Copy trading platforms help you replicate the trading strategies of successful traders to enhance their understanding of market dynamics for profit. The global copy-trading market is projected to reach $4 billion by 2030, highlighting the growing interest in copy-trading platforms that empower investors with limited experience.
We’ve done our in-depth research at WR Trading and come up with the five best copy trading platforms, evaluating their features, advantages, and unique selling points.
Here’s a quick look at the best copy-trading brokers based on our rigorous testing and analysis at WR Trading:
Broker:
Copy Trading:
Advantages:
Account:
Yes
- $50 Minimum Deposit
- Zero commission for real stocks and ETF trades, 1% on cryptos
- 5,000+ Markets
- eToro investing platform and app
- Multiple regulations (FCA, CySEC, & more)
Yes
- More than 1,000 markets
- Leverage up to 1:1000
- $250 Minimum Deposit
- NAGA Web app, iOS app, Android app, MT4/MT5
Yes (CopyFX)
- Different ECN Accounts
- Spreads from 0.0 Pips
- Copy Trading available
- Leverage up to 1:2000
- Low Commission from 6$/1 Lot
- High liquidity and fast execution
- TradingView, MT4/5, cTrader, Pro Trader
Yes (AvaSocial)
- Multiple Regulations
- Leverage up to 1:400
- Minimum Deposit $100
- 1.260+ Assets
- Copy Trading available
- MT4, MT5, and own platforms
Yes (V-Social)
- ECN Accounts
- Spreads from 0.0 Pips
- Copy Trading available
- Leverage up to 1:500
- Low Commission from 1.5$/1 Lot
- High liquidity and fast execution
- TradingView, MT4/5, cTrader, Pro Trader
#1 eToro
eToro has become one of the best brokers available and takes our number top spot for being the best platform for copy trading. When we tested eToro, it became evident that the platform provides a comprehensive and versatile trading experience, offering over 3,000 tradeable symbols, including forex pairs, exchange-traded securities, and CFDs.
Despite its slightly higher cost, eToro’s robust feature set and regulatory backing make it a highly reliable option for traders. With a minimum deposit starting from $50 to $10,000, eToro accommodates both casual and serious investors.
Our WR Trading experts also found that eToro is regulated in up to three Tier-1 jurisdictions. The platform offers indemnity insurance up to EUR 1 million per client in the EU, U.K., and Australia, adding an extra layer of security for users. Moreover, eToro’s recent SEC approval to offer spot Bitcoin ETFs will be appealing to users who fancy more market offerings.
Key Facts About eToro
Feature | Information |
---|---|
Leverage | Stock trades by up to x5 |
Account Types | Personal (retail) account, professional account, corporate account, and Islamic account |
Instruments | 5000+ assets in crypto, stocks, NFTs, ETFs, Indices Commodities, Currencies and more |
Minimum Deposit | $50 |
Deposit Methods | Wire transfers, bank cards, e-wallets, and eToro Money |
Withdrawal Methods | Wire transfers, PayPal, bank cards, Skrill, Trustly, Neteller, iDEAL, Przelewy 24, and eToro Money |
Demo Account | Yes |
Customer Support | 24/7 Live chat, Deposit FAQ, email and phone |
KYC Requirement | Yes |
Commission | Zero commission for real stocks and ETF trades, 1% on cryptos |
Mobile Trading | Yes (iOS and Andriod) |
Copy Trading | Yes |
Security | Two-factor authentication, encryption |
Additional Features | Fractional ownership, social trading features, educational resources |
#2 NAGA
As our second choice, NAGA stands out as a dynamic and multifaceted trading platform, especially noted for its unique blend of social networking and copy trading features. Our WR Trading review focused on specific aspects such as pricing, regulation, and overall functionality to provide a thorough analysis.
A key aspect that caught our attention was the platform’s fee schedule. NAGA provides special commissions for copying trades. For CFDs on shares, the commission is 0.2% per lot, and for CFDs on ETFs, it is 0.1% per lot. The platform, however, maintains standard account commissions for those trading various other instruments depending on your account type.
When we tested the “Autocopy” feature, we were impressed by its simplicity and effectiveness. Users can automatically replicate the trades of top investors, and the platform provides detailed performance metrics and risk profiles for these traders.
