Skip to main content

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026

Author
Author Avatar
Franklin Silva
Co-Founder & Fintech Analyst
Fact checked by
Author Avatar
Pedro Braz
Co-Founder, Forbes 30 under 30
Fact checked by: Pedro BrazUpdated on Jul 29, 2026

Are you embarking on an investment journey and looking for the best broker in the Netherlands? We’ve curated a comprehensive overview of the top online brokers to streamline your decision-making process.

In this guide, we unveil the strengths and weaknesses of leading platforms based on our hands-on experience and direct testing. The selection considers factors like fees (commissions, FX fees, and platform charges), investment platforms (web, desktop, and mobile), the range of markets and instruments available (Dutch and European stocks, US shares, ETFs, bonds, and derivatives), regulatory oversight (AFM supervision and MiFID II passporting for Dutch investors), and education resources.

Whether you’re an investor looking for the lowest fees, a beginner seeking simplicity, or an active trader needing professional-grade tools, this guide covers the leading options for 2026.

Best online brokers in the Netherlands

Eager to start investing? Here are our bullet-point suggestions for the best online brokers available to Dutch investors in 2026:

  1. eToro: Top online broker in the Netherlands with commission-free ETF investing. Offers a welcome bonus up to $500 for new users.
  2. Interactive Brokers: Best trading platform in the Netherlands overall
  3. Freedom24: Best for access to high-yield ETFs (6%–12% in select cases)
  4. XTB: One of the best brokers in the Netherlands for Forex
  5. Pepperstone: Best for active traders who want MT4, MT5, cTrader or TradingView
  6. Plus500: Leading broker with demo accounts
  7. Saxo Markets: Best for experienced investors in the Netherlands
  8. DEGIRO: Among the best stock brokers in the Netherlands with low fees
  9. Trading 212: Leading online broker with commission-free ETFs (Other fees may apply. See terms and conditions). New users can earn a free fractional share worth up to $100 with the promo code “IITW”.
  10. Lightyear: Best for beginners and ETFs. New users earn a free share worth up to €100 with the promo code INVESTINGINTHEWEB.

Disclaimer: Investing involves risk of loss.

Award Winner

eToro logo
#1 Top online broker in the Netherlands with commission-free ETF investing
Min. deposit of $50
$0 for ETFs (other fees apply)
Demo account
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion FeeFrom 1.50%
Fractional sharesYes
RegulatorsFCA, CySEC and ASIC.
Interest on uninvested cashUp to 3.55% in USD
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, cryptos (only crypto CFDs in some countries) and CFDs on stocks, ETFs, commodities, Forex, indices.
Visit BrokerRead review

52% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Award Winner

Interactive Brokers logo
#2 Best trading platform in the Netherlands overall
Min. deposit of €0
Offers interest on uninvested cash balances
Excellent reputation (founded in 1978)
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion FeeUp to 0.0020%
Fractional sharesYes
RegulatorsFINRA, SIPC, SEC, CFTC, IIROC, FCA, CBI, AFSL, SFC, SEBI, MAS and MNB.
Interest on uninvested cashEUR: 1.469%; USD: 3.14%; GBP: 3.401% (as of June 2026)
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, options, futures, Forex, commodities, bonds and funds.
Visit BrokerRead review
Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 11
#3 Best for access to high-yield ETFs (6%–12% in select cases)
Min. deposit of €0
Offers high interest on uninvested cash balances
Demo account
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion Fee~0.005%
Fractional sharesNo
RegulatorsCySEC
Interest on uninvested cashNot applicable
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, bonds, options and futures
Visit BrokerRead review

Investing involves risk of loss.

Award Winner

XTB logo
#4 One of the best brokers in the Netherlands for Forex
Min. deposit of €0
0% Commission on stocks and ETFs
Demo Account
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion Fee0.50%
Fractional sharesYes (in some countries)
RegulatorsFCA, KNF, CySEC, DFSA and FSC
Interest on uninvested cashEUR: 2.30%; USD: 3.45%; GBP: 4.00% (As of June 2026)
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, Options*, and CFDs on Forex, stocks, ETFs, indices, cryptocurrencies and commodities.
Visit BrokerRead review

69-80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Award Winner

Pepperstone logo
#5 Best for active traders (CFDs only)
Min. deposit of €0
Raw spreads from 0.0 pips (Razor account)
MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion Fee0%
Fractional sharesYes
RegulatorsASIC, FCA, CySEC, DFSA, SCB, BaFin, CMA (Kenya)
Interest on uninvested cash0%
Products and MarketsCFDs on Forex, stocks, ETFs, commodities, indices, currency indices and cryptocurrencies
Visit BrokerRead review

72-95% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Award Winner

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 12
#6 Leading broker with demo accounts
Min. deposit of €100
Demo Account
Accessible app
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion FeeUp to 0.70%
Fractional sharesNo
RegulatorsFCA, CySEC, FSCA, FMA and ASIC.
Interest on uninvested cash0%
Products and MarketsStocks (Plus500 Invest) and CFDs on indices, Forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, shares, options and ETFs.
Visit BrokerRead review

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Award Winner

Saxo Bank logo
#7 Best for experienced investors in the Netherlands
Demo Account
Excellent reputation
Wide range of financial products
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion Fee0.25%
Fractional sharesNo
RegulatorsASIC, FSA, FCA, SFC, MAS, FINMA, DFSA.
Interest on uninvested cashEUR: Up to 0.68%; USD: Up to 2.40%; GBP: Up to 2.47% (as of June 2026)
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, crypto ETPs, options, futures, Forex, Forex options, crypto FX, CFDs and commodities
Visit BrokerRead review

62% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Award Winner

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 13
#8 Among the best stock brokers in the Netherlands with low fees
Min. deposit of €0
No Withdrawal Fees
Mobile App
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion Fee0.25%
Fractional sharesNo
RegulatorsAFM, DNB
Interest on uninvested cash0%
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, investment funds, futures, leveraged products, bonds and warrants.
Visit BrokerRead review

Investing involves risk of loss.

