DEGIRO Broker Review: Services, Fees, and Platform Analysis

Degiro Broker Review Overview & Company Background

Degiro is a European online broker founded in 2013 and headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It launched as a student-driven, low-cost stock trading platform and grew rapidly across Europe. By the late 2010s it became one of the region’s largest brokers, serving over 3 million clients in 15 countries and winning 100+ industry awards. In 2020 Degiro merged with German broker Flatex but remains its own brand. Today it is known for democratizing investing with technology: offering professional-grade market access at minimal cost and a strong emphasis on efficiency and transparency.

Pros & Cons Analysis

Is Degiro Broker Review Regulated and Safe?

Degiro is considered a Tier-1 regulated broker. Its operating entity, FlatexDEGIRO Bank AG (Dutch branch), is a licensed bank primarily supervised by Germany’s BaFin and registered with the Netherlands’ AFM and DNB. This means Degiro is subject to some of the toughest investor protection standards in Europe (strict capital requirements, regular audits). For UK customers, trading is facilitated via WealthKernel Ltd (FCA FRN 723719), although Degiro itself is not FCA-authorized (so UK accounts lack FSCS protection). In practice, the robust EU oversight and having client funds held by an independent custodian give high confidence and trust in the broker’s safety.

Active Licenses:

• AFM (Netherlands) – License No. 12048408 (FlatexDEGIRO Bank AG)
• FCA (UK) – FRN 723719 (WealthKernel Limited)
• BaFin (Germany) – Licensed German bank (HRB 105687)

Safety Measures:

• Client Fund Protection: Investor assets are fully segregated. All client securities are held by an independent custodian (via protected SPVs) separate from Degiro’s balance sheet. This means if Degiro were to fail, customer holdings remain secure and untouchable by creditors. Cash balances sit in individual bank accounts at flatexDEGIRO Bank AG. By law this ensures clients keep economic ownership.
• Compensation Schemes: Uninvested cash in each account is held with flatexDEGIRO Bank and is covered by the German Deposit Guarantee Scheme up to €100,000 per person. (There is no specific EU investor fund for stocks, but the segregation above protects that capital.) Degiro charges no custody or inactivity fees, so there are no hidden charges affecting safety.
• Negative Balance Protection: Degiro does not explicitly offer a negative-balance guarantee like retail FX brokers. Trading on margin (for legacy accounts) means positions must meet margin calls. If a client’s account goes negative, they must top up funds or close positions immediately. In other words, losses beyond equity must be covered by the client, so prudent traders should monitor margins carefully.
• Data Security & Encryption: All access to Degiro’s platform is encrypted (SSL/TLS) and the broker enforces strong security measures. Customers can enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for logins, and personal data is stored securely under European data-protection laws. Overall, Degiro applies industry-standard encryption and security protocols to keep user information safe.

Trading Conditions & Costs

✅ Instruments: Wide range including stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, futures and commodities across 45+ exchanges (Europe, US, Asia) with over 2 million tradable products available. (Investors can trade shares, ETFs/trackers, government/corporate bonds, mutual funds, stock options and futures indices, as well as non-UK ETFs).
✅ Spreads: No fixed spreads are offered – orders execute at actual market prices. Degiro does not add markups to the bid-ask spread; the only “spread cost” is the underlying market’s bid/ask difference. This means cost transparency (you only pay commissions and any normal exchange fees, no hidden spread).
✅ Commission: Very low flat fees. For example, US stocks cost just €1.00 commission + €1 handling per trade, UK stocks £1.75 + £1, European ETFs €2.00 + €1, and options €0.75 per contract. Selected “ETF Core” funds trade commission-free (just €1 fee). There are no inactivity or custody fees. (Currency conversion is 0.25% per FX trade.)
✅ Leverage: Modest margin trading is available (Active/Trader profiles) but subject to regulatory limits. Retail EU rules cap leverage (for example ~5:1 on major stocks). Degiro’s focus is on long-term investing rather than high-leverage trades. (No leveraged Forex or crypto trading is provided.)