Key Facts About NAGA
Feature | Information |
---|---|
Leverage | maximum leverage of up to 1:1000 |
Account Types | 6 Live Accounts (Iron, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond, and Crystal) |
Trading Instruments | 1000+ assets including, Forex, Stock CFDs, Real Stocks, Crypto, Indices, Commodities, Futures, ETFs |
Supported Platforms | NAGA Web app, NAGA iOS app, NAGA Android app, MT4 and MT5 |
Minimum Deposit | $250 |
Maximum Deposit | $35,000 |
Deposit Methods | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Diners, and Discover. |
Withdrawal Methods | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Diners, and Discover. |
Demo Account | Yes ($10,000 Practice account) |
Customer Support | FAQ section, complaint form, Live chat, phone and email. (07:30 am – 02:00 am EEST) |
KYC Requirement | Yes |
Commission (Copy Fee) | fixed fee of €0.99, an extra 5% on €10 profit copy trades |
Mobile Trading | Yes |
Copy Trading | Yes |
Security | Encryption, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). |
Educational Resources | NAGA Learn, Glossary, Currencies Encyclopedia, Currency Converter, Webinars, Trading calculator, Economic calendar, Earnings calendar, Blog, hot news |
#3 RoboForex (CopyFX)
Our third choice at WR Trading is RoboForex because it stands as a dynamic and reputable brokerage firm. CopyFX offers a seamless experience for investors seeking to replicate the strategies of successful traders.
RoboForex CopyFX simplifies trading by enabling users to automatically replicate the trades of strategy managers, also known as signal providers. RoboForex has a special brokerage license that allows it to operate under Belize’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) regulation.
Not all Signal Providers on CopyFX charge fees. We found some offer their strategies without commissions, allowing investors to copy their trades at no extra cost. CopyFX offers three primary copying modes to make this process easier for different trading levels:
- Proportional Mode: This mode adjusts the trade size based on how much money you have compared to the trader. If you have less money, you’ll buy/sell smaller amounts than the trader.
- Classic Mode: In this mode, you set a specific amount (e.g., number of shares or currency units) to trade whenever the trader does, regardless of their trade size or your account balance.
- Fixed Mode: Here, you, the investor, simply copy the trader’s exact trades into your account, regardless of the size or your account balance.
Key Facts About RoboForex CopyFX
Feature | Information |
---|---|
Leverage | up to 1:2000 |
Copy Trade Account Types | ProCent, Pro, ECN and Prime. |
Minimum Deposit | $100 |
Deposit Methods | Bank transfer, Bank cards, Electronic payment (e.g., Atropay, Skrill, Neteller, Perfect Money) |
Withdrawal Methods | Bank transfer, Bank cards, Electronic payment (e.g., Atropay, Skrill, Neteller, Perfect Money) |
Demo Account | Yes (Not available for copy trading) |
Customer Support | 24/7 phone, Live chat, FAQs and email |
Trading Instruments | Over 12,000 assets |
Commission | Zero percent on deposits and up to 4% on withdrawals ($0.009) |
Mobile Trading | Yes (ios and Andriod) |
Copy Trading | Yes, a Dedicated copy trading platform(CopyFX) |
Security | Licensed by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Belize |
Additional Features | CopyFX Partner Program, referral program |
#4 AvaTrade
AvaTrade is another well-established online broker offering a variety of financial instruments, including forex, stocks, ETFs, CFDs, and even cryptocurrencies. The platform also caters to copy traders with a platform called AvaSocial.
During our testing, we found that AvaSocial provides access to a decent pool of signal providers —traders we can copy. Each profile displays performance metrics, risk tolerance indicators, and trading strategies. While the selection might not be the most extensive compared to giants like eToro, it offers a good variety of different risk appetites and investment goals.
AvaTrade charges standard trading commissions/spreads depending on the asset we’re trading. However, there are no additional fees specifically for copy trading. The minimum deposit requirement to start copy trading on AvaTrade is $100, which is on the lower end compared to some competitors.
