ActivTrades Review: Is It Safe? Fees, Pros and Cons

Forex

ActivTrades offers Forex trading with competitive spreads starting from as low as 0.5 pips on major currency pairs. This tight spread is a key feature for active and high-frequency traders, as it minimizes the cost of entering and exiting positions during volatile market sessions.

Shares

When trading shares via CFDs, the cost is primarily embedded in the spread rather than through separate commissions. Although the exact spread can vary depending on the underlying stock and market conditions, ActivTrades ensures transparent pricing with no hidden charges, allowing traders to focus on price movements.

Indices

For indices, the broker provides clear pricing with spreads that are typically in the vicinity of 1.7 pips on popular global indices. This transparent spread structure enables traders to gain exposure to broader market trends while keeping trading costs predictable.

Cryptocurrencies

ActivTrades also offers CFD trading on cryptocurrencies. Given the higher volatility and liquidity characteristics of digital assets, the spreads in this market tend to be wider compared to Forex pairs. However, all costs remain clearly displayed, so traders are always aware of the price difference between buying and selling.

ETFs

In the ETF trading segment, spreads are similarly competitive and are fully integrated into the pricing model. This allows traders to benefit from diversified exposure to various sectors or regions without incurring additional commission fees.

Bonds

When trading bonds via CFDs, the spread remains the primary cost component. Although the detailed spread figures for bonds are less frequently published, the pricing is designed to be competitive and transparent, helping traders manage their risk and costs effectively.

Commodities

For commodities, ActivTrades highlights extremely competitive spreads. For instance, Natural Gas can have spreads as low as 0.007, while Crude Oil spreads are around 0.4. Additionally, other commodities such as Brent and Gold feature tight spreads, ensuring that traders benefit from cost-effective execution in this asset class.

Deposit Fees

ActivTrades generally offers fee-free deposits through methods such as bank transfers and various e-wallets. Credit and debit card deposits are also free of charge, although a currency conversion fee of 0.5% applies when the deposit currency differs from the account base currency.

Withdrawal Fees

The broker’s withdrawal fees vary depending on the method chosen. While many withdrawal methods are free, certain bank transfer withdrawals may attract charges. For example, USD bank transfers for UK/EEA accounts might cost approximately $12.50 per transaction, and a flat fee of around £9 may apply for withdrawals under the Bahamian entity. Additionally, a currency conversion fee of 0.5% may be charged if the withdrawal currency differs from the currency in the trading account.

Inactivity Fee

If an account remains dormant for more than one year, ActivTrades applies an inactivity fee of roughly £10 per month. This fee is designed to cover administrative costs associated with maintaining inactive accounts until trading activity resumes or the balance is depleted.

Currency Conversion Fee

When trades involve an instrument whose quote currency is different from the account’s base currency, ActivTrades applies a currency conversion fee of about 0.5%. This fee ensures that profits and losses are accurately reflected in the account’s currency without hidden conversion costs.

Swap Fees

Swap fees, also known as rollover fees, are charged when a position is held overnight. These fees are based on the interest rate differential between the two currencies in a Forex pair or the financing cost for CFDs on other asset classes. The exact amount can vary depending on the specific instrument and market conditions. ActivTrades displays these fees transparently, allowing traders to plan their holding periods accordingly.

Furthermore, ActivTrades maintains a transparent fee structure with competitive spreads as the primary trading cost. For instance, in the Forex market, spreads can be as low as 0.5 pips on major currency pairs, while other asset classes such as commodities and indices feature similarly tight spreads tailored to the respective market conditions.

Although the broker does not charge additional commissions on most instruments, it does impose specific fees for deposit and withdrawal methods (for example, a currency conversion fee on deposits in a different currency and certain bank transfer withdrawals) as well as inactivity fees on dormant accounts. Swap fees for overnight positions are clearly displayed, ensuring that all costs are transparent and predictable.

The broker is licensed and regulated by several prominent authorities, each of which imposes rigorous standards to ensure transparency, security, and ethical business practices.

In the United Kingdom, ActivTrades is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The FCA is known for its strict oversight regarding client fund segregation, capital adequacy, and fair trading practices. This regulatory framework provides UK-based traders with a high level of confidence, as the FCA’s stringent requirements ensure that client assets are protected and that the broker maintains robust operational standards.

Moreover, as a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), ActivTrades offers additional safety for UK clients—should the firm face financial difficulties, eligible traders can receive compensation up to the FSCS limit.

For its international operations, ActivTrades is regulated by the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (often referred to as SEB in certain contexts). This oversight is critical for safeguarding the interests of non-UK clients and ensures that the broker’s operations in offshore jurisdictions adhere to global best practices. The regulatory scrutiny provided by the Bahamian authority contributes to a secure and transparent trading environment for international investors.

