Swissquote Broker in a nutshell
- Wide range of assets available: more than 3,000 stocks, 150 ETFs, 30 indices, 50 currency pairs, commodities, bonds, cryptocurrencies
- Swissquote proprietary platform, intuitive and complete, available on browser and mobile
- Access to MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 for technical profiles
- Direct trading in stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies and derivatives
- Strict regulation by FINMA (Switzerland) and registration with SEBI
- Client funds segregated in Swiss banks, additional insurance included
- Multi-currency account available, with up to 22 currencies
- Advanced tools: stock screener, fundamental analysis, market reports
- Secure interface with strong authentication (2FA)
- Access to Robo-Advisory and managed solutions
- Inactivity fees of 10 CHF per month after 6 months without operation
- Commissions on real shares higher than some competitors
- High currency conversion fees (up to 1%) in the absence of a multi-currency account
- Leverage more limited than other CFD brokers (up to 1:30 for individuals)
- Absence of native copy trading or social trading
- What about Swissquote?
- My Opinion on the Security and Reliability of the Broker Swissquote
- My opinion on the fees, spreads and commissions applied to Swissquote
- My opinion on the assets & markets available on Swissquote
- My opinion on the platform
- Customer reviews : What users think of Swissquote
- Account opening, deposits and withdrawals on Swissquote
- Conclusion: Should you invest with Swissquote?
Why Trust Hellosafe?
HelloSafe is an expert in financial products, advising over a million users every month. Our specialists have tested the services of over 100 brokers worldwide, opening accounts and carrying out real transactions. Discover our complete analysis of this platform.
Swissquote is one of the leaders in online trading in Switzerland, and also positions itself as a complete digital bank. The platform, rated 3.9/5 out of over 1,900 reviews on Trustpilot, is particularly renowned for the quality of its regulation, its meticulous proprietary interface, and the diversity of its instruments available for real purchase or via CFD.
I've spent the last 6 months registering, testing and analyzing Swissquote in depth, and have sought to compare the platform to other regulated and popular online brokers in India.
In short, I was trying to answer questions like: can we trust Swissquote? Is the platform easy to learn and intuitive for beginners? How much does it cost to trade with Swissquote, and can you build up a diversified asset portfolio? What features does the trader offer vs. other online brokers?
So I sifted through everything: account opening process, management and trading fees, financial instruments available, features, simplicity of the platform (desktop and mobile) and trading tools, and so on. Below is my in-depth analysis of the Swissquote broker (compared with the other platforms I tested).
What about Swissquote?
My overall opinion of Swissquote
After several weeks of testing, I can say that Swissquote clearly distinguishes itself from the majority of online brokers, notably by its banking regulation in Switzerland and its hybrid positioning between an investment bank and a trading platform. The platform is solid, reliable, and allows access to both traditional markets (stocks, bonds, ETF) and more dynamic products such as CFDs, Forex or cryptocurrencies.
Regarding assets, the offer is among the widest I have tested: more than 60 global markets accessible, 3,000 stocks, around fifty currency pairs, ETFs, indices, commodities, structured products, and even direct cryptos. The possibility of investing both directly (excluding CFDs) and with leverage is a real plus for mixing long-term and short-term approaches.
In terms of tools, Swissquote's proprietary platform is well-designed, ergonomic and accessible via browser and mobile application. More technical traders can switch to MetaTrader 4 or 5 depending on their profile. I appreciated the selection tools, fundamental analysis and integrated news feeds. On the other hand, there is no native copy trading solution, which some may miss.
The fees are higher than at purely CFD or low-cost brokers. For example, stock commissions can reach ₹ [variable] per order, and conversion fees up to 1%. On the other hand, spreads are quite competitive on Forex, especially with the Prime account. There is good tariff transparency, with very few hidden costs.
Finally, in terms of security, I believe Swissquote is beyond reproach: regulated by the SEBI, registered with the relevant authorities in India, segregated client funds, additional protection thanks to its status as a bank, and secure access via strong authentication. It is a platform in which I have complete confidence to house a significant portion of my trading capital.
Check out the best brokers in India!Compare brokersWhich types of traders is Swissquote suitable for in India?
