ActivTrades vs Interactive Brokers

Both brands may operate through more than one legal entity, and your protections depend on which one onboards you. Read the client agreement presented during account opening for your country and note the exact entity name. Then confirm that entity's authorisation on the relevant regulator's public register rather than relying on statements or logos. Compare the protections attached to each entity, such as client money handling rules and access to any compensation or dispute schemes, because these can differ meaningfully between the two brokers depending on where you live.

Key checks: Note the exact legal entity named in each broker's agreement for your region.; Verify each entity's licence on the regulator's own public register.; Compare client money rules and dispute routes attached to each entity.; Confirm both brokers currently accept applicants from your country..

Pricing structures can differ substantially between brokers, with costs appearing as spreads, commissions, financing charges, platform or data fees, or currency conversion charges. A fair comparison prices your actual activity: pick the instruments you trade most, your typical trade size and holding period, and calculate the total cost at each broker using their current published fee documents. Include any minimums, tiered pricing thresholds and non-trading fees. If a figure is unclear, ask the broker's support team in writing rather than guessing or relying on secondhand summaries.

Key checks: Use each broker's current fee schedules and disclosures as the only pricing source.; Model your typical trades, including holding periods and financing costs.; Check for platform, market data, inactivity and conversion fees.; Get written clarification from support for anything ambiguous..

The two brokers may offer different platforms, product ranges and account structures depending on your region, so verify what would actually be available to you. Where possible, open demo or trial access and test the workflows that matter to your strategy: order types, charting, watchlists, mobile access and reporting. Confirm that the specific markets and instruments you plan to trade are offered on your account type, and review the funding and withdrawal process, including accepted methods, processing times and documentation requirements, before sending money.

Key checks: Trial each platform with your own strategy's order types and tools.; Confirm access to the specific markets and instruments you plan to trade.; Review account opening requirements, funding methods and withdrawal timelines.; Check reporting and statement features if you need them for tax records..