The Swissquote broker at a glance
- Wide range of assets available: more than 3,000 shares, 150 ETFs, 30 indices, 50 currency pairs, commodities, bonds, cryptocurrencies
- Swissquote's proprietary platform is intuitive and comprehensive, available on browser and mobile
- Access to MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 for technical profiles
- Direct trading in stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies and derivatives
- Strict regulation by FINMA (Switzerland) and registration with the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC)
- Client funds segregated in Swiss banks, additional insurance included
- Multi-currency account available, with up to 22 currencies
- Advanced tools: stock screener, fundamental analysis, market reports
- Secure interface with strong authentication (2FA)
- Access to Robo-Advisory and managed solutions
- Inactivity fees of CHF 10 per month after 6 months without operation
- Commissions on real shares higher than some competitors
- High currency conversion fees (up to 1%) in the absence of a multi-currency account
- Leverage more limited than other CFD brokers (up to 1:30 for individuals)
- No native copy trading or social trading
- What to think of Swissquote?
- My review of the security and reliability of the broker Swissquote
- My opinion on the fees, spreads and commissions applied to Swissquote
- My opinion on the assets & markets available on Swissquote
- My opinion on the platform
- Client Reviews: What Users Think of Swissquote
- Account opening, deposits and withdrawals on Swissquote
- Conclusion: Should you invest with Swissquote?
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Swissquote is one of the leaders in online trading in Switzerland, and also positions itself as a complete digital bank. The platform, rated 3.9/5 out of over 1,900 reviews on Trustpilot, is particularly renowned for the quality of its regulation, its meticulous proprietary interface, and the diversity of its instruments available for real purchase or via CFDs.
I’ve spent the last 6 months signing up, testing and thoroughly analysing Swissquote, and I’ve sought to compare the platform to other regulated and popular online brokers in Australia.
In short, I was trying to answer questions like: can Swissquote be trusted? Is the platform easy to pick up, intuitive for beginners? How much does it cost to trade with Swissquote and can a diversified portfolio of assets be built? What features does the trader offer vs. other online brokers?
So I went through everything with a fine-tooth comb: account opening process, management and trading fees, financial instruments available, features, simplicity of the platform (desktop and mobile) and trading tools etc. Below is my in-depth analysis of the Swissquote broker (compared to other platforms tested).
What to think of Swissquote?
My overall opinion of Swissquote
After several weeks of testing, I can say that Swissquote clearly stands out from the majority of online brokers, particularly due to its banking regulation in Switzerland and its hybrid positioning between an investment bank and a trading platform. The platform is solid, reliable, and allows access to both traditional markets (stocks, bonds, ETF) and more dynamic products such as CFDs, Forex, or cryptocurrencies.
On the assets side, the offer is among the broadest I have tested: more than 60 global markets accessible, 3,000 stocks, around fifty currency pairs, ETFs, indices, commodities, structured products, and even direct cryptos. The possibility of investing both directly (excluding CFDs) and with leverage is a real plus for mixing long-term and short-term approaches.
Regarding tools, the Swissquote proprietary platform is well-designed, ergonomic and accessible via browser and mobile application. More technical traders can switch to MetaTrader 4 or 5 depending on their profile. I appreciated the screening tools, fundamental analyses and integrated news feeds. However, there is no native copy trading solution, which some may miss.
Fees are higher than with purely CFD or low-cost brokers. For example, commissions on shares can reach $10 per order, and conversion fees up to 1%. However, spreads are quite competitive on Forex, especially with the Prime account. Fee transparency is good, with very few hidden costs.
Finally, in terms of security, Swissquote is, in my opinion, irreproachable: regulated by ASIC, client funds segregated, additional protection thanks to its status as a bank, and secure access via strong authentication. It's a platform in which I have complete confidence to hold a significant portion of my trading capital.
Check out the best brokers in Australia!Compare brokersWho is Swissquote Suitable For?
