Choosing the best stock trading app in New Zealand comes down to how you invest, how much you trade, and what level of control you want over costs and assets. Some platforms are built for simplicity and small, regular investing, while others prioritise advanced tools, global market access, and lower fees at scale.
The options below reflect that range, balancing ease of use, pricing structures, regulatory standing, and product coverage so you can quickly identify which platform actually fits your investing style, not just the headline features.
The best stock trading apps in New Zealand depend on how you invest and the level of control you need. For simplicity and short-term trading, Plus500 offers a clean, fast CFD experience, while CMC Markets stands out with advanced charting, tight spreads, and FMA regulation for active traders. IG remains a strong all-round option with deep research and global market access. Beginners typically gravitate toward Sharesies for its $0.01 (NZD) entry point and fractional investing, while CapTrader suits experienced investors needing access to 150+ exchanges and lower fees on larger trades.
Our List of the Best Stock Trading Apps in New Zealand for 2026
Choosing the right platform depends on your experience level, trading style, and cost sensitivity. Here’s a quick breakdown of what each top stock trading app is best suited for:
- Plus500 – best for simple CFD trading with a clean interface
- eToro – best for social trading and copying other investors’ strategies
- CMC Markets – best for advanced CFD traders needing powerful charting tools
- IG – best for all-round trading with strong research and education
- Sharesies – best for beginners investing small amounts in shares and ETFs
Best Share Trading Apps in New Zealand Compared
What Makes a Stock Market App “Best” in New Zealand?
The best stock market app in New Zealand balances low, transparent fees with strong regulation, reliable execution, and access to global markets. It should suit how you invest, whether that’s small, regular contributions or larger, strategic trades, while offering clear pricing in $ (NZD), solid platform stability, and a custody structure you understand.
Focus on practical factors that directly affect returns, risk, and usability when comparing platforms.
Steps:
- Check regulation and oversight: Look for platforms authorised by the FMA or reputable regulators like ASIC or FCA to ensure baseline investor protections.
- Compare total costs, not just headline fees: Review brokerage (e.g., 1.9%), FX fees (~0.5%–1%), spreads, and any subscription costs in $ (NZD).
- Assess market access and asset range: The best apps provide access to NZX, ASX, and US markets, plus ETFs and, where relevant, CFDs or managed funds.
- Understand how your assets are held: Custodial (nominee) structures differ from direct ownership. This affects control, transferability, and counterparty risk.
- Evaluate platform usability and tools: Execution speed, charting, order types, and mobile functionality matter, especially if you trade frequently.
- Match features to your investing style: Beginners may prioritise fractional shares and auto-invest, while advanced users need margin, global access, and lower percentage fees.
A “best” platform is not universal. It aligns tightly with your capital size, trading frequency, and tolerance for complexity, not just brand recognition or marketing claims.
Plus500 – Best for simple, fast, CFD-first share trading
Plus500 is a well-regulated trading app available in New Zealand that stands out for its clean design, fast account setup, and strong mobile experience. It is best understood as a CFD-first platform rather than a classic long-term stock investing app, which matters if you want direct ownership of shares. For active traders who value usability, alerts, and broad market access in one place, it is a credible option, but overnight costs and the lack of statutory investor compensation for NZ clients are real trade-offs.
Plus500’s cost structure is simple on the surface. It does not charge a separate dealing commission on CFDs, and most trading costs are built into the spread. That makes the app easy to understand for casual users because there is no extra ticket fee to calculate before opening a position.
On standard market instruments, pricing is competitive rather than market-leading. The broker’s published examples show an EUR/USD spread of 0.9, an S&P 500 CFD spread of 0.6, a Euro Stoxx 50 CFD spread of 2.0, and an Apple CFD spread of 1.1.
For many mainstream indices and forex pairs, that is in the acceptable-to-good range for a retail CFD platform, though not as sharp as some lower-cost specialist brokers.
The bigger issue is what happens after you open the trade. Plus500’s overnight financing rates are high, so it becomes noticeably less attractive for anyone holding leveraged positions for several days or longer.
There is also a currency conversion charge of up to 0.7% when you trade instruments priced in a different currency from your account base currency, and that can quietly eat into returns for NZ users trading US-listed names. Add in the $10 (NZD) monthly inactivity fee after 3 months, and the app looks strongest for active short-term traders, not passive investors.
Plus500 is properly regulated and, from a corporate-structure perspective, sits above many smaller offshore trading apps. The group is regulated by several recognised authorities, including the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) in New Zealand, ASIC in Australia, the FCA in the UK, and CySEC in Cyprus.
It is also listed on the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market, which means it publishes financial statements and operates under a higher level of public scrutiny than privately held brokers.
That said, regulation is not the same as full investor protection. New Zealand clients are generally onboarded through Plus500AU Pty Ltd, which is licensed by ASIC and registered with the FMA for New Zealand service provision.
According to the supplied data, clients in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa do not receive a formal investor compensation scheme if the company fails. That is an important distinction, especially when compared with protections such as £120,000 in the UK or €20,000 in some European jurisdictions.
There are still meaningful safety features in place. Client funds are held in segregated accounts. Plus500 has a long operating history dating back to 2008, and it provides negative balance protection for CFD trading.