Key Facts About AvaTrade
Feature | Information |
---|---|
Leverage | 1:400 on Forex trades, as low as 1:200 on other instruments |
Account Types | Standard, Spread, Islamic, Pro |
Minimum Deposit | $100 |
Deposit Methods | Credit cards, E- payments, and wire transfer |
Withdrawal Methods | Credit cards, E- payments, and wire transfer |
Demo Account | Yes (Available only for 21 days) |
Customer Support | 24/5 phone, email, live chat and fax |
Instruments | Forex, FX options, ETFs, Bonds, commodities, stocks, cryptocurrencies, indices |
Trading Platforms | MT4, MT5, WebTrader, AvaTrade App, AvaSocial |
Spreads | 0.9 pips on forex |
Commission | Zeros commissions on trades |
Mobile Trading | Yes (IOS and Andriod) |
Copy Trading | Yes (AvaSocial) |
Security | McAfee Secure (HackerSafe), 256-bit SSL encryption, WebTrust compliant |
Additional Features | Supports third-party platforms, SPecial risk management tools |
#5 Vantage
While Vantage does not possess some of the social features of other competitors, it remains a top platform for copy trading. Vantage’s copy trading service is worth considering for beginners interested in a simple and low-cost way to copy forex trades, especially given their focus on regulation and transparency.
Vantage also operates under four entities, each regulated in various jurisdictions. It is also a member of The Financial Commission, an independent dispute resolution body that provides an extra layer of protection for traders.
Currently, Vantage’s copy trading focuses primarily on forex. So those interested in copy trades in stocks, ETFs, or other asset classes should consider other platforms.
Key Facts about Vantage
Feature | Information |
---|---|
Leverage | 1:500 |
Account Types | Standard STP, CENT, RAW ECN, PRO ECN, Swap free, and Premium. |
Minimum Deposit | $50 |
Deposit Methods | Bank cards, Bank transfers, Wire transfers, Cryptocurrency, and E-wallet (e.g., FasaPay, Neteller, Skrill, AstroPay, UnionPay, BPAY, Perfect Money, STICPAY) |
Withdrawal Methods | Bank cards, Bank transfers, Wire transfers, Cryptocurrency, and E-wallet (e.g., FasaPay, Neteller, Skrill, AstroPay, UnionPay, BPAY, Perfect Money, STICPAY) |
Demo Account | Yes |
Customer Support | 24/7. Email, phone, live chat, Comprehensive resources |
KYC Requirement | Yes |
Trading Instruments | Forex, CFDs, commodities, indices, shares/stocks and more |
Spreads | From 0.0 pips |
Commission | Zero Commission on Standard accounts, $1.50 per standard lot round turn on Pro accounts |
Mobile Trading | App available for IOS and Andriod |
Copy Trading | Yes (V-social) |
Additional Features | Expert advisors (EA), low latency trading |
How We Tested the Best Copy Trading Platforms
We left no stone unturned in our quest to identify the best options, employing a multi-layered testing process that assesses functionality, user experience, and real-world usability. Here’s a breakdown of our methodology:
- Account Funding
- Copy Trading Mechnanics
- Pricing and Fee
- Markets and Instruments
- Educational Features
Account Creation and Funding
We put ourselves in your shoes, experiencing each platform’s account opening and funding process. This involved evaluating signup speed, required documentation, and the variety of funding methods offered. Frictionless account creation and a range of funding options ensure a smooth entry point for investors.
Copy Trading Mechanics
At WR Trading, we carefully examined how each platform facilitates copy trading. Our focus is to examine testing features like browsing detailed trader profiles, analyzing performance metrics, and initiating the copy trade process with ease.
We also assessed the flexibility offered in terms of copying entire portfolios or specific trades.
Pricing and Fee
Transaction fees, management fees (if applicable), and spread structures were closely scrutinized across platforms. We aimed to identify platforms with competitive pricing and transparent fee structures, ensuring you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Range of Markets and Instruments
Diversity in tradeable assets allows for better portfolio diversification in copy trading. This is why we evaluated the various instruments available on each platform, including forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
Platforms offering a broad range of assets received higher ratings. We also considered the availability and flexibility of leverage options.
Social and Educational Features
The social and educational resources weren’t left out. We took our time to examine features like following other traders, interacting through forums or chat functionalities, and accessing educational resources related to copy trading.
We also assessed the availability and quality of educational materials, including webinars, tutorials, and market analysis, to support users in improving their trading skills.
Pros and Cons of Using Copy Trading Brokers
Copy trading has become a popular investment strategy, allowing novice traders to mimic the trades of experienced investors. However, like any investment approach, it comes with its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s an in-depth look at the pros and cons of using copy trading brokers.
