My Vantage Review
- Spreads from 0.0 pips on the Raw account with a fixed commission of $6 per round lot
- Over 1,000 instruments available as CFDs (Forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, commodities)
- Leverage up to 1:500 for accounts outside of New Zealand
- Native access to MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView
- Integrated copy trading tools with ZuluTrade, DupliTrade, and Vantage Copy Trading
- Free deposits and withdrawals on most methods (card, bank transfer, Skrill, Neteller)
- Free and unlimited demo account with configurable virtual capital
- Risk management tools: negative balance protection, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop
- Multi-jurisdictional regulation: ASIC (Australia), FCA (United Kingdom), VFSC (Vanuatu), CIMA (Cayman Islands)
- Responsive customer support 24/5 via live chat and email
- No access to direct purchase of shares or spot ETFs
- Vantage WebTrader platform less customisable compared to MT5 or TradingView
- Swap fees sometimes high outside of Islamic accounts
- Inactivity fee of $10 per month after one year of inactivity
- Crypto offering only in CFD, no transfer to external wallet
- What to think of Vantage?
- My review of the security and reliability of the Vantage broker
- My opinion on the fees, spreads, and commissions applied by Vantage
- My opinion on the assets & markets available on Vantage
- My review of the platform
- Customer Reviews: What Users Think of Vantage
- Account Opening
- Conclusion: Should You Invest with Vantage?
Why Trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is a financial product expert that advises over a million users every month. Our specialists have tested the services of over 100 brokers worldwide by opening accounts and conducting real transactions. Discover our comprehensive analysis of this platform.
Vantage, established in 2009 and now with an international presence, is a Forex and CFD broker that caters to both novice and experienced traders. With a rating of 4.2/5 from over 6,300 reviews on Trustpilot, the platform enjoys a solid reputation, particularly for the quality of its execution and the diversity of tools offered.
I’ve spent the last six months testing the Vantage platform inside and out. I’ve opened several types of accounts, traded in various markets (Forex, indices, cryptos, CFD shares) and compared the quality of service and fees with those of other well-established brokers, such as IG, XTB or Pepperstone.
In summary, I was trying to answer questions like: can Vantage be trusted? Is the platform easy to learn and intuitive for beginners? How much does it cost to trade with Vantage and can you build a diversified asset portfolio? What features does the trader offer vs. other online brokers?
So I examined everything closely: account opening process, management and trading fees, available financial instruments, functionalities, simplicity of the platform (desktop and mobile) and trading tools, etc. Below is my in-depth analysis of the Vantage broker (compared to other platforms tested).
What to think of Vantage?
My general opinion on Vantage
After several weeks of thorough testing, Vantage left me with a very positive impression, particularly regarding the quality of execution, the clarity of fees, and the diversity of available tools. I was able to trade over 1,000 instruments via CFDs, spread across currencies, international stocks, ETFs, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. It's a comprehensive broker for those looking to actively diversify their portfolio.
The platform experience is smooth: I mainly used MetaTrader 5 for its powerful analysis, but the compatibility with TradingView also allows for unparalleled reading comfort for graphical analysis. Vantage also offers its own WebTrader, simple but effective. I also tested the Vantage Copy Trading tool, which is practical for beginners, and ZuluTrade, which is well integrated if you want to follow automated strategies.
In terms of pricing, spreads are competitive, especially on the Raw ECN account with 0.0 pips on major Forex pairs and a commission of $6 per round trip lot. Fees are transparent and no costs are charged on deposits or withdrawals, which is appreciable. Only inactivity and swap fees can be surprising if you do not read the conditions in advance.
Finally, the regulation is robust: Vantage is overseen by several recognised authorities such as ASIC (Australia), FCA (United Kingdom) or CIMA (Cayman Islands). Client funds are segregated, and negative balance protection is ensured. The platform is reliable, and user feedback (rating of 4.2/5 on Trustpilot) largely confirms my impression.
Who is Vantage suited for?
=> Experienced traders who are looking for a high-performance ECN environment with tight spreads, ultra-fast execution and integration with tools like TradingView, Vantage is perfectly suited. The Raw account significantly reduces costs for those who trade in volume.