In practical terms, that reduces the risk of owing more than the funds in your account. So the verdict is balanced: Plus500 is a legitimate, well-supervised broker, but New Zealand investors should not confuse that with having a guaranteed compensation backstop.
Plus500 gives New Zealand users broad market access, but mostly through CFDs rather than direct ownership. The product list includes 71 currency pairs, 42 stock index CFDs, around 1,700 stock CFDs, 125 ETF CFDs, 32 commodity CFDs, and 28 crypto CFDs. It also offers roughly 1,500 options linked to 30 underlying CFDs, plus niche instruments such as thematic indices.
That range is one of the app’s strongest points. A trader can move from US shares to gold, oil, forex, major indices, and crypto inside the same interface without needing multiple accounts. For users who want tactical market access and the ability to go both long and short, that flexibility is useful.
The platform also supports guaranteed stop orders, which are uncommon and can be valuable during volatile markets, even though they come with an added spread cost.
The catch is that this is not the same as a traditional NZ stock investing app built for buy-and-hold ownership. On the main Plus500 CFD platform, you are trading price exposure, not owning the underlying stock or ETF.
Real share investing exists through Plus500 Invest, but the supplied data says that the service is only available in a limited number of countries. So if the goal is long-term investing in actual shares with dividend ownership and portfolio building, Plus500 is not as clean a fit as the “stock trading app” label may suggest.
Plus500 is one of the easier trading apps to learn. The mobile and web platforms are both proprietary, well-designed, and intentionally simple, which makes the app accessible even for users who do not want the clutter of an advanced desktop terminal. Account opening is fully digital and usually takes about 1 day, and users can access a demo account quickly to test the platform before depositing live funds.
The mobile app is particularly strong. It supports biometric login, two-step authentication, good search tools, and several alert types, including exact price levels, percentage moves, and sentiment changes. Order types include market, limit, stop, trailing stop, and guaranteed stop.
The app also shows applied leverage, required margin, trading hours, estimated charges, and upcoming events directly from the order screen, which is genuinely useful when placing short-term trades.
There are also some thoughtful extras. Plus500’s +Insights feature shows trader sentiment, popularity metrics, views over the last 24 hours, and other behavioural signals across instruments. Its AI-generated market summaries add context, though they should be treated as supporting information rather than analysis you follow blindly.
The main weakness is that the platform is built more for execution than deep research. There are no strong recommendation tools, fundamental-data depth is limited, and workspace customisation is thin compared with pro-grade trading platforms.
Plus500 is best for New Zealand traders who want a clean app, quick access to global markets, and a straightforward CFD trading experience without a complicated platform learning curve.
It suits users who care more about usability, alerts, and broad market coverage than owning shares outright. Someone trading short-term moves in US shares, indices, forex, commodities, or crypto will likely get more value from Plus500 than someone building a long-term portfolio.
It also works well for users who want to practise before risking capital. The unlimited demo environment and intuitive interface lower the friction for first-time traders. That said, “easy to use” should not be mistaken for “low risk.” Plus500 itself states that 80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider, which is a serious warning, not fine print.
For long-term investors, the fit is weaker. If your goal is to buy and hold real NZ or US shares, collect dividends, and keep costs predictable over months or years, Plus500’s CFD-first model is not the cleanest route. The platform is better described as a trading app with share-market exposure than as a classic investing app for wealth accumulation.
eToro – Best for social trading, crypto access, and beginner-friendly investing tools
eToro is a globally recognised multi-asset platform known for its social trading features, intuitive design, and broad crypto offering. It combines real stock investing with CFD trading in a single app, making it appealing for users who want flexibility. However, it is not currently available to New Zealand residents, which significantly limits its relevance despite its strong feature set.
eToro’s pricing looks attractive at first glance, especially for stock and ETF investors. In many regions, it offers commission-free ETF trading and low-cost stock trading, with US shares typically costing around $2 (NZD) per trade for non-US users. That places it below the industry average for basic equity trading, particularly for casual investors who trade infrequently.
However, the broader cost structure is less clean once you move beyond headline pricing. Currency conversion is a key friction point. eToro primarily operates in USD, EUR, or GBP, meaning New Zealand users would face FX conversion on both deposits and trades.
These conversion costs can range from roughly 0.4% to over 1.5%, depending on method and currency, which can materially increase total costs over time.
Non-trading fees also add up. There is a fixed $5 (NZD) withdrawal fee per transaction, plus a $10 (NZD) monthly inactivity fee after 12 months. Crypto trading is notably expensive compared with specialist exchanges, with a 1% fee on each trade.
CFD spreads are broadly average, for example, around 1.0 on the S&P 500, which is higher than some low-cost competitors. Overall, eToro is cost-effective for simple stock investing, but less competitive for frequent trading, crypto, or multi-currency portfolios.
From a regulatory standpoint, eToro is a credible platform. It is authorised by multiple tier-one regulators, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). It is also a publicly listed company on the Nasdaq, which adds transparency through mandatory financial disclosures.
Investor protection depends heavily on which legal entity you fall under. UK clients benefit from FSCS protection up to £120,000, while European users are covered up to €20,000 under CySEC. Some clients also qualify for additional private insurance of up to $1,000,000 (NZD equivalent), underwritten by Lloyd’s, although this comes with a total payout cap and eligibility restrictions.