In Brazil, ActivTrades complies with dual regulatory oversight from both the Banco Central do Brasil (BACEN) and the Comissão de Valores Mobiliários (CVM). This combined regulatory approach ensures that Brazilian clients are protected by comprehensive risk management protocols and strict market conduct rules. The BACEN and CVM work together to enforce financial stability and investor protection in the Brazilian market, making ActivTrades a trusted option for local traders.

Furthermore, the broker’s European operations benefit from regulation by the relevant authorities, while its activities in Mauritius are governed by the Financial Services Commission (FSC). The FSC in Mauritius upholds high standards for operational integrity and client protection, ensuring that traders in that jurisdiction enjoy a secure and reliable trading environment.

In addition to these regulatory measures, ActivTrades further bolsters client protection by supplementing standard regulatory safeguards with private insurance coverage from Lloyd’s of London. This additional insurance provides up to £1 million in extra protection, ensuring that client funds remain secure even in the unlikely event of the broker’s insolvency. Through this comprehensive regulatory framework and enhanced capital protection measures, ActivTrades demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a transparent, secure, and ethical trading environment for its diverse global client base.

ActivTrades stands out for its robust regulatory framework, being licensed by top-tier authorities such as the FCA in the UK, the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB), both BACEN and CVM in Brazil, the CMVM in Portugal, and the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Mauritius. This extensive regulatory oversight is complemented by additional investor protection measures, including FSCS membership and private insurance from Lloyd’s of London providing up to £1 million in extra protection (subjected to specific terms and conditions).

The broker also offers a comprehensive suite of trading platforms—including its proprietary ActivTrader, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView—along with 24/5 multi-channel support available globally. Combined with a clear fee structure that emphasizes transparency, ActivTrades is positioned as a reliable and innovative broker in the competitive global trading landscape.

In addition to its extensive market offerings and advanced platforms, ActivTrades places a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and client protection. The broker is authorized and regulated by top-tier financial authorities such as the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and CMVM in Portugal, and it is a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Over the years, the company has bolstered its client funds protection by supplementing standard regulatory safeguards with private insurance coverage from Lloyd’s of London, offering additional funds insurance up to USD/GBP/EUR 1,000,000 (subjected to specific terms and conditions). This commitment to security and transparency has helped build trust among its diverse client base, which spans Europe, South America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Deposits can be made via bank transfers, credit and debit cards, and a range of popular e-wallets such as Neteller and Skrill. For most deposit methods—like bank transfers and e-wallets—ActivTrades does not impose any fees, ensuring that clients can fund their accounts without incurring extra costs.

Credit and debit card deposits are also free of charge, but a currency conversion fee of 0.5% applies when the deposit currency differs from the account base currency. These measures help maintain a fair and transparent approach to funding, keeping the focus on efficient and secure transactions.

On the withdrawal side, ActivTrades is similarly committed to transparency and efficiency. Clients can withdraw funds using methods that largely mirror those available for deposits, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. While many withdrawal methods are fee-free, some specifics do apply: for instance, certain bank transfers may attract fees—USD bank transfers for UK/EEA accounts can cost around $12.50 per transaction, and the Bahamian entity might charge a flat fee of approximately £9 (these fees are charged by relevant banks not by ActivTrades).

The processing times for withdrawals are generally prompt, with many transactions being completed within one working day, although the exact duration can depend on the chosen method and client location. Overall, ActivTrades’ deposit and withdrawal policies are structured to ensure that clients can manage their funds securely and with minimal cost, reinforcing the broker’s commitment to a transparent and client-friendly trading environment.

The process begins with an online application where prospective traders provide basic personal details such as name, contact information, and country of residence. Once the application is submitted, clients are required to verify their identity by uploading a government-issued ID (such as a passport or driver’s license) along with a proof of address document like a utility bill or bank statement.

After the verification process is complete, clients can choose from the various account types available—ranging from Standard and Professional to Islamic, Corporate, or even a Demo Account—depending on their trading needs and experience. Finally, once the account is approved, the client can fund their account using one of the supported deposit methods and begin trading. This efficient, transparent process is designed to ensure that traders can start trading with minimal delay while meeting all regulatory requirements for security and compliance.

ActivTrades offers a range of account types designed to cater to the diverse needs of retail, professional, corporate, and even specialized traders. Below is an extensive overview of the different account types provided by ActivTrades, along with their unique features and benefits.