=> For experienced investors who want to access a wide range of instruments while benefiting from a rigorous regulatory framework. Swissquote offers an impressive diversity of markets, with access to over 60 global exchanges, and allows for genuine long-term investment with actual ownership of stocks and ETFs, which is rare for a trading-oriented platform.
=> For professional or active traders who are looking for stable execution and powerful trading tools like MetaTrader 5 or the in-house eTrading platform. The Prime account, for example, allows you to benefit from reduced rates from $16,000 deposit, with competitive spreads on Forex and optimised fees for frequent orders.
=> To Forex and CFD traders who want to trade with leverage in a secure environment. Swissquote offers leverage up to 1:30 for retail clients and up to 1:100 for professionals, with a varied choice of currencies, indices and commodities. Risk management is facilitated by comprehensive stop loss and margin monitoring tools.
On the other hand, Swissquote may be less suitable for small investors or beginner traders looking for low entry fees. The high minimum deposit ($1,650 AUD) and fixed brokerage fees per order may deter those who want to start with small positions or test without committing too much financially.
Swissquote in a few seconds, it's:
Features | Details |
---|---|
Minimum deposit | $1,000 |
Regulations | FINMA (Switzerland), MFSA (Malta), DFSA (Dubai), SFC (Hong Kong), FCA (UK) |
AMF registration | No |
Available assets | Equities (60,000+), ETFs (1,700+), cryptocurrencies (35+), currencies (130+), commodities, indices, bonds |
Trading tools | eTrading (proprietary platform), MetaTrader 4 and 5, Swissquote mobile app |
Demo account | Yes, available with fictitious $100,000 |
Copy trading | Yes, via the MetaTrader platform with integrated plugins and tools |
Islamic account | Not available |
Main options | Stop Loss, Take Profit, Limit Orders, Conditional Orders |
Leverage | Up to 1:30 for private customers, 1:100 for professionals |
Fees | Stocks: From CHF 9 per order Forex: Spreads from 0.6 pips Crypto: 1% commission per transaction Inactivity fee: CHF 10/month after 6 months Withdrawal: CHF 2 per transfer |
Customer support | email, phone, contact form, chat |
Verified Trustpilot Reviews | 3,9/5 (1 941 reviews) |
Forex: Spreads from 0.6 pips
Crypto: 1% commission per transaction
Inactivity fee: CHF 10/month after 6 months
Withdrawal: CHF 2 per transfer
My review of the security and reliability of the broker Swissquote
As a trader, I consider Swissquote to be one of the most reliable brokers on the market. Its status as a Swiss bank, its supervision by the FINMA, and its strict regulatory obligations make it a safe bet for trading with confidence, especially from Australia where it is fully authorised to offer its services.
Indicator | Description | Risk management |
---|---|---|
Regulatory Compliance | FINMA (Suisse), MFSA (Malte), FCA (Royaume-Uni), SFC (Hong Kong), DFSA (Dubaï), ASIC (Australie) | Excellent |
Funds security | Segregated client accounts, Swissquote is a listed bank, Swiss banking security, no specific insurance but standard banking protection | Very good |
Risk management tools | Stop-loss, take-profit, controlled margins, limited leverage, real-time account monitoring | Very good |
Notoriété & couverture | Internationally recognized platform, listed on the stock exchange, more than 400,000 customers, Trustpilot rating 3.9/5 | Very good |
Swissquote enjoys a solid reputation in the banking and online brokerage world, particularly due to its unique status as an online bank. For a trader based in Australia, it's a reassuring choice both regulatorily and operationally. The tools available also allow for good control of market risks.
My opinion on the fees, spreads and commissions applied to Swissquote
What I observed at Swissquote is a rather high-end fee structure, reflecting its positioning as a Swiss online bank. The fees are clearly displayed but higher than those of many low-cost CFD brokers, especially for stocks and withdrawals. However, the quality of service, security, and range of instruments offered, in my opinion, justify some of these costs.