=> Technical traders who rely on advanced indicators, automated strategies or algorithmic trading. Between MetaTrader 5, TradingView and ZuluTrade, everything is in place to build a precise, personalised approach that can be driven by bots or signals.
=> For beginners, who want to learn gently while having the possibility of following traders via the integrated Copy Trading function. The unlimited demo account, the simple Vantage WebTrader interface and the wealth of educational content available on their site offer a reassuring framework to start.
On the other hand, Vantage will not be suitable for long-term investors who wish to buy stocks or ETFs in cash. The broker only offers trading via CFDs, without the possibility of real ownership, which limits its interest for the constitution of a wealth portfolio over several years.
Vantage in a few seconds, it's:
Features | Details |
---|---|
Minimum deposit | 50 (or equivalent in an accepted currency) |
Regulations | ASIC (Australia), FCA (UK), CIMA (Cayman Islands), VFSC (Vanuatu) |
AMF registration | Not registered with the financial regulator in New Zealand |
Available assets | CFDs on currencies, equities (200+), ETFs, indices, commodities, crypto-currencies (50+) |
Trading tools | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView, WebTrader Vantage, ProTrader |
Demo account | Available with virtual $100,000, unlimited duration |
Copy Trading | Yes, via Vantage Copy Trading, ZuluTrade and DupliTrade |
Islamic trading | Yes, available on request (without swap) |
Main options | Stop Loss, Take Profit, Ordres conditionnels, Trailing stop |
Leverage | Up to 1:30 for private customers (up to 1:500 for professionals) |
Fees | Commissions: $0 on Standard / $6 round trip on Raw Minimum spread: 0.0 pip on EUR/USD Crypto: from 0.20 Inactivity fee: $10 after 6 months Withdrawal fee: $0 |
Customer support | Live chat 24/5, email, telephone (rapid response in a few minutes) |
Trustpilot reviews | 4,2/5 (6 319 reviews) |
Minimum spread: 0.0 pip on EUR/USD
Crypto: from 0.20
Inactivity fee: $10 after 6 months
Withdrawal fee: $0
My review of the security and reliability of the Vantage broker
As a trader, I consider Vantage to be a reliable broker, well-regulated, with a serious fund management policy and transparency that builds trust. Even though it is not directly registered with the regulatory body in New Zealand, it is legally accessible from New Zealand and offers a level of security aligned with international standards.
Indicators | Description | Risk management |
---|---|---|
Regulatory compliance | ASIC (Australia), FCA (UK), CIMA (Cayman Islands), VFSC (Vanuatu) | Very good |
Funds security | Segregated client funds, separate accounts, negative balance protection, professional indemnity insurance | Very good |
Risk management tools | Stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, margin calculator, negative balance protection | Very good |
Awareness & coverage | International broker active since 2009, present in over 170 countries, Trustpilot rating of 4.2/5 | Excellent |
=> Vantage offers all the necessary guarantees to invest in a safe environment, including segregated funds, automatic protections to avoid negative balances, and practical tools to manage exposures. This is reassuring, especially for retail traders.
My opinion on the fees, spreads, and commissions applied by Vantage
What I quickly appreciated about Vantage is the two types of accounts offered, each tailored to a specific trading style. The Standard account integrates spreads into prices without adding commissions, making it practical for beginners. The Raw ECN account, on the other hand, offers very tight spreads from 0.0 pips, with a fixed commission of $6 round trip, an obvious choice for active or intraday traders.
Regarding account management fees, everything is transparent and competitive. There are no opening fees and no withdrawal fees, which is convenient on a daily basis. Only an inactivity fee of $10 per month is applied after 6 months without activity. Nothing prohibitive if you are even a little active. Now let's take a detailed look at the broker's fee schedule.
What are the account fees?