Award Winner

Trading 212 logo
#9 Leading online broker with commission-free ETFs
Free fractional share with code "IITW"
Commission-free investing
Minimum deposit: €10
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion Fee0.15%
Fractional sharesYes
RegulatorsFCA, CySEC, ASIC and BaFin.
Interest on uninvested cashEUR: 2.40% (3.50% in some countries); USD: 3.30%; GBP: 3.55% (June 2026)
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, Cryptocurrencies, Forex, CFDs on stocks, crypto, indices and ETFs. Fractional shares, automatic investment system.
Visit BrokerRead review

Capital at Risk. Sponsored Link. To get free fractional shares worth up to 100 EUR/GBP, you can open an account with Trading 212 through this link. Terms apply.

Award Winner

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 14
#10 Best emerging low-cost broker in Europe
Minimum deposit of €1
No Lightyear execution fees for ETFs (other fees may apply)
Interest on EUR, USD and GBP cash
See broker summary
Visit BrokerRead review
Broker summary
Currency Conversion Fee0.35%
Fractional sharesYes
RegulatorsEFSA, FCA
Interest on uninvested cash0% in most countries
Products and MarketsStocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies and Money Market Funds.
Visit BrokerRead review

Terms apply, seek guidance if necessary. When you invest, your capital is at risk.

Video summary

Comparison of best brokers in the Netherlands

Broker
Fees on US stocks
Interest offered
Financial products
Demo account
$0Per trade; in some countries the fee is $1
Up to 3.55% in USD
Stocks, ETFs, cryptos (only crypto CFDs in some countries) and CFDs on stocks, ETFs, commodities, Forex, indices.
From $/€50It varies between countries
Tiered plan: Up to $0.0035 per shareMin. $0.35; Max. 1% of trade value.
EUR: 1.469%; USD: 3.14%; GBP: 3.401% (as of June 2026)Only applicable to accounts with a Net Asset Value (NAV) above USD 100,000 (or equivalent); Accounts with NAV of less than USD 100,000 (or equivalent) receive interest at rates proportional to the size of the account. There will be no interest paid on the first USD 10,000 of cash.
Stocks, ETFs, options, futures, Forex, commodities, bonds and funds.
€/$/£0
From: €0.012 per shareWith a minimum of €/$1.2 per order.
Not applicable
Stocks, ETFs, bonds, options and futures
€/$0
€0Up to €100.000 in monthly volume transactions - Only applicable in some countries.
EUR: 2.30%; USD: 3.45%; GBP: 4.00% (As of June 2026)These rates maybe vary between countries.
Stocks, ETFs, Options*, and CFDs on Forex, stocks, ETFs, indices, cryptocurrencies and commodities.*Options are live in Cyprus, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Portugal, Slovakia and Spain.
€/$/£1
Not applicable
0%
CFDs on Forex, stocks, ETFs, commodities, indices, currency indices and cryptocurrencies
$0$200 recommended
$0.006 per shareOn Plus500 Invest only
0%
Stocks (Plus500 Invest) and CFDs on indices, Forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, shares, options and ETFs.
€/$/£100
From 0.03% (min. $1)Depending on account type
EUR: Up to 0.68%; USD: Up to 2.40%; GBP: Up to 2.47% (as of June 2026)The interest rates are only paid above the first $/€/£10,000 in cash
Stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, crypto ETPs, options, futures, Forex, Forex options, crypto FX, CFDs and commodities
$0 to $10,000, depending on the country£500 (UK)
€/£1+€/£1 flat handling fee
0%
Stocks, ETFs, investment funds, futures, leveraged products, bonds and warrants.
€/£1
€/£0
EUR: 2.40% (3.50% in some countries); USD: 3.30%; GBP: 3.55% (June 2026)For new and existing Trading 212 users under Trading 212 EU GmbH, you earn 3.50% p.a. interest on your EUR
Stocks, ETFs, Cryptocurrencies, Forex, CFDs on stocks, crypto, indices and ETFs. Fractional shares, automatic investment system.
€/£10
0.1% ($1 max)$1 max; $0.10 min; UK residents: Trading fees removed on General Investment Accounts (GIA)
0% in most countriesLightyear also offers Savings/Vaults which yield: EUR: 1.95%, GBP: 3.77%, USD: 3.66% (as of June 2026)
Stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies and Money Market Funds.
€/$/£1

For a list of brokers we do not recommend, you can visit our full list of broker reviews, and filter by “Not recommended”.

Other resources

Broker reviews

eToro at a glance

eToro logo
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableStocks, ETFs, Cryptocurrencies and CFDs on Stocks, ETFs, Commodities, Forex, Indices and Cryptocurrencies
RegulatorsFCA, CySEC, ASIC
Minimum Deposit$50
Fees$0 for ETFs and from $1 for stocks
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit eToroRead review

52% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

eToro is one of the largest online brokers in the world, with over 40 million users across 140+ countries, where you can trade stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, commodities, and CFDs. The company became publicly traded on the NASDAQ in May 2025 (ticker: ETOR), reinforcing its credibility and transparency. eToro is best known for its social trading feature, which allows users to copy the trades of experienced investors. There are thousands of verified traders on eToro, and you can select traders to follow based on past return on investment (ROI), risk score, asset allocation, or other criteria.

