XTB Review 2024 – Everything You Need to Know

XTB is a popular trading platform that supports thousands of global markets. This includes everything from stocks and forex to commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies.

In this XTB review, we explore how the platform ranks for fees, markets, spreads, payments, leverage limits, customer support, and much more.

What Assets Does XTB Support?

Now that we’ve summarized the main pros and cons, let’s move on to our full XTB review.

To start, we’ll explore what markets XTB supports.

76% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

CFDs

First and foremost, it is important to note that all supported instruments on XTB are traded via contracts-for-differences (CFDs). This means that traders do not own the underlying asset they are trading.

Instead, CFDs on XTB merely track the price of the asset. As this XTB review covers in more detail later, CFDs allow traders to go long or short on their chosen market. What’s more, CFDs allow traders to speculate with leverage.

That said, CFDs are not available in certain countries, including the US.

Forex

XTB is one of the best day trading platforms for forex. It supports  57 forex pairs, covering a broad mix of majors, minors, and exotics. Some of the most traded pairs include EUR/USD, EUR/GBP, and USD/GBP. XTB allows traders to buy and sell micro-lots, which will appeal to those on a budget. Furthermore, forex spreads on XTB are very competitive.

For example, EUR/USD can be traded from just 0.01 pips. While EUR/GBP is currently offering a spread of just 0.18 pips. Forex can be traded 24 hours per day, five days per week. XTB offers some of the highest leverage limits when trading forex. For instance, leverage of up to 1:500 is available when trading major pairs.

This means traders only need to put up a margin requirement of 0.2%. In other words, traders can access $500 worth of capital for every $1 staked. Leverage of up to 1:500 is also offered on minor pairs, including EUR/CAD and EUR/CHF. That said, more exotic pairs, such as EUR/MXN, come with reduced limits of 1:40.

Do note that leverage limits will depend on the trader’s location. For example, users from the UK, European Union, and Australia will be capped at 1:30 on majors and 1:20 on minors and exotics.

Stocks

Not only is XTB one of the best forex brokers, but it also offers a comprehensive stock trading department. In fact, the platform supports nearly 2,000 global stocks from a range of markets. This includes more than 1,000 stocks from the NYSE and NASDAQ, including popular companies like Apple, Tesla, Amazon, and Disney.

XTB also covers 15 European markets. This includes everything from the UK, Switzerland, and Portugal to France, Germany, and Norway. That said, some traders might be disappointed with the lack of Asian and South American markets.

Nonetheless, leverage is available on most supported stocks at a maximum of 1:5. Stocks can be traded during standard market hours, and minimum trade requirements apply. This varies depending on the exchange. For example, US-listed stocks can be traded from $10.

Readers should note that XTB Ltd (CY) does not offer ETFs and stocks. 

Indices

Another way to gain exposure to stocks on XTB is via indices. XTB supports 30 indices across a range of international markets. For example, while individual Australian stocks are not supported, XTB allows traders to speculate on the ASX200. Similarly, XTB offers various indices from the Asian markets. This includes India, Japan, and Korea.

In addition to the FTSE 100, XTB also supports the S&P 500, Russell 2000, and Dow Jones. When compared to individual stocks, XTB offers much higher leverage limits on indices. For example, major US-listed indices can be traded with leverage of up to 1:200. More volatile indices, such as India’s NIFTY 50, can be traded with leverage of 1:33.

Like all markets on XTB, traders can go long or short on their chosen indices. Short-selling indices can come in handy when broader economic conditions are bearish.

ETFs

While ETFs are commonly used by long-term investors, they can also be traded as CFDs. Our XTB review found that the platform supports nearly 160 ETFs from a multitude of markets. For instance, there are various ETFs backed by iShares, including the Automation & Robotics UCITS and MSCI All Country Asia Japan.

There is also support for the iShares Core US Aggregate Bond ETF. This enables traders to speculate on the future value of US-issued bonds without taking ownership. Another popular ETF on XTB is the ARK Fintech Innovation. This offers exposure to a basket of emerging companies and trends, such as Coinbase, Block, Shopify, DraftKings, and Robinhood.

It is also possible to gain exposure to commodities via CFDs on XTB. Popular examples here include the Global X Copper Miners and Invesco DB Base Metals Fund. The minimum order size when trading ETFs is one share. For example, in the case of the Vanguard Total Bond Market Index Fund ETF, this could be just over $72. based on current prices.

