Broker Germany – Compare the Best Online Trading Platforms

Germany offers a wide range of online brokers, but not all are suited for international users or expats. Fees, tax handling, platform language, and supported assets vary widely. This guide shows you how to pick the right broker in Germany in 2025—based on cost, features, and ease of use. You’ll also learn how to open an account, what you can trade, and how German taxes affect your investments.

Who Can Trade in Germany – Account Eligibility and Requirements

Before choosing a broker, make sure you’re eligible to open an account under German regulations. Most platforms have strict identity and residency checks, especially for tax reporting and compliance purposes.

Basic requirements to open a German brokerage account

• Valid passport or EU ID
• German residential address (Meldeadresse)
• Tax identification number (Steuer-ID)
• SEPA-compatible bank account
• Minimum age: 18 years
• PostIdent or VideoIdent verification
• EU or EEA residency (varies by broker)

Expats, freelancers, and international students can open accounts if they meet these conditions. Some platforms, like DEGIRO or eToro, allow cross-border access within the EU. However, many Germany-based brokers require a German address and may reject applicants using foreign bank details.

Verification is typically done through PostIdent (in-person ID check at a post office) or VideoIdent (online video call with ID confirmation). Both methods require valid documents and, in most cases, a working webcam.

Lastly, language can be a factor. Most German brokers operate primarily in German, and not all offer English-language support or translated interfaces.

How to Open an Broker Account in Germany: Step-by-Step

Opening a brokerage account in Germany is a straightforward process, but each step must follow local regulations. Here’s a complete breakdown of what to expect when registering with a licensed broker.

Steps to open a German broker account:

1. Choose a broker
2. Register your account
3. Verify your identity
4. Provide tax and residency info
5. Connect a bank account
6. Fund your account
7. Start trading

1. Choose a broker

Compare brokers based on fees, supported assets, language availability, and regulatory status. For expats, it’s often best to choose a broker that offers English support and simple onboarding. Examples include Trade Republic, Scalable Capital, and DEGIRO.

2. Register your account

Start the process on the broker’s website or app. You’ll be asked for your full name, address, email, nationality, and phone number. Some platforms may require you to set your risk profile or investment goals during sign-up.

3. Verify your identity

Most brokers use PostIdent or VideoIdent:

• PostIdent: You receive a code to bring to a Deutsche Post location along with your ID.
• VideoIdent: You complete a video call with a verification agent using your passport or ID and webcam.

EU/EEA citizens can usually verify with national ID; non-EU citizens need a valid passport and residence permit.

4. Provide tax and residency info

You must enter your Steuer-ID (German tax ID) and declare your tax residency. If you’re a U.S. citizen, FATCA regulations may apply. Some brokers may also ask for a TIN (Tax Identification Number) from your home country.

5. Connect a bank account

Link a SEPA-compatible bank account for deposits and withdrawals. Many brokers only accept German IBANs, though some now accept EU-wide bank accounts. The name on the account must match your registered name.

6. Fund your account

Make an initial deposit via bank transfer, SOFORT, or direct debit (varies by broker). Some brokers allow starting without an upfront deposit, but most require a minimum amount to begin trading.

7. Start trading

Once your deposit is confirmed, you can access the platform and begin trading. Some brokers offer free demo modes if you want to test the interface first.

Types of Brokers Available in Germany

Germany offers a broad range of brokerage services, from modern app-based platforms to traditional banking brokers. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right fit based on your trading style, language needs, and cost preferences.

Main broker types in Germany

• Trading Platforms / Neo brokers (low-cost, mobile-first platforms)
• Direct banks (online banks with integrated trading)
• Full-service banks (traditional banks with high-touch services)

Trading Platforms / Neo brokers

These digital-first platforms offer commission-free or low-fee trading through mobile apps. They target beginners and cost-sensitive users. Examples include Trade Republic and Scalable Capital.

Most neo brokers offer a limited selection of assets but simple interfaces and quick onboarding. Downsides include limited customer support and fewer research tools.

Direct banks

Direct banks like Comdirect or ING Germany combine full banking services with trading options. They offer wider asset coverage, more advanced platforms, and better reporting tools than neo brokers.

Fees are typically higher, but many expats find them more reliable for long-term use and German tax integration.

Full-service banks

Traditional institutions like Deutsche Bank or Commerzbank offer brokerage through in-house platforms. These brokers are suited for high-net-worth individuals or those seeking personal financial advice.

Expect higher fees and slower onboarding, but access to premium support and in-person service.