The basic account allows you to trade a very wide range of assets, but it is clearly not the most economical platform for ultra-frequent trading. Spreads are fair on Forex (from 0.6 pips), and fixed fees are especially visible on stocks, ETFs or withdrawals. For me, Swissquote is primarily aimed at investors who prioritize a secure framework and reliable tools rather than an aggressive pricing policy.
Let's now look in detail at the broker's fee schedule.
What are the account fees?
Type of Fee | Conditions at Swissquote | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Opening Fee | Free | $5 – $10 |
Management Fee | No annual account maintenance fees, but commissions on each transaction | 0.1 – 0.2% |
Withdrawal Fee | $2 CHF per transfer in local currency; up to $10 CHF depending on the currency and country | $5 – $10 |
Inactivity Fee | $10 CHF/month after 6 months of inactivity | $5 – $15 |
Conversion Fee | 0.95% for most foreign currencies; reduced rate for Premium accounts | Variable depending on the brokers |
I found Swissquote's pricing policy to be generally transparent but a little high on some operations, such as currency conversions or withdrawals. There are no management fees, which compensates slightly, and the account remains accessible without volume conditions. For demanding investors, this is acceptable, but you have to be aware of it.
The minimum deposit of $1,000 is relatively high compared to other online brokers. This confirms that Swissquote targets a more engaged user profile, who wants to access banking services in addition to a multi-asset trading account.
Trader Tip
To limit conversion costs, I use Revolut or Wise to transfer my funds in CHF or EUR before depositing them. And to avoid inactivity fees, I've set a monthly alert to log in to the account, even if I don't trade.
What are the fees on shares and ETFs?
Type of fees | Conditions | Market average |
---|---|---|
Commission | From $9 AUD per transaction (depending on the amount invested and the market) | 0.10 % |
Spread fee | Included in market fees, varies according to the order book | 0.10 % |
Overnight fee | No overnight fees if investing in cash; only in CFD | Variable |
Custody fee | From 0.025 % per quarter, with a minimum of $15 AUD | Variable |
Swissquote offers a genuine long-term investment option, with the purchase of shares and ETFs outright, which remains rare for a platform also specialising in CFD trading. The fixed fees are clearly higher than with neo-brokers like Trade Republic or Boursorama, but in exchange you benefit from multi-market access, a quality interface and Swiss banking support. For more frequent investments or small amounts, these fees may however weigh on profitability.
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Type of fees | Conditions | Market average |
---|---|---|
Buy/Sell fee | 1% per transaction up to $10,000 (decreasing to 0.5% for over $500,000) | 0,75 % |
Spread fee | Included | 0,5 – 1 % |
Overnight fee | None if purchased directly; CFD subject to standard overnight fees | Variable |
Custody fee | None | Variable |
Swissquote remains more expensive than crypto exchanges like Binance, Bybit, or Kraken, but the broker caters to investors seeking a regulated and secure framework for buying cryptos. Purchases are made directly, without leverage by default, and crypto-assets are held by Swissquote in partnership with cold storage solutions. For staking or very frequent operations, it's better to use a specialized platform. For long-term holdings, Swissquote is a safe alternative.
What are the CFD fees?
Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at Swissquote | Overnight Fees | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|---|
Stocks | 1:5 | From 0.25% | Variable interest depending on position | 0.10% + fees |
Gold | 1:20 | From $0.25 | Yes, depending on the size and duration of the trade | 0.05% |
Oil (WTI) | 1:10 | From $0.03 | Yes | 0.03 – $0.05 |
EUR/USD | 1:30 | From 0.8 pip | Yes, calculated every night | 1 pip |
EUR/GBP | 1:30 | From 1.0 pip | Yes | 1 pip |
CAC 40 | 1:20 | From 1 point | Yes | 1 – 2 points |
BTCUSD | 1:2 | From $50 | Yes, higher than other assets | 0.75% + commission |
Bonds | Not specified | Variable | Yes | Variable |
I found Swissquote's CFD pricing to be quite competitive on certain assets like Forex and indices, but a little higher on CFD stocks and cryptos. The interface nevertheless allows you to clearly visualise the cost of a position before opening it, which limits unpleasant surprises. Overnight fees are standard but can quickly weigh on long positions. It is therefore better to favour short-term strategies.
