eToro – Best Overall Investment App

Best for Copy Trading
4.8Investment App Score
Usability:
4.7
Fees:
4.2
Tools:
4.6
Expert Verdict eToro stands out as Australia's best overall investment app thanks to its unique copy trading feature, which allows you to automatically replicate the trades of successful investors. With 40 million registered users globally and $20.8 billion in assets under administration, eToro has proven its model works for both beginners learning from experts and experienced traders seeking passive income through the Popular Investor program. Regulated under AFSL 491139, eToro acquired Australian investing app Spaceship in 2024, further strengthening its local presence.
eToro Discover dashboard showing copy trading and popular investors
eToro's copy trading interface with investor statistics

Pros

  • CopyTrader automatically mirrors trades of top-performing investors
  • $0 commission on stocks (spread applies)
  • Access to 3,000+ assets including stocks, ETFs, and crypto

Cons

  • Shares held in custody (not CHESS-sponsored)
  • Spreads can be wider than traditional brokers
  • $5 withdrawal fee applies

What Are the Fees for eToro?

eToro offers $0 commission on stocks, with the cost built into the spread between buy and sell prices. ASX shares attract $2 brokerage. Crypto purchases incur a 1% fee. Currency conversion fees start from 0.75% and reduce based on your eToro Club tier, with AUD accounts now available to eliminate conversion when trading ASX stocks.

What Makes eToro's Copy Trading Unique?

eToro's CopyTrader feature lets you automatically replicate the trades of successful investors with verified track records. You can view detailed statistics including historical performance, risk scores, and portfolio composition before copying. Smart Portfolios offer pre-built thematic strategies managed by eToro's team. The social feed provides real-time market discussion and trading ideas from the community.

Who Is eToro Best For?

Beginners who want to learn from successful investors, social traders, and those seeking a single app for stocks, ETFs, and crypto. The $100,000 virtual portfolio makes eToro ideal for practice trading without risking real money.

How Is eToro Regulated?

eToro AUS Capital Limited is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 491139. The platform segregates client funds and maintains strict operational standards as required by Australian financial services regulation.

CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 51% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Stake – Best for Low-Cost CHESS Trading

Most Loved & Most Trusted
4.7Investment App Score
Usability:
3
Fees:
2.8
Tools:
3.4
Expert Verdict Stake has earned its position as Australia's third-largest broker by delivering what mobile investors want most: low fees and a premium app experience. Named "Most Loved" and "Most Trusted" share trading platform in Finder's 2024 & 2025 Customer Satisfaction Awards, Stake offers $3 CHESS-sponsored ASX trading, making it the lowest-cost CHESS broker in Australia. With 750,000+ users and $5 billion in assets under administration, Stake has proven its model at scale.
Stake app interface showing ASX stock trading with CHESS sponsorship
Stake's clean trading interface with market overview

Pros

  • $3 CHESS-sponsored brokerage -- lowest cost for direct ownership
  • 12,000+ ASX and US stocks and ETFs
  • Fractional US shares from US$10

Cons

  • $500 minimum for ASX (standard CHESS requirement)
  • FX conversion fee for US trading
  • Basic account has limited research tools

What Are the Fees for Stake?

Stake charges $3 brokerage on ASX trades up to $30,000, or 0.01% on trades above $30,000. US trades cost US$3 under the same structure. FX conversion applies at 0.70% when moving money between AUD and USD. Stake Black premium membership ($14/month) unlocks market depth, advanced charting, and instant buying power on US trades.

Why Does CHESS Sponsorship Matter?

With CHESS sponsorship, your shares are registered directly in your name on the ASX subregister. You receive a unique Holder Identification Number (HIN) that identifies your holdings. If Stake were to fail, your shares remain yours – clearly registered in your name and transferable to another broker. This provides stronger ownership protection than custodial models.

Who Is Stake Best For?

Cost-conscious investors who want direct share ownership through CHESS sponsorship, active traders who value the premium mobile experience, and investors wanting access to both ASX and US markets from a single app.

How Is Stake Regulated?

