What is the difference between stock CFDs and buying real shares?

Real share trading gives you ownership and dividend rights. Stock CFDs let you trade price movements with leverage but you don't own the underlying share. CFDs are better for short-term speculation; real shares suit long-term investing.

Are dividends paid on stock CFDs?

With CFDs, brokers typically apply a dividend adjustment to your account rather than paying the actual dividend. Long positions receive a credit; short positions receive a debit.

Which stock markets can I access through these brokers?

Most brokers in this ranking offer access to major exchanges including NYSE, NASDAQ, LSE, and Euronext. Check each broker's market page for the full list of supported exchanges.

Which is the top-rated broker in this list for 2026?

Based on our scoring algorithm, Interactive Brokers currently ranks #1 with a score of 4.4/5. Scores are recalculated every 24 hours as broker data changes.

Best Stock Brokers in South Africa 2026 — Expert Rankings

What to Look For in Stock Brokers in South Africa

Choosing the right stock broker in South Africa requires careful consideration of several key factors. First and foremost, regulatory compliance is crucial. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) is the primary regulatory body in South Africa, ensuring that brokers adhere to stringent standards designed to protect investors. Selecting a broker regulated by the FSCA or other reputable international bodies like the FCA or ASIC can provide added peace of mind for investors.

Another critical factor is the fee structure. South African traders should be mindful of both the visible and hidden costs associated with trading. This includes commissions, spreads, withdrawal fees, and any other charges that could impact overall profitability. Brokers offering transparent fee structures with competitive pricing are generally more appealing to investors looking to maximise their returns.

Lastly, the trading platform's functionality and ease of use can significantly influence the trading experience. A user-friendly interface with robust analytical tools, real-time data, and seamless execution is essential for both novice and experienced traders. Additionally, having access to a diverse range of markets and financial instruments can enhance a trader's ability to diversify their portfolio effectively.

How We Rank Stock Brokers in South Africa

Our ranking methodology for stock brokers in South Africa is comprehensive and objective, designed to provide a balanced evaluation of each broker's offerings. We allocate 25% of our scoring to regulation, recognising the importance of trust and security in the financial sector. A further 20% is dedicated to fees, ensuring that brokers offering competitive and transparent pricing are duly rewarded in our rankings.

We also consider the quality of trading platforms, which account for 15% of the overall score. The variety of markets available and the broker's trustworthiness each contribute 10% and 15% respectively. Finally, user experience, which includes customer service and the overall ease of use, constitutes 15% of the total score. This balanced approach ensures that all critical aspects of broker services are thoroughly evaluated.

Top Picks at a Glance

Interactive Brokers: Renowned for its extensive range of markets and sophisticated trading platform, ideal for experienced traders seeking global exposure.
Forex.com: Offers competitive fees and a robust trading environment, making it a strong choice for forex traders looking for reliability and value.
IG Group: Known for its comprehensive educational resources and powerful trading tools, perfect for traders who value continuous learning and development.
Vantage: Provides an excellent user experience with intuitive platforms and competitive spreads, appealing to both beginners and seasoned traders.
Pepperstone: Stands out for its exceptional customer support and low-cost trading options, making it a favourite among traders prioritising cost efficiency.

Best Stock Brokers in South Africa 2026

Interactive Brokers

Forex.com

IG Group

FxPro

Pepperstone

City Index

CMC Markets

XM

eToro

Saxo Bank

Plus500

AvaTrade

Capital.com

BlackBull Markets

ThinkMarkets

FBS

IC Markets

Vantage Markets

FP Markets

XTB

ForTrade

Swissquote

HFM

Admiral Markets

Exness

Markets.com

Phillip Capital

Dukascopy

Moomoo

Exante

Axi

EasyMarkets

MultiBank Group

FXTM

Tiger Brokers

Webull

Trading 212

Fusion Markets

ActivTrades

Purple Trading

Fineco Bank

TMGM

Stake

HYCM

LYNX Broker

LHV

Spreadex

Revolut Trading

DEGIRO

Equiti

EasyEquities

Amana Capital

Moneybox

Bestinvest

Vanguard UK

Chipper Cash

InvestEngine

HSBC InvestDirect

Sharesies

Absa Stockbrokers

Standard Bank Online Share Trading

HC Securities

Revolut

Raiz Invest

Interactive Investor

FNB Share Investing

Freetrade

Nedbank Share Investing

CM Trading

Pearler

Superhero

Hargreaves Lansdown

SelfWealth

Charles Stanley Direct

ANZ Share Investing

AJ Bell

NAB Trade

CommSec

Westpac Share Trading