Standard Account

The Standard Account is aimed at the majority of retail traders who are looking for a straightforward, cost-effective way to access a wide range of markets. With competitive spreads—often starting as low as 0.5 pips on major Forex pairs—and no additional commissions on trade execution, this account type is ideal for those who want transparent pricing. The Standard Account also offers low fees and flexible trading conditions, making it a solid choice for beginners and seasoned traders alike.

Professional Account

For more experienced traders, ActivTrades offers a Professional Account. This account typically provides enhanced trading conditions such as higher leverage (which may vary depending on regional regulations), lower margin call thresholds, and sometimes access to dedicated account management services. The Professional Account is designed to cater to high-frequency and algorithmic traders who require more sophisticated trading tools and tighter execution standards. However, there are eligibility requirements—such as a demonstrated trading history or specific financial criteria—that must be met to qualify for this account type.

Corporate Account

ActivTrades also provides Corporate Accounts for institutional clients or legal entities. These accounts are tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses and large-scale investors, offering customized pricing, dedicated support, and other bespoke services. Corporate Clients benefit from a more personalized trading environment that is aligned with their larger investment strategies and operational requirements.

Islamic Account (Swap-Free)

In recognition of the needs of traders who follow Sharia principles, ActivTrades offers an Islamic Account. This swap-free account is designed to comply with Islamic finance requirements by eliminating overnight rollover fees and other charges that are considered to be interest-based. Despite the removal of swap fees, traders can still benefit from the same market access, competitive spreads, and execution speeds as offered in the Standard Account, making it an attractive option for those seeking ethical trading alternatives.

Betting Account

In regions where spread betting is available—such as the United Kingdom—ActivTrades offers a Betting Account. This account type is specifically structured for spread betting, which allows traders to speculate on the price movements of various instruments without actually owning the underlying asset. Betting Accounts are tailored to comply with local regulations and often come with features such as tax advantages, as well as competitive pricing and execution similar to those offered on the CFD side of the business.

Demo Account

For those who are new to trading or who wish to test strategies without risking real capital, ActivTrades provides a Demo Account. This account replicates live market conditions in a risk-free environment, allowing traders to familiarize themselves with the broker’s platforms—whether it’s the proprietary ActivTrader, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, or TradingView—before committing real funds. The Demo Account is an essential tool for both beginners and experienced traders looking to trial new strategies or platforms.

Regional Variations

It’s also important to note that some account features may vary depending on the regulatory region. Such variations ensure that ActivTrades can tailor its services to meet local regulatory requirements and market conditions while still offering a comprehensive suite of account types.

Overall, ActivTrades’ diverse account offerings—ranging from Standard and Professional to Corporate, Islamic, and Betting Accounts, along with a robust Demo Account—ensure that traders of all levels and needs can find an option that fits their trading style, risk appetite, and regulatory requirements. This comprehensive approach, combined with competitive pricing and a strong regulatory framework, has helped position ActivTrades as a reputable and versatile broker in the global trading landscape.

The best way to close your account is to send an e-mail to englishdesk@activtrades.comwith the e-mail that you signed up with. Make sure that you have withdrawn all of your funds before the closure.

ActivTrades offers comprehensive 24/5 customer support across all its regions through multiple channels including live chat, telephone, and email. No matter which branch you contact—whether Global, UK, Europe, or Mauritius—the support hours remain consistent, ensuring that assistance is available throughout the trading week.

United Kingdom & Europe Branch Support

For both the United Kingdom and Europe, clients can access support using the same contact details:

• Support Hours:
  24 hours a day, 5 days a week (Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays).
• Telephone:
  +44 (0) 207 6500 567
• Email:
  englishdesk@activtrades.com
• Live Chat:
  Available on the ActivTrades UK and Europe websites during support hours.

Global & Mauritius Branch Support

Clients contacting the Global or Mauritius branches also use the same support details:

• Support Hours:
  24 hours a day, 5 days a week (Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays).
• Telephone:
  +44 (0) 207 6500 567
• Email:
  englishdesk@activtrades.com
• Live Chat:
  Available on the Global and Mauritius websites during support hours.

The broker’s platform suite includes both proprietary and third-party solutions, ensuring that clients have access to powerful tools, advanced order types, and a user-friendly interface across desktop and mobile environments.

At the forefront of ActivTrades’ offering is its proprietary ActivTrader platform. Renowned for its intuitive design, ActivTrader delivers a seamless trading experience with advanced order management capabilities. The platform features customizable watchlists, integrated charting powered by TradingView, and unique order types such as one-click trading and progressive trailing stops. These features allow traders to execute complex strategies with ease, making ActivTrader particularly attractive for both novice and experienced traders who value efficiency and flexibility in their order execution.