=> For experienced investors who want access to a wide range of instruments while benefiting from a strict regulatory framework. Swissquote offers an impressive diversity of markets, with access to over 60 global exchanges, and allows for genuine long-term investment with actual ownership of stocks and ETFs, which is rare for a trading-oriented platform.
=> For professional or active traders looking for stable execution and powerful trading tools like MetaTrader 5 or the in-house eTrading platform. The Prime account, for example, allows you to benefit from reduced pricing conditions from ₹1,000,000 deposit, with competitive spreads on Forex and optimized fees for frequent orders.
=> For Forex and CFD traders who want to trade with leverage in a secure environment. Swissquote offers leverage up to 1:30 for retail clients and up to 1:100 for professionals, with a varied choice of currencies, indices and commodities. Risk management is facilitated by comprehensive stop loss and margin monitoring tools.
On the other hand, Swissquote may be less suitable for small investors or beginner traders looking for low entry fees. The high minimum deposit (₹89,000) and fixed brokerage fees per order may deter those who wish to start with small positions or test without committing too much financially.
Swissquote in a few seconds, is:
Feature | Detail |
---|---|
Minimum Deposit | ₹ 89,000 |
Regulations | FINMA (Switzerland), MFSA (Malta), DFSA (Dubai), SFC (Hong Kong), FCA (United Kingdom) |
SEBI Registration | Yes (as an investment service provider) |
Available Assets | Stocks (60,000+), ETFs (1,700+), Cryptocurrencies (35+), Currencies (130+), Commodities, Indices, Bonds |
Trading Tools | eTrading (proprietary platform), MetaTrader 4 and 5, Swissquote mobile app |
Demo Account | Yes, available with ₹ 8,900,000 virtual money |
Copy Trading | Yes, via MetaTrader platform with integrated plugins and tools |
Islamic Trading | Not available |
Main Options | Stop Loss, Take Profit, Limit Orders, Conditional Orders |
Leverage | Up to 1:30 for retail clients, 1:100 for professionals |
Fees | Stocks: from CHF 9 per order Forex: spreads from 0.6 pip Crypto: 1% commission per transaction Inactivity Fee: CHF 10/month after 6 months Withdrawal: CHF 2 per transfer |
Customer Support | By email, phone, contact form, chat (business hours) |
Verified Trustpilot Reviews | Rating: 3.9/5 (1,941 reviews) |
Forex: spreads from 0.6 pip
Crypto: 1% commission per transaction
Inactivity Fee: CHF 10/month after 6 months
Withdrawal: CHF 2 per transfer
My Opinion on the Security and Reliability of the Broker Swissquote
As a trader, I consider Swissquote to be one of the most reliable brokers in the market. Its status as a Swiss bank, its supervision by FINMA, and its strict regulatory obligations make it a safe bet for trading with confidence, especially from India where it is fully authorized to offer its services.
Indicator | Description | Risk Management |
---|---|---|
Regulatory Compliance | FINMA (Switzerland), MFSA (Malta), FCA (United Kingdom), SFC (Hong Kong), DFSA (Dubai), SEBI (India) | Excellent |
Funds Security | Segregated client accounts, Swissquote is a listed bank, Swiss banking security, no specific insurance but standard banking protection | Very good |
Risk Management Tools | Stop-loss, take-profit, controlled margins, limited leverage, real-time account monitoring | Very good |
Reputation & Coverage | Internationally recognized platform, publicly traded, more than 400,000 clients, Trustpilot rating 3.9/5 | Very good |
Swissquote enjoys a solid reputation in the banking and online brokerage world, particularly due to its unique status as an online bank. For a trader based in India, it is a reassuring choice both in terms of regulatory and operational aspects. The tools provided also allow for good control of market risks.
=> In my opinion, Swissquote is one of the few brokers that combines the security of a bank, access to global markets, and robust tools for active trading. It is a player that inspires confidence.
My opinion on the fees, spreads and commissions applied to Swissquote
What I found at Swissquote was a rather high-end pricing structure, reflecting its positioning as a Swiss online bank. Fees are clearly displayed, but higher than those of many low-cost CFD brokers, especially for shares and withdrawals. On the other hand, the quality of service, security and range of instruments offered justify, in my opinion, part of these costs.
