Top Trading Platforms for the US Stock Market
We review and compare financial products and services such as trading apps, investment portfolios, and saving options in a neutral and transparent way, aiming to help users make informed decisions based on accurate data and thorough reviews.
How do we evaluate products?
For every product or service we review, we use clear and consistent criteria. The most important include:
- Fees and costs
- Ease of use and customer experience
- Level of transparency and available information
- Technical support and customer service
- How well the product fits market needs
Our evaluations are based on official sources, direct hands-on experience whenever possible, and ongoing reviews of any updates or changes to the service.
Platform Review Details
Interactive Brokers
Cash Account at Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers is one of the largest brokerage firms globally, known for its competitive fees and advanced trading platforms tailored to professional investors. Among the different account types it offers is the Cash Account—an ideal option for those who prefer to trade using only their own funds, without leverage or margin.
Advantages of a Cash Account
- Access to stocks, ETFs, and options without borrowing or using margin
- Not subject to the Pattern Day Trading (PDT) rule, allowing unlimited day trades—even if your account balance is below $25,000
- Safer for less experienced traders who aren’t familiar with how leverage or margin works
Limitations of a Cash Account
- T+2 Settlement Period: After selling a security, the proceeds can't be used for new trades or withdrawals until two business days later
- No short selling, since margin is not allowed
- Restricted options strategies: Advanced strategies like naked options cannot be executed with a cash account
Ideal For
- Active stock traders who don’t rely on margin
- Traders who don’t frequently deposit or withdraw (due to applicable fees)
- Investors seeking an advanced platform with advanced order types and portfolio reporting tools
- Users comfortable interacting with customer support in English
Derayah Global
Derayah Global is a trading platform under Derayah Financial, the third-largest brokerage firm in Saudi Arabia. Through Derayah Global, you can trade in the U.S. and global markets. The platform offers two key advantages for active and professional traders:
Key Advantages
- Flexible Deposit & Withdrawal Options:
You can deposit and withdraw from the bank of your choice during account setup—no need to use a specific bank. - Unlimited Day Trading:
You can place unlimited day trades regardless of your account size. The platform does not apply the Pattern Day Trading (PDT) rule, and trades settle instantly.
Example of trading commission (calculated for each buy and sell transaction):
Advantages
- Instant settlement — no need to wait two business days to reuse your funds
- Unlimited day trades, regardless of your account size
- Advanced platform with advanced order types and detailed portfolio performance analysis
- Access to extended-hours trading
Limitations
- Short selling is only available with an upgrade to Derayah Global Plus
- Advanced options strategies require an upgrade to Derayah Global Plus
- Index futures trading is also limited to Derayah Global Plus accounts
Ideal For
- Active day traders in U.S. equities
- Traders who deposit and withdraw frequently (no platform fees, only bank transfer fees)
- Users who want an advanced platform with advanced order types and performance reports
- Arabic-speaking investors who want responsive, local-language customer support