Fees | Conditions | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Opening Fees | Free | 5 – 10 $ |
Management Fees | None | 0.1 – 0.2 % |
Withdrawal Fees | Free on all methods, subject to minimum withdrawal conditions | 5 – 10 $ |
Inactivity Fees | 10 $ per month after 6 months of inactivity | 5 – 15 $ |
Conversion Fees | 0.6 % on deposits in a currency different from the account | Variable depending on the brokers |
From a personal point of view, I find Vantage's fee structure well thought out for both regular and novice traders. The absence of fees on withdrawals or account management is a real advantage, especially when compared to some brokers who charge as soon as you move a little money around.
The minimum deposit is set at $50, which remains accessible to the majority of profiles, including testing in real conditions without a large commitment. It is all the more interesting as Vantage accepts many currencies and payment methods, which limits the additional costs.
Trader Tip
To avoid conversion fees, I recommend depositing your funds in the same currency as your account, or using a service like Wise or Revolut before depositing. Also, remember to set a calendar alert every 5 months to avoid triggering inactivity fees.
What are the fees on shares and ETFs?
Fees | Conditions | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Commission | From $0.01 per US share; 0.10% for New Zealand shares | 0.10% |
Spread Fees | Included in the market spread on stock CFDs | 0.10% |
Overnight Fees | Applied if a position is held beyond 11 p.m. (market close time) | Variable |
Custody Fees | None for CFDs; not applicable for cash equities (not available) | Variable |
At Vantage, it is not possible to invest directly in stocks or spot ETFs. All instruments are accessible only via CFDs. This allows for some flexibility with leverage, but it is not suitable for long-term investors. For those who wish to buy real stocks, platforms like eToro or DEGIRO will be more appropriate.
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Fees | Conditions | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Buy/Sell Fees | No fixed commission; fees included in the spread | 0.75% |
Spread Fees | On average 1.25% on BTC/USD and up to 2% on other pairs | 0.5 – 1% |
Overnight Fees | Applied to all open crypto positions, even without leverage | |
Custody Fees | None for CFDs |
In my opinion, the crypto trading fees at Vantage are in the upper range for CFD brokers. Spreads can climb above 1% on major pairs, making round trips less profitable than on exchanges like Binance or Bybit. That said, for traders looking to combine crypto and other asset classes in a single MT4 or MT5 interface, it's a practical solution.
What are the CFD fees?
Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at Vantage | Overnight Fees | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|---|
Stocks | Up to 1:20 | From $0.01/share | Applied nightly on open position | 0.10% |
Gold | Up to 1:500 | From 1.5 pips | Applied according to position and size | 1.5 – 2 pips |
Oil (WTI) | Up to 1:100 | Around 3.0 pips | Applied at the close of each day | 3 – 4 pips |
EUR/USD | Up to 1:500 | From 0.0 pip (Raw) | Yes, varies depending on the position | 1.0 pip |
EUR/GBP | Up to 1:500 | From 0.1 pip (Raw) | Yes, varies depending on the position | 1.2 pip |
CAC 40 | Up to 1:100 | Around 1.2 points | Yes, depending on size and direction of the position | 1 – 2 points |
BTCUSD | Up to 1:200 | Around 2% | Applied even without leverage | 1 – 2% |
I found the CFD trading conditions at Vantage particularly interesting for scalping and intraday trading, especially on the major Forex pairs. The Raw account offers the lowest fees, with spreads reduced to 0.0 pip on EUR/USD for a transparent commission. However, as with all CFDs, be aware of overnight fees: they accumulate quickly if you leave positions open for several days.
Trader Tip
To avoid overnight fees, favour day trades or close your positions before 11 PM server time. The integrated economic calendar also allows you to anticipate periods of high volatility.
My opinion on the assets & markets available on Vantage
Assets | Type (Direct and/or CFD) | Number | Market Average |
---|---|---|---|
Stocks | CFD | 1 000+ | $2,500 |
ETF | CFD | 50 | $200 |
Cryptocurrencies | CFD | 40 | $10 |
Currencies | CFD | 44 | $50 |
Commodities | CFD | 16 | $20 |
Indices | CFD | 15 | $12 |
Bonds | Unavailable | - | $10 |
NFT | Unavailable | - | N/A |
Vantage offers a solid choice of CFD assets, sufficient to meet the needs of most traders, especially on Forex, indices and commodities. I particularly appreciated the depth of the offer on US stocks, even if they remain available only via CFDs.