Trader Tip
If you trade crypto CFDs, keep a close eye on the overnight fee schedule. Swissquote charges for positions open after 11:00 PM (Sydney time), so it's best to close them before this time to avoid accumulating fees over several days.
My opinion on the assets & markets available on Swissquote
Assets | Type (Direct and/or CFD) | Number | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|
Shares | Direct + CFD | 60,000+ | 2,500 |
ETFs | Direct + CFD | 9,000+ | 200 |
Cryptocurrencies | Direct + CFD | 35 | 10 |
Currencies | CFD | 80+ | 50 |
Commodities | CFD | 26 | 20 |
Indices | CFD | 26 | 12 |
Bonds | Direct | 500+ | Variable |
NFTs | Not Available | - | N/A |
When testing Swissquote, I was impressed by the breadth of their offerings. They are one of the few brokers to offer both CFD trading and direct investment in shares, ETFs and bonds. You can access over 60 global markets, opening the door to genuine international diversification.
The range of cryptocurrencies is a bit more limited than at specialised exchanges, but it covers the main market capitalisations. What makes the difference in my opinion is the possibility of having direct exposure to all these assets from a single secure banking interface, without multiplying accounts or platforms. This is a real plus for those who want to centralise their wealth management.
My opinion on the platform
Features | Details |
---|---|
Mobile App | Yess, via Swissquote Mobile App on iOS & Android |
Ergonomics | Very clear and professional interface, also suitable for long-term investors |
Software compatibility | Swissquote Web, MetaTrader 4 & MetaTrader 5 |
Types of orders | Market orders, limit, stop, trailing stop, take profit |
Graphical or technical analysis | Integrated charting tools, technical indicators available |
Auto trading / automated strategies | Possible via MetaTrader with Expert Advisors (EA) |
Algorithmic trading | Yes, via MetaTrader 4 & 5 |
Negative balance protection | Yes, for individual customers |
Trading signals | Yes, via Autochartist & Trading Central |
Asset research and screening | Yes, very good search engine integrated into the web interface |
Purchase of cash shares | Yes, available for over 60,000 international titles |
As a trader, I found the Swissquote platform particularly well-designed for managing a diversified portfolio. The mobile application allows you to monitor your positions in real time, the Web and MetaTrader interfaces offer advanced technical tools, and the asset search is fast, fluid and reliable.
I also appreciated the ability to invest directly in stocks, ETFs and even bonds, which is not common among online brokers. The platform is aimed at both technical traders and long-term investors, with a real professional navigation structure.
Trader Tip
Activate smart notifications in the Swissquote app to track your alert levels on the assets you are monitoring in real time. This allows you to react quickly, especially if you are working in parallel or don’t always have your eye on your charts.
Client Reviews: What Users Think of Swissquote
Swissquote has an average rating of 3.9/5 on Trustpilot, based on 1,941 reviews. This is a solid score that generally reflects user confidence in this online trading-oriented bank. Many customers appreciate the Swiss reliability and transparency of services, although some frustrations emerge regarding fees and customer service.
Among the most frequently cited positive points are: the quality of the web and mobile platform, the variety of instruments available and the stability of services. The security of funds and regulation in Switzerland are also elements that reassure many users.
On the criticism side, several users complain about sometimes high fees, especially on withdrawals or shares. Others point out slow response times from customer support, especially during peak activity. Some comments also mention a lack of clarity in the fee structure.