For New Zealand users, the issue is more fundamental. eToro is not available locally, meaning you cannot open an account under a New Zealand regulatory framework. Even if access were possible via another jurisdiction, there would be no direct FMA oversight or local investor protection alignment.
The platform does offer safeguards such as segregated client funds and negative balance protection (for certain regions), but the lack of local availability is a structural limitation.
eToro offers one of the broadest product ranges among retail trading apps. Users can access real stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, forex, indices, and commodities. In total, the platform lists over 6,000 instruments, including around 6,200 stock CFDs, 750 ETF CFDs, and 142 cryptocurrencies.
A key distinction is how assets are structured. When you buy stocks or ETFs without leverage, you are purchasing the real underlying asset. This is a meaningful advantage over pure CFD platforms, as it allows for long-term investing alongside short-term trading. However, leveraged positions and short trades are executed as CFDs, which introduces additional risk and cost.
The crypto offering is particularly strong. eToro supports over 140 coins, including major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, as well as smaller tokens. Users can trade crypto as real assets or CFDs, depending on region and position type.
The platform also includes thematic “Smart Portfolios,” which bundle assets into strategies such as renewable energy or crypto baskets, and CopyTrader, which allows users to replicate other traders’ portfolios in real time.
Ease of use is one of eToro’s strongest attributes. The platform is built around a clean, social-first interface that prioritises simplicity over technical complexity. Account setup is fast and fully digital, often taking less than a day, and users can immediately access a $100,000 demo account to practise.
The mobile app is particularly well executed. It includes biometric login, two-factor authentication, clear navigation, and strong search functionality. Core order types such as market, limit, stop-loss, and trailing stop-loss are available, though more advanced order management features are limited compared with professional platforms.
What sets eToro apart is its social layer. The CopyTrader feature allows users to follow and automatically replicate the trades of other investors, complete with performance data, risk scores, and portfolio breakdowns. Smart Portfolios extend this concept by offering pre-built thematic investments.
These tools lower the barrier to entry for beginners, but they also introduce behavioural risk, as users may follow strategies they do not fully understand.
Research tools are adequate but not exceptional. While eToro offers charts, an economic calendar, and educational content through its academy, it lacks deep fundamental analysis and advanced screening tools. The platform is clearly optimised for accessibility rather than professional-grade research.
eToro is best suited to beginners and intermediate investors who want a simple, all-in-one platform with social features and access to multiple asset classes. It works particularly well for users interested in copy trading, crypto exposure, or combining short-term trading with basic long-term investing.
The platform also appeals to users who prefer a guided or community-driven approach. Being able to see how others are positioned, track their performance, and replicate trades creates a more interactive experience than traditional brokers. For some users, that reduces friction and builds confidence.
However, it is not a strong fit for New Zealand-based investors due to its lack of local availability. Even beyond that, it is less suitable for cost-sensitive traders, long-term dividend investors, or users who want full control over tax efficiency and asset ownership structures.
The combination of FX costs, withdrawal fees, and structural limitations around stock transfers makes it better suited to active, platform-based investing rather than long-term portfolio building.
CMC Markets – Advanced CFD platform, low forex spreads, NZ-regulated access
CMC Markets is a long-established CFD broker (founded in 1989) with a strong presence in New Zealand and direct regulation by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA). It combines institutional-grade tools, deep market coverage, and highly customisable platforms.
For New Zealand traders, it stands out for low forex and index spreads, zero funding fees, and NZD account support. However, it is strictly a CFD platform; you cannot buy and own real shares or ETFs.
CMC Markets is structurally competitive on trading costs for forex and indices, but less so for equity exposure, especially for stock CFDs.
Forex spreads are tight by industry standards. Major pairs such as EUR/USD start around 0.6 pips, with no separate commission. That places CMC Markets in the lower-cost tier for FX trading, particularly for active traders. Index CFDs are similarly priced, with spreads around 0.6 points on the S&P 500, which is broadly competitive against global peers.
The cost profile changes when you move into equities. Stock CFDs are charged using a commission model, typically ~0.10% per trade with a minimum of ~$7 (NZD). For smaller trades, that minimum dominates the cost structure, making it relatively expensive compared to platforms offering fractional or commission-free stock investing.
Non-trading costs are where CMC performs well. There are:
- No deposit fees
- No withdrawal fees
- No account maintenance fees
However, there are still friction points. Currency conversion fees apply if you trade assets outside your base currency, and overnight financing costs apply to leveraged CFD positions. These can materially increase total costs for longer-term trades.
From a cost perspective, this is a platform built for active, short-term traders, not long-term investors.
CMC Markets operates with strong regulatory coverage globally and maintains a locally licensed entity in New Zealand. It is authorised by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) as a derivatives issuer (FSP41187), which provides a clear legal framework for NZ-based clients.
It is also regulated by multiple tier-one authorities, including:
- UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
- Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
- Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)
In addition, CMC Markets is listed on the London Stock Exchange, which adds an extra layer of transparency. Public companies must disclose financials, execution quality, and operational metrics, a meaningful trust signal that many private brokers cannot match.