• Instruments (detailed): Degiro’s offerings cover all major asset classes except proprietary derivatives and crypto. It supports global stock exchanges (NY, LSE, Euronext, etc.), wide ETF and bond selections, plus index options and futures. Traders can access thousands of blue-chip shares, ETFs (including a large core ETF list), sector funds and government bonds. Specialty products like warrants and covered warrants are available in certain markets. This breadth suits buy-and-hold and value investors well, although day traders should note there is no forex or CFD segment.
• Spreads (detailed): Since Degiro operates on an exchange-driven model, spreads come directly from exchange liquidity. There are no additional fixed spreads to account for. In practice, this means when you buy a stock you pay the current ask price (plus commission), and when selling you receive the bid price. Degiro’s pricing platform clearly shows market quotes (even 10-level depth) so traders can see the spread. For highly liquid stocks/ETFs, the bid-ask spread is usually very tight, minimizing implicit costs.
• Commission (detailed): Commissions are extremely competitive. For major markets, fees start as low as €1 per transaction (US stocks) or £1.75 (UK). A flat handling fee (typically €1 or £1) per trade applies as well. For ETFs on the designated core list, Degiro waives the commission entirely, charging only the nominal handling fee. Options trades cost just €0.75 per contract. All commissions are fixed amounts, so high-volume traders enjoy better economies of scale. There are absolutely no hidden markups – exchange fees, stamp duties or clearance levies (e.g. PTM Levy in UK) are transparent extra costs.
• Leverage (detailed): Basic Degiro accounts (Basic/Active) do not extend credit or margin. Only legacy “Trader” accounts (with debit money enabled) offer margin trading. Even then, leverage is modest by Forex/CFD standards. For example, on equities you might trade with roughly 5:1 leverage (20% margin requirement) subject to Degiro’s risk rules. Unlike CFD brokers, Degiro does not provide ultra-high leverage or allow short-selling easily. The margin levels depend on your chosen risk profile and the product’s risk classification. In short, Degiro caters more to regular investors; overnight financing is limited to these margin accounts and carries the usual risk of margin calls.

Degiro Broker Review Trading Platforms & Tools

Available Platforms:

✔ Web Trading Platform: Degiro’s core platform is a browser-based WebTrader that runs on any computer. It provides a clean, intuitive interface for order execution, portfolio tracking, real-time quotes and account management. Users can place trades with advanced order types, monitor positions, and customize layouts. (There is no downloadable desktop client or MetaTrader integration.) The platform receives regular upgrades and is designed for speed and ease of use.

✔ Mobile App (iOS & Android): The Degiro mobile app offers the same trading capabilities on smartphones/tablets. Through the app users can fund/withdraw accounts, check market data, set up watchlists and trade on the go. It features one-tap order entry, push notifications and biometric login options. Performance and features closely match the web platform, making it easy to manage trades from anywhere.

✔ No Third-Party Platforms: Degiro does not support third-party trading platforms (like MT4/MT5 or cTrader) or algorithmic APIs. All trading is done through Degiro’s own interfaces, which are web-based. This simplifies security but means automated or EAs strategies must be coded offline and executed manually through the platform.

Platform Features:

• Real-Time Quotes & Advanced Charting: Degiro’s platform includes real-time market data and interactive charts. Charts offer multiple timeframes, technical indicators and drawing tools. The platform even provides market depth (10 levels of the order book) so users can see liquidity for each instrument. Orders can be previewed on the chart. Overall, this supports thorough technical analysis directly on the platform.

• Integrated News & Analysis: The system pulls in global financial news and market summaries so traders stay informed. It also provides built-in Analyst Views and ESG ratings via LSEG Data & Analytics and Infront Technology. For example, you can see a stock’s ESG score, analyst price targets and sentiment trends alongside the trading interface. This eliminates the need to jump to external research.

• Custom Watchlists & Notes: Users can create multiple watchlists of favorite instruments. For each symbol you can add private notes or target prices. The interface also offers a customizable dashboard showing portfolio distribution and market performance. Dark mode and various color schemes are available to reduce eye strain during long sessions.

• Security Features: Account security is a priority. Besides the bank-grade encryption (SSL/TLS) securing all sessions, Degiro offers optional two-factor authentication (SMS/Authenticator) for login and trade confirmations. The platform logs all login activity and session locations. These safeguards help prevent unauthorized access and enhance trust.

• Seamless Trade Execution: With order entry built into both web and mobile platforms, placing trades is straightforward. Common order types (market, limit, stop) are supported, and orders can be given expiration instructions. Trade tickets also clearly display estimated costs (commissions + fees) before confirmation. Overall, the execution workflow is streamlined for both beginner and advanced users.

Research Tools:

• News Feeds: Degiro’s platforms include real-time financial news and market updates. Traders can read headlines and briefings about stocks or global markets directly within the interface (sourced from partners like Yahoo Finance). This helps gauge market sentiment without leaving the platform.

• Economic Calendar: A built-in economic calendar highlights key events (e.g. interest rate decisions, GDP releases) that may impact markets. Users can filter by country or importance and set alerts for upcoming events, aiding fundamental analysis.