The basic account allows you to trade a very wide range of assets, but it is clearly not the most economical platform for ultra-frequent trading. Spreads are decent on Forex (from 0.6 pips), and fixed fees are especially visible on stocks, ETFs, or withdrawals. In my opinion, Swissquote is primarily aimed at investors who prioritise a secure framework and reliable tools rather than an aggressive pricing policy.
Let's now look in detail at the broker's fee schedule.
What are the account fees?
Type of fees | Conditions | Market average |
---|---|---|
Opening fee | Free | ₹400 – ₹800 |
Management fee | No annual account maintenance fee, but commissions on each transaction | 0,1 – 0,2 % |
Withdrawal fee | CHF 2 per transfer in local currency; up to CHF 10 depending on currency and country | ₹400 – ₹800 |
Inactivity fee | CHF 10/month after 6 months of inactivity | ₹400 – ₹1200 |
Frais de Conversion fee | 0.95% for most foreign currencies; reduced rate for Premium accounts | Variable |
I found Swissquote's pricing policy to be generally transparent but a bit high on some transactions, such as currency conversions or withdrawals. There are no management fees, which slightly compensates, and the account remains accessible without any volume conditions. For demanding investors, this is acceptable, but you have to be aware of it.
The minimum deposit of ₹89,000 is relatively high compared to other online brokers. This confirms that Swissquote targets a more engaged user profile, who wishes to access banking services in addition to a multi-asset trading account.
Trader Tip
To limit conversion fees, I use Revolut or Wise to transfer my funds in INR before depositing them. And to avoid inactivity fees, I have set a monthly alert to log into the account, even if I am not trading.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
Type of fess | Conditions | Market average |
---|---|---|
Commission | From ₹ [replace this with equivalent in INR of 9 CHF] per transaction (depending on amount invested and market) | 0,10 % |
Spread fee | Included in market fees, variable according to order book | 0,10 % |
Overnight fee | No overnight fees for cash investments; CFDs only | Variable |
Custody fee | From 0.025% per quarter, with a minimum of ₹ [replace this with equivalent in INR of 15 CHF]. | Variable |
Swissquote offers a genuine long-term investment service, with cash purchases of equities and ETFs, which is rare for a platform that also specializes in CFD trading. Fixed fees are clearly higher than with neo-brokers such as Trade Republic or Boursorama, but in exchange you benefit from multi-market access, a high-quality interface and Swiss banking support. For more frequent investments or small amounts, however, these fees can weigh on profitability.
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Type of fees | Conditions | Market average |
---|---|---|
Buy/Sell fee | 1% per transaction up to ₹890,000 (decreasing to 0.5% for more than ₹44,500,000) | 0,75 % |
Spread fee | Included in the purchase/sale price | 0,5 – 1 % |
Overnight fee | None if purchased directly; CFDs subject to standard overnight fees | Variable |
Custody fee | No special childcare costs | Variable |
Swissquote remains more expensive than crypto exchanges like Binance, Bybit, or Kraken, but the broker caters to investors seeking a regulated and secure environment to buy cryptos. Purchases are made directly, without default leverage, and crypto-assets are held by Swissquote in partnership with cold storage solutions. For staking or very frequent operations, it is better to go through a specialized platform. For long-term holding, Swissquote is a safe alternative.
What are the CFD fees?
Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at Swissquote | Overnight Fees | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|---|
Stocks | 1:5 | From 0.25% | Variable interest depending on position | 0.10% + fees |
Gold | 1:20 | From ₹20.84 | Yes, depending on size and duration of the trade | 0.05% |
Oil (WTI) | 1:10 | From ₹2.50 | Yes | ₹2.50 – ₹4.17 |
EUR/USD | 1:30 | From 0.8 pip | Yes, calculated every night | 1 pip |
EUR/GBP | 1:30 | From 1.0 pip | Yes | 1 pip |
CAC 40 | 1:20 | From 1 point | Yes | 1 – 2 points |
BTCUSD | 1:2 | From ₹4167.75 | Yes, higher than other assets | 0.75% + commission |
Bonds | Not specified | Variable | Yes | Variable |
I found Swissquote's CFD pricing to be fairly competitive on certain assets such as Forex and indices, but a little higher on CFD stocks and cryptos. Nevertheless, the interface allows you to see the cost of a position before opening it, which limits any unpleasant surprises. Overnight fees are standard, but can quickly weigh down long positions. Short-term strategies are therefore preferable.