Client funds are typically held in segregated accounts, meaning they are separated from company funds. This reduces risk in the event of insolvency. However, this is where a key limitation emerges for New Zealand users:
There is no fixed investor compensation scheme (unlike the UK’s FSCS or EU protections). If the broker fails, recovery depends on legal processes rather than a guaranteed payout threshold.
CMC does provide negative balance protection in some jurisdictions, though this is not consistently applied across all regions. New Zealand traders should assume standard risk exposure when using leveraged products.
Bottom line: structurally safe and well-regulated, but without the safety net of guaranteed compensation locally.
CMC Markets offers one of the largest CFD product ranges in the industry, but with a critical caveat: everything is derivative-based.
You can access:
- 330+ forex pairs (including NZD crosses)
- 80+ global indices
- 10,000+ stock CFDs across 20+ exchanges
- 1,000+ ETF CFDs
- 120+ commodities (gold, oil, agriculture)
- 50+ government bonds and treasuries
- ~20 cryptocurrency markets
This breadth is a clear strength. It allows multi-asset trading from a single account, with consistent execution and margin requirements.
However, there is a structural limitation that matters for positioning:
You do not own any underlying assets.
All trades are CFDs, meaning:
- No shareholder rights
- No direct asset ownership
- Exposure is synthetic, not physical
This makes the platform unsuitable for:
- Long-term investors
- Dividend-focused strategies
- Portfolio building based on asset ownership
Instead, it is optimised for:
- Short-term trading
- Hedging
- Leveraged exposure
This distinction is critical. Calling it a “stock trading app” is technically accurate in a CFD sense, but misleading for traditional investors.
CMC Markets delivers one of the most technically advanced retail trading platforms available, particularly through its proprietary Next Generation platform.
The interface is highly customisable. You can build layouts using:
- Multiple chart panels
- Watchlists
- News feeds
- Technical indicators
Up to 10 custom layouts can be saved, which is useful for traders working across different strategies or asset classes.
Charting capabilities are particularly strong. The platform includes:
- Advanced technical indicators
- Pattern recognition tools
- Client sentiment data
- Integrated economic calendar alerts
It also integrates institutional-grade research feeds, including:
- Reuters news
- Morningstar analysis
- In-house market commentary
Execution tools are equally robust. Order types include:
- Market, limit, and stop orders
- Trailing stops
- Guaranteed stop-loss (with premium)
For mobile users, the app mirrors most of this functionality. It supports:
- Biometric login
- Real-time alerts
- Full order management
Despite its depth, the platform remains usable. Beginners may find it overwhelming initially, but the structure is logical, and the learning curve is manageable with time.
This is not a simplified, beginner-first app; it is a professional-grade platform adapted for retail users.
CMC Markets is best understood as a trading platform, not an investing platform.
It is well-suited to:
- Active forex traders looking for low spreads
- CFD traders needing access to global markets
- Intermediate to advanced users who value tools and data
- Traders who want NZD account support and local regulation
It is less suitable for:
- Beginners looking for simplicity
- Long-term investors building portfolios
- Users who want to own shares or ETFs
- Passive investors seeking low-cost accumulation
The strongest fit is a trader who values execution quality, market depth, and analytical tools over simplicity or ownership.
IG – Advanced trading platform, global market access, institutional-grade tools
IG is a long-established trading platform (founded in 1974) known for its deep market coverage, strong regulatory standing, and professional-grade tools. Available in New Zealand, it is best suited to traders who want advanced functionality and broad CFD market access rather than simple, long-term stock investing. Its platform quality and education offering are standout strengths, while stock CFD pricing and product structure require careful consideration.
IG is competitively priced where it matters most for active traders, forex and index CFDs, but less so for equity exposure.
Forex pricing is straightforward and built into the spread, with no separate commission. Typical spreads start around 0.9 pips on EUR/USD, which sits in the competitive range for retail brokers.
Index CFDs are even tighter, with spreads around 0.4 on the S&P 500, placing IG among the lower-cost options for index trading. For traders focused on macro markets or short-term positioning, this pricing structure is efficient and predictable.
Stock CFDs are where costs increase materially. IG charges around $0.02 per share with a minimum of ~$10 (NZD) per trade. That minimum makes smaller trades disproportionately expensive and limits scalability for frequent equity traders. Compared to platforms offering commission-free stock investing or lower minimums, IG is structurally less efficient for stock-focused strategies.
Non-trading fees are minimal. IG does not charge deposit or withdrawal fees, and the inactivity fee only applies after two years, which is more lenient than most competitors. However, currency conversion costs can be high if you trade assets outside your base currency, especially relevant for New Zealand users trading US-listed instruments.
Overall, IG is cost-efficient for forex and index traders, average for CFDs broadly, and relatively expensive for stock exposure.
IG is one of the most established and heavily regulated trading platforms globally, with a regulatory footprint that spans multiple tier-one authorities. It is authorised in New Zealand by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) and also regulated by the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), BaFin (Germany), MAS (Singapore), and CFTC/NFA (US).
The company behind the platform, IG Group Holdings plc, is listed on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE 250). This is a meaningful trust signal. Public companies are required to disclose financials regularly, which adds transparency and reduces counterparty risk compared to privately held brokers.