Stake is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 548196. US holdings are protected by SIPC insurance up to $500,000. The company has grown to become Australia's third-largest broker with over 750,000 users.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

Raiz – Best for Micro-Investing

Best Round-Up Feature
4.8Investment App Score
Usability:
4.7
Fees:
4.8
Tools:
4.5
Expert Verdict Raiz pioneered micro-investing in Australia with its signature round-up feature, automatically investing your spare change from everyday purchases. With over 550,000 active users and a decade of proven performance, Raiz makes investing effortless for beginners. The platform offers seven pre-built portfolios ranging from Conservative to Aggressive, managed by professional advisors and constructed from leading ETFs. Starting from just $5, Raiz removes traditional barriers to investing.
Raiz micro-investing app homepage showing portfolio growth and round-ups
Raiz dashboard showing portfolio growth and round-ups

Pros

  • Automatic round-ups invest spare change effortlessly
  • $5 minimum makes investing accessible to anyone
  • Seven pre-built portfolios managed by professionals

Cons

  • Monthly fee less attractive for larger balances
  • Limited investment control (cannot pick individual stocks)
  • Custodial model (not CHESS-sponsored)

What Are the Fees for Raiz?

Raiz charges a flat monthly subscription: $5.50/month for balances under $25,000 (Standard), $9.50/month for Premier, or $15/month for Sapphire (over $25,000). This fee structure suits small account holders better than percentage-based fees but becomes less competitive as your balance grows. Raiz Rewards cashback from 350+ retailers helps offset subscription costs.

How Do Round-Ups Work?

Raiz rounds up your everyday card purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the spare change. Buy coffee for $4.60, and Raiz invests 40 cents. Weekly transactions of 20-30 purchases typically generate $5-10 in automatic investments. You can multiply round-ups (2x, 5x, 10x) to accelerate savings, plus set up recurring deposits and one-off contributions.

Who Is Raiz Best For?

Beginners who want completely passive investing, people who struggle to save regularly, and those with small amounts to invest. The automatic round-up feature is ideal for building wealth without thinking about it.

What Portfolios Does Raiz Offer?

Raiz offers seven managed portfolios: Conservative, Moderately Conservative, Moderate, Moderately Aggressive, Aggressive, Emerald (ESG-focused), and Sapphire (high-value clients). Each portfolio contains a professionally managed mix of ETFs covering Australian and international shares, bonds, property, and cash. You simply choose a risk level matching your goals.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

CommSec Pocket – Best for Beginners

Simplest Interface
4.5Investment App Score
Usability:
3.9
Fees:
4.2
Tools:
4.6
Expert Verdict CommSec Pocket strips investing down to absolute basics: seven carefully selected ETFs covering Australian and international markets. Backed by Commonwealth Bank, CommSec Pocket offers the peace of mind that comes with Australia's largest financial institution. The intentionally limited choice prevents analysis paralysis while delivering instant diversification through ASX-listed ETFs. For CBA customers, Pocket integrates seamlessly with NetBank and offers automated investing features.
CommSec Pocket app showing ETF investment selection interface
Simple ETF selection interface

Pros

  • Seven carefully curated ETFs remove decision overwhelm
  • $2 flat brokerage on trades under $1,000
  • CBA integration with NetBank makes deposits seamless

Cons

  • Limited to seven ETFs (no individual stocks)
  • Less flexible than full trading platforms
  • Requires CommBank account for best experience

What Are the Fees for CommSec Pocket?

CommSec Pocket charges $2 brokerage for trades under $1,000. For trades between $1,000 and $3,000, brokerage is 0.20%. Trades over $3,000 cost $6. This fee structure makes Pocket very cost-effective for small, regular investments but less competitive for larger trades. No account keeping fees or ongoing charges apply.

What ETFs Can I Invest In?

CommSec Pocket offers seven ASX-listed ETFs: IOO (Global 100), DHHF (Diversified All-Growth), NDQ (Nasdaq 100), IVV (S&P 500), IOZ (ASX 200), DBBF (Diversified Balanced), and DZZF (Diversified Conservative). These cover Australian and international shares, bonds, and property in pre-built diversified packages. All are CHESS-sponsored holdings in your name.

Who Is CommSec Pocket Best For?

Complete beginners overwhelmed by investment choices, CBA customers wanting seamless banking integration, and those seeking simple, low-minimum ETF investing. The limited selection actually helps decision-making for new investors.

