eToro: how it works, fees, regulation, pros & limits (2025 Guide)
This 2025 guide explains, in factual terms, how eToro works, its regulatory framework (CySEC/FCA/ASIC), its fees (stocks, crypto, conversion, withdrawals, inactivity), features such as CopyTrader™ and Smart Portfolios, plus key risks and good practices. It is not investment advice.
1. What is eToro?
Founded in 2007, eToro is a multi-asset investment platform that offers real stocks at 0% eToro commission (non-CFD), the ability to copy investors via CopyTrader™, Smart Portfolios for thematic exposure, and access to certain cryptoassets depending on your jurisdiction. The company operates through several regulated entities; the entity that serves you depends on your country of residence.
Key takeaway: eToro is a regulated intermediary. This does not guarantee the availability of specific products in your country, nor any future performance. Financial assets (including crypto) carry a risk of capital loss.
2. Regulation & entities
eToro (Europe) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under license number 109/10. eToro (UK) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom under FRN 583263. In Australia, eToro AUS Capital Limited holds AFSL 491139 and is supervised by ASIC. These details are published on eToro’s official pages and regulator registers.
- eToro regulation & licenses
- FCA register — eToro (UK) Ltd (FRN 583263)
- CySEC — eToro (Europe) Ltd (license 109/10)
Regulators supervise investment services and help protect investors. This is not an endorsement of products nor a guarantee of performance.
3. Service availability by country
The availability of products (e.g., cryptoassets), payment methods and certain features varies by jurisdiction. Local restrictions may apply (e.g., some countries do not allow the promotion or provision of crypto services). Before you sign up, check the Help Center page relevant to your region for up-to-date information from eToro.
4. Products & features
4.1 Real stocks at 0% eToro commission
eToro allows you to buy real stocks with 0% eToro commission (non-CFD). Other costs may exist — such as currency conversion or market spreads. Always review eToro’s “Fees” page for current conditions and regional differences.
4.2 CopyTrader™ (copy other investors)
CopyTrader™ lets you automatically mirror the trades of a visible investor on the platform. You can set a Copy Stop Loss (a maximum loss threshold for the copy relationship) and add/remove funds to a copy. Copying doesn’t guarantee performance; you can lose some or all of the funds allocated to the copy. Review the social-copying risk notice before using the feature.
4.3 Smart Portfolios
Smart Portfolios are thematic baskets constructed according to a defined methodology (technology, indices, sectors, etc.). There are no eToro management fees for Smart Portfolios, though underlying costs may exist and minimum investment amounts can apply. Read the documentation and methodology for each portfolio you consider.
4.4 Cryptoassets (by jurisdiction)
eToro provides access to certain cryptoassets in permitted jurisdictions. Since July 2025, eToro applies a transparent 1% commission at both open and close, shown separately from the market spread for greater clarity in trade performance and costs. Cryptoassets are volatile; ensure you understand local regulation and risks.
5. Fees in detail (2025)
Fees are a key driver of long-term results. Below are the main cost items to understand. Always check eToro’s official fee pages and help articles for the latest details and regional differences.
5.1 Real stocks
- eToro commission: 0% for real stocks (non-CFD).
- Spreads: the bid/ask differential set by the market.
- Currency conversion: if your base currency differs from USD, FX conversion costs may apply.
5.2 Crypto
- Commission: 1% at open and 1% at close, separate from spread (since July 2025).
- Network fees: may apply for transfers to/from eToro Money depending on the chain/asset.
5.3 Deposits, withdrawals & other
- Withdrawals: fixed and/or variable fees may apply depending on your region/currency.
- Inactivity fee: a monthly charge may apply after a defined period without login (e.g., 12 months).
- Overnight fees (CFDs): apply when you hold CFD positions overnight.
| Category | Indication | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Real stocks | 0% eToro commission | eToro Fees |
| Crypto | 1% open + 1% close (separate from spread) | July 2025 announcement |
| FX conversion | Varies by currency/method | Help: conversion fees |
| Withdrawal | Varies by region/currency | Help: withdrawal fees |
| Inactivity | May apply after 12 months without login | eToro Fees |
6. Deposits, withdrawals & currencies
Deposit methods (cards, bank transfer, e-wallets…), accepted currencies and minimums depend on your country and serving entity. Withdrawals are subject to identity verification (KYC) and the availability of methods in your region. Processing times may vary by method and intermediary banks.
7. Major risks & warnings
- CFDs: leverage can magnify losses; in the EU, 61% of retail accounts lose money with this provider. EU risk warning
- CopyTrader™: copying does not guarantee future results; you remain responsible for losses. Copying risks
- Cryptoassets: high volatility and evolving regulation. Confirm local restrictions and tax rules.
- FX risk: investing in assets not denominated in your base currency adds exchange-rate risk.
This guide is informational only. It is not investment advice or a personalized recommendation.
8. Pros & limitations
Pros
- Modern, mobile-first interface that’s approachable for beginners.
- 0% eToro commission on real stocks (non-CFD) and a broad asset lineup.
- CopyTrader™ and Smart Portfolios enable learning by observing real-world strategies.
- Increased transparency on crypto fees (1% commission shown separately from spread).
- Regulatory oversight (CySEC/FCA/ASIC) and extensive documentation.
Limitations
- Product/feature availability varies by jurisdiction.
- Market spreads and currency conversion costs require monitoring.
- Copying strong past performers does not remove the risk of loss.
- CFDs are not suitable for everyone due to the potential for rapid losses.
9. Opening an account: step-by-step
- Sign up on eToro and confirm your email.
- Verify your identity (KYC) by completing the investor questionnaire and submitting required documents.
- First deposit: choose a method available in your country and deposit an amount aligned with your situation.
- Explore the virtual portfolio if available; review markets, fees and risk disclosures.
- Invest responsibly: start small, diversify, set realistic goals and revisit the warnings.
10. Responsible investing practices
- Plan your objectives and time horizons; avoid impulsive decisions.
- Diversify across asset classes and sectors; never invest money you need in the short term.
- Monitor fees (conversion, withdrawals, crypto commissions) and market spreads before each order.
- Understand copying: an investor’s track record is not predictive. Configure Copy Stop Loss.
- Security: enable account protection, keep your devices updated and beware of phishing.
FAQ
Is eToro regulated?
Yes. EU (CySEC 109/10), UK (FCA FRN 583263), AU (ASIC AFSL 491139). The entity that serves you depends on your country. This is not a guarantee of performance.
Are stocks at 0% commission?
For real stocks, eToro’s commission is 0%. Other third-party costs may apply (FX conversion, market spreads, etc.).
How are crypto fees calculated?
Since 2025, eToro applies a standard 1% commission at both open and close, separate from the market spread. Fees are shown clearly on the trade ticket.
Does CopyTrader™ carry risks?
Yes. Copying an investor does not guarantee their future results. You can incur losses up to the full amount allocated to copying.
Official sources
Investing involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. This is not investment advice.