Leverage is available on all supported ETFs, but limits are much lower when compared to indices. For example, most ETFs come with leverage of either 1:2 or 1:5, depending on the market.

Readers should note that XTB Ltd (CY) does not offer ETFs and stocks. 

Commodities 

One of the best ways to trade commodities is via CFDs, so this is one of XTB’s strong points. After all, unlike futures, there is no obligation to buy or store the underlying commodity.

At XTB, 28 commodities are supported. In the metals department, this includes aluminum, copper, gold, palladium, platinum, silver, and zinc. In terms of energies, XTB covers everything from crude and WTI oil to natural gas. XTB is also suitable for trading soft commodities. This includes cotton, corn, wheat, sugar, and soybeans.

Commodity trading hours vary depending on the underlying market. Moreover, high levels of leverage are available, but again, this depends on the asset. For example, gold can be traded with leverage of up to 1:500, but silver is capped at 1:67. As noted earlier, these limits may not be available for some nationalities.

For example, UK and European traders are capped at 1:20 on gold and 1:10 on other supported commodities. Another consideration to make is that minimum trade sizes vary from one commodity market to the next. For example, those trading cattle CFDs will need to meet a minimum trade of $400. But when trading gold, this is reduced to $100.

Cryptocurrencies 

Our XTB review found that the platform supports 48 cryptocurrency pairs. All supported cryptocurrencies are paired with the US dollar and based on global spot trading prices. In addition to Bitcoin, this includes some of the best altcoins. For example, Solana, Stellar, Ethereum, BNB, and EOS.

The benefit of trading cryptocurrency CFDs on XTB is two-fold. First, traders can enter a buy or sell order, allowing them to speculate on both rising and falling prices. Second, all supported cryptocurrencies can be traded with leverage.

Large-cap cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum come with leverage of 1:5. While lower-cap cryptocurrencies – such as Filecoin and IOTA, can be traded with leverage of 1:2.

What Fees Does XTB Charge? 

Now that we’ve covered supported markets, this section of our XTB review will discuss fees.

Read on to learn what fees apply when trading and making payments.

Trading Fees

First, let’s break does XTB trading fees:

Commissions

All supported markets on XTB can be traded without paying any commission. This means that trades are executed on a spread-only basis.

Spreads

XTB makes money from the market spread, which is the difference between the bid (buy) and ask (sell) prices. We found that spreads are variable, meaning they fluctuate based on market conditions.

That said, XTB publishes the minimum spreads for all supported makers, which allows us to assess their competitiveness. For example, major pairs like EUR/USD and GBP/USD come with a minimum spread of just 0.1 pips. This is even more competitive considering the 0% commission structure.

In terms of stocks, XTB adds a percentage market on the current spot price. This stands at just 0.30% across all supported stocks and exchanges. Cryptocurrency spreads are slightly less favorable. For example, Bitcoin comes with a minimum spread of 0.50%. This is often higher when trading over the weekend.

Ultimately, XTB operates a variable spread model. In turn, traders will need to evaluate the spread before entering a position. This is clearly displayed when clicking on the preferred market.

Overnight Finance (Swap Fees)

Overnight finance, otherwise called swap fees, also needs to be considered. This is because XTB specializes in CFDs, which invite fees for each day the order is open.

Once again, specific overnight financing fees will depend on the asset being traded. Fees also depend on the amount of leverage being utilized and the total position size.

Moreover, swap fees are also dependent on whether the trader is long or short on the respective market. For instance, if long traders pay swap fees, short-sellers will receive a rebate – and vice-versa.

We should also note that XTB offers a swap-free account. This allows traders to keep positions open overnight without paying swap fees. That said, this account type comes with higher spreads.

Non-Trading Fees

Now that we’ve covered commissions, spreads, and overnight financing – let’s explore what non-trading fees apply.

Deposits and Withdrawals 

Depositing funds with a debit/credit card or bank wire is fee-free. However, e-wallets attract a deposit fee of between 1% and 2%. This covers Skrill, SafetyPay, and Neteller.

XTB does not levy fees when withdrawing funds – unless the cashout amount is below $50. In this instance, a $5 fee will apply.