• Analyst Ratings & ESG Data: Through integration with LSEG (and Infront), the platform shows third-party analysis and ESG scores for many securities. For example, one can quickly view an analyst consensus rating, target price or sustainability rating on a stock’s detail page. These are proprietary data feeds built into Degiro’s interface.

• Charting Tools: The charting module itself comes with dozens of technical indicators and drawing tools. While advanced algorithms or sentiment indicators aren’t provided, the platform covers most common technical analysis needs (moving averages, RSI, MACD, etc.). Overall, research features are built-in rather than requiring external plugins.

Degiro Broker Review Account Types & Minimum Deposit

Degiro does not require any minimum deposit to open an account – you can fund your account with any amount (even €1) via bank transfer. All account types share the same trading conditions and platform access. There are no fixed spreads as noted; “Spreads” reflect normal exchange bid/ask differences. Commissions are identical across Basic/Active/Trader – for example US shares are €1 + €1/handling, UK shares £1.75 + £1. Custody accounts have identical fees to Basic, but with extra safety (no margin or lending). All account types use the same WebTrader and mobile app platforms.

Special Features:

• Demo Account: Not offered. Instead, Degiro relies on its free account structure. New users can open a real account at no cost and deposit a small amount to try trading. There is no separate paper-trading mode, but an actual account has no inactivity risk or signup fee.
• Islamic (Swap-Free) Accounts: Not specifically available. Degiro does not provide dedicated Shariah-compliant accounts. However, since it operates on an execution-only model with flat commissions, there are no traditional overnight swap/financing charges on standard stock/ETF trades. Clients who require Islamic options would need to manually avoid interest-bearing products.
• VIP / Premium Accounts: Not applicable. Degiro does not advertise a VIP tier with extra perks. All clients use the same platform and fee schedule (aside from the Basic/Active/Trader profile choices). There are no dedicated account managers or premium support lines – customer service is uniform for all users.
• Managed Accounts: Not offered. Degiro is strictly an execution-only broker. It provides no portfolio management, advisory or social trading service. Every trade is self-initiated; the broker does not suggest or auto-manage positions. Investors must make their own investment decisions.

Deposits & Withdrawals

Degiro does not require any minimum deposit to open an account – you can fund your account with any amount (even €1) via bank transfer. All account types share the same trading conditions and platform access. There are no fixed spreads as noted; “Spreads” reflect normal exchange bid/ask differences. Commissions are identical across Basic/Active/Trader – for example US shares are €1 + €1/handling, UK shares £1.75 + £1. Custody accounts have identical fees to Basic, but with extra safety (no margin or lending). All account types use the same WebTrader and mobile app platforms.

Special Features:

• Demo Account: Not offered. Instead, Degiro relies on its free account structure. New users can open a real account at no cost and deposit a small amount to try trading. There is no separate paper-trading mode, but an actual account has no inactivity risk or signup fee.
• Islamic (Swap-Free) Accounts: Not specifically available. Degiro does not provide dedicated Shariah-compliant accounts. However, since it operates on an execution-only model with flat commissions, there are no traditional overnight swap/financing charges on standard stock/ETF trades. Clients who require Islamic options would need to manually avoid interest-bearing products.
• VIP / Premium Accounts: Not applicable. Degiro does not advertise a VIP tier with extra perks. All clients use the same platform and fee schedule (aside from the Basic/Active/Trader profile choices). There are no dedicated account managers or premium support lines – customer service is uniform for all users.
• Managed Accounts: Not offered. Degiro is strictly an execution-only broker. It provides no portfolio management, advisory or social trading service. Every trade is self-initiated; the broker does not suggest or auto-manage positions. Investors must make their own investment decisions.

Deposits & Withdrawals

Deposit Methods:

• Bank Transfer (SEPA): The primary funding method is a standard Euro bank transfer. You must transfer from your own reference bank account (no third-party accounts). Degiro provides unique account details in the trading platform. Funds usually arrive in 1–3 business days, with no deposit fee.
• Credit/Debit Card / E-wallet: Not supported. Degiro only accepts deposits by direct transfer. No card payments (VISA, Mastercard) or online wallets (PayPal, Skrill, etc.) can be used.
• Third-Party Transfers: Not permitted. Only transfers from a registered bank account in your name are accepted. Transfers from accounts not linked to your Degiro profile will be rejected.

Withdrawal Methods:

• Bank Transfer to Reference Account: Withdrawals can only be sent to your reference bank account (the same account used for deposits). You simply enter the withdrawal amount in the platform, and Degiro wires the cash back. There are no withdrawal fees.
• Processing: Withdrawals are processed promptly (usually same-day if requested before cutoff). Actual bank clearing typically takes 1–2 business days.