Client funds are held in segregated accounts at major banks, meaning they are separated from IG’s own operating capital. This is standard practice among top-tier brokers and provides a layer of protection in the event of insolvency.
However, New Zealand investors should be clear on one limitation:
There is no formal investor compensation scheme under the FMA-regulated entity. Unlike UK or EU clients who may be covered up to defined thresholds, NZ clients rely on segregation rules and regulatory oversight rather than guaranteed reimbursement.
IG does offer negative balance protection in some jurisdictions, but this is not universally applied outside Europe. For NZ users trading leveraged CFDs, this means risk management remains your responsibility.
The structure is robust and credible, but not risk-free.
IG offers one of the broadest market ranges in the industry, particularly within the CFD space.
New Zealand users can access:
- ~98 forex pairs
- 80+ global indices
- 13,000+ stock CFDs
- 5,400+ ETF CFDs
- 39+ commodities
- 19 government bond CFDs
- 11 cryptocurrency CFDs (availability restricted by region)
In total, IG provides exposure to thousands of global markets, allowing traders to move across asset classes within a single platform.
This breadth is a core strength. It supports:
- Multi-asset trading strategies
- Short-selling and leveraged positioning
- Hedging across correlated markets
However, there is a structural limitation that needs to be explicit:
For New Zealand users, this is primarily a CFD-only environment.
That means:
- No direct ownership of shares or ETFs
- No dividend rights in the traditional sense
- Exposure is derivative-based
While IG does offer real share dealing in some regions (e.g., UK, Australia), this is not broadly available to NZ clients in the same way. As a result, IG functions more as a trading platform than an investing platform in the New Zealand context.
IG’s platform is one of the most refined in the retail trading space. It balances usability with depth, which is difficult to execute well.
The proprietary web platform is highly customisable. You can:
- Build multi-chart layouts
- Create and save watchlists
- Use one-click trading
- Access real-time P&L and cost breakdowns
Charting is advanced, with a wide range of technical indicators and drawing tools. The platform also integrates price alerts, indicator alerts, and economic event notifications, which are useful for both discretionary and systematic traders.
Execution tools are equally strong. Available order types include:
- Market, limit, and stop orders
- Trailing stops
- Guaranteed stop-loss orders (GSLOs), which protect against slippage for a premium
On mobile, the experience remains strong. The app supports:
- Biometric login and two-factor authentication
- Clean navigation and fast search
- Full order management
Where IG stands out is in education and research. Its IG Academy, DailyFX integration, webinars, and live market analysis provide structured learning for beginners and ongoing insights for experienced traders. This is not superficial content; it is one of the more developed education ecosystems among brokers.
The trade-off is complexity. Beginners can use the platform, but it is not simplified by default. It is designed to scale with the user, not to remove friction entirely.
IG is best suited to traders who prioritise market access, execution quality, and analytical tools over simplicity or long-term asset ownership.
It fits:
- Active forex and index traders
- Intermediate to advanced CFD users
- Traders who need multi-asset exposure in one account
- Users who value education and research alongside execution
It is less suitable for:
- Long-term investors seeking real share ownership
- Beginners looking for a minimal, guided interface
- Cost-sensitive equity traders making small, frequent trades
The key distinction is positioning. IG is not trying to be a beginner-friendly investing app; it is a professional-grade trading environment adapted for retail users.
Sharesies – Beginner-first investing app, fractional shares, NZ-focused accessibility
Sharesies is a New Zealand-founded investing platform built around accessibility: low entry barriers, fractional investing, and a clean, beginner-friendly experience. It offers direct access to NZ, US, and Australian markets, making it one of the most locally relevant apps for first-time investors. The trade-off is a fee structure that scales poorly and a custodial ownership model that limits control.
Sharesies positions itself as “low-cost,” but that claim only holds at very small trade sizes. The platform charges a 1.9% transaction fee per trade, which is high in percentage terms, even if capped. For New Zealand shares, that cap sits at $25 (NZD), meaning larger trades become more cost-efficient, but small and frequent trades quickly accumulate costs.
For example, a $500 (NZD) investment incurs a $9.50 (NZD) fee. That is materially higher than flat-fee competitors or commission-free platforms. The model is simple and transparent, but not structurally cheap once you scale beyond casual investing. The same pattern applies to US and Australian shares, with caps applied but percentage-based pricing still dominating smaller trades.
Currency conversion is another key cost layer. Sharesies charges around 0.5%–0.6% FX fees when converting between NZD and foreign currencies. For investors regularly buying US or Australian stocks, this becomes a recurring drag on returns. Over time, FX costs can exceed brokerage costs depending on trading frequency.
There are some mitigating factors. Sharesies offers monthly subscription plans ($3, $7, or $15 (NZD)), which reduce effective trading fees for regular investors. These plans can bring brokerage down to roughly 0.3%–0.7% equivalent, but only if you consistently utilise the monthly allowance. If not, you revert to the standard 1.9% structure.
Sharesies operates within New Zealand’s financial framework and is registered on the Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR). It uses a custodial structure (Sharesies Nominee), where assets are held on behalf of users rather than directly in their name.