For traders who prefer industry-standard platforms, ActivTrades offers MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5). Both platforms are celebrated for their robust functionality, extensive technical analysis tools, and support for automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs).

MT4 remains a favorite for Forex trading due to its simplicity and wide range of custom indicators, while MT5 offers enhanced features such as a broader range of asset classes, improved order management, and more advanced charting tools. These platforms provide a familiar environment for many traders, ensuring quick adoption and a smooth transition for those switching from other brokers.

Recognizing the growing popularity of web-based charting and social trading, ActivTrades has integrated TradingView into its platform offerings. TradingView’s advanced charting tools, real-time data, and social community features allow traders to perform in-depth technical analysis and share trading ideas with peers. This integration is particularly useful for traders who rely on sophisticated charting techniques and require a platform that supports dynamic, web-based interactions.

In today’s fast-paced market, mobility is crucial. ActivTrades offers fully functional mobile applications that mirror the capabilities of their desktop platforms. Whether using the proprietary ActivTrader app or accessing MT4/MT5 on mobile devices, clients can monitor markets, execute trades, and manage their portfolios on the go. The mobile platforms are optimized for speed and reliability, ensuring that traders can remain connected and responsive even when away from their computers.

Overall, ActivTrades’ multi-platform apTrading Platform Software Offered by ActivTrades ActivTrades provides a diverse range of trading platforms designed to cater to traders of all experience levels and strategies. The broker’s platform suite includes both proprietary and third-party solutions, ensuring that clients have access to powerful tools, advanced order types, and a user-friendly interface across desktop and mobile environments.

The broker distinguishes itself through its diverse platform offering. Clients can choose from its proprietary ActivTrader platform—which is renowned for its intuitive design and advanced order types—alongside popular third-party platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView.

These platforms are optimized for fast execution speeds, high liquidity, and extensive technical analysis tools, ensuring that traders have access to a suite of powerful resources whether they are trading on a desktop or mobile device. Moreover, ActivTrades has continually enhanced its technological infrastructure, evidenced by features like integrated TradingView charting and innovative order types that cater to both discretionary and automated trading strategies.

The platform’s diverse range of asset classes ensures that whether you’re looking to capitalize on currency fluctuations or invest in global equities, there’s an opportunity available. Below is an overview of the key markets offered by ActivTrades, each with its own unique features and advantages.

ActivTrades has built a strong reputation in the Forex market by offering competitive pricing and robust execution for a wide range of currency pairs. Traders have access to major, minor, and exotic pairs, enabling them to take advantage of global economic shifts. The broker’s advanced trading platforms are optimized for speed and reliability, which is essential for managing the fast-paced nature of Forex trading.

Through its shares trading service, ActivTrades allows clients to trade CFDs on individual stocks from leading global exchanges. This market enables traders to speculate on the price movements of well-known companies without the need to own the underlying shares. The shares trading platform is designed to deliver transparent pricing and efficient order execution, making it an attractive option for those seeking to participate in the equity markets.

For traders interested in broader market trends, ActivTrades offers CFDs on major global stock indices. This service provides exposure to a basket of stocks, allowing for diversification and the ability to trade on overall market performance rather than individual company movements. The indices trading environment is tailored to deliver real-time market insights and competitive spreads, which are essential for effective technical analysis and strategic trading.

Recognizing the growing popularity of digital assets, ActivTrades has expanded its offerings to include cryptocurrency trading via CFDs. This market gives traders access to digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other altcoins, allowing them to participate in the volatility of the crypto market without directly owning the assets. The trading conditions are structured to manage risk appropriately, reflecting the high volatility typical of cryptocurrencies.

ActivTrades also provides the opportunity to trade Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), which represent diversified baskets of assets. This market is ideal for traders seeking to gain broad exposure to specific sectors or regions without having to pick individual stocks. The ETF trading environment is designed to combine the benefits of diversification with the cost-efficiency of a single instrument, thereby supporting a variety of trading strategies.

For those looking for fixed-income opportunities, ActivTrades offers bond trading through CFDs. This market allows traders to speculate on the movements of interest rates and the performance of government and corporate bonds. By trading bonds as CFDs, clients can benefit from leverage and the ability to short-sell, providing flexibility and a way to diversify a trading portfolio beyond traditional equity markets.

Finally, ActivTrades covers the commodities market, offering trading in physical assets such as precious metals, energies, and agricultural products. This market allows traders to take positions on the price movements of key commodities without the complexities of physical delivery. With competitive spreads and fast execution, the commodities trading service is well-suited for both short-term speculation and long-term strategic positioning.