Trader Tip
If you trade crypto CFDs, keep a close eye on the overnight fee schedule. Swissquote charges for positions left open after 11:00 PM (Indian Standard Time), so it's best to close them before this time to avoid accumulating fees over several days.
My opinion on the assets & markets available on Swissquote
Assets | Type (Direct and/or CFD) | Number | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|
Stocks | Direct + CFD | 60,000+ | 2,500 |
ETFs | Direct + CFD | 9,000+ | 200 |
Cryptocurrencies | Direct + CFD | 35 | 10 |
Currencies | CFD | 80+ | 50 |
Commodities | CFD | 26 | 20 |
Indices | CFD | 26 | 12 |
Bonds | Direct | 500+ | Variable |
NFT | Not Available | - | N/A |
While testing Swissquote, I was impressed by the richness of the offer. It is one of the few brokers to offer both CFD trading and direct investment in stocks, ETFs and bonds. You can access more than 60 global markets, which opens the door to true international diversification.
The cryptocurrency catalog is slightly more restricted than specialized exchanges, but it covers the major market capitalizations. What makes the difference in my opinion is the possibility of having direct exposure to all these assets from a single secure banking interface, without multiplying accounts or platforms. This is a real plus for those who want to centralize their wealth management.
My opinion on the platform
Features | Verififed details |
---|---|
Mobile app | Yes, via the Swissquote Mobile application on iOS and Android |
Ergonomics | Very clear, professional interface, also suitable for long-term investors |
Software compatibility | Swissquote Web, MetaTrader 4 & MetaTrader 5 |
Types of orders | Market orders, limit, stop, trailing stop, take profit |
Technical or graphical analysis | Integrated graphical tools, technical indicators available |
Auto trading / automated strategies | Possible via MetaTrader with Expert Advisors (EA) |
Algorithmic trading | Yes, via MetaTrader 4 & 5 |
Protection against negative balances | Yes, for individual customers |
Trading signals | Yes, via Autochartist and Trading Central |
Asset search and filtering | Yes, very good search engine integrated into the Web interface |
Cash purchase of shares | Yes, available for over 60,000 international titles |
As a trader, I've found the Swissquote platform to be particularly well-designed for managing a diversified portfolio. The mobile app allows you to track your positions in real-time, the web and MetaTrader interfaces offer advanced technical tools, and asset research is fast, smooth, and reliable.
I also appreciated the ability to invest directly in stocks, ETFs, and even bonds, which is not common among online brokers. The platform is aimed at both technical traders and long-term investors, with a truly professional navigation structure.
Trader Tip
Activate smart notifications in the Swissquote application to track your alert levels on the assets you monitor in real time. This allows you to react quickly, especially if you're working in parallel or don't always have an eye on your charts.
Customer reviews : What users think of Swissquote
Swissquote has an average Trustpilot rating of 3.9/5, based on 1,941 reviews. This is a solid score that reflects users' overall confidence in this trading-oriented online bank. Many customers appreciate the reliability and transparency of the services, although a few frustrations stand out regarding fees and customer service.
Among the most frequently cited positive points: the quality of the web and mobile platform, the variety of instruments available and the stability of the services. The security of funds and regulation in India also reassure many users.
On the critical side, several users complain of sometimes high fees, particularly on withdrawals or shares. Others point to slow response times from customer support, particularly during peak periods. A few comments also mention a lack of clarity in the pricing structure.