The eToro platform provides access to over 3,000 financial instruments, including real stocks (not CFDs), ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. Additionally, users can invest in ready-made thematic portfolios called Smart Portfolios, which group together assets or traders around themes such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, dividend-paying stocks, or sector-specific opportunities.

Plus, eToro offers commission-free stock and ETF trading in the Netherlands (other fees apply). Dutch investors can also earn interest on uninvested USD cash balances, with current rates of approximately 3.55% (subject to change and linked to US Federal Reserve policy).

Opening an account and depositing funds are quick and straightforward, and you can practise with a $100,000 virtual demo account before committing real capital. On the downside, spreads can be relatively high for some products (particularly forex and crypto), there is a $5 withdrawal fee, and a $10 monthly inactivity fee applies after 12 months of account inactivity. eToro also does not offer Dutch-specific tax-advantaged accounts.

eToro is fully regulated and supervised by top-tier regulators globally, including the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and FINRA. Dutch clients are onboarded by eToro (Europe) Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) and passported to provide services in the Netherlands under MiFID II, with oversight from the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM). Client funds are protected up to €20,000 under the Cyprus Investor Compensation Fund (ICF).

If you want to learn more, check out our eToro review.

eToro's dashboard

Pros

  • Low stock trading fees (from $0 per trade)
  • Commission-free ETFs (other fees apply)
  • Social trading and other innovative products
  • Wide variety of financial products
  • Slick, modern, and easy for anyone to use
  • European users have access to three account currencies: EUR, USD and GBP
  • Top tier regulators

Cons

  • Limited disclosed financial information
  • Withdraw and inactivity fees
  • Spread, overnight, inactivity, and currency conversion fees higher than average
  • Doesn’t offer bonds, futures, or options

Interactive Brokers at a glance

Interactive Brokers logo
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableStocks, ETFs, Options, Futures, Forex, Commodities, Bonds and Funds
RegulatorsFINRA, SIPC, SEC, CFTC, IIROC, FCA, CBI, AFSL, SFC, SEBI, MAS, MNB
Minimum Deposit€0
Fees$0.0035 per US stock (min. $0.35 per order)
Demo AccountAvailable
View BrokerRead review

Another exceptional trading platform for Dutch investors is Interactive Brokers. Founded in 1978 and publicly listed on NASDAQ (ticker: IBKR, an S&P 500 constituent since 2024), Interactive Brokers is a global online broker that has weathered every major financial crisis since its founding – demonstrating exceptional resilience and rigorous risk management. The broker serves 3+ million client accounts globally and provides access to 170+ markets across 36+ countries.

Interactive Brokers offers an advanced investment platform with a wide range of products (stocks, options, mutual funds, ETFs, futures, bonds, and currencies), solid trade execution through IB SmartRouting (which automatically routes orders to the venue offering the best available price), and a comprehensive set of technical and fundamental tools to support your investment decisions. Dutch investors can access major European exchanges (Euronext Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Paris, London) as well as US, Asian, and emerging markets.

Beginners and intermediate investors can explore educational resources through IBKR Campus, though the learning curve is steep – which is why we mainly endorse IBKR to more advanced traders. Customer service is responsive and provides clear answers to client questions.

On the downside, IBKR’s fee structure is complex, the registration process is lengthy (though fully online), and the broker doesn’t offer commission-free trading on European stocks. However, when accounting for FX fees, narrower spreads, the Stock Yield Enhancement Program (SYEP), and tiered cash interest on uninvested balances above $100,000 NAV, IBKR clients still achieve significant cost savings compared to most brokers – particularly for active traders and larger portfolios.

Interactive Brokers also operates IBKR GlobalTrader, a modern mobile trading app for stocks, ETFs, and options, ideal for beginner and intermediate investors. Features include automatic currency conversions, fractional shares, and a $10,000 demo account. Dutch clients are served by Interactive Brokers Ireland Limited, authorised and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) and passported to provide services in the Netherlands under MiFID II, with oversight from the AFM.

Want to know more about Interactive Brokers? Check our Interactive Brokers review.

Interactive Brokers Web App

Pros

  • Low commissions on US stock trading
  • No monthly inactivity fee
  • The broadest product and markets range in the brokerage industry
  • Demo account
  • Excellent reputation (founded in 1978)
  • Extensive research and Education tools
  • Has a modern mobile trading app to trade Stocks, Options and ETFs, ideal for novice investors, IBKR GlobalTrader.
  • Offers interest on uninvested cash balances

Cons

  • Complicated and lengthy account opening process (but fully online)
  • Steeper learning curve for beginners
  • Website is difficult to navigate
  • Interactive Advisors (Robo-advisor feature) is only available for US customers

Freedom24 at a glance

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 11
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableStocks, ETFs, Options, Futures and ETFs.
RegulatorsCySEC
Minimum Deposit€0
FeesFrom $/€1.20 per order in stocks and ETF
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit Plus500Read review

Investing involves risk of loss.

Freedom24, part of Freedom Holding Corp. (NASDAQ: FRHC), has emerged as a standout brokerage platform for retail investors by providing access to a diverse range of global financial products, including stocks, bonds, futures, options, and a strong focus on ETF investing. The Cyprus-regulated broker is particularly popular with European retail investors seeking access to US markets and a broad ETF universe.

Providing access to more than 3,600 ETFs, Freedom24 offers not only the most popular ETFs from global issuers like Vanguard, iShares, and Invesco, but also a range of investment strategies, including dividend-focused and short-term bond ETFs, as well as niche and high-yield options such as covered call and swap-based ETFs. If a specific ETF isn’t listed, clients can request its addition directly – a unique level of flexibility rarely seen in European brokerage platforms.