This structure is common among low-cost platforms, but it introduces a different risk profile compared to direct ownership. Investors rely on Sharesies (and its custodian) to accurately record and manage ownership. You do not receive a personal holding identification number (HIN), and assets are pooled in an omnibus account.
There is no formal investor compensation scheme in New Zealand, which means protection relies on operational safeguards rather than guaranteed payouts. Shares are held separately from Sharesies’ own funds, which reduces insolvency risk, but does not eliminate it. If something goes wrong, recovery depends on legal processes rather than predefined protection limits.
There are also practical implications. Investors may have limited access to:
- Voting rights
- Corporate actions (e.g., rights issues)
- Dividend reinvestment plans (DRPs)
These are not deal-breakers for most beginners, but they matter for long-term investors who want full shareholder rights.
In short, Sharesies is legitimate and locally grounded, but structurally less robust than platforms offering direct ownership.
Sharesies offers broad access across three core markets:
- New Zealand (NZX)
- Australia (ASX)
- United States (NYSE, Nasdaq, CBOE)
The scale is substantial for a retail-focused app:
- 120+ NZX-listed companies
- 1,900+ ASX-listed companies
- 5,000+ US-listed companies
- Thousands of ETFs across all regions
In addition to shares and ETFs, Sharesies includes:
- Managed funds (e.g. Smartshares, Pathfinder, AMP)
- Exposure to asset classes like bonds, property, and commodities via funds
One of its defining features is fractional investing. You can invest from as little as $0.01 (NZD) into almost any asset, including high-priced US stocks. This removes capital barriers and allows diversification even with very small balances.
However, the platform is strictly focused on traditional investing. There is:
- No CFD trading
- No leverage
- No derivatives (options, futures)
This keeps risk lower and aligns with its beginner-first positioning. But it also limits flexibility for advanced strategies.
From a positioning standpoint, Sharesies is one of the few platforms in New Zealand that balances local market access (NZX) with global exposure in a single interface.
Sharesies is one of the easiest investing apps to use in New Zealand. The interface is clean, intuitive, and clearly designed for users with little or no prior experience.
Account setup is fast. You can:
- Register online in minutes
- Verify identity digitally
- Fund your account the same day
The platform focuses on simplicity rather than technical depth. Navigation is straightforward, with clear portfolio tracking, performance metrics, and transaction history. You can see daily and total returns at a glance without needing to interpret complex data.
Key features include:
- Auto-invest (set recurring investments)
- Round-ups (invest spare change automatically)
- Fractional shares
- Custom portfolios (DIY or themed)
- Kids account for early investing
These features are designed to build habits rather than optimise trading performance. The platform encourages consistent investing rather than short-term speculation.
Where Sharesies falls short is in advanced tooling. There is:
- Limited charting and technical analysis
- Minimal research depth
- No screening or advanced order types
This is deliberate. Sharesies is not trying to compete with professional trading platforms. It prioritises usability over analytical power.
Sharesies is best suited to beginner investors and small-balance users who want an easy way to start investing without complexity.
It works well for:
- First-time investors
- Users investing small amounts regularly
- Long-term, passive investors building habits
- Investors wanting NZX exposure alongside global markets
It is particularly strong for:
- Low-value portfolios (e.g., under $1,000–$5,000 (NZD))
- Users who value simplicity over optimisation
However, it becomes less effective as your portfolio grows.
It is not ideal for:
- Active traders
- Cost-sensitive investors at scale
- Users who want direct ownership and full shareholder rights
- Investors needing advanced tools or analytics
Strategically, Sharesies is an onboarding platform for investing, not a destination platform for experienced investors.
CapTrader – Global market access, institutional-grade tools, advanced trading focus
CapTrader is a Germany-based brokerage built on top of Interactive Brokers’ infrastructure, offering access to global markets with institutional-grade tools. It targets experienced investors who want low commissions on stocks and deep product coverage. The trade-off is complexity, higher minimum funding, and a platform that assumes prior trading knowledge.
CapTrader is structurally a low-cost broker for equities, but only when evaluated in the right context. Stock and ETF commissions start at roughly 0.1% of trade value, with minimum charges applied. For larger trades, this is significantly cheaper than percentage-based retail platforms, especially those charging 1%+ per transaction.
The cost advantage becomes clearer as trade size increases. For example, on institutional-style pricing, a $10,000 (NZD) equivalent trade may cost a fraction of what a retail-focused app would charge. This makes CapTrader particularly efficient for investors allocating larger capital per trade rather than drip-feeding small amounts.
However, the fee profile is uneven across asset classes. While equities are competitively priced:
- Forex fees are relatively high, with commissions starting around 0.3 basis points plus spreads
- Options and futures fees are above industry averages (e.g., ~$5–$6 (NZD) equivalent per contract minimum)
- CFD trading costs include spreads and commissions, making them expensive relative to specialised CFD brokers
Currency conversion is another important consideration. FX conversion uses interbank rates via IBKR infrastructure, but still includes a commission (minimum ~$6–$7 (NZD)). For frequent cross-currency trading, this is efficient compared to retail apps, but not negligible.
There are no inactivity fees and no standard platform fees, which improves long-term cost efficiency. You also get one free withdrawal per month, keeping operational costs predictable. Overall, CapTrader is cost-efficient for serious investors trading larger amounts, but less suitable for small, frequent trades or multi-asset speculation.