Examples of customer reviews:
D.B (February 12, 2024) : « Very good interface and Swiss reliability, but fees are too high for small portfolios. »
H.H (January 23, 2024) : « The mobile application is very well done, but customer service sometimes takes a while to respond. »
C.R (March 7, 2024) : « Swissquote remains one of the safest platforms to invest, but pay attention to withdrawal fees. »
Account opening, deposits and withdrawals on Swissquote
Account opening
Step | Verified Details |
---|---|
Opening Procedure | 100% online through the Swissquote website, with secure electronic signature |
Validation Time | Generally within 24 hours after document verification |
Accepted Deposit Methods | Bank transfer only |
Minimum Amount Required | ₹ 89,000 for a real account; demo account accessible without deposit |
Supporting Documents to Provide | Identity document (card or passport) + proof of address < 3 months |
Advice | Prepare your documents in advance to speed up the process |
Opening an account with Swissquote was straightforward. I found the procedure well-designed, with a secure and smooth interface for submitting documents. Validation was quick, taking less than 24 hours in my case.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Access the account opening form on the Swissquote website
- Fill in your personal details and choose the account type (eTrading, Forex/CFD, Robo-Advisor)
- Answer the regulatory financial assessment questionnaire
- Upload your proof of identity and a recent proof of address
- Electronically sign the contract
- Wait for the confirmation email and log in to your client area
Good to know
The demo account can be activated once the account opening is validated. It allows you to test the platform with virtual funds on Swissquote's real interface, which is ideal for getting your bearings before investing.
Swissquote Deposits and Withdrawals
Type | Accepted Methods | Available Currencies | Minimum Amounts |
---|---|---|---|
Deposit | Bank Transfer (SEPA or SWIFT) | EUR, CHF, USD, GBP, JPY, AUD, CAD | ₹1,000 (or equivalent) |
Withdrawal | Bank Transfer only | Account Currency | No minimum stated |
Swissquote's deposit and withdrawal system is highly secure, but a little more rigid than that of other brokers. Bank transfer is the only authorized method, which can lengthen lead times (1 to 3 working days on average). On the other hand, funds are clearly identified and traceable, and fees are transparent.
Expert advice
To avoid unnecessary exchange charges, open your account in the same currency as your main bank if possible. This allows you to deposit without conversion, especially if you trade in INR.
Account types available on Swissquote
Swissquote's offering is structured around several account types to suit a variety of profiles, from long-term investor to active trader. What sets it apart is the ability to invest both in direct markets and via CFDs, with a high level of security and a professional interface.
Types of Account | Available on Swissquote |
---|---|
Demo Account | ✅ Yes, accessible without deposit, with configurable virtual capital |
Islamic Account | ❌ No, not available at Swissquote |
Standard/STP Account | ✅ Yes, classic eTrading account without fixed commission |
Raw/ECN Account | ❌ No, no ECN account offered |
CFD Account | ✅ Yes, dedicated via opening a Forex/CFD account |
Securities Account | ✅ Yes, to invest spot on stocks, ETFs and bonds |
Copy Trading | ❌ No, no native copy trading functionality |
Base Currencies of Accounts | EUR, CHF, USD, GBP |
✅ Note:
Swissquote allows you to open multiple accounts according to your needs: an eTrading account for spot equities, a CFD account for leveraged trading, or a dedicated Forex account. The interface is centralized, but each account is technically separate.
Conclusion: Should you invest with Swissquote?
After several weeks of testing, I can say that Swissquote is a serious platform designed for autonomous and demanding investors. What struck me was the stability of the interface, the wealth of accessible markets (stocks, ETFs, currencies, CFDs, bonds) and the regulatory framework, which reinforces confidence.
I particularly appreciated the possibility of combining a long-term portfolio with a CFD account for more dynamic strategies. The fees are transparent, the user experience is smooth, and the security of funds is at a very good level thanks to the regulation by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and deposit protection.
In summary, Swissquote is aimed at traders who want a reliable, multi-platform platform capable of covering all needs, from traditional investment to advanced analysis on MetaTrader 5.
Check out the best brokers in India!Compare brokersIs Swissquote regulated in India?