Freedom24 also launched Bonds Showcase, allowing for small investments starting from €/$1,000. It is a curated list of high-rated bonds (B+ and above) designed to offer investors a predictable and stable return. This feature streamlines the process of finding and purchasing bonds, making it more accessible for investors seeking reliable income opportunities and long-term financial growth. Additionally, Freedom24 offers a DEN account with competitive interest on uninvested EUR cash balances – linked to ECB policy.

The platform’s web and mobile interfaces are intuitive and straightforward, complemented by market analysis tools (Investideas) and educational resources (Freedom Academy) to support investment decisions. Furthermore, it offers a signup promotion of up to 20 free stocks for new users meeting deposit thresholds.

With no minimum deposit, Freedom24 offers two main pricing plans: Smart in EUR (more suitable for investors with lower trading volumes) and Prime in EUR (giving you access to a personal manager, advanced features, and tighter spreads). On the downside, it charges a €7 withdrawal fee and does not offer cryptocurrencies.

Freedom Finance Europe Ltd is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) and passported to provide services in the Netherlands under MiFID II, with oversight from the AFM. In the unlikely event that segregated assets cannot be returned to clients, Freedom24 falls under the Cyprus Investor Compensation Fund (ICF), which compensates investors for non-returned investments up to €20,000.

Want to learn more? Check out our Freedom24 review or visit Freedom24 directly.

Freedom24 "Trade" window

Pros

  • Low commissions on stock and ETF trading
  • No minimum deposit for general trading
  • Demo trading
  • Slick, modern, and easy for anyone to use
  • No custody fee

Cons

  • €7 per withdrawal
  • No cryptocurrencies

XTB at a glance

XTB logo
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableStocks, ETFs, and CFDs on stocks, Forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies
RegulatorsFCA, KNF, CySEC, DFSA and FSC
Minimum Deposit€0
Fees€0 (per US share)
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit XTBRead review

69-80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Founded in 2002, XTB is a major player in the European brokerage industry with extensive worldwide experience, serving 1.7+ million clients across 16 countries. It is listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (ticker: XTB) and regulated by multiple top-tier regulators, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) for Dutch clients.

You can invest through xStation 5 (desktop and web) and xStation Mobile in a wide range of investment products, including 5,300+ stocks, 1,300+ ETFs, and CFDs on stocks, forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies (product offering may vary slightly by country). It offers 0% commission on real stocks and ETFs up to €100,000 in monthly trading volume (0.2% commission applies above that threshold, with a €10 minimum per order). XTB also offers Investment Plans for automated, recurring ETF investing – useful for Dutch investors building long-term portfolios systematically.

Opening an account and transferring money are quick and hassle-free. For beginners, XTB provides a demo account where you can trade as if it were real money, plus access to educational tools through the XTB Trading Academy. For intermediate and advanced investors, the platform offers plenty of technical and fundamental tools to support your investment decisions. Dutch clients also earn cash interest on uninvested EUR balances – linked to ECB deposit facility policy.

XTB xStation 5 platform

On the downside, XTB charges a €10/month inactivity fee after one year of no trading and no deposits in the previous 90 days. There is also a 0.5% currency conversion fee for trades in non-base currencies, and CFD cryptocurrency trading carries relatively high spreads (although forex spreads are competitive).

Want to know more about XTB? Check our XTB review.

Pros

  • Free stocks trading (only applicable to some countries)
  • Customizable trading platform (charts and workspace)
  • Low Forex Spreads
  • Demo account
  • No minimum account deposit
  • Valuable education materials
  • Top-tier Regulators

Cons

  • Complex trading platform for a beginner
  • High Stock CFD spreads
  • Limited product portfolio
  • Withdrawal fees for transfers below $100
  • Inactivity fee (€10/monthly after 1+ year with no activity plus no deposit in the last 90 days)
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 69-80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Pepperstone at a glance

Pepperstone logo
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableCFDs on Forex, Indices, Commodities, Shares, ETFs and Cryptocurrencies
RegulatorsCySEC, FCA, ASIC, BaFin, DFSA, CMA, SCB
Minimum Deposit€0
FeesStandard: spread only. Razor: raw spread from 0.0 pips + commission from $3.50 per lot, per side
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit XTBRead review

72-95% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Founded in Melbourne in 2010, Pepperstone holds more than 900,000 accounts across the group and serves Dutch clients through Pepperstone EU Limited, authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission under licence 388/20 and passported into the Netherlands under MiFID II, with AFM oversight.

Pepperstone works differently from most brokers in this guide, and it is worth being clear about that first: it is a CFD broker, so you cannot buy real shares or ETFs here. There is no share ownership, no dividends, no fractional investing and no long-term savings plan. Dutch investors building a portfolio on Euronext Amsterdam should look at DEGIRO, Trading 212 or Lightyear instead. Pepperstone is included for the narrower group of Dutch investors who actively trade – and for that purpose it is one of the strongest options available.

XTB xStation 5 platform

The differentiator is platform choice. Alongside its own web platform and mobile app, Pepperstone supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader and native TradingView execution – and no other broker in this article supports any of the four. If you run an Expert Advisor or a cBot, or your analysis already lives in TradingView charts, that is often the whole decision.

There are two pricing models. The Standard account builds a 1 pip mark-up into the raw spread with no separate commission on forex, indices or commodities. The Razor account gives you the raw spread – from 0.0 pips on forex – plus a fixed commission from $3.50 per lot, per side, dropping to $3.00 per side on cTrader. Beyond occasional trading, Razor almost always works out cheaper.