Inactivity 

XTB charges an inactivity fee if the account is marked as dormant. This is the case after 12 months of inactivity. Thereon, XTB will deduct $10 from the trading account each month.

This will continue until the trader enters a position or the account balance goes to zero. Withdrawing the balance in full is the best way to avoid inactivity fees.

76% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

What Trading Platforms Does XTB Support?

XTB offers its own proprietary trading platform – xStation5. The platform is accessible via web browsers and an leading investment app for iOS and Android. What’s more, xStation 5 can also be downloaded as desktop software for Windows and Mac. All three options offer the same tools, features, and functionality.

We found that xStation 5 is suited for both beginners and advanced traders alike. It comes packed with analysis tools, including technical and economic indicators and customizable charts. xStation 5 also integrates with leading financial news websites. This allows traders to combine fundamental and technical analysis under the same roof.

We also like that xStation 5 supports custom order types, including limit, stop-loss, and take-profit orders. xStation 5 can be viewed in light or dark modes, depending on the trader’s preferences. While xStation 5 comes with everything a trader needs to navigate the market, XTB does not support external trading platforms. This might be a drawback for those preferring to trade via MT4 or MT5.

XTB Usability   

The overall user experience on XTB is suitable for traders of all levels. This starts from the very start when opening an account. The registration and KYC processes can be completed in under five minutes, and there is no minimum deposit requirement.

Deposits are also seamless, with debit/credit cards and e-wallets processed in real time. Once the account is funded, users can select their preferred device type, from mobiles to web browsers to desktop software. All options offer a smooth and frictionless trading experience.

That said, some of the analysis tools available on xStation 5 might not be suitable for newbies. This is especially the case with technical indicators, which require prior experience. To counter this, XTB offers a free demo account that mirrors live market conditions.

Not only does this allow users to get to grips with xStation 5 but also practice their trading strategies. The demo account comes pre-loaded with $100,000 in paper trading funds.

XTB Analysis Features 

XTB’s native trading suite comes packed with analysis tools. As noted earlier, this covers both technical and fundamental research. Regarding the former, traders can fully customize their trading screens. This includes the chart timeframes, which range from one minute to a month.

Additionally, traders can use the in-built chart drawing tools when analyzing trends. This is in addition to a full suite of technical indicators, including everything from the Parabolic SAR and Relative Strength Index to Simple Moving Averages and Bollinger Bands.

To the left hand of the charting screen, users can search for their preferred markets or create a watchlist. Below the charting screen is an overview of open and pending positions. Above the charting screen, users can access fundamental research tools.

This includes upcoming economic events, market analysis, and real-time news. We also like the fact that xStation 5 comes with built-in educational tools. This will appeal to beginners who are learning how to trade via technical analysis strategies.

Account Types on XTB 

XTB offers two account types to retail clients.

First, there is the standard account. This comes with commission-free trading, and spreads start from 0.1 pips on EUR/USD. There is no minimum deposit requirement. This option will appeal to day traders and scalpers.

The other option is the swap-free account. This is also commission-free, but spreads are higher. That said, this account type allows traders to keep positions open overnight without paying any swap fees. This will suit long-term strategies, such as swing trading. The swap-free account also comes without a minimum deposit requirement.

Additionally, XTB also offers professional accounts. These are aimed at experienced traders who meet certain requirements.

This requires two of the following three criteria to be met:

• An investment portfolio of at least €500,000, excluding real estate
• Proven experience in the financial sector of at least one year
• Have a track record of executing at least 10 trades per quarter, with transactions of €500,000 or more. The latter can include leveraged positions.

The main benefit of opening a professional account with XTB is increased leverage and trading limits.

XTB App 

XTB offers a native app for iOS and Android. The app has all of the same features and functionalities as the desktop and web-based platforms, ideal for traders who like to open and close positions on the move.

Moreover, all of xStation 5’s charting tools have been optimized for iOS and Android smartphones. This allows users to seamlessly look for trading opportunities no matter where they are located.

The XTB app also enables users to set up alerts. These will send push notifications when predetermined metrics are triggered. For example, if an asset on the user’s watchlist witnesses increased volatility, an alert will be sent to their smartphone.

The XTb app can also be used to make payments, including deposits and withdrawals. Overall, the app is user-friendly and suitable for traders of all skill sets.

