AvaTrade vs Saxo Bank 2026: Which Broker is Better?

Regulation & Safety

AvaTrade and Saxo Bank are both highly regulated brokers, ensuring a secure trading environment for their clients. AvaTrade is regulated by several reputable authorities including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This multi-jurisdictional regulation enhances its credibility and offers traders significant protection through various fund safeguard schemes.

Saxo Bank is likewise regulated by top-tier bodies such as the FCA, MAS, and ASIC, which ensures a high level of safety and trustworthiness. Additionally, Saxo Bank's long-standing presence in the industry since 1992 gives it a robust reputation for client fund protection. Both brokers offer comprehensive fund protection schemes, though Saxo Bank's extensive history adds an extra layer of assurance for clients.

Fees & Spreads

AvaTrade offers spreads starting from 0.9 pips for major forex pairs, with no commissions on most accounts, making it appealing for cost-conscious traders. The minimum deposit is set at $100, which is accessible for beginner traders. However, AvaTrade does charge an inactivity fee of $50 after three months, which can be a drawback for less active traders.

In contrast, Saxo Bank offers tighter spreads beginning at 0.4 pips, which can be beneficial for high-volume traders seeking lower transaction costs. The broker charges a commission of 0.08% on trades, which might increase costs for frequent traders. Saxo Bank's minimum deposit is $2,000, which could be prohibitive for newcomers but aligns with its professional-grade offerings. Overnight fees are competitive, but smaller accounts might experience higher fees.

Trading Platforms

AvaTrade provides access to MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and its proprietary mobile platform, catering to both novice and experienced traders with diverse needs. Saxo Bank offers the SaxoTraderGO platform, known for its professional-grade features and extensive research tools, appealing to serious traders seeking advanced analytics and comprehensive asset coverage.

Who Should Choose AvaTrade?

• New traders looking for a lower minimum deposit.
• Traders interested in forex and CFD markets without commissions.
• Investors seeking a broker with strong educational resources.
• Traders interested in copy trading via ZuluTrade and DupliTrade.

Who Should Choose Saxo Bank?

• Experienced traders requiring professional-grade trading platforms.
• Investors interested in trading a wide range of instruments, including real stocks and bonds.
• High-volume traders looking for tighter spreads.
• Traders seeking in-depth market research and analysis tools.

Our Verdict

AvaTrade is the better option for beginners due to its lower minimum deposit and commission-free trading. Saxo Bank stands out for professional traders, offering a superior platform and extensive market access. On fees, AvaTrade provides a more affordable option for entry-level traders, while Saxo Bank's competitive spreads benefit high-volume trading.