Three points matter specifically for Dutch clients. Accounts can be held in EUR, so unlike eToro you are not pushed into a dollar base currency. Funding works via SEPA transfer, cards, PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay, all free from Pepperstone’s side, but there is no iDEAL support – worth noting given how standard iDEAL is in the Netherlands. And the platform and support are available in English, Italian, Spanish and French, but not in Dutch.

Non-trading costs are clean: no inactivity, deposit or withdrawal fees. The costs that do bite are overnight funding on positions held past 5pm New York time, which makes multi-week holding periods expensive, and the fact that Pepperstone pays no interest on uninvested cash – a real gap next to Trading 212, Lightyear, XTB or IBKR, and one that matters if you close out to cash between setups.

Want to know more about Pepperstone? Check our Pepperstone review.

Pros

  • Only broker here supporting MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView
  • Raw spreads from 0.0 pips on the Razor account
  • Scalping, hedging and automated strategies fully permitted
  • EUR base currency available
  • No inactivity, deposit or withdrawal fees
  • No minimum deposit and a free demo account
  • Fast execution with Tier-1 bank liquidity and no dealing desk

Cons

  • CFDs only - no real shares or ETFs, so unsuitable for long-term investing
  • No Dutch-language platform or customer support
  • No interest paid on uninvested cash
  • Overnight funding makes longer holding periods expensive
  • No native copy trading and no guaranteed stop-loss orders
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 72-95 % of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Plus500 at a glance

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 12
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableReal Shares (Plus500 Invest) and CFDs on Indices, Forex, Commodities, Cryptocurrencies, Shares, Options and ETFs.
RegulatorsFCA, CySEC, FSCA, FMA and ASIC
Minimum Deposit€100
Fees$0.006 per share on Plus500 Invest only (On the Plus500CFD platform, Plus500 is compensated by the spread and additional fees)
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit Plus500Read review

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Founded in 2008, Plus500 is an online broker offering a wide range of financial products, including real shares and CFDs on forex, indices, shares, commodities, options, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. It is available in over 50 countries and is listed on the London Stock Exchange (ticker: PLUS), where it is a constituent of the FTSE 250 index.

There are two distinct account types:

  • Plus500 CFD: focused exclusively on CFD products (forex, indices, shares, commodities, options, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies);
  • Plus500 Invest: where you can trade real shares (3,000+ instruments).

The web platform you will use is WebTrader, Plus500’s proprietary platform, offering a stable trading experience and reliable access from multiple devices, including a well-rated mobile app (4.3 stars on Apple and Google Play). All platforms are accessible and responsive, and you can start testing the features by opening a demo account.

Customer support is helpful and readily accessible through the chat function always shown on the trading platform. Spreads are competitive, and accounts can be opened in sixteen base currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP. However, Plus500 charges a 0.70% currency conversion fee on CFDs (0.30% on Plus500 Invest), and a $10 monthly inactivity fee applies following three months of no activity. On Plus500 Invest, the broker charges a small commission per trade (US market: $0.006/share).

Plus500 is regulated by multiple top-tier financial regulators worldwide, including the FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (Australia), MAS (Singapore), and the DFSA (Dubai), among others. Dutch clients are typically onboarded through Plus500CY Ltd, authorised and regulated by CySEC and passported to provide services in the Netherlands under MiFID II, with oversight from the AFM. As an EU investor, you are protected up to €20,000 under the Cyprus Investor Compensation Fund (ICF). Additionally, Plus500 provides negative balance protection for CFD trading on a per-account basis – now available globally to all retail clients.

Want to know more about Plus500? Check our Plus500 review.

Plus500 dashboard

Pros

  • Acessible and responsive platform
  • Low spreads
  • No dealing commissions
  • Demo Account
  • Top-tier regulators

Cons

  • No ETF offering
  • Inactivity fee ($10 per month after no login activity in 3 months)
  • High overnight funding fees
  • Very little research and education provided

Saxo at a glance

Saxo Bank logo
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableStocks, ETFs, Bonds, Mutual Funds, Crypto ETPs, Options, Futures, Forex, Forex Options, Crypto FX, CFDs and Commodities
RegulatorsASIC, FSA, FCA, SFC, MAS, FINMA, DFSA
Minimum Deposit€0 (for Netherlands)
FeesUp to 0.08% (min. $1) for US stocks
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit Saxo MarketsRead review

62% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Launched in 1992, Saxo (formerly Saxo Bank, rebranded in 2025 after the acquisition by J. Safra Sarasin in March 2025) is one of the most established financial entities in the brokerage industry, with a proven track record of resilience and an A- credit rating from S&P. It lets you trade over 71,000 financial instruments through two flagship platforms: SaxoTraderPRO (for advanced desktop trading) and SaxoTraderGO (for web and mobile).

The wide range of cash and margin trading products across global markets includes stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, options, futures, CFDs, forex, and more (note: cryptocurrency derivatives are offered as CFDs in some jurisdictions, with limitations in others). Saxo provides advanced research tools positioned for both “Buy and hold” investors and active leveraged traders.

Saxo’s account tiers (now based on portfolio value, not just deposit) are:

  • Classic: $0 minimum deposit (since 2024), giving you access to tight spreads and customer and technical support 24/5;
  • Platinum: €/$200,000 portfolio value. In addition to Classic features, it lowers trading commissions by up to 30% and prioritises local-language customer support;
  • VIP: €/$1,000,000 portfolio value. Best pricing across all asset classes, access to dedicated relationship managers and trading experts, plus exclusive event invitations.
SaxoTraderGo dashboard

Pricing varies according to your account tier. For instance, a US stock order on the Classic tier is 0.08% of the trade value (with a $1 minimum). On the VIP tier, the same trade would be 0.03% of trade value (with the same $1 minimum). A custody fee of up to 0.15% per year applies on accounts holding stocks, ETFs/ETCs, or bond positions – though this fee can be waived by opting into Saxo’s securities lending programme (where clients earn a share of lending revenue in exchange for allowing eligible securities to be lent out).