Trading Platforms and User Experience

Broker platforms in Germany vary in complexity, supported features, and language options. Some prioritize simplicity, others cater to active traders with advanced tools.

Platform types

App-based platforms – Used by neo brokers like eToro, Trade Republic and Scalable Capital. These focus on ease of use, clean interfaces, and low fees. Most offer limited asset types, few order settings, and no deep research tools.

Web-based and desktop platforms – Offered by brokers like DEGIRO, flatex, or Comdirect. These provide more detailed charts, advanced order types (e.g., limit, stop), watchlists, and real-time data. Suitable for experienced users.

Language and usability

Many platforms are German-only. A few offer partial or full English interfaces—especially eToro.

Account setup, support communication, and tax documentation may still be in German, even if the app has English menus.

Key considerations for expats

• Can you switch language settings within the platform?
• Are tax documents and transaction summaries easy to export?
• Is customer support available in English?

For most users, usability and support are just as important as pricing or asset selection. Beginners may prefer a simple app, while active traders will need full-featured tools.

What You Can Trade with a German Broker

Stocks

Most trading platforms in Germany give access to German, European, and U.S. stocks. Exchanges include Xetra, Nasdaq, NYSE, and Euronext. App-based brokers usually focus on large-cap stocks and major indices. For broader market access and more order types, full-service brokers or international platforms are required.

ETFs

All major platforms support ETF trading, and many offer ETF savings plans (Sparpläne). These allow automated monthly investing in index funds and are widely used for long-term wealth building. ETF trading is often commission-free, especially on newer platforms like Trade Republic and Scalable Capital.

Cryptocurrencies

Crypto access varies significantly between platforms:

• Traditional German brokers like flatex and Comdirect do not support cryptocurrencies.
• Trade Republic and Scalable Capital offer crypto via ETNs, which track prices but don’t grant ownership or wallet access.
• eToro provides real crypto trading with over 70 supported coins. Assets are held directly and can be transferred using the eToro Wallet. Fees are 1% per transaction plus spread, with FX charges on EUR deposits or withdrawals.

Bonds

Bonds are offered by direct banks and full-service brokers. These include government bonds and corporate bonds, often bought through Börse Frankfurt or other regulated markets. Most app-based trading platforms do not support bonds.

Derivatives (Options, Futures, CFDs)

Advanced instruments like options and CFDs are available only through select platforms. flatex and DEGIRO offer regulated access, but users must pass an appropriateness test under MiFID II. eToro also provides CFDs on stocks, crypto, indices, and commodities with leverage. These are considered high-risk and may be restricted for retail investors in the EU.

Broker Fees and Cost Structure

Costs vary significantly between German brokers. Some platforms advertise commission-free trading, but still apply other charges like FX fees, custody fees, or spread markups. Understanding the full cost structure is essential before choosing a platform.

Typical broker fees in Germany include:

• Trading commissions – Per order or per share fees
• Custody/account fees – Monthly or annual charges for holding assets
• Currency conversion fees – When trading non-EUR assets
• Inactivity fees – Charged when no trades are placed for a period
• Spread markups – Often hidden in “commission-free” trading models
• Real-time data fees – Optional on some platforms
• ETF savings plan fees – Usually €0–1 per transaction

Fee comparison table (as of 2025)

Broker	Stock Trade (DE)	Stock Trade (US)	Custody Fee	FX Fee	ETF Savings Plan	Crypto Fee
Trade Republic	€1 flat	€1 flat	None	0.15%	Free (selected ETFs)	Via ETNs (same FX fee)
Scalable Capital	€0.99 or Free (Prime)	€0.99 or Free (Prime)	None	0.15%	Free (with Prime plan)	Via ETNs
flatex	€5.90	€5.90 + FX surcharge	€0.90/month	Up to 0.40%	€1.50 per ETF	Not supported
DEGIRO	€3.90	€0.50 + $0.004/share	None	0.25%	€1–Free (varies by ETF)	Not supported
Comdirect	From €4.90	From €7.90	€1.95/month	0.25–0.50%	€1.50 per ETF	Not supported
eToro	€0 commission	€0 commission	None	~0.50%	Commission-free ETFs	1% + spread per trade

Note: Some brokers offer free trades on select ETFs or during promotions. Always check total cost including spreads, especially with so-called “zero commission” brokers.

Taxes When Trading in Germany

Profits from trading in Germany are subject to taxation—even if you’re an expat. Brokers operating in Germany are legally required to withhold taxes at the source unless you’re using a foreign broker that doesn’t apply German withholding rules.