Examples of customer reviews:
D.B (February 12, 2024) : « Very good interface and Swiss reliability, but fees are too high for small portfolios. »
H.H (January 23, 2024) : « The mobile application is very well done, but customer service sometimes takes a while to respond. »
C.R (March 7, 2024) : « Swissquote remains one of the safest platforms for investing, but pay attention to withdrawal fees. »
Account opening, deposits and withdrawals on Swissquote
Account opening
Step | Verified Details |
---|---|
Opening Procedure | 100% online via the Swissquote website, with secure electronic signature |
Validation Time | Generally within 24 hours after document verification |
Accepted Deposit Methods | Bank transfer only |
Minimum Amount Required | $1,000 for a real account; demo account accessible without deposit |
Documents to Provide | Proof of identity (card or passport) + proof of address < 3 months |
Tip | Prepare your documents in advance to speed up the process |
Opening an account with Swissquote was straightforward. I found the procedure well-designed, with a secure and fluid interface for submitting documents. Validation was quick, in less than 24 hours in my case. Here are the steps to follow:
- Access the account opening form on the Swissquote website
- Fill in your personal details and choose the account type (eTrading, Forex/CFD, Robo-Advisor)
- Answer the regulatory financial assessment questionnaire
- Upload your identity document and a recent proof of address
- Electronically sign the contract
- Wait for the confirmation email and log in to your customer area
Good to know
The demo account can be activated once the account opening is validated. It allows you to test the platform with virtual funds on the real Swissquote interface, which is ideal for getting your bearings before investing.
Swissquote Deposits and Withdrawals
Type | Méthodes autorisées | Devises disponibles | Montants minimum |
---|---|---|---|
Dépôt | Virement bancaire (SEPA ou SWIFT) | EUR, CHF, USD, GBP, JPY, AUD, CAD | $1,600 (ou équivalent) |
Retrait | Virement bancaire uniquement | Devise du compte | Aucun minimum indiqué |
Swissquote offers a highly secure deposit and withdrawal system, but it is a bit more rigid than other brokers. Bank transfer is the only method allowed, which can lengthen the delays (1 to 3 business days on average). However, the funds are clearly identified, traceable, and the fees are transparent.
Trader's Tip
To avoid unnecessary exchange fees, open your account in the same currency as your primary bank if possible. This allows you to deposit without conversion, especially if you trade in EUR or CHF.
Account Types Available on Swissquote
Swissquote offers a structured range of account types tailored to various profiles, from long-term investors to active traders. What sets it apart is the ability to invest both directly in the markets and via CFDs, with a high level of security and a professional interface.
Account Types | Available on Swissquote |
---|---|
Demo Account | ✅ Yes, accessible without deposit, with configurable virtual capital |
Islamic Account | ❌ No, not available at Swissquote |
Standard/STP Account | ✅ Yes, classic eTrading account without fixed commission |
Raw/ECN Account | ❌ No, no ECN account offered |
CFD Account | ✅ Yes, dedicated via opening a Forex/CFD account |
Securities Account | ✅ Yes, for investing spot on shares, ETFs and bonds |
Copy Trading | ❌ No, no native copy trading functionality |
Base currencies of the accounts | AUD, CHF, USD, GBP |
✅ Please note
Swissquote allows you to open several accounts according to your needs: an eTrading account for spot shares, a CFD account for leveraged trading, or a dedicated Forex account. The interface is centralised, but each account is technically separate.
Conclusion: Should you invest with Swissquote?
After several weeks of testing, I can say that Swissquote is a reliable platform designed for autonomous and demanding investors. What struck me was the stability of the interface, the richness of the accessible markets (shares, ETFs, currencies, CFDs, bonds) and the Australian regulatory framework, which reinforces confidence.
I particularly appreciated the ability to combine a long-term portfolio with a CFD account for more dynamic strategies. The fees are transparent, the user experience is smooth, and the security of funds is at a very good level thanks to the FINMA regulation and the deposit protection up to 100,000 CHF.
In summary, Swissquote caters to traders who want a reliable, multi-platform, and capable of covering all needs, from traditional investment to advanced analysis on MetaTrader 5.
Check out the best brokers in Australia!Compare brokersIs Swissquote regulated in Australia?