How Does CBA Integration Work?

CommSec Pocket links directly to your CommBank accounts through NetBank. You can view your Pocket investments alongside your everyday banking, set up automatic recurring investments, and instantly transfer funds without waiting for clearing. This integration makes investing feel like a natural extension of your banking routine.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

Webull – Best for $0 ETF Trading

$0 Permanent ETF Brokerage
4.6Investment App Score
Usability:
3.8
Fees:
3.5
Tools:
4.3
Expert Verdict Webull has disrupted Australian investing with permanent $0 brokerage on ASX-listed ETFs – a genuinely free offering without promotional limits. For passive investors building long-term portfolios through ETFs, Webull eliminates brokerage costs entirely while maintaining CHESS sponsorship for direct ownership. The platform combines modern charting tools with competitive pricing on ASX stocks ($3 up to $3,000, then 0.1%). With 18 million users globally, Webull brings Wall Street-level tools to Australian retail investors.
Webull trading platform with advanced charting and technical indicators
Advanced charting interface with technical indicators

Pros

  • $0 permanent brokerage on ASX-listed ETFs
  • CHESS-sponsored for direct share ownership
  • Advanced charting tools and technical indicators

Cons

  • No fractional shares on ASX (full units only)
  • $500 minimum per ASX trade (standard CHESS requirement)
  • Interface more complex than beginner-focused apps

What Are the Fees for Webull?

Webull offers permanent $0 brokerage on ASX-listed ETFs with no promotional limits or restrictions. For ASX stocks, brokerage is $3 for trades up to $3,000, or 0.1% for trades over $3,000. US trading costs US$0 per trade. FX conversion applies at 0.50% when moving between AUD and USD. No account fees, platform fees, or hidden charges apply.

Why Is $0 ETF Brokerage Important?

For long-term ETF investors, brokerage costs compound significantly. Investing $500 monthly with $3 brokerage costs $36 yearly – that's lost returns. Webull's permanent $0 ETF brokerage means every dollar goes into your portfolio. This matters most for regular, small contributions where percentage returns on your investment matter more than absolute trade costs.

Who Is Webull Best For?

ETF-focused investors who want to eliminate brokerage costs entirely, regular investors making frequent small contributions, and those who want CHESS sponsorship without ongoing fees. The advanced tools suit investors comfortable with more technical analysis.

What Tools Does Webull Offer?

Webull provides professional-grade charting with 50+ technical indicators, multiple chart types, and custom drawing tools. The platform includes Level 2 market depth data, extended hours trading for US markets, customizable watchlists, and real-time market news. While more complex than beginner apps, these tools offer significant value for investors wanting deeper market analysis.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

Superhero – Best for ASX Trading

Earn Qantas Points
4.5Investment App Score
Usability:
4.5
Fees:
4.1
Tools:
4.7
Expert Verdict Superhero offers fractional shares from just $10, making ASX investing accessible to anyone regardless of share price. The platform's Qantas Frequent Flyer partnership is unique in Australian investing – earn 1 Qantas Point per $10 traded on ASX shares and ETFs, plus bonus points on US trades. With CHESS sponsorship, $2 flat ASX brokerage, and an intuitive interface, Superhero balances accessibility with genuine investment features. The platform serves 175,000+ users building wealth through Australian and US markets.
Superhero investment app showing fractional share trading on ASX
Dashboard showing fractional share holdings

Pros

  • $10 minimum with fractional shares on ASX
  • Earn Qantas Points on every trade (unique in Australia)
  • $2 flat brokerage on ASX trades

Cons

  • Fractional CHESS shares have some transfer limitations
  • FX fee for US trading (0.65%)
  • Limited research tools compared to full brokers

What Are the Fees for Superhero?

Superhero charges $2 flat brokerage on ASX trades regardless of size. US trading costs US$0 per trade. FX conversion applies at 0.65% when trading US stocks. No account keeping fees, inactivity fees, or hidden charges. The Qantas Points rewards effectively reduce your net trading costs if you value frequent flyer points.

How Do Fractional Shares Work?