Key tax components:

• Capital Gains Tax (Abgeltungsteuer): 25% flat tax on profits from stocks, ETFs, and other investments.
• Solidarity Surcharge: 5.5% of the capital gains tax, bringing the effective rate to 26.375%.
• Church Tax (if applicable): Up to ~9% extra, depending on your registered religious status.
• Tax-Free Allowance: €1,000 per year in capital gains is exempt (2025 level).

German vs. foreign brokers

German brokers automatically deduct taxes on each realized gain and dividend. You’ll receive annual tax summaries for use with ELSTER (the German tax platform). Foreign brokers like eToro or DEGIRO do not withhold German taxes. In those cases, you must self-report and pay any due tax when filing.

Common situations for expats:

• If you’re officially a German tax resident, global trading income is taxable—even from non-German platforms.
• If you move abroad, your broker may reclassify your account and stop withholding taxes.
• If you use multiple brokers, tax reporting becomes your responsibility—especially with non-German ones.

For high-volume traders or those using multiple platforms, a Steuerberater (tax advisor) is often worth the cost.

Best Online Brokers in Germany (2025 Comparison)

Choosing the right broker depends on your goals: Do you want the lowest fees, the widest asset selection, or the best English support? Below are the top platforms for residents and expats in Germany, starting with one of the most internationally friendly options.

eToro

eToro is a global trading platform and a popular choice among expats due to its broad asset coverage and full English interface. It offers commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, access to over 70 cryptocurrencies, and the option to trade CFDs on stocks, crypto, commodities, and indices. eToro also features social trading, allowing users to copy the portfolios of top-performing investors.

There are no custody fees, but foreign exchange conversions are charged at around 0.5%, and crypto transactions carry a 1% fee plus spread. Deposits and withdrawals are processed in EUR, with a flat €5 withdrawal fee. eToro does not automatically handle German tax withholding, so users must report gains themselves. It’s ideal for international users who want multi-asset exposure on one platform.

Trade Republic

Trade Republic is one of Germany’s leading app-based trading platforms. It offers a clean interface, fast setup, and simple pricing: €1 per trade across all stocks and ETFs, and free ETF savings plans for selected products. Crypto is available via ETNs, not directly owned.

There are no custody or inactivity fees, and the platform is available in both German and English. Trade Republic is best for beginners or passive investors looking for a low-cost, no-frills experience.

Scalable Capital

Scalable Capital combines mobile and desktop access, offering €0.99 trades or unlimited commission-free trading via the Prime plan (€2.99/month). The platform supports ETF savings plans, stock trading, and limited crypto exposure via ETNs.

Its focus on automation, ease of use, and low costs make it ideal for long-term investors. Real-time quotes and portfolio tools are included in the Prime subscription.

flatex

flatex is a BaFin-regulated German broker geared toward active and experienced traders. It supports a broad set of instruments including stocks, ETFs, bonds, and derivatives. Standard trading costs are €5.90 per trade, plus a €0.90 monthly custody fee.

flatex offers advanced order types, tax reporting, and professional charting tools. It’s ideal for users who want a fully-featured trading platform with deep market access.

DEGIRO

DEGIRO is a Dutch broker widely used in Germany for its ultra-low fees and international market access. U.S. stocks start at just €0.50 + $0.004 per share, and there are no custody charges. The platform supports stocks, ETFs, options, and bonds, across dozens of exchanges.

DEGIRO has a full English interface, but does not withhold German taxes, which makes it better suited for users who can manage tax filing themselves.

Comdirect

Comdirect is part of Commerzbank and blends full-service banking with trading. It supports stocks, ETFs, bonds, and mutual funds. Comdirect charges around €4.90 per trade, with a €1.95 monthly custody fee.

The platform is known for its reliability, security, and access to in-person services via Commerzbank branches. It’s best for users who prefer traditional banking infrastructure with integrated investing.

Switching to a New Broker

If you’re unhappy with your current platform—whether due to fees, product limitations, or language barriers—you can switch brokers without selling your investments.

In Germany, transferring your portfolio is a regulated process, but the experience depends heavily on the brokers involved.

How portfolio transfers work

You can move your existing stocks, ETFs, and other eligible assets from one broker to another using a securities transfer request (Depotübertrag). This is typically initiated through your new broker, who contacts the old one on your behalf.

The transfer includes:

• Your full or partial holdings
• Your acquisition prices (for tax purposes)
• The original purchase dates (so holding periods are preserved)

Transfers within Germany are usually free, but some brokers charge fees for international or partial transfers. Check both platforms’ policies before starting.