What Payment Methods Does XTB Support?

XTB supports a wide range of payment methods, making it seamless to deposit and withdraw funds.

This includes:

• Debit/credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro)
• Bank Wires
• E-wallets (Skrill, Paysafe, SafetyPay, and Neteller)

As noted earlier, bank wires and debit/credit cards can be used without paying any fees. But Neteller and SafetyPay attract a deposit fee of 1% and 1.5%, respectively. Skrill is even more expensive at 2%.

Withdrawals over $50 are processed fee-free across all supported methods. But a $30 fee will apply if less than $50 is cashed out.

Minimum Account Balance

Our XTB review found that there is no minimum deposit requirement. This will appeal to entry-level traders who want to start off with small amounts.

However, it is important to remember that XTB has minimum trade requirements on most of its supported markets, which are often higher than those of other trading platforms in this space.

For example, those wishing to trade US-listed stocks must meet a $50 minimum. At eToro and Webull, the minimum is just $10 and $5, respectively.

Commodities on XTB require much higher minimums. For example, software commodities like cattle require at least $400. While gold requires a minimum trade size of $100. The good news is that these minimums are greatly reduced when using leverage.

• For example, XTB allows eligible traders to speculate on gold with leverage of up to 1:200.
• In turn, this means the $100 trade minimum is reduced to just $0.50.

That said, trading with high leverage levels is risky. If the trade doesn’t go to plan and XTB liquidates the position, the entire stake will be lost.

Nevertheless, when making a deposit, be sure to bear the minimum trade amounts in mind.

Payout Times

XTB notes that withdrawal requests are usually processed within one business day. This means that withdrawal requests made over the weekend will not be processed until Monday at the earliest.

Processing times can take slightly longer if the user is making their first withdrawals. Once the withdrawal is processed, transaction times will be determined by the payment type.

For example, e-wallet payments are usually instant, while debit/credit cards and bank wires can take a couple of working days.

XTB Sign-Up Bonuses

Our XTB review found that certain clients will be eligible for a welcome bonus. Eligibility depends on the client’s country of residence.

For example:

• Those in the UK, European Union, and the Middle East will not be eligible for a bonus. This is due to regulatory restrictions such as those set by the FCA on offering trading-related cash bonuses.
• Those from outside of the above regions will be eligible.

The XTB bonus consists of a 50% deposit boost on the first payment. While XTB states that the deposit needs to be at least $100 to qualify, no maximum amount is specified.

Moreover, those wanting to claim the bonus must contact XTB directly via live chat.

Does XTB Offer a Demo Account?

We were pleased to see that XTB offers a free demo account to all users. As noted earlier, the demo account comes with $100,000 in paper trading funds. It mirrors live market conditions, allowing traders to practice their strategies in a risk-free but realistic environment.

The demo account comes with unfettered access to xStation 5, across all supported device types. This gives users enough time to assess whether the platform is suitable for their trading goals. When opening a real account with no minimum deposit, clients gain access to an unlimited demo account.

Nonetheless, users will need to open a basic account to access the demo platform. This simply requires the user’s name, email address, and country of residence. At any time, users can upgrade to a full XTB account by providing some additional information.

76% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

XTB Customer Service

XTB offers an excellent level of support across multiple contact methods and languages.

The customer service team operates 24 hours a day between Sunday and Friday. The most convenient way to speak to an agent in real time is via the live chat box.

Alternatively, XTB also offers telephone support. The platform offers more than a dozen local telephone numbers throughout Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Support is offered in the respective local language.

XTB also has a presence on social media, which offers an additional way to make contact. This includes Facebook and Twitter.

XTB Regulation and Client Safety

One of the most important parts of our XTB review was evaluating the safety and credibility of the platform.

First and foremost, XTB was founded in 2004, equating to almost two decades of experience in this space. The platform has since acquired over a million global clients. Not only that, but XTB is now a publicly traded company on the Warsaw Stock Exchange.

XTB stock has a market capitalization of over 4.8 billion Polish zloty, or about $1 billion.

In terms of regulation, XTB is licensed by various financial bodies. This includes:

• The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
• The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).
• Komisja Nadzoru Finansowego (KNF) in Poland
• Financial Services Commission in Belize
• The Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores in Spain.