The broker does not allow direct investment, but its 100% CFD approach aligns with its positioning centered on active trading. The crypto catalog is more extensive than average, which is appreciated if you are looking to mix Bitcoin, Ethereum and other altcoins without going through an exchange.
It's a platform suitable for those looking to trade actively with leverage, but not for those wishing to build a long-term investment portfolio with direct stocks or ETFs.
My review of the platform
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Mobile App | Yes, via MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, ProTrader and the Vantage mobile app (Android & iOS) |
Usability | Clear interface on ProTrader, more technical on MT4/MT5; fluid and intuitive |
Compatible Software | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, ProTrader, TradingView, DupliTrade, ZuluTrade, MyFxBook Autotrade |
Order Types | Market, limit, stop loss, take profit, trailing stop orders |
Technical or Chart Analysis | Integrated indicators, drawing tools, chart customization on all platforms |
Auto Trading / Automated Strategies | Yes, via ZuluTrade, DupliTrade, MyFxBook, EA on MetaTrader |
Algorithmic Trading | Yes, with Expert Advisors on MT4/MT5, custom scripts via API |
Negative Balance Protection | Yes, on retail accounts (required for New Zealand clients) |
Trading Signals | Yes, via MT5, ZuluTrade, DupliTrade and tools integrated into ProTrader |
Asset Search and Filter | Present on ProTrader, TradingView and MetaTrader |
Spot Share Purchases | Not available, only via CFD |
As a trader, I've found the Vantage platform to be very comprehensive, especially for those who like to customise their trading environment. Between MT4, MT5, ProTrader and TradingView, I was able to juggle multiple interfaces according to my needs. I particularly liked ProTrader for its clarity and speed of execution, and the direct integration with TradingView is a real asset for in-depth graphical analysis.
Copy trading options are also well-considered, with several compatible external solutions like ZuluTrade and DupliTrade. This is perfect for those who want to diversify or delegate part of their strategy. The platform is clearly designed for active traders, but remains accessible with a little practice.
Trader Tip
Test ProTrader first with the demo account, especially if you are a beginner. It's the most intuitive interface, and you can quickly get to grips with the basic functions, such as limit orders or graphical analysis, without being overwhelmed by the MT4/MT5 menus.
Customer Reviews: What Users Think of Vantage
Vantage earns an excellent rating of 4.2/5 on Trustpilot, based on over 6,300 verified reviews. The majority of users highlight the broker's transparency and the quality of support, which demonstrates a platform well-received by traders, both beginners and experienced.
The most frequently cited positive points concern the responsiveness of customer service, fast withdrawals (generally processed within 24 hours), the ease of the ProTrader interface and the clarity of fees. Users also appreciate the compatibility with TradingView and the fact that several deposit and withdrawal methods are available free of charge.
Some traders have reported slippage during periods of high volatility and delays in document validation during peak times. There are also comments mentioning temporary account freezes during withdrawals, generally for regulatory checks.
Examples of customer reviews:
- N.F. (2 mars 2024) « I've been using Vantage for over a year. Fast and free withdrawals, very good customer service. »
- J.A. (15 janvier 2024) « Very fluid ProTrader interface. I liked being able to copy strategies with ZuluTrade. A real alternative to eToro. »
- S.D. (28 février 2024) « A little long to validate my account, but once active, everything was simple. Instant deposit, good support. »
Account Opening
Step | Details |
---|---|
Account Opening Procedure | 100% online, fast, no postal mail required |
Validation Time | Usually within 24 hours, sometimes a few hours depending on the period |
Accepted Deposit Methods | Credit card, bank transfer, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, crypto (BTC, ETH) |
Minimum Amount Required | $50 for a real account; demo account accessible for free |
Documents to Provide | Proof of identity (ID card or passport) + proof of address (less than 3 months old) |
Advice | Use a recent and well-scanned document to avoid validation delays |
Opening an account with Vantage is smooth and well-designed. I completed it in less than 15 minutes, with validation within the day. No documents to send by post, everything is done from the secure client area.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Fill out the account creation form: name, address, phone number, email.
