relatively high fees, especially for stock trading and international transfers
- Account verification and approval can take longer than expected
- Limited product options and access for some regions, including Canada
- No copy trading features and limited educational resources
- Some users report slow or inconsistent customer support during peak times
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
N.B. – 03/05/2025 : “Swissquote offers a wide range of products and is very reliable, but the fees are a bit high compared to other brokers.”
R.T. – 18/04/2025 : “The platform is user-friendly and customer service is responsive, but account verification took longer than expected.”
C.L. – 29/03/2025 : “I appreciate the security and regulation, but wish there were more options for Canadians.”
FAQ
Is Swissquote regulated in CA?
Swissquote is not regulated in Canada and does not currently accept Canadian residents as clients. Its main regulatory licenses are in Switzerland (FINMA), the UK (FCA), and several other international jurisdictions, but none of these grant access or Canadian investor protection to local clients.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The standard minimum deposit to open an international account with Swissquote is CHF 1,000, which is roughly $1,500 CAD. Some account types may require higher minimum deposits depending on the services or instruments chosen.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
Swissquote does not routinely offer welcome bonuses or incentives to new clients. Any temporary promotions are rare and primarily targeted at international users outside of Canada, due to regulatory and compliance considerations.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
Swissquote offers leverage up to 1:100 for eligible forex products, but actual leverage is determined by account type, jurisdiction, and regulatory constraints. In Switzerland or the EU, maximum leverage for retail clients is typically limited to 1:30. Leverage on indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies is lower.
How does Swissquote make money?
Swissquote generates revenue through trading commissions, spreads on forex and CFDs, account and currency conversion fees, as well as charges for premium services. Other revenue streams include inactivity fees and withdrawal charges for some international transactions.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote was founded in Switzerland, is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange, and is managed by an experienced executive team. The company has grown into a leading Swiss banking and trading platform with global clients and multiple offices worldwide.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as one of Europe’s first online financial information platforms, before becoming a fully licensed bank and global brokerage firm offering multi-asset trading services.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading or social trading?
Copy trading and social trading are not core features on Swissquote. While some tools or managed solutions exist, these are limited in scope and not widely promoted, with most trading expected to be self-directed on their platforms.
How can I contact Swissquote’s customer service?
Swissquote offers customer support via phone, email, live chat, and secure messaging through its platforms. Support is available Monday to Friday, typically during European business hours. There is no dedicated support for Canadian residents due to account restrictions.
Does Swissquote offer any promotions or referral programs?
Swissquote does not advertise regular referral, cashback, or rewards programs, especially for users in Canada. Any promotional offers are limited, infrequent, and usually directed at international or existing clients in regions where Swissquote operates.
Is Swissquote regulated in CA?
Swissquote is not regulated in Canada and does not currently accept Canadian residents as clients. Its main regulatory licenses are in Switzerland (FINMA), the UK (FCA), and several other international jurisdictions, but none of these grant access or Canadian investor protection to local clients.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The standard minimum deposit to open an international account with Swissquote is CHF 1,000, which is roughly $1,500 CAD. Some account types may require higher minimum deposits depending on the services or instruments chosen.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
Swissquote does not routinely offer welcome bonuses or incentives to new clients. Any temporary promotions are rare and primarily targeted at international users outside of Canada, due to regulatory and compliance considerations.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
Swissquote offers leverage up to 1:100 for eligible forex products, but actual leverage is determined by account type, jurisdiction, and regulatory constraints. In Switzerland or the EU, maximum leverage for retail clients is typically limited to 1:30. Leverage on indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies is lower.
How does Swissquote make money?
Swissquote generates revenue through trading commissions, spreads on forex and CFDs, account and currency conversion fees, as well as charges for premium services. Other revenue streams include inactivity fees and withdrawal charges for some international transactions.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote was founded in Switzerland, is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange, and is managed by an experienced executive team. The company has grown into a leading Swiss banking and trading platform with global clients and multiple offices worldwide.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as one of Europe’s first online financial information platforms, before becoming a fully licensed bank and global brokerage firm offering multi-asset trading services.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading or social trading?
Copy trading and social trading are not core features on Swissquote. While some tools or managed solutions exist, these are limited in scope and not widely promoted, with most trading expected to be self-directed on their platforms.
How can I contact Swissquote’s customer service?
Swissquote offers customer support via phone, email, live chat, and secure messaging through its platforms. Support is available Monday to Friday, typically during European business hours. There is no dedicated support for Canadian residents due to account restrictions.
Does Swissquote offer any promotions or referral programs?
Swissquote does not advertise regular referral, cashback, or rewards programs, especially for users in Canada. Any promotional offers are limited, infrequent, and usually directed at international or existing clients in regions where Swissquote operates.
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