The listed prices are approximate and will differ based on the resident country. For precise pricing details, refer to Saxo’s trade tickets and the regional pricing page for a comprehensive overview.

Saxo Bank A/S is a fully licensed European bank under the supervision of the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (DFSA). Saxo is a member of the Danish Guarantee Fund, which protects client cash deposits up to €100,000 and financial securities (stocks, ETFs, etc.) up to €20,000 per client. Dutch clients are served through Saxo Bank’s Netherlands branch (formerly BinckBank, fully integrated into Saxo since 2023) with continued AFM oversight.

Do you want to know more about Saxo? Check out our Saxo review.

Pros

  • Excellent research materials
  • Outstanding trading platforms (SaxoInvestor and SaxoTrader)
  • Extensive range of investment products and commercial offers
  • Long track record
  • Supervised by worldwide top-tier regulators

Cons

  • $0 in most countries; higher minimums in some regions (e.g. $5,000 in MENA)
  • Fees higher than average
  • Fee structure is complex
  • Does not accept US residents

DEGIRO at a glance

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 13
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableStocks, Funds, ETFs, Futures, Leveraged Products, Bonds, and Warrants
RegulatorsAFM, DNB
Minimum Deposit€0
Fees0% commissions on ETFs (external fees apply)
Demo AccountNot Available
Visit DEGIRORead review

Investing involves risk of loss.

Founded in 2013, DEGIRO is a low-cost brokerage firm that has become very popular due to its competitive rates. With over 3 million users across 18+ European countries, the innovative platform has become widely known for its “do-it-yourself” philosophy – meaning you have everything at your disposal to start investing on your own, without unnecessary hand-holding. It offers a wide range of financial assets to trade, including stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, futures contracts, warrants, investment funds, and some leveraged products (not the same as CFDs – more info here).

For instance, you can trade ETFs within the DEGIRO Core Selection commission-free (a €1.00 flat handling fee for external costs still applies) with no minimum investment required. The web trading platform is intentionally minimalist but efficient and easy to use – within minutes, you get familiar with it. The same applies to its mobile app. On the downside, there is limited fundamental research, a €1.00 commission per US stock trade, an annual €2.50 connectivity fee per exchange (not per-trade or monthly), and pricing alerts are missing.

DEGIRO dashboard

Regarding security, DEGIRO is the Dutch branch of flatexDEGIRO Bank AG, a German credit institution supervised by the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) and Deutsche Bundesbank, with additional oversight from the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) for Dutch clients. In the unlikely event that segregated assets cannot be returned to clients, DEGIRO falls under the German Investor Compensation Scheme (EdW), which compensates investors for non-returned assets up to 90% with a maximum of €20,000.

Additionally, any cash deposited in a DEGIRO Cash Account with flatexDEGIRO Bank AG is guaranteed up to €100,000 under the German Deposit Guarantee Scheme – a meaningful advantage compared to brokers without banking licences.

Still have doubts? Go through our DEGIRO review.

Pros

  • ETF Core Selection: full range of ETFs/ETCs/ETNs on Tradegate (1,000+ products) for only the €/£1 handling fee, with no connectivity fee (external fees apply)
  • User-friendly web and mobile app
  • Wide range of investment options
  • Education material: Investor’s Academy and Investing with DEGIRO
  • Low overall commission structure
  • No account opening, inactivity, or withdrawal fee

Cons

  • 0.25% currency conversion fee (charged if you deposit or invest in a different currency than your base currency)
  • €/£1 flat handling fee (charged in most transactions)
  • €/£2.50 of connectivity fee (paid annually), per exchange where you’re invested
  • Does not offer Forex or CFDs
  • No ISA account (for UK residents)
  • Low-quality customer support
  • No interest paid on cash balances

Trading 212 at a glance

Trading 212 logo
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableReal Stocks, ETFs, Forex, CFDs on stocks, crypto, indices and ETFs. Fractional shares, automatic investment system
RegulatorsFCA, CySEC, ASIC, BaFin
Minimum Deposit€10
Fees€0
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit Trading 212Read review

Capital at Risk. Sponsored Link. To get free fractional shares worth up to 100 EUR/GBP, you can open an account with Trading 212 through this link. Terms apply.

Founded in 2004 in Sofia (Bulgaria) and headquartered in London, Trading 212 is a fintech that aims to democratise the investment process through a simple, mobile-first platform. The company allows anyone to invest in 10,000+ stocks and ETFs, forex, commodities, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies, and serves 18.9 million active customers globally. It offers a free fractional share worth up to €/£100 when signing up and depositing at least €/£10.

On Trading 212, you’ll find commission-free stocks, ETFs, and crypto trading (other fees may apply – see terms and conditions), fractional shares from as little as €/£1, multi-currency accounts (12 currencies including EUR, USD, and GBP), competitive interest on uninvested cash, and automated thematic investing via Pies and AutoInvest (execution-only, not a robo-advisor). Opening an account is extremely quick and easy. On the downside, it shows limitations regarding available products, such as the lack of bonds, options, and futures. Trading 212 charges a 0.15% currency conversion fee when buying assets in a currency different from your base account currency.

Portfolio tab

Within the app, you’ll notice two distinct sub-platforms: Trading 212 Invest, where you can trade a range of real assets (stocks, ETFs, crypto) commission-free, and Trading 212 CFD, where you may trade leveraged financial products (CFDs). Note that CFDs are higher-risk products: approximately 80% of retail CFD traders lose money.