- Choose the account type (Standard STP, Raw ECN, etc.) and the desired platform (MT4, MT5, ProTrader).
- Answer a few questions about your trading experience and risk profile.
- Submit the required supporting documents (identity + proof of address).
- Wait for the validation email (usually within 24 hours).
- Access the client area to make a deposit or test the demo account.
Good to know
The demo account at Vantage is accessible without a deposit, with $100,000 virtual dollars available. It's ideal for familiarising yourself with ProTrader or MT4 without risk.
Vantage Deposits and Withdrawals
Type | Permitted Methods | Available Currencies | Minimum Amounts |
---|---|---|---|
Deposit | Bank card, bank transfer, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT) | USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, JPY and others | $50 or equivalent |
Withdrawal | Same method as deposit (must be identical) | Deposit currency or automatic conversion | $1 (e-wallet), $100 (bank transfer) |
I've found the deposits and withdrawals at Vantage to be really efficient. Depositing via card or e-wallet is instant, and withdrawals are generally processed within 24 hours (excluding weekends). No hidden fees from the broker, which is rare. For crypto, the timeframes depend on the network but remain reasonable.
Trader Tip
If you're using crypto to deposit, remember to choose the correct network (ERC20, TRC20…) to avoid high fees and address errors. Support can help you if you have any doubts.
Account Types Offered by Vantage
Vantage offers a comprehensive range of accounts tailored to different trader profiles, from beginner to professional. The offering is well-structured, including a Standard account with no commission, a Raw ECN account for active traders, and specific solutions such as an Islamic account or copy trading via ZuluTrade. It is not possible to invest in stocks or ETFs on the spot, but the coverage via CFD remains broad.
Account Types | Available on Vantage |
---|---|
Demo Account | ✅ Yes, with $100,000 of virtual funds |
Islamic Account | ✅ Yes, swap-free, on request |
Standard/STP Account | ✅ Yes, with commission-free spread embedded |
Raw/ECN Account | ✅ Yes, with tight spreads from 0.0 pips and a $6 round-trip commission |
CFD Account | ✅ Yes, the main type of account offered |
Securities Account | ❌ No, no cash investment |
Copy Trading | ✅ Yes, via ZuluTrade, DupliTrade and Myfxbook AutoTrade |
Account Base Currencies | EUR, USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, HKD, JPY |
Conclusion: Should You Invest with Vantage?
After several months of testing, I can affirm that Vantage is a reliable and high-performance platform, particularly well suited to active and technical traders. Between the Raw ECN account with tight spreads, the advanced integration with MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 and TradingView, and access to copy trading via ZuluTrade or DupliTrade, everything is there for a serious trading experience.
What I particularly appreciated was the smooth execution and the diversity of markets offered: currencies, indices, commodities, cryptos, shares in CFDs... All with accessible customer support and serious regulation (ASIC, FCA). Even though Vantage does not allow the spot purchase of shares, its positioning on short-term CFD trading is solid and competitive.
For a trader looking to optimise their costs while maintaining a professional interface, Vantage ticks all the boxes in my opinion.
Is Vantage regulated in New Zealand?
Vantage is not directly registered with the FMA, but it can legally operate in New Zealand thanks to its international licenses. The broker is regulated by recognised authorities such as ASIC (Australia), FCA (United Kingdom) and CIMA (Cayman Islands), which allows it to operate legally with New Zealand traders via financial passporting.
What is the minimum deposit on Vantage?
The minimum deposit required at Vantage is $50 for the Standard account, making it an accessible broker. For the Raw ECN account, you must deposit at least $50 as well, which is quite rare for this type of account which is usually more demanding.
Does Vantage offer a welcome bonus?
Yes, but only outside of New Zealand. Vantage offers a 50% deposit bonus up to $500 for eligible clients. New Zealand clients may be able to benefit from deposit bonuses or other promotions depending on current regulatory restrictions.
How does leverage work on Vantage?
For retail clients in New Zealand, the leverage is limited according to the regulations set by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA). Outside of New Zealand or with a professional account, the leverage can go up to 1:500 on certain asset classes.