Superhero lets you buy fractions of ASX shares from $10, making expensive stocks accessible. Want to buy CSL at $280/share? Invest $50 and own 0.18 shares. Fractional holdings are still CHESS-sponsored in your name, receive proportional dividends, and can be sold anytime. The $10 minimum is Australia's lowest for CHESS-sponsored shares, democratizing access to quality companies.

How Do Qantas Points Work?

Link your Qantas Frequent Flyer account to Superhero and earn points on every trade. ASX shares and ETFs earn 1 point per $10 traded. US shares earn bonus points during promotions. Points post monthly and count toward Qantas status credits. For frequent traders, this unique benefit adds meaningful value beyond just investment returns.

Who Is Superhero Best For?

Investors with small amounts who want to access expensive ASX shares, Qantas Frequent Flyer members who value points rewards, and those seeking low-minimum CHESS-sponsored investing. The $10 fractional minimum makes quality ASX stocks accessible to everyone.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

Stockspot – Best Robo-Advisor App

Hands-Off Investing
4.6Investment App Score
Usability:
3.5
Fees:
4.2
Tools:
4
Expert Verdict Stockspot pioneered robo-advice in Australia in 2013, offering fully automated portfolio management that removes all investment decisions. The platform constructs diversified portfolios from leading ETFs, automatically rebalances quarterly, harvests tax losses, and adjusts your strategy as you age. With $2 billion under management and a decade of proven performance, Stockspot delivers professional investment management at a fraction of traditional advisory costs. The mobile app provides complete visibility while Stockspot's algorithms handle everything else.
Stockspot robo-advisor dashboard showing portfolio allocation and performance
Stockspot dashboard showing automated portfolio management

Pros

  • Completely hands-off -- set and forget investing
  • Automatic rebalancing, tax optimization, and adjustments
  • Professional management at 0.66% annually

Cons

  • $2,000 minimum higher than other apps
  • No control over individual investments
  • Management fee compounds over very long periods

What Are the Fees for Stockspot?

Stockspot charges 0.66% annually on portfolios up to $100,000, reducing to 0.55% on amounts over $100,000. This management fee covers portfolio construction, rebalancing, tax optimization, and all platform features. ETF management fees (typically 0.10-0.30%) are separate and paid to ETF providers. No trading fees, no additional charges, and no performance fees apply.

How Does Stockspot Work?

After answering questions about your goals, timeline, and risk tolerance, Stockspot builds a personalized portfolio from diversified ETFs. The platform automatically invests your deposits, rebalances quarterly to maintain target allocations, harvests tax losses to offset gains, and gradually shifts to more conservative investments as you approach your goal. You simply deposit money and watch your portfolio grow – Stockspot handles everything else.

Who Is Stockspot Best For?

Time-poor professionals who want professional management without the effort, those uncomfortable making investment decisions themselves, and investors seeking set-and-forget wealth building. The completely hands-off approach suits people who would otherwise leave money in savings accounts.

What Is Stockspot's Track Record?

Stockspot has managed portfolios since 2013, providing over a decade of transparent performance data. The platform's Balanced portfolio has delivered returns averaging 8-10% annually over its history, outperforming many traditional managed funds while maintaining lower fees. Past performance doesn't guarantee future returns, but Stockspot's track record demonstrates consistent, disciplined portfolio management.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

Scorecard comparing ratings of the best investment apps in Australia 2026
Scorecard comparing ratings of the best investment apps in Australia 2026

How Do Investment Apps Handle US Markets?

Most Australian investment apps now offer US market access, but the approaches differ significantly. Here's how each app handles US stocks and ETFs:

AppUS StocksUS ETFsFractionalFX Fee
eToro0.75%+
Stake0.70%
Webull0.50%
Superhero0.65%
CommSec PocketVia ETFsN/AN/A

If you primarily want US exposure without direct stock picking, CommSec Pocket's Global 100 ETF or Stockspot's portfolios provide diversified US market access through ASX-listed ETFs, avoiding currency conversion fees entirely.

Are Investment Apps Safe in Australia?

All seven apps reviewed are regulated by ASIC and hold Australian Financial Services Licences (AFSLs), providing strong consumer protection. ASIC regulation requires brokers to segregate client funds, maintain adequate capital, and meet strict operational standards.

How Are the Apps Regulated?

