Interactive Brokers is a leading global broker providing professional traders access to 150+ markets with industry-leading technology and the lowest margin rates.
- Industry-lowest margin rates
- Access to 150+ markets globally
- Professional-grade platforms
- No inactivity fees
- Complex interface
- Steep learning curve
- Customer service can be slow
Fees & costs
- Min. deposit
- €0
- Trading
- €3 for EU stocks, $0.005/share for US stocks (min $1), options from $0.65/contract
- Stock fee
- €0.65 min
- Spread
- Forex from 0.1 pips
- Deposits
- Free
- Withdrawals
- 1 free per month, then $10
- Inactivity
- None (removed in 2021)
Who this fits best
Note: complex interface.
How to use in practice
Global Portfolio Diversification
Access 150+ markets worldwide to build a truly global portfolio with stocks, bonds, and ETFs from any country.
Hold Japanese stocks on TSE, European ETFs on Xetra, and US tech giants on NASDAQ all in one account with multi-currency support.
Options and Derivatives Trading
Trade options, futures, and other derivatives on major exchanges with professional-grade tools and competitive contract fees.
Execute covered call strategies on your US stock holdings or trade index futures for portfolio hedging.
Algorithmic Trading
Utilize IBKR's powerful APIs for automated trading strategies and connect third-party platforms.
Connect quantitative trading software to execute automated strategies across multiple asset classes and markets.
Tips for beginners
- 01
Start with IBKR GlobalTrader for a simpler experience
Interactive Brokers offers two main platforms: the professional TWS and the simpler GlobalTrader app. Beginners should start with GlobalTrader before transitioning to the more powerful TWS.
- 02
Use the paper trading account extensively
IBKR offers a free paper trading account with virtual funds. Use it to learn the platform, test strategies, and practice order execution without risking real money.
- 03
Take advantage of IBKR Campus
IBKR Campus offers free educational content including webinars, courses, and tutorials. It's particularly valuable for learning about options, futures, and advanced trading concepts.
- 04
Understand the tiered vs fixed pricing structure
Interactive Brokers offers two pricing models. Tiered pricing is often cheaper for larger trades, while fixed pricing is simpler and may suit smaller traders.
Extended guide
Complete Guide to Investing with Interactive Brokers
Getting Started
Interactive Brokers is designed for serious investors and professional traders. Opening an account requires completing an online application with detailed personal and financial information. You'll need to provide identification, proof of address, and answer questions about your trading experience. Verification typically takes 1-3 business days.
Once approved, you can choose between the powerful Trader Workstation (TWS) desktop platform or the simpler IBKR GlobalTrader mobile app. For beginners, GlobalTrader provides an easier entry point with essential features. Advanced users will appreciate TWS's comprehensive toolset.
Key Features and How to Use Them
Global Market Access: Trade on 150+ markets across 33 countries. Use the universal search to find any instrument by symbol, company name, or ISIN. The platform supports stocks, ETFs, bonds, forex, options, futures, and more.
Paper Trading: Before risking real capital, practice with IBKR's paper trading account. This simulated environment mirrors the live platform, allowing you to test strategies and learn order types without financial risk.
IBKR Campus: Access free educational resources through IBKR Campus. Courses cover everything from platform navigation to advanced options strategies. Webinars feature market insights and trading techniques.
Portfolio Analyst: Use this tool to analyze your portfolio performance, risk metrics, and allocation. Generate reports comparing your returns against benchmarks and understand your exposure to different sectors and regions.
Tips for Success
Start with the GlobalTrader app if you're new to Interactive Brokers. Once comfortable, transition to TWS for its advanced capabilities. Take time to explore the platform's educational resources—IBKR Campus is one of the most comprehensive free learning platforms available.
Pay attention to the fee structure. IBKR offers some of the lowest margin rates in the industry, making it particularly attractive for those using margin. Monitor currency exposure when trading international markets and consider whether currency hedging aligns with your strategy.
Kerncijfers met bron
- Markten beschikbaar
- 150+ markten in 33 landeninteractivebrokers.eu 2026-04
- Klanten wereldwijd
- 3+ miljoen klantenIBKR jaarverslag 2023 2023-12-31
- EU-aandelen tarief
- €3 per transactie (min)interactivebrokers.eu/tarieven 2026-04
- US-aandelen tarief
- $0,005/aandeel (min $1)interactivebrokers.eu/tarieven 2026-04
- Regulering (EU)
- Central Bank of Ireland + SEC + FINRAIBKR regulatory disclosures 2026-04
Editorial review
Interactive Brokers EU (IBKR Ireland Limited) is the broker for serious Dutch investors needing access beyond stocks and ETFs. Founded in 1978, IBKR is one of the world's most respected brokers, regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Ideal for active traders, options investors, algorithmic traders, and those seeking genuine global diversification. Access to 150+ markets in 33 countries, industry-lowest margin rates, and no inactivity fees since 2021.
The TWS platform is notoriously complex with a steep learning curve. Customer service has historically been slow. Investor protection is €20,000 (Irish scheme). Beginners should start with DEGIRO or Trade Republic instead.
Margin trading significantly increases risk. Losses can exceed your initial investment.