How does Vantage get compensated?
Vantage is compensated through spreads and/or commissions depending on the account type. On the Standard account, spreads are integrated (from 1.0 pip), while the Raw ECN account displays raw spreads from 0.0 pip with a fixed commission of $6 per lot round trip. Overnight fees are applied to positions held from one day to the next.
Who is behind Vantage?
Vantage is a broker founded in 2009 and based in Sydney. It belongs to the Vantage Global Prime Pty Ltd group and operates under several regulated entities internationally. The broker has established itself as a leading player in the CFD market with a strong focus on professional trading.
When was Vantage launched?
Vantage was launched in 2009. Since its inception, the platform has expanded its trading offering with over 1,000 instruments available and advanced tools, specialising in trading Forex, indices, commodities, share CFDs and cryptos.
Does Vantage offer copy trading?
Yes, Vantage offers several copy trading solutions via integrated partners such as ZuluTrade, DupliTrade, and Myfxbook AutoTrade. This allows you to follow and automatically copy the strategies of experienced traders, which is useful for beginners or those who want to delegate their active management.
How do I contact Vantage customer service?
Vantage customer support is available 24/5 via live chat, email ([email protected]) and phone. During my tests, the responses via chat were quick and relevant, with assistance available in several languages.
Does Vantage offer promotions?
Yes, for clients outside the EU. The broker regularly highlights promotions such as deposit bonuses, trading competitions or cashback campaigns. These offers are not available to European clients for regulatory reasons, but they are clearly visible on the site for other regions.
Is Vantage regulated in New Zealand?
Vantage is not directly registered with the FMA, but it can legally operate in New Zealand thanks to its international licenses. The broker is regulated by recognised authorities such as ASIC (Australia), FCA (United Kingdom) and CIMA (Cayman Islands), which allows it to operate legally with New Zealand traders via financial passporting.
What is the minimum deposit on Vantage?
The minimum deposit required at Vantage is $50 for the Standard account, making it an accessible broker. For the Raw ECN account, you must deposit at least $50 as well, which is quite rare for this type of account which is usually more demanding.
Does Vantage offer a welcome bonus?
Yes, but only outside of New Zealand. Vantage offers a 50% deposit bonus up to $500 for eligible clients. New Zealand clients may be able to benefit from deposit bonuses or other promotions depending on current regulatory restrictions.
How does leverage work on Vantage?
For retail clients in New Zealand, the leverage is limited according to the regulations set by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA). Outside of New Zealand or with a professional account, the leverage can go up to 1:500 on certain asset classes.
How does Vantage get compensated?
Vantage is compensated through spreads and/or commissions depending on the account type. On the Standard account, spreads are integrated (from 1.0 pip), while the Raw ECN account displays raw spreads from 0.0 pip with a fixed commission of $6 per lot round trip. Overnight fees are applied to positions held from one day to the next.
Who is behind Vantage?
Vantage is a broker founded in 2009 and based in Sydney. It belongs to the Vantage Global Prime Pty Ltd group and operates under several regulated entities internationally. The broker has established itself as a leading player in the CFD market with a strong focus on professional trading.
When was Vantage launched?
Vantage was launched in 2009. Since its inception, the platform has expanded its trading offering with over 1,000 instruments available and advanced tools, specialising in trading Forex, indices, commodities, share CFDs and cryptos.
Does Vantage offer copy trading?
Yes, Vantage offers several copy trading solutions via integrated partners such as ZuluTrade, DupliTrade, and Myfxbook AutoTrade. This allows you to follow and automatically copy the strategies of experienced traders, which is useful for beginners or those who want to delegate their active management.
How do I contact Vantage customer service?
Vantage customer support is available 24/5 via live chat, email ([email protected]) and phone. During my tests, the responses via chat were quick and relevant, with assistance available in several languages.
Does Vantage offer promotions?
Yes, for clients outside the EU. The broker regularly highlights promotions such as deposit bonuses, trading competitions or cashback campaigns. These offers are not available to European clients for regulatory reasons, but they are clearly visible on the site for other regions.