We found 11 online brokers that are appropriate for Trading Shares Vs Funds.
As someone working toward financial goals like a secure retirement, buying a home, or financial independence, I know the importance of investing wisely. For example, I’ve calculated that to achieve a $500,000 retirement fund by 2040, I need to invest consistently with a 6% annual return. This makes it critical to compare investment options like shares and funds.
Over the years, I’ve learned that understanding shares and funds is crucial. While shares in individual companies like Apple might return over 20% annually in a good year, diversified funds such as the S&P 500 index might offer steadier returns of around 9.4% annually. I’ve experienced firsthand the trade-off between potentially higher gains from shares and the stability that funds offer.
For me, the decision between shares and funds comes down to risk tolerance, financial goals, and my level of involvement in managing investments. For instance, in 2020, I observed Tesla shares soaring over $50,000 in value for a 100-share investment, while my diversified Vanguard fund offered a steadier 19% return. While shares can offer explosive growth, I’ve seen how funds cushion against sharp market downturns, like during the 2008 crisis when diversified mutual funds saw more manageable losses compared to the total wipeout of individual Lehman Brothers stockholders.
When I first started investing, I was drawn to the idea of making quick profits, but I quickly learned that success requires time, research, and planning. For instance, while NVIDIA shares skyrocketed over 200% in 2023, I noticed other stocks in the same sector underperformed. In contrast, my semiconductor ETF gained a safer 50%, reflecting the reduced risk of diversification. These experiences reinforced the importance of understanding which investment aligns with my goals.
I often weigh whether to buy shares in individual companies I believe in or invest in funds that spread risk across multiple assets. For example, Amazon shares might yield over 1,200% gains over a decade, but a diversified ETF like SPDR S&P 500 would provide steadier 250% returns over the same period. My choice often depends on how much risk I’m comfortable with and how actively I want to manage my investments.
When buying shares, I focus on companies with strong fundamentals and products I personally value. For instance, holding 50 shares of Apple at $175 each would cost around $8,750, and if the stock rises to $200, my holdings would be worth $10,000. However, I also consider currency exchange rates and market volatility, especially when investing internationally. On the other hand, I find funds like Vanguard Total World Stock ETF offer a hands-off way to diversify globally, with exposure to over 9,000 companies.
Buying shares means I’m a partial owner of a company. For example, when I purchased 50 shares of a tech giant, I became eligible for dividends and capital gains as the company grew. Dividends, like Coca-Cola’s $1.88 per share payout in 2025, can provide regular income. For a 1,000-share investment, that’s $1,880 annually, which can be significant if reinvested.
However, I’ve also experienced the risks. For instance, I watched Meta’s stock drop 25% in a single day due to poor earnings, which reminded me to always monitor market trends and company performance closely. To manage these risks, I keep up with updates from regulators like the FCA.
Investing in funds has been a game-changer for me when I prefer less involvement in managing investments. For example, my Vanguard FTSE All-World ETF provided steady returns of 7–10% annually while giving me exposure to global markets. These funds diversify investments, so if one stock underperforms, the others balance the loss. This proved true in 2020 when diversified funds rebounded faster than individual stocks after the market crash.
Active funds like Fidelity European Fund have outperformed benchmarks in specific years, delivering over 12% returns in 2022. However, I also recognize the higher fees associated with actively managed funds, which I balance with the lower-cost passive options like the SPDR S&P 500 ETF, which track indices at minimal fees.
Aspect | Shares | Funds |
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Definition | Individual ownership in a company. For example, owning Apple shares gives me direct exposure to its success. | Collective investment pooling resources to diversify. My Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF, for instance, invests in thousands of companies. |
Risk | Higher due to market volatility. I’ve seen Tesla shares swing dramatically within weeks. | Lower due to diversification. My SPDR S&P 500 ETF mitigates risks by spreading investments across 500 companies. |
Return Potential | Higher, such as Tesla’s 200% growth in 2023. | Steadier, with ETFs offering 8–10% annual returns over a decade. |
Management | Requires active monitoring of company performance. | Can be passive or actively managed, depending on the fund type. |
Active funds involve professional fund managers who actively decide on investments. For example, a fund targeting AI companies may focus on leaders like NVIDIA (trading near $500 in 2025). However, higher fees (around 1%) can reduce net returns.
Active funds are ideal for markets with inefficiencies, offering opportunities for gains. The Aberdeen Standard Global Small Companies Fund focuses on undervalued small caps globally. Explore fund performance here.
Passive funds replicate market indices like the FTSE 100. For example, the iShares Core FTSE 100 ETF trades near $100, offering exposure to top UK companies at minimal fees (0.1%).