CapTrader’s safety model is tied directly to Interactive Brokers Ireland Limited (IBIE), which acts as the custodian and execution partner. IBIE is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland, a recognised top-tier European regulator.
This structure is important. While CapTrader is the interface, client assets and cash are held with Interactive Brokers, a globally established brokerage listed on the NASDAQ. This adds a layer of institutional credibility that many standalone platforms cannot match.
Investor protection is provided through the Irish compensation scheme, covering up to €20,000 (~$35,000 (NZD)) per client in the event of broker failure. This is a defined protection level, unlike New Zealand’s domestic environment, where no universal compensation scheme exists.
However, there are limitations.
- Negative balance protection is not consistently available for non-EU clients.
- CapTrader itself is not publicly listed and does not disclose financials
- Protections depend on IBIE’s regulatory framework, not New Zealand law
From a structural standpoint, this is a strong but offshore protection model. It is robust in terms of custody and execution, but less aligned with local regulatory oversight compared to NZ-based platforms. In practical terms, CapTrader is considered safe for experienced investors, but it requires understanding how cross-border regulation works.
CapTrader’s strongest feature is its extensive global market coverage. Through its connection to Interactive Brokers, it provides access to approximately 150 exchanges worldwide, making it one of the broadest offerings available to New Zealand investors.
Core asset coverage includes:
- Stocks and ETFs across major markets (NYSE, Nasdaq, LSE, ASX, European exchanges)
- 13,000+ ETFs globally
- Forex (100+ currency pairs)
- Options and futures across 30+ markets
- Bonds (30,000+ instruments)
- Funds (48,000+ from providers like BlackRock and Vanguard)
- CFDs and structured products
Unlike beginner-focused apps, CapTrader also supports:
- Fractional shares
- Margin trading
- Short selling
- Algorithmic and advanced order routing (Smart Routing)
Crypto exposure is indirect. You cannot buy spot crypto, but you can access:
- Bitcoin and Ethereum ETNs
- Bitcoin futures via CME and CBOE
This is a fully multi-asset environment. It is closer to a professional trading terminal than a simplified investment app. The key limitation is not access, but usability. The breadth of instruments increases complexity and requires a clear strategy to avoid overtrading or unnecessary risk exposure.
CapTrader is not designed for simplicity. It uses Interactive Brokers’ Trader Workstation (TWS) and IBKR Mobile, both of which are feature-rich but demanding.
The desktop platform is highly configurable. You can:
- Build custom trading layouts
- Use advanced charting and technical indicators
- Access real-time data and analytics
- Execute complex order types (e.g., trailing stops, conditional orders)
It also includes Smart Routing, which automatically finds the best execution venue for trades. This is a meaningful advantage for price-sensitive traders.
The mobile app is more accessible but still dense. It includes:
- Multiple order types (market, limit, stop)
- Fundamental and technical data
- Integrated news and research
- A chatbot (IBot) for quick commands and queries
Despite these features, usability is a clear weakness.
- The interface can feel fragmented and overwhelming
- Search and navigation are not intuitive
- Beginners may struggle to execute even basic trades confidently
Account setup reflects the same complexity. The onboarding process involves:
- Detailed financial profiling
- Trading experience disclosures
- Multi-step identity verification
It can take over 3–10 days to complete, significantly longer than most consumer apps.
In short, CapTrader offers institutional-grade tools, but demands a corresponding level of experience.
CapTrader is best suited to experienced investors and active traders who prioritise cost efficiency and global market access over simplicity.
It works well for:
- Investors trading large position sizes
- Users needing access to multiple asset classes
- Traders using advanced strategies (options, futures, margin)
- Investors who value execution quality and pricing transparency
It is particularly strong for:
- Global diversification across many exchanges
- Institutional-style portfolio construction
- Users are already familiar with the Interactive Brokers ecosystem
However, it is not designed for:
- Beginners or casual investors
- Small, incremental investing strategies
- Users who prioritise ease of use
- Investors seeking NZ-focused platforms or local support
Strategically, CapTrader sits at the high-complexity, high-capability end of the market, not the accessibility layer.
Are Stock Trading & Investment Apps in New Zealand Safe?
Stock and investment apps available to New Zealand investors operate under a mix of local and offshore regulation. Safety depends less on the app itself and more on who regulates it, how assets are held, and what protections apply if something goes wrong.
Key points to understand:
- Regulation matters, but it varies: Platforms like IG and CMC Markets are regulated by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) in New Zealand, while others operate under offshore regulators such as the FCA (UK) or ASIC (Australia). Regulatory strength differs, and not all oversight is equal.
- There is no universal investor compensation scheme in New Zealand: Unlike some jurisdictions, New Zealand does not offer a blanket protection scheme covering investor losses if a broker fails. Protection depends on the platform’s structure and any overseas schemes it falls under.
- Custody structure is critical: Many apps (such as Sharesies) use a nominee or custodial model, where shares are held on your behalf. Others offer direct ownership structures. Custody arrangements determine how securely your assets are separated and transferred.
- Segregation of client funds is standard practice: Regulated brokers are required to keep client money separate from company funds. This reduces the risk of misuse, but does not eliminate counterparty risk.