The specific regulatory body that users fall under will depend on their country of residence. For example, other than Poland and Spain, European Union clients are covered by CySEC. While those outside of the UK and Europe will fall under the remit of the Financial Services Commission in Belize.

Irrespective of the governing body, all client funds on XTB are segregated. This means that XTB keeps client capital separate bank accounts from its own.  In the unlikely event that XTB runs into financial difficulties, client fund protections might apply. However, eligibility and the maximum amounts will depend on the regulatory body.

For example, those in the UK are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which protects accounts up to £85,000 in the event of insolvency. Those that fall under the remit of Belize, however, will not be entitled to any compensation.

Overall, XTB is a safe and reputable trading platform. It has the legal remit to operate in all of the countries it serves and has an extended track record of nearly 20 years.

Moreover, XTB takes its anti-money laundering obligations seriously. This means that all registered users must go through a KYC process. This requires a government-issued ID that matches the client’s account information.

Which Countries Does XTB Accept?

XTB is a global trading platform that accepts clients from the vast majority of countries.

This is with the exception of the following jurisdictions:

How to Use XTB: Step-by-Step Tutorial

In this section of our XTB review, we illustrate the setup process. This includes opening an account, making a deposit, and entering a trade.

Step 1: Open an XTB Account

The first step is to register an account with XTB. Click on the ‘Create Account’ button and type in an email address.

Select the country of residence and click on ‘Next Step’

Next, enter a strong password. XTB will then collect some personal information. This includes a full name, phone number, and date of birth.

Note: Alternatively, users can open a demo account. This simply requires the user’s name, email address, and nationality.

Step 2: Complete the KYC Process

XTB is a regulated trading platform that requires all users to complete a quick KYC process.

This requires two documents:

• Government-issued ID: XTB accepts passports, driver’s licenses, and national ID cards.
• Proof of address: XTB accepts bank and tax statements, as well as utility bills.

XTB will then verify the documents and remove account restrictions.

Step 3: Make a Deposit

Before being able to trade with real money – users will need to deposit some funds.

There is no minimum deposit requirement, and accept payment types include debit/credit cards, e-wallets, and bank wires.

Step 4: Search for a Trading Market

Now that funds have been added to the XTB account, it’s time to search for an asset to trade.

Open xStation 5 on the preferred device type, from smartphones, desktops, and web browsers. In our example, we are using the xStation 5 browser edition.

To the left-hand side of the screen, there is a search box. Type in the desired asset. In our example, we are searching for ‘EURUSD’. Click on the ‘Candlestick’ icon to load the full chart.

Step 5: Place an Order

The final step is to set up a trading order.

To place an order instantly at the next best available price, select ‘Buy’ or ‘Sell.’ This will open a long or short position, respectively. Users who choose this option must close their trade manually.

That said, most traders will look to set up a custom order. For example, XTB supports limit orders, allowing users to choose the price at which the order is executed. The order will remain pending until the desired market price is triggered.

Additionally, XTB allows users to deploy a stop-loss and/or take-profit order. This removes the need to manually close orders. Instead, XTB will automatically close the position when either the stop-loss or take-profit price is executed.

The Verdict

In summary, XTB offers a regulated and low-cost way to trade leveraged CFDs. For stocks, ETFs, indices, cryptocurrencies, commodities, and forex, there are no trading commissions to pay, and leverage of up to 1:500 is available. Overall, XTB is a solid broker to choose for these trading options.

76% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

References 

• https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-29/why-contracts-for-difference-are-back-under-scrutiny-quicktake-kroehqag
• https://www.google.com/finance/quote/NIFTY_50:INDEXNSE?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiF1ofqi87_AhUmbmwGHTySBMEQ3ecFegQIIhAf
• https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/index/xjo?countrycode=au
• https://ark-funds.com/funds/arkf/
• https://advisors.vanguard.com/investments/products/bnd/vanguard-total-bond-market-etf
• https://www.handbook.fca.org.uk/handbook/COBS/22/5.html
• https://www.facebook.com/xtb
• https://twitter.com/xtbuk
• https://www.xtb.com/int/why-xtb/about-us
• https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/stock/xtb?countrycode=pl
• https://www.fscs.org.uk/media/press/2019/apr/higher-protection-limits/

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