Best Share & Forex Trading Platforms in South Africa

The right trading platform depends on what you want to do. If you're a long-term investor buying shares and ETFs, a low-cost local platform wins. If you're an active trader in forex or CFDs, you need a specialist broker with tight spreads — but go in clear-eyed, because most retail traders lose money on CFDs. Below we compare South Africa's leading platforms.

First rule: only use FSCA-regulated platforms

Trading is a magnet for scams. Only use platforms regulated by South Africa's FSCA (or a top-tier global regulator), which gives you local accountability and recourse. Every platform we list is regulated. Never deposit with an unregulated "broker" promising guaranteed returns.

How we chose

We compared platforms on fees, the markets you can trade, regulation and how beginner-friendly they are. Figures are indicative and verified June 2026. Ratings are Rateweb's editorial opinion.

The best platforms at a glance

• Best for beginners — EasyEquities. Fractional JSE and US shares from R0, with 0% share commission.
• Best bank platform — Standard Bank Online Share Trading. A trusted platform for shares and ETFs.
• Best for active traders — IG Markets. 17,000+ global markets with direct market access.
• Best forex/CFD broker — AvaTrade. FSCA-regulated forex and CFDs with MetaTrader.

Compare fees, markets and regulation for all the platforms below.

Investing vs trading — know the difference

Investing means buying shares or ETFs to hold for years — lower cost, lower stress, and how most people build wealth. Trading (especially forex and CFDs) means short-term bets, often with leverage that magnifies losses as well as gains. CFDs are high-risk products: the majority of retail accounts lose money. Only trade with money you can afford to lose, and start with a demo account.

Frequently asked questions

What's the cheapest platform for shares?

EasyEquities is the low-cost leader for everyday share and ETF investing, with fractional shares from R0 and 0% commission (a small brokerage fee applies).

Is forex trading legal in South Africa?

Yes, through FSCA-regulated brokers — but it's high-risk. Most retail forex and CFD traders lose money, so treat it with caution.

How do I avoid trading scams?

Only use FSCA-regulated platforms, never trust "guaranteed returns", and never hand money to someone trading "on your behalf".

Next steps

Compare platforms below. For long-term investing, see our guides to investment platforms, retirement annuities and tax-free savings. This is general information, not financial advice — capital is at risk.