AppAFSLAdditional Protection
eToro491139Lloyd's insurance (premium tiers)
Stake548196SIPC (US holdings, up to $500k)
Raiz434776ASX-listed company (RZI)
CommSec Pocket238814CBA subsidiary
Webull536980SIPC (US holdings)
Superhero430150SIPC (US holdings)
Stockspot536082Professional indemnity insurance

Important Note: Unlike bank deposits, investments are not covered by the government guarantee. The value of shares, ETFs, and other investments can go down as well as up. ASIC regulation protects against broker misconduct but not market losses.

How Do I Choose the Right Investment App?

Selecting the right investment app depends on your investment goals, experience level, and how actively you want to manage your portfolio. Use this decision framework to find your match:

"I'm completely new to investing" → CommSec Pocket (simplest) or Raiz (most passive)

"I want to learn from successful investors" → eToro (copy trading)

"I want to own my shares directly (CHESS)" → Stake (lowest cost) or Webull ($0 ETFs)

"I just want someone to manage it for me" → Stockspot (robo-advisor)

"I want the lowest possible fees for ETFs" → Webull ($0 permanent)

"I'm a Qantas frequent flyer" → Superhero (earn points on trades)

"I'm a CBA customer" → CommSec Pocket (integrated)

Questions to Ask Yourself:

  1. How much can I invest initially? – Determines minimum requirements (Raiz $5 vs Stockspot $2,000)
  2. How often will I trade? – Impacts brokerage costs (frequent traders benefit from flat fees)
  3. Do I want CHESS ownership? – Direct registration vs custodial models
  4. ASX only or US markets too? – Determines app options and FX considerations
  5. Hands-on or hands-off? – DIY trading vs robo-advisor automated management
Feature comparison matrix of top investment apps available in Australia
Feature comparison matrix of top investment apps available in Australia

Final Thoughts

Australia's investment app landscape offers genuine choice across copy trading, micro-investing, DIY share trading, and robo-advice. eToro emerges as the best overall investment app, combining unique copy trading features with broad asset access and an intuitive mobile experience that suits both beginners and experienced investors.

For cost-conscious investors prioritising direct share ownership, Stake's $3 CHESS-sponsored brokerage delivers exceptional value. Those wanting completely passive investing should consider Raiz's round-up features for building wealth with spare change, or Stockspot's professionally managed portfolios for a hands-off approach with a decade of proven performance.

CBA customers will find CommSec Pocket's bank integration worth exploring for simple ETF investing. ETF-focused investors should strongly consider Webull's permanent $0 brokerage, while Qantas frequent flyers can earn points with every trade through Superhero.

For comprehensive platform comparisons including desktop features, see our best investment platforms guide. Those interested in more active trading approaches can explore our best trading platforms and copy trading platforms guides.

FAQs

What is the minimum amount to start investing in Australia?

The minimum varies by app and investment type. Raiz allows investing from just $5 through spare change round-ups. Superhero offers a $10 minimum for fractional shares. CommSec Pocket requires $50 for ETFs. For CHESS-sponsored ASX shares, the standard minimum marketable parcel is $500.

Are investment app profits taxed in Australia?

Yes, investment returns are subject to Australian tax. Capital gains from selling shares held over 12 months receive a 50% CGT discount for individuals. Dividends are taxable income but may include franking credits. Each app provides tax reports to simplify your annual return. Consult the ATO or a tax professional for personal advice.

Can I transfer shares between investment apps?

CHESS-sponsored shares can be transferred between brokers using your HIN. Custodial holdings typically require selling and rebuying, which may trigger capital gains tax. Stake, Webull, and CommSec Pocket support CHESS transfers. Check individual app policies before transferring.

What happens if an investment app goes bankrupt?

ASIC regulations require client funds and securities to be held separately from company assets. For CHESS-sponsored holdings, shares remain registered in your name regardless of broker status. Custodial holdings are protected under trust arrangements. SIPC protection covers US holdings up to $500,000 for apps like Stake, Webull, and Superhero.

Do I need to complete a W-8BEN form?

Yes, if you invest in US shares or ETFs directly. The W-8BEN form certifies your non-US status and reduces dividend withholding tax from 30% to 15% under the Australia-US tax treaty. Most apps guide you through this process during account setup for US market access.

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