Pros
- Beginner-Friendly
- Convenience and Time-Saving
- Diversification Potential
- Learning Opportunity
Cons
- Blind Trust, Uncertain Results
- Limited Control
Pros
Copy trading eliminates the need for in-depth market research and analysis. New investors can benefit from the experience of seasoned traders, potentially achieving returns without the initial learning curve. Copying trades automates the process, freeing up your time for other pursuits. You can monitor your portfolio performance without actively managing every trade.
By copying multiple traders with different strategies, you can diversify your portfolio and potentially mitigate risk. This approach helps spread your eggs across different baskets. Observing the trades of successful investors can be a valuable learning experience. You can gain insights into their strategies and risk management techniques.
Cons
You’re trusting someone else’s trading decisions. Past performance doesn’t guarantee future success, and there’s always a risk of losses. You relinquish control over your investment decisions. The chosen trader’s strategy may not align with your risk tolerance or investment goals.
How To Copy A Trade
Those new to trading tend to start with copy trading. But how exactly do you get started? Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process:
Step 1: Choose Your Platform
The first step is to select a reputable copy trading platform. We’ve already done due diligence by narrowing down some of the best copy trading platforms in this guide.
Each platform has its unique features and functionalities, so be sure to research and choose one that aligns with your needs.
Step 2: Open and Fund Your Account
Once you’ve chosen your platform, follow the steps to open a trading account. This typically involves providing basic personal information and completing verification procedures. Once your account is open, deposit funds using one of the available methods (e.g., bank transfer or credit card).
Step 3: Find Your Trading Heroes
Most platforms offer a directory of traders you can potentially copy. These directories often include information on the trader’s performance history, risk tolerance, and investment strategy.
Here’s an example: Let’s say you’re on a platform like eToro. You can search for traders by filtering them based on their risk level (defensive, moderate, aggressive), asset class (stocks, forex, crypto), and location.
Step 4: Analyze and Choose Wisely
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Performance History: Look at their historical returns, but remember past performance doesn’t guarantee future success.
- Risk Tolerance: Choose a trader whose risk tolerance aligns with your own. Aggressive traders might not be suitable if you’re risk-averse.
- Investment Strategy: Understand the trader’s investment strategy. Does it match your investment goals?
Don’t blindly copy every trader you see. You should also diligently research their profiles.
Step 5: Initiate The Copy Trade
Once you’ve identified a Signal Provider that aligns with your goals, it’s time to copy their trades. The steps might vary slightly depending on the platform, but generally, you’ll find a “Copy” button on the Signal Provider’s profile. Clicking this button will initiate the copy trading process.
Here’s an example: Let’s say you’re on a platform like RoboForex CopyFX. You’ve found a trader you want to copy, and you have $1000 to allocate. You decide to copy all their existing trades and new trades going forward. You would then click “Copy” on their profile, enter $1000 as your investment amount, and choose the “Copy All Trades” option.
Step 6: Monitor and Manage
Copy trading doesn’t mean setting it and forgetting it. You have a role to play by regularly monitoring your portfolio performance and the performance of the traders you’re copying. If a trader’s strategy significantly underperforms or no longer aligns with your goals, you can stop copying them at any time.
Copy Trading vs Learning Trading Yourself
Several beginners who begin their trading journey are likely to stumble on challenges. Copy trading offers a tempting shortcut: mirror the trades of experienced investors and potentially reap the rewards. But is it the right path for you? Let’s find out:
Time Efficiency and Convenience
Self-directed trading demands significant dedication to studying market trends, analyzing charts, and researching investment opportunities. This ongoing research can be a daunting task, especially for busy individuals. Copy trading, on the other hand, streamlines the process. By following a proven trader, you leverage their expertise and save valuable time that can be better spent elsewhere.
Learning By Example
Even experienced investors can benefit from observing the strategies of successful traders. Copy trading offers a unique learning opportunity. By following a skilled trader, you gain valuable insights into their decision-making processes, risk management techniques, and overall trading philosophy.
This knowledge can serve as a springboard for your future trading endeavors, should you choose to embark on that path.
Reduced Emotional Impact
The emotional rollercoaster of the market can cloud judgment and lead to impulsive decisions. Copy trading helps mitigate this risk by detaching your emotions from individual trades. Since you’re following the lead of a seasoned investor, you’re less likely to make rash decisions based on fear or excitement.