Passive funds ensure consistent returns, avoiding manager bias. Over the last decade, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF delivered 8%-10% annual growth. Predictions for 2025 suggest continued stability.
Investing in both shares and funds balances risk and return. For example, holding Tesla shares alongside a fund like the Fidelity Balanced Fund combines growth potential with diversification. In 2025, experts recommend such mixed portfolios to navigate market uncertainties effectively.
Shares provide growth opportunities but involve higher risks. For example, buying shares of Meta Platforms (trading near $300 in 2025) could yield significant gains or losses. Funds, however, offer stability and diversification. A balanced strategy of combining both allows traders to capitalize on market highs while managing risks. The choice depends on individual goals, risk tolerance, and market knowledge. Explore government investment guidance here.
We have conducted extensive research and analysis on over multiple data points on Shares Vs Funds to present you with a comprehensive guide that can help you find the most suitable Shares Vs Funds. Below we shortlist what we think are the best shares vs funds after careful consideration and evaluation. We hope this list will assist you in making an informed decision when researching Shares Vs Funds.
Selecting a reliable and reputable online Shares Vs Funds trading brokerage involves assessing their track record, regulatory status, customer support, processing times, international presence, and language capabilities. Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and trade Shares Vs Funds more confidently.
Selecting the right online Shares Vs Funds trading brokerage requires careful consideration of several critical factors. Here are some essential points to keep in mind:
Our team have listed brokers that match your criteria for you below. All brokerage data has been summarised into a comparison table. Scroll down.
When choosing a broker for shares vs funds trading, it's essential to compare the different options available to you. Our shares vs funds brokerage comparison table below allows you to compare several important features side by side, making it easier to make an informed choice.
By comparing these essential features, you can choose a shares vs funds broker that best suits your needs and preferences for shares vs funds. Our shares vs funds broker comparison table simplifies the process, allowing you to make a more informed decision.
Here are the top Shares Vs Funds.
Compare shares vs funds brokers for min deposits, funding, used by, benefits, account types, platforms, and support levels. When searching for a shares vs funds broker, it's crucial to compare several factors to choose the right one for your shares vs funds needs. Our comparison tool allows you to compare the essential features side by side.
All brokers below are shares vs funds. Learn more about what they offer below.
You can scroll left and right on the comparison table below to see more shares vs funds that accept shares vs funds clients.
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IC Markets
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Roboforex
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eToro
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XTB
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XM
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Pepperstone
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AvaTrade
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EasyMarkets
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SpreadEx
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FXPro
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Admiral
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Regulation | Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) (SD018) | RoboForex Lid is regulated by Belize FSC, License No. 000138/7, reg. number 000001272. RoboForex Ltd, which is an (A category) member of The Financial Commission, also is a participant of its Compensation Fund | FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) eToro (UK) Ltd (FCA reference 583263), eToro (Europe) Ltd CySEC (Cyprus Securities Exchange Commission), ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission) eToro AUS Capital Limited ASIC license 491139, CySec (Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission under the license 109/10), FSAS (Financial Services Authority Seychelles) eToro (Seychelles) Ltd license SD076 | FCA (Financial Conduct Authority reference 522157), CySEC (Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission reference 169/12), FSCA (Financial Sector Conduct Authority), XTB AFRICA (PTY) LTD licensed to operate in South Africa, KPWiG (Polish Securities and Exchange Commission), DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority), DIFC (Dubai International Financial Center), CNMV (Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores), KNF (Komisja Nadzoru Finansowego), IFSC (Belize International Financial Services Commission license number IFSC/60/413/TS/19) | Financial Services Commission (FSC) (000261/4) XM ZA (Pty) Ltd, Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) (license 120/10) Trading Point of Financial Instruments Ltd, Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) (number 443670) Trading Point of Financial Instruments Pty Ltd | Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Capital Markets Authority of Kenya (CMA), Pepperstone Markets Limited is incorporated in The Bahamas (number 177174 B), Licensed by the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB) number SIA-F217 | Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Ava Capital Markets Australia Pty Ltd (406684), South African Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) Ava Capital Markets Pty Ltd (45984), Financial Services Agency (Japan FSA) Ava Trade Japan K.K. (1662), Financial Futures Association of Japan (FFAJ),, FFAJ, Abu Dhabi Global Markets (ADGM)(190018) Ava Trade Middle East Ltd (190018), Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF) AVA Trade EU Ltd, Central Bank of Ireland (C53877) AVA Trade EU Ltd, British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVI) BVI (SIBA/L/13/1049), Israel Securities Association (ISA) (514666577) ATrade Ltd, Financial Regulatory Services Authority (FRSA) | Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) (079/07) Easy Forex Trading Ltd, Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) (Easy Markets Pty Ltd 246566), British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVI) EF Worldwide Ltd (SIBA