On Trading 212 CFD, the currency conversion fee (FX fee) is higher (0.50%) than on Trading 212 Invest (0.15%). The minimum deposit and withdrawal amounts are both €10. There are no deposit fees for bank transfers (other options include cards and Google/Apple Pay – which may carry small fees), and there are no withdrawal fees regardless of the method used.

In terms of safety, Trading 212 is supervised by multiple top-tier regulators across its operating entities: the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK (Trading 212 UK Ltd, registration 609146), the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) in Germany (Trading 212 EU GmbH, licence 10109603), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) in Cyprus (Trading 212 Markets Ltd, registration 398/21), and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Dutch clients are typically served by Trading 212 EU GmbH via MiFID II passporting, with AFM oversight. Client funds are protected by the relevant investor compensation schemes (FSCS, EdB/EdW, CySEC ICF) depending on the entity.

If you want to learn more, check our Trading 212 review.

Pros

  • Commission-free real stock, ETFs and crypto trading (other fees may apply. See terms and fees)
  • AutoInvest & Pies feature (execution-only service, not financial advice)
  • Fast and easy account opening process
  • Demo account
  • Top Tier Regulators
  • Free fractional shares worth up to €100
  • High interest on uninvested cash

Cons

  • Limited product portfolio (no Options, Bonds, Mutual Funds or Futures)
  • No relevant Fundamental tools
  • 0.15% of Foreign exchange fees

Disclaimer: When investing, your capital is at risk and you may get back less than invested. Past performance doesn’t guarantee future results. Crypto-assets are high-risk and volatile. You could lose your invested capital, and these assets are not covered by protection schemes. Make sure you understand the risks before investing.

Lightyear at a glance

Best online brokers in the Netherlands in 2026 14
Visit brokerRead review
Products availableStocks, ETFs, criptocurrencies, MMFs
RegulatorsEFSA and FCA
Minimum Deposit€1
Fees0.1%, up to $1 max (min $0.10 per order)
Demo AccountAvailable
Visit Trading 212Read review

Terms apply, seek guidance if necessary. When you invest, your capital is at risk.

Lightyear is a European investment platform founded in 2020 by ex-Wise (formerly TransferWise) co-founders Martin Sokk and Mihkel Aamer. It operates via two entities: Lightyear Europe AS, authorised and regulated by the Estonian Financial Supervision and Resolution Authority (EFSA, activity licence 4.1-1/31), and Lightyear UK Ltd, authorised by the FCA. Dutch clients are served via Lightyear Europe AS under MiFID II passporting with AFM oversight, with client assets covered up to €20,000 by the Estonian Investor Protection Sectoral Fund.

There are no Lightyear execution fees on ETFs (fund manager fees may apply). For stocks, commissions do not exceed €/$/£1 per order, and the FX fee was reduced from 0.35% to 0.10% in March 2026 – now one of the lowest in the European brokerage industry. The multi-currency account (EUR, GBP, USD) further helps minimise unnecessary currency conversions. Lightyear offers one of the highest interest rates on uninvested cash through AAA-rated BlackRock Money Market Funds: EUR ~2.12%, USD ~3.67%, GBP ~3.80% (as of June 2026, variable and linked to ECB, US Federal Reserve, and Bank of England policy respectively). Note that cryptocurrencies are no longer offered (removed from the platform in 2025).

The investment platform is well-suited for beginners and intermediate investors, with fractional shares (US and most EU stocks/ETFs) and access to 6,000+ instruments across 16 stock exchanges in the US, UK, European, and Asian markets. Lightyear also offers EU and UK government bonds (€1 commission per trade), Plans (automated goal-based investing launched in November 2025), and Lightyear AI for contextual portfolio insights.

Lightyear also offers a free share up to €100 with the promo code INVESTINGINTHEWEB (capital at risk, T&Cs apply).

There are, however, some downsides to Lightyear: the product offering is curated rather than comprehensive (no options, futures, commodities, forex, or CFDs), and there is no demo account. GBP-denominated UK stocks are also not yet available as fractional shares.

Want to know more about Lightyear? Check out our Lightyear review.

Lightyear Dashboard

Disclaimer: Capital at risk. The provider of investment services is Lightyear Financial Ltd for the UK and Lightyear Europe AS for the EU. Terms apply: lightyear.com/terms. Seek qualified advice if necessary.

Pros

  • 0% Lightyear execution commission on ETF trading (other fees may apply)
  • No account opening, inactivity, or withdrawal fees
  • High interest on EUR, USD & GBP through MMFs
  • Free multi-currency account
  • Minimum deposit of €/£/$1
  • Fractional Shares
  • Account opening promotion with the promo code INVESTINGINTHEWEB
  • You can automate your investments with "Plans"

Cons

  • Limited financial instruments (no options, bonds, commodities, or futures)
  • No demo account
  • Only available in 25 european countries (not available internationally)
  • 0.35% currency conversion fee

How to buy stocks in the Netherlands (step-by-step)

Buying stocks in the Netherlands involves several steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for Dutch retail investors:

  1. Educate yourself: before investing, build a foundational understanding of the stock market, the main investment vehicles (stocks, ETFs, bonds, funds), and your personal risk tolerance. The AFM (Dutch financial regulator) publishes consumer guidance worth reviewing;
  2. Understand Dutch taxation: investment gains in the Netherlands are taxed under Box 3 of the Dutch tax system, which applies a deemed return on net wealth above the tax-free allowance (€57,684 per person in 2026, subject to annual adjustment). The Box 3 system is undergoing reform – investors should consider their expected tax position when choosing a broker and portfolio structure;
  3. Create a financial plan: develop a financial plan that includes your investment goals (e.g., retirement, house deposit, financial independence), time horizon, and risk tolerance. This guides your asset allocation between stocks, ETFs, bonds, and cash;
  4. Choose a broker: select a reputable, FCA/AFM-regulated brokerage platform. Popular options in the Netherlands include DEGIRO (Dutch-based, low fees), eToro (social trading and multi-asset), Interactive Brokers (advanced tools and professional features), Trading 212 (commission-free), Lightyear (cash interest via MMFs), Saxo (premium platform, formerly BinckBank), and Trade Republic (mobile-first banking and investing). Consider factors such as fees, FX charges, user interface, available products, and regulatory protection;
  5. Open a brokerage account: once you’ve chosen a broker, you’ll need to open an account. This typically involves providing personal information, proof of identity (passport or Dutch ID), proof of residence, your BSN (citizen service number), and linking a Dutch bank account;
  6. Deposit funds: fund your brokerage account with the amount you’re comfortable investing. Most Dutch-friendly brokers support SEPA bank transfers (free and typically arriving within 1 business day) and instant SEPA. Some also support iDEAL, debit card, or Apple/Google Pay deposits;
  7. Research stocks: conduct thorough research on the stocks or ETFs you’re interested in. Consider the company’s financial health, valuation, growth prospects, competitive position, and sector outlook. For ETFs, review the index methodology, total expense ratio (TER), tracking difference, and replication method;
  8. Place an order: log in to your brokerage account and place an order. You can choose between market orders (buy at the current market price) and limit orders (set a specific price below which you’re willing to buy). For long-term investors, limit orders during market hours typically offer better execution;
  9. Review and confirm: before confirming, review the order details (instrument, quantity, price, currency, total cost including FX) to ensure accuracy;
  10. Monitor your investments: keep an eye on your portfolio regularly (monthly or quarterly is sufficient for most long-term investors – daily checking can encourage impulsive decisions). Monitor market trends, company news, and developments that might affect your holdings;
  11. Build a diversified portfolio: to manage risk, consider diversifying across different sectors, geographies (US, Europe, emerging markets), and asset classes (equities, bonds, commodities). A simple option is a globally diversified equity ETF (such as a Vanguard FTSE All-World UCITS or iShares MSCI World UCITS);
  12. Stay informed: stay informed about market trends, central bank policy, and any changes in your chosen stocks. Continuous learning is key to successful long-term investing.

Remember, investing in stocks always carries risk – your capital is at risk and past performance is not indicative of future results. If you’re uncertain about your investment decisions or tax position, consider consulting with a Dutch-licensed financial advisor or tax consultant.

Bottom line

As we finish exploring the best brokers in the Netherlands, it’s clear that Dutch investors have diverse, high-quality options – all regulated by either the AFM directly or through MiFID II passporting from other top-tier EU regulators (BaFin, CySEC, CBI, DFSA). The best choice depends on your investor profile:

  • For low-cost, do-it-yourself investing in Dutch and European stocks: DEGIRO (German banking licence + €100K deposit protection) or Trading 212 (commission-free, free fractional share);
  • For commission-free multi-asset trading and social investing: eToro (NASDAQ-listed, real stocks plus CopyTrader and Smart Portfolios);
  • For advanced traders and broad market access: Interactive Brokers (170+ markets, professional-grade tools, S&P 500 constituent);
  • For ETF-focused investing with high cash interest: Lightyear (commission-free ETFs, AAA-rated MMFs paying competitive yields);
  • For broad ETF range and bond access: Freedom24 (3,600+ ETFs, Bonds Showcase from €1,000);
  • For a premium banking-plus-investing experience: Saxo (formerly BinckBank in the Netherlands, 71,000+ instruments) or Trade Republic (German banking licence, cash interest, mobile-first);
  • For CFD and spread betting: Plus500 (LSE-listed, FTSE 250) or XTB (Warsaw Stock Exchange-listed, multi-regulated).

Take a close look at each option, consider what matters most to you (fees, product range, platform features, customer support, regulatory protection), and choose the broker that best aligns with your investment goals. Good luck with your investments.

Other FAQs about brokers in the Netherlands

What are the types of investments you can make with a brokerage account?

You can trade stocks, ETFs, Forex, Bonds, Futures and CFDs on stocks, ETFs, indices, cryptocurrencies, commodities.

What is the cheapest stock broker in the Netherlands?

DEGIRO is widely regarded as one of the cheapest stock brokers in the Netherlands, offering a low-cost platform with competitive fees for trading stocks, ETFs, and other financial instruments.

Is Forex trading legal in the Netherlands?

Yes, forex trading is legal in the Netherlands. It is regulated by the Dutch financial regulatory authority, the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM). Traders can engage in forex trading through authorized and regulated brokers in compliance with Dutch financial laws.

Is DEGIRO better than eToro?

The choice between DEGIRO and eToro depends on your preferences. DEGIRO is known for low fees and a user-friendly interface, while eToro offers social trading features. Consider your priorities—fees, social trading, or other factors—when deciding which platform better suits your investment goals in the Netherlands.

Where to invest in the Netherlands?

Consider investing in diverse options like stocks, bonds, or real estate in the Netherlands. Evaluate your risk tolerance, financial goals, and time horizon. Consult with financial advisors or use reputable online brokers like DEGIRO, eToro, or Interactive Brokers to access various investment opportunities in the Dutch market.

Share this article
On this page
Share this article
About the author
Author Avatar
Franklin Silva
Co-Founder & Fintech Analyst

Franklin has three years of experience in Wealth Management as a Fund Research Analyst, has passed the CFA level II, and is the host of the "Edge Over Hedge" YouTube channel.

Don't miss these