You’ll be able to maintain a more objective perspective and focus on long-term investment goals.
Diversification Potential
Spreading your investments across various assets is a cornerstone of any sound financial strategy. Copy trading platforms often allow you to follow multiple traders with diverse strategies. This built-in diversification helps mitigate risk by distributing your capital across different market segments, potentially reducing the impact of losses in any single area.
Mitigating Risk (to a Degree)
While no investment strategy is foolproof, copy trading allows you to leverage the experience of someone with a proven track record. By following a successful trader, you’re statistically more likely to achieve positive returns compared to starting from scratch with limited knowledge.
Managing Risk on Copy Trading Platforms
Copy trading platforms do offer a tempting entry point for new investors. However, the convenience of this approach shouldn’t overshadow the importance of risk management. Our experts at WR Trading have devised ways to manage risks effectively when using copy trading platforms.
Selecting the Right Signal Provider
The foundation of your copy trading journey hinges on selecting the right signal provider — the trader whose strategies you’ll be following. Treat this selection process as if you’re picking a financial guide. You need to learn to look beyond just impressive returns.
While past performance isn’t a guarantee of future success, a consistent track record over a reasonable timeframe is a good sign. More importantly, ensure the trader’s strategy aligns with your risk tolerance and investment goals. An aggressive, high-risk strategy might not be suitable if you’re risk-averse.
Setting Boundaries
Even with a seemingly qualified Signal Provider, it’s wise to limit your potential losses. Don’t allocate all your capital to a single trader. Instead, spread your investment across multiple Signal Providers, creating a diversified portfolio. This approach mitigates the impact if one strategy underperforms.
Some copy trading platforms offer additional tools to manage your exposure. Look for options to set allocation limits, specifying a fixed percentage of your capital for each copied trader.
Active Monitoring
Copy trading doesn’t mean autopilot. You still need to schedule regular reviews of the performance of the traders you copy and your overall portfolio. So, don’t be afraid to adjust allocations or stop copying altogether if a trader’s strategy consistently underperforms or no longer aligns with your goals.
Keep in mind that economic news and broader market trends can influence individual trades. So, always stay informed to make informed decisions to avoid significant losses.
Conclusion
We’ve explored five leading copy trading platforms, highlighting their strengths and potential drawbacks. Each platform caters to a specific set of needs, with some offering a wider range of tradable assets while others emphasize social interaction or user-friendliness.
So, the “best” platform for your copy trading ultimately depends on which one offers the desired attributes. Remember to use these platforms as a tool to learn and participate in the market while conducting your research and maintaining an active role in your investment journey.
Once again, these are the Top 5 Copy Trading Platforms:
- eToro – Over 3,000 tradeable symbols, including forex pairs, exchange-traded securities, and CFDs
- NAGA – Offers a blend of social networking and copy trading features
- RoboForex (CopyFX) – Security measures for investments, including Civil Liability Insurance and two-step authentication
- AvaTrade – Its copytrader platform, AvaSocial details performance metrics, risk tolerance, and other trading strategies
- Vantage – Equipped with filtering options, user-friendly design, and doesn’t request high additional fees
Frequently Asked Questions on Copy Trading Platforms
Do all Copy Trading Platforms Offer Crypto Options?
No. While not all platforms offer cryptocurrency assets for copy trading, there’s a growing selection. Look for platforms like eToro, AvaTrade, and Vantage that specifically mention cryptocurrencies as tradable assets for copy trading.
Can I Copy Trade Stocks And Forex on The Same Platform?
Yes! Many copy trading platforms allow you to copy trades across various asset classes, including stocks, forex, ETFs, and CFDs (depending on regulations). This diversification can help spread your risk across different markets.
Can I Set My Own Risk Parameters When Using A Copy Trading Platform?
Yes, most copy trading platforms allow investors to set their risk parameters. These can include stop-loss limits, maximum investment per trader, and the ability to diversify across multiple traders.
Resources
- https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/investing-basics/glossary/copy-trading
- https://asic.gov.au/about-asic/news-centre/find-a-media-release/2018-releases/18-183mr-asic-accepts-court-enforceable-undertaking-from-vantage-global-prime-to-address-systems-and-controls-inadequacies-within-its-cfd-business/
- https://nagamarkets.com/legal-documentation?lang=en&=1