Typical transfer time

A standard broker-to-broker transfer takes 5 to 10 business days. Delays can occur if:

• One broker is slow to respond
• There’s missing information in the transfer form
• You’re transferring foreign-listed assets or fractional shares

Things to watch out for

• Open orders and pending dividends are not transferred. Cancel them first.
• ETF savings plans are not transferable—you’ll need to set up a new one.
• Not all assets (e.g. ETNs or foreign funds) are supported by all platforms.

Once your assets arrive at the new broker, you can resume trading without needing to repurchase anything. Be sure to verify cost bases and holding dates were carried over correctly, especially if you plan to sell shortly after the move.

Investor Protection and Regulation

When investing through a German broker, your assets are protected under strict financial regulations. Whether you’re a resident or an expat, it’s important to understand the safeguards in place—and their limits.

Regulatory authority

All German brokers are supervised by BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority), which ensures compliance with EU financial laws, transparency, and consumer protection. Brokers must segregate client funds from company capital and adhere to anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

If you use a foreign broker (e.g., DEGIRO or eToro), they may be regulated by another EU authority (like the Netherlands’ AFM or Cyprus’ CySEC), but still operate under the EU’s MiFID II framework.

Deposit protection schemes

German brokers typically fall under the Entschädigungseinrichtung deutscher Banken (EdB), which covers:

• Cash deposits: up to €100,000 per client
• Securities: held in your name and not part of broker’s balance sheet—fully protected in case of bankruptcy

Foreign brokers in the EU offer similar guarantees under their local schemes. For example, DEGIRO is protected by the Dutch Investor Compensation Scheme; eToro operates under CySEC with coverage under the Cyprus Deposit Guarantee Scheme.

What happens if a broker fails?

If a German broker goes bankrupt:

• Your securities remain yours and are transferred to another provider or returned to you.
• Cash balances up to €100,000 are protected and refunded.
• Claims above the guaranteed limit may require legal steps or result in partial losses.

Complaint and dispute handling

If a broker violates regulations or mishandles your account, you can:

• File a complaint directly with the broker
• Escalate to BaFin (for German brokers)
• Use an ombudsman scheme or seek legal mediation

It’s rare, but important to know your rights if something goes wrong.

How to Choose the Right Broker in Germany

Choosing the right broker isn’t just about finding the lowest fees—it’s about matching the platform to your trading habits, tax situation, and the assets you want to access. Below are the most important factors to consider.

Fees and pricing structure

Always review the full fee model, not just headline claims. Some brokers offer “€0 commission” but add costs elsewhere, such as through currency conversion or ETF plan fees. These are the typical charges you should compare:

• Trading commissions (per trade or share)
• Custody fees (monthly or annual account charges)
• FX fees (for non-EUR investments)
• ETF savings plan costs
• Withdrawal or inactivity fees

Small differences—like 0.25% vs. 0.50% FX markup—can make a big difference if you trade often or use foreign markets.

Access to products and markets

Not all brokers offer the same range of instruments. App-based platforms often focus on the basics, while more advanced brokers give you wider access. Before signing up, make sure the broker supports:

• German, U.S., and international stock exchanges
• ETFs and ETF savings plans
• Cryptocurrencies (direct or via ETNs)
• Bonds, options, or CFDs if you’re an advanced trader
• Fractional shares for small-scale investing

Platform usability and interface

The platform experience matters—especially if you’re trading frequently or on mobile. Some brokers offer app-only setups with limited customization, while others provide professional-grade desktop platforms. Key usability features to check:

• Is the platform available in English?
• Can you switch between mobile and desktop easily?
• Are tools like charts, watchlists, and order types intuitive to use?

If you’re not comfortable with German, limited language support may become a problem when navigating settings or reading tax reports.

Tax handling and reporting

German-regulated brokers automatically deduct taxes on capital gains and dividends, making tax time easier. If you choose a foreign broker, you must track all trades, calculate your gains, and report manually through ELSTER. This is manageable for some, but others may prefer platforms that handle it all for them.

Customer service and language support

For expats, responsive and accessible support is essential—especially in English. Some platforms offer chat or email help in multiple languages, while others operate only in German. Also check whether account documents, tax statements, and instructions are available in English.

What to prioritize

Depending on your profile, your priorities might differ.

• Beginners: Low fees, easy interface, automated tax handling
• Expats: English support, EUR accounts, easy ID verification
• Active traders: Advanced tools, broad product range, fast execution
• Long-term investors: ETF savings plans, low custody fees, stability

Choosing a broker is not permanent—you can always switch later—but starting with the right fit saves time, fees, and frustration.