Swissquote is not directly registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), but operates under its regulation in Switzerland by the FINMA. It is a recognised and approved banking institution, allowing it to offer deposit protection up to CHF 100,000.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The minimum deposit depends on the account type. For an eTrading account (spot shares), no minimum amount is required. For a Forex/CFD account, the minimum deposit is 1,000 units in the base currency (e.g. $1,000 for an account in dollars). This entry barrier makes it more suitable for investors who already have initial capital.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
No, Swissquote does not offer a welcome bonus for clients, in accordance with regulations on financial advertising. The broker does not promote any regular promotional offers either.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
The maximum leverage depends on the client's status and the asset type. For retail clients in Australia, the leverage is limited according to ASIC regulations. Professional traders may have access to higher leverage on certain instruments.
How does Swissquote make money?
Swissquote generates revenue through several channels: commissions on shares and ETFs (minimum 9 CHF/$/$ depending on the stock exchange), spreads on CFDs and Forex, as well as ancillary fees such as custody and inactivity fees. The entire pricing structure is detailed on their website, with a high level of transparency.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote Group Holding SA is a Swiss online bank listed on the stock exchange (SIX: SQN), founded in 1996. Its headquarters are in Gland, Switzerland. It also has subsidiaries in London, Dubai, Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong, reinforcing its international presence.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as a company specialising in financial analysis before becoming a full-fledged bank in 2000. Since then, it has continued to develop its online trading and investment services for individuals and professionals.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading?
No, Swissquote does not offer a native copy trading feature like eToro or ZuluTrade. However, traders can use MetaTrader 5 to integrate automated strategies or connect third-party services compatible with the platform.
How to contact Swissquote customer service?
Customer service can be reached by telephone (Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 10 pm), by email, and via a contact form on the website. Swissquote also offers customer service. During tests, the responses were quick (less than an hour by email) and relevant.
Does Swissquote offer promotions?
No, Swissquote does not offer commercial promotions or trading contests. The platform's strategy is based more on reliability and the quality of the offer than on marketing campaigns or bonuses.
Is Swissquote regulated in Australia?
Swissquote is not directly registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), but operates under its regulation in Switzerland by the FINMA. It is a recognised and approved banking institution, allowing it to offer deposit protection up to CHF 100,000.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The minimum deposit depends on the account type. For an eTrading account (spot shares), no minimum amount is required. For a Forex/CFD account, the minimum deposit is 1,000 units in the base currency (e.g. $1,000 for an account in dollars). This entry barrier makes it more suitable for investors who already have initial capital.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
No, Swissquote does not offer a welcome bonus for clients, in accordance with regulations on financial advertising. The broker does not promote any regular promotional offers either.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
The maximum leverage depends on the client's status and the asset type. For retail clients in Australia, the leverage is limited according to ASIC regulations. Professional traders may have access to higher leverage on certain instruments.
How does Swissquote make money?
Swissquote generates revenue through several channels: commissions on shares and ETFs (minimum 9 CHF/$/$ depending on the stock exchange), spreads on CFDs and Forex, as well as ancillary fees such as custody and inactivity fees. The entire pricing structure is detailed on their website, with a high level of transparency.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote Group Holding SA is a Swiss online bank listed on the stock exchange (SIX: SQN), founded in 1996. Its headquarters are in Gland, Switzerland. It also has subsidiaries in London, Dubai, Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong, reinforcing its international presence.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as a company specialising in financial analysis before becoming a full-fledged bank in 2000. Since then, it has continued to develop its online trading and investment services for individuals and professionals.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading?
No, Swissquote does not offer a native copy trading feature like eToro or ZuluTrade. However, traders can use MetaTrader 5 to integrate automated strategies or connect third-party services compatible with the platform.
How to contact Swissquote customer service?
Customer service can be reached by telephone (Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 10 pm), by email, and via a contact form on the website. Swissquote also offers customer service. During tests, the responses were quick (less than an hour by email) and relevant.
Does Swissquote offer promotions?
No, Swissquote does not offer commercial promotions or trading contests. The platform's strategy is based more on reliability and the quality of the offer than on marketing campaigns or bonuses.