- Risk comes from products, not just platforms: Trading CFDs, forex, or leveraged products introduces significantly higher risk. Even on well-regulated platforms, a large percentage of retail accounts lose money when using leverage.
Overall, most major platforms used in New Zealand meet baseline safety standards, but protection levels are inconsistent. The strongest setups combine top-tier regulation, clear custody structures, and transparent operations; anything less requires closer scrutiny before committing capital.
Methodology: How We Score Trading Apps in NZ
Each platform is assessed using a standardised scoring framework designed to reflect how real investors evaluate trading apps. The process combines hands-on testing, fee analysis, feature benchmarking, and regulatory checks to ensure consistency across all reviews.
Every category is scored out of 5, then weighted based on its importance to New Zealand investors. The final rating reflects a balance between cost, usability, market access, and platform reliability rather than any single standout feature.
| Category | What we assess |
|---|---|
| Investing & copy trading | Availability of copy features, automation, and portfolio tools |
| Platforms & usability | App design, ease of navigation, order execution, and stability |
| Products & markets | Range of shares, ETFs, CFDs, and global exchange access |
| Safety & reliability | Regulation, custody model, and platform track record |
| Deposits & withdrawals | Funding methods, speed, fees, and account flexibility |
| Research tools | Charting, data feeds, analysis tools, and market insights |
| Fees & costs | Trading fees, spreads, FX charges, and hidden costs |
| Education | Learning resources, guides, and beginner support |
Weightings are applied to prioritise factors that directly impact investor outcomes, particularly fees, safety, and market access. Scores are reviewed regularly to reflect platform updates, pricing changes, and evolving regulatory standards in New Zealand and globally.
How to Pick the Right Trading App for You
Choosing the right platform comes down to how you invest, not just what the app offers. Some are built for simplicity and small amounts, others for active trading or global diversification. Use the categories below to quickly match your needs with the right platform.
Best for starting with small amounts and building habits
- Sharesies – Invest from as little as $0.01 (NZD), with fractional shares and auto-invest. Ideal for consistent, low-value investing across NZX, ASX, and US markets.
- eToro – Simple interface with fractional investing and copy trading, though availability in New Zealand is currently limited.
Best for active CFD trading and short-term strategies
- CMC Markets – Tight spreads, advanced charting, and over 10,000 CFD instruments. Regulated by the FMA, making it one of the strongest options locally.
- IG – Broad CFD coverage with strong execution and research tools. Publicly listed and widely trusted for leveraged trading.
Best for a simple, fast trading experience
- Plus500 – Clean interface with quick order execution and minimal friction. Works well for traders who prioritise speed over depth.
- eToro – Social trading features make it easy to follow and replicate strategies without a complex setup.
Best for global diversification and advanced investing
- CapTrader – Access to ~150 global exchanges, 13,000+ ETFs, and 30,000+ bonds. Built on Interactive Brokers' infrastructure with institutional-level execution.
- IG – Offers exposure across global markets through CFDs, including indices, commodities, and international equities.
Best for long-term investors focused on shares and ETFs
- Sharesies – Direct access to NZ, US, and Australian shares, plus 10,000+ investment options. Strong for building diversified portfolios over time.
- CapTrader – Lower percentage fees on large trades and access to global equities make it suitable for higher-value, long-term allocations.
Best for research, tools, and platform depth
- CMC Markets – Professional-grade charting, technical indicators, and integrated market analysis tools.
- IG – Extensive research, real-time data, and structured educational content suitable for scaling from beginner to advanced trading.
How to Set Up a Trading & Investing App in New Zealand?
Opening an account is straightforward, but verification and compliance checks can take anywhere from a few minutes to several days.
Steps:
- Choose a regulated platform: Select a broker authorised by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) or a recognised regulator such as the FCA or ASIC, depending on whether you prefer local or offshore oversight.
- Complete online registration: Provide basic details, including your name, address, IRD number (in some cases), and tax residency status. Most platforms require users to be 18+ years old.
- Verify your identity (KYC checks: Upload a valid passport or driver's licence and proof of address (e.g., bank statement or utility bill). Verification can take minutes or up to 2–3 days.
- Answer suitability and risk questions: Platforms assess your financial knowledge, income, and trading experience, especially important if you want access to CFDs or margin trading.
- Fund your account: Deposit using bank transfer, POLi, or card payment. Minimum deposits vary widely, from $0 (NZD) on some apps to $2,000 (NZD) or more on advanced platforms.
- Start investing or trading: Once funded, you can buy shares, ETFs, or other instruments. Some platforms allow fractional investing from as little as $0.01 (NZD).
Most accounts are approved within one business day if the documents are clear. Delays usually come from incomplete verification or additional compliance checks.
FAQs
Most platforms offer shares and ETFs across NZ, US, and Australian markets. Some also include CFDs, forex, commodities, and bonds, while advanced brokers like CapTrader provide access to 150+ exchanges and tens of thousands of instruments.
Safety depends on regulation and custody. FMA-regulated platforms like CMC Markets and IG follow strict client fund segregation rules, while others rely on offshore protections. There is no universal investor compensation scheme in New Zealand, so structure matters.