Processing Details:

• Processing Time: Deposits and withdrawals via bank transfer typically take 1–3 business days. Degiro credits your trading/cash account as soon as funds arrive.
• Deposit Fees: None (bank fees may apply on your end).
• Withdrawal Fees: None (funds return at no cost).
• Minimum / Maximum: No formal minimum or maximum limits per transaction (besides your available balance). In practice, you must deposit at least a token amount (e.g. €1). There are no set maximums; you can transfer any amount subject only to your bank’s limits.

How to trade with Degiro Broker Review? Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the Degiro website – Go to degiro.com and click “Open an account”.
2. Register an account – Fill in your personal details (name, address, email, etc.) in the registration form.
3. Verify contact info – Confirm your email and mobile number via the links/codes sent to you.
4. Upload KYC documents – Submit identity proof (ID/passport) and proof of address. Degiro will verify these as part of account approval.
5. Wait for approval – The broker reviews your application (usually within hours to a day). Once approved, you’ll get a login.
6. Fund your account – Log in and use the “Deposit” option. Choose “Manual transfer” and send money from your linked bank account. The funds will appear in your Degiro cash account in a couple of days.
7. Log in to the trading platform – Use the desktop WebTrader or download the mobile app. Enter your credentials to access the full trading interface.
8. Choose an instrument to trade – Search for the stock, ETF, bond or option you want. Click or tap the symbol to see its quote and chart.
9. Analyze and place an order – Use the built-in charting tools, news, and data to make your decision. Then click “Buy” or “Sell” and specify quantity, order type and any stop/limit conditions. Confirm the trade.
10. Monitor your trade – After execution, track your position in “My Portfolio”. You can add stop-loss/take-profit orders or close the position manually when you want.

In summary, Degiro offers a straightforward trading process: register online, verify your identity, deposit funds by bank transfer, then log in to the user-friendly platform (web or mobile) to place trades. The step-by-step interface is intuitive, guiding even beginners through buying or selling an asset. Low fees and accessible tools mean that from account opening to trade execution, the process is streamlined and relatively easy to follow for new investors.

Customer Support

Support Channels: Email and phone are the primary contact methods. Degiro provides customer service via email at klanten@degiro.nl and by phone at +31 20 535 3496 (Amsterdam office). There is also an extensive online Help Center (FAQ) on the website covering most common questions. There is no live chat or 24/7 helpline; support is mainly through these formal channels.

Support Hours: Degiro’s support team operates during European business hours on weekdays (roughly 09:00–17:30 CET Monday–Friday). Outside of market hours, responses may be slower. (No weekend support is provided.)

Additional Details:

• Multilingual support: Assistance is available in multiple languages (English, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, etc.) depending on your region.
• No VIP/private managers: Degiro does not assign dedicated account managers. All clients use the same support channels and help center resources.
• Response times: Official response times aren’t published. Anecdotal reports suggest email replies may take a day or two. Degiro’s streamlined, online-only model means customer service is lean, so complex issues may require patience.
• Regulatory notices: Important announcements (e.g. changes to fees or regulations) are communicated via the website and email. Clients should check the Help Center and inbox regularly.

Degiro Broker Review Final Verdict

“Ideal for European long-term investors seeking low-cost access to global stocks and ETFs with strong regulatory oversight.”

Avoid if: You need Forex/crypto trading, advanced platforms (e.g. MT4), or high leverage – Degiro offers none of these. Also skip Degiro if you’re outside Europe (it doesn’t serve US/Asia) or if you require 24/7 support and insured protection under UK/EU schemes (UK accounts lack FSCS, for example). Those needing fixed spreads, local bank deposits outside Europe, or portfolio management should look elsewhere.

Bottom Line: Degiro’s strength lies in its straightforward, low-cost execution model. With ultra-low commissions and an easy-to-use platform, it provides great value for buy-and-hold equity investors and ETF traders. Regulation is solid and client assets are safe. However, the platform is pared-down: it lacks CFDs, copy trading, or high-end tools, so it’s best suited for cost-conscious traders focused on stocks/funds in Europe and the US. Overall, for the right user profile, we recommend Degiro as a reliable, economical brokerage option.

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About Author

Robert J. Williams

Robert J. Williams, a finance graduate from the London School of Economics, dove into finance clubs during her studies, honing her skills in portfolio management and risk analysis. With a career spanning prestigious firms like Barclays and HSBC, she's become an authority in asset allocation and investment strategy, known for her insightful reports.

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