DEGIRO

DEGIRO is a European stockbroker founded in 2008 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It offers online brokerage services to retail clients, allowing them to trade a variety of securities including stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, futures, and crypto. The company expanded rapidly and, in 2020, was acquired by German flatex AG. In 2021, the two merged to form flatexDEGIRO Bank SE, a licensed German bank regulated by BaFin and the Bundesbank. DEGIRO operates as a brand under this bank, with branches in the Netherlands and Austria.

The broker is known for its low-cost, commission-based fee structure, which has made it popular among self-directed investors across Europe. It provides a web-based trading platform and a mobile app, along with educational resources. DEGIRO positions itself as a broker for everyone, aiming to empower individuals to become independent investors.

DEGIRO, as a brand of flatexDEGIRO Bank SE, is subject to German banking regulation. The bank is primarily supervised by the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) and the Deutsche Bundesbank. This regulatory framework means client funds must be segregated and the firm must comply with strict capital adequacy and conduct standards. However, our internal records list no regulators on file for DEGIRO specifically, which may indicate a discrepancy or outdated information; traders should verify current regulatory status directly with the broker.

Despite this, the broker's website clearly states its regulatory credentials. It notes that flatexDEGIRO Bank SE provides execution-only services and does not offer investment advice. The merger with flatex AG has strengthened its capital base and oversight. For clients in Ireland, the broker operates via a branch establishment under European passporting rights.

DEGIRO offers four account profiles: Basic, Active, Trader, and Day Trader. The Basic profile has the lowest risk and restricts the use of derivatives and margin. The higher-tier profiles allow trading on margin (Debit Money) and short selling (Debit Securities), with the Day Trader profile offering the highest leverage but also the highest risk. Importantly, the broker now restricts the ability to upgrade to a margin-enabled profile; only legacy accounts that already had these profiles can continue using them. New accounts start with the Basic profile by default.

Accounts are denominated in euros, and the broker does not charge account maintenance fees. Deposit methods typically include bank transfer and credit/debit cards, though availability varies by region. The broker offers a cost calculator to help clients estimate fees based on their trading strategy. It also provides a demo account for practice (though not prominently advertised on the main website).

DEGIRO's primary trading platform is its proprietary Webtrader, accessible via desktop browser, and a mobile app for iOS and Android. The platform provides real-time quotes, charting tools, news feeds, and order management. It also integrates ESG ratings and Analyst Views from LSEG Data & Analytics. Advanced order types are available, but the platform is generally designed for straightforward execution rather than complex strategies.

The broker offers a broad range of instruments: stocks, ETFs, bonds, structured products, options, futures, and cryptocurrencies. It provides access to over 50 exchanges worldwide, including major European exchanges and US exchanges. For ETFs, it has a Core Selection of over 200 ETFs that trade with zero commission (only handling fee). Crypto trading is available with a 0.5% commission per trade. DEGIRO does not offer leveraged forex trading or CFDs, focusing instead on direct market access securities trading.

DEGIRO emphasizes low and transparent fees. For stock trading on Euronext Dublin, the commission is €2 plus a €1 handling fee per trade. US stocks cost €1 commission plus €1 handling.

ETFs worldwide have a €2 commission plus €1 handling, while the ETF Core Selection has no commission but a €1 handling fee. Options are charged €0.75 per contract. Crypto trades incur a 0.5% commission.

There are no account inactivity fees or custody fees for standard accounts. Connectivity and external product costs may also apply.

The broker's fee calculator allows users to estimate costs based on their trading pattern. DEGIRO does not charge for depositing funds via bank transfer, but currency conversion fees apply if trading in non-euro instruments. Overall, the fee structure is competitive for European retail investors who trade infrequently or in low volumes.

DEGIRO is designed for self-directed retail investors who want low-cost access to a wide range of securities. It is particularly suited to European residents seeking to trade on local and international exchanges without high commissions. The broker does not offer investment advice or portfolio management, so it is best for those who make their own trading decisions. The account profiles cater to different risk appetites, from conservative (Basic) to aggressive (Day Trader), though the higher-risk profiles are no longer available to new clients.

Because DEGIRO does not offer leveraged forex or CFD products, it may not appeal to traders seeking high-leverage speculation. Instead, it is a traditional stockbroker that also provides crypto and derivatives. The educational resources, including an Investor's Academy and documentary series, support beginners. The broker's mission is to empower investors to become 'the smartest self-directed investors' they can be.

DEGIRO is a prominent European online broker known for low fees and a wide product range. Its integration with flatexDEGIRO Bank SE adds regulatory oversight under BaFin, though our independent records show no regulators on file, which may require clarification. The broker is suitable for cost-conscious investors who want to trade stocks, ETFs, bonds, and derivatives on major exchanges.

The account profile system provides some flexibility, but margin trading is restricted. DEGIRO's platform is user-friendly and award-winning, though advanced traders may find it lacking in sophisticated tools. Overall, DEGIRO appears to be a legitimate and well-established broker with a strong European presence.