Swissquote is not directly registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), but it operates as a recognized and approved banking institution regulated in Switzerland by FINMA. This allows it to offer deposit protection up to CHF 100,000.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The minimum deposit depends on the account type. For an eTrading account (cash equities), no minimum amount is required. For a Forex/CFD account, the minimum deposit is 1,000 units in the base currency (e.g., ₹1,000 for an account in Indian rupees). This barrier to entry makes it more suitable for investors who already have initial capital.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
No, Swissquote does not offer a welcome bonus to clients in India, in accordance with regulations on financial advertising. The broker also does not promote regular promotional offers.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
The maximum leverage depends on the client's status and the asset type. For retail clients in India, the leverage is limited as per regulatory guidelines. The exact leverage limits may vary based on SEBI regulations. Professional traders may have access to higher leverage on certain instruments.
How is Swissquote compensated?
Swissquote is compensated through several channels: commissions on stocks and ETFs (minimum CHF9/₹/$, depending on the stock exchange), spreads on CFDs and Forex, as well as ancillary fees such as custody and inactivity fees. The entire pricing is detailed on their site, with a high level of transparency.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote Group Holding SA is a Swiss online bank listed on the stock exchange (SIX: SQN), founded in 1996. Its headquarters are in Gland, Switzerland. It also has subsidiaries in London, Dubai, Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong, which reinforces its international presence.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as a company specializing in financial analysis before becoming a full-fledged bank in 2000. Since then, it has continued to develop its online trading and investment services for individuals and professionals.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading?
No, Swissquote does not offer native copy trading functionality like eToro or ZuluTrade. However, traders can use MetaTrader 5 to integrate automated strategies or connect third-party services compatible with the platform.
How to contact Swissquote customer service?
Customer service can be reached by phone (Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.), by email, and via a contact form on the site. During tests, the responses were quick (less than an hour by email) and relevant.
Does Swissquote offer promotions?
No, Swissquote does not offer commercial promotions or trading contests. The platform's strategy is based more on reliability and quality of the offer than on marketing campaigns or bonuses.
Is Swissquote regulated in India?
Swissquote is not directly registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), but it operates as a recognized and approved banking institution regulated in Switzerland by FINMA. This allows it to offer deposit protection up to CHF 100,000.
What is the minimum deposit on Swissquote?
The minimum deposit depends on the account type. For an eTrading account (cash equities), no minimum amount is required. For a Forex/CFD account, the minimum deposit is 1,000 units in the base currency (e.g., ₹1,000 for an account in Indian rupees). This barrier to entry makes it more suitable for investors who already have initial capital.
Does Swissquote offer a welcome bonus?
No, Swissquote does not offer a welcome bonus to clients in India, in accordance with regulations on financial advertising. The broker also does not promote regular promotional offers.
How does leverage work on Swissquote?
The maximum leverage depends on the client's status and the asset type. For retail clients in India, the leverage is limited as per regulatory guidelines. The exact leverage limits may vary based on SEBI regulations. Professional traders may have access to higher leverage on certain instruments.
How is Swissquote compensated?
Swissquote is compensated through several channels: commissions on stocks and ETFs (minimum CHF9/₹/$, depending on the stock exchange), spreads on CFDs and Forex, as well as ancillary fees such as custody and inactivity fees. The entire pricing is detailed on their site, with a high level of transparency.
Who is behind Swissquote?
Swissquote Group Holding SA is a Swiss online bank listed on the stock exchange (SIX: SQN), founded in 1996. Its headquarters are in Gland, Switzerland. It also has subsidiaries in London, Dubai, Singapore, Luxembourg and Hong Kong, which reinforces its international presence.
When was Swissquote launched?
Swissquote was launched in 1996, initially as a company specializing in financial analysis before becoming a full-fledged bank in 2000. Since then, it has continued to develop its online trading and investment services for individuals and professionals.
Does Swissquote offer copy trading?
No, Swissquote does not offer native copy trading functionality like eToro or ZuluTrade. However, traders can use MetaTrader 5 to integrate automated strategies or connect third-party services compatible with the platform.
How to contact Swissquote customer service?
Customer service can be reached by phone (Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.), by email, and via a contact form on the site. During tests, the responses were quick (less than an hour by email) and relevant.
Does Swissquote offer promotions?
No, Swissquote does not offer commercial promotions or trading contests. The platform's strategy is based more on reliability and quality of the offer than on marketing campaigns or bonuses.