Review TradeStation
Founded in 1982, TradeStation is a US-based stockbroker regulated by the SEC and FINRA. Initially a software for testing trading strategies, it evolved into an online brokerage in 2001. TradeStation is a self-clearing broker for equities, options, futures, and cryptocurrencies, known for its versatile platform using API technology and a learning community for various trading skills.
TradeStation boasts excellent web and mobile platforms that are user-friendly and well-organized, with low stock and ETF fees and a high-quality education section. However, it only supports bank transfers for deposits and withdrawals, lacks forex trading options, and its customer support could be enhanced
Recommended to:
TradeStation is recommended to traders with diverse trading expertise.
Pros
- Extensive product selection
- Low stock and ETF fees
- Great tools availability
Cons
- Limited deposit and withdrawal options
- Customer support can be improved
Review’s Keypoints
Country of regulation
USA
Minimum deposit
$0
Time to open an account
1 day
Trading fees class
Low
Deposit with bank card
Not available
Number of base currencies supported
9
Products offered
Stocks
ETF's
Funds
Options
Futures
Bonds
CFD's
Forex
Crypto
Depositing with electronic wallet
Not available
Demo account provided
Yes
Fees
TradeStation offers low trading costs with three flexible fee packages: a per-trade option ideal for high volumes, a per-share plan suitable for frequent, smaller trades, and an unbundled pricing model that benefits very high-volume traders with decreasing fees.
Pros
- Low stock and ETF fees
- Various of fee structure to choose
Cons
- Non-activity costs
TradeStation Costs
- ***1000 in EUR or USD for the stocks transaction
- ***Price per contract for Options & Futures
Account
At TradeStation non-US clients have access to accounts, but with limitations on products, account types, and fee structures. While a definitive list of eligible countries isn’t available, unless you’re from countries typically banned from financial markets, you’re likely able to open an account.
Opening a TradeStation account is straightforward and online. Due to regulations, instant account opening isn’t possible, but approval typically takes just 1-2 business days
Individual Account
Individual Account
Owned by a single person
Entity Account
Entity Account
When the owner is a business entity
Joint Account
Joint Account
Owned by multiple clients
Click on the card to see details
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01Set up account
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02Provide personal details
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03Submit employment details
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04Share financials and experience
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05Complete verification
Transfers
TradeStation allows free deposits exclusively via bank transfers, a typical method for US brokers, and permits wire transfers for withdrawals, with fees applying. Account holders can only transact with accounts in their own name. Additionally, both deposits and withdrawals can be made using cryptocurrencies.
Pros
- Lack of deposit fee
Cons
- Limited trasfer options
- Selective free withdrawal options
Trading Platforms
Web Trading Platform
TradeStation reconstructed its web trading platform in 2018. It has a good design and user interface, offering a comfortable trading experience for both beginners and professionals.The web trading platform is available only in English..
Mobile Trading Platform
TradeStation's mobile app, available in English, mirrors the web platform with slight differences. Search function allows symbol-based search but lacks asset type filtering. Similar order types and terms as the web platform, with the added feature of setting price alerts.
Desktop Trading Platform
TradeStation's Windows-only desktop platform is intricate and tailored for advanced traders. While highly customizable with preset workspaces, it's challenging for beginners or long-term investors due to its complexity and outdated interface. Features include two-step login and the ability to set price alerts, but navigating functions like search and notifications can be difficult amidst tab-specific search functions.
Offering
Tools
Trading Ideas
TradeStation provides trading ideas, but only on the desktop platform. You will find recommendations about each asset class written by TradeStation’s staff.
Fundamental Data
TradeStation offers very detailed fundamental data, provided by Yahoo. However, it is only available on the desktop trading platform. You will find multiple types of data, from earnings ratios to financial statements.
Charting
TradeStation provides standard charting.
News Feed
TradeStation offers top-notch news accessible through 'Market Insights' on their website and trading platforms. News is categorized by products and sectors, with platforms allowing filtering by criteria and asset symbol search.
Other tools
TradeStation's desktop platform offers diverse research add-ons from both TradeStation and external developers. While some are free, many require a subscription fee for access.
Regulation
Regulated by the SEC and FINRA, TradeStation is a well-established broker founded in 1982, indicating its resilience through financial crises. It offers SIPC protection to clients, covering up to $500,000, including $250,000 for cash, applicable to equities accounts for both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens. However, it lacks negative balance protection. As a part of Japan’s Monex Group, listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, TradeStation benefits from the enhanced transparency and scrutiny of a publicly traded company.
Bottom Line
TradeStation is an outstanding US broker. The web and mobile platforms are very easy-to-use with many features. It also provides low stock and ETF trading costs. In addition, TradeStation’s education materials are well-designed and of high quality.
However, the deposit and withdrawal features are not easy-to-use as you can only use bank transfer. There is no forex trading, and there is room for improvement when it comes to customer support
Feel free to try TradeStation if you prefer to trade on US markets. We recommend it for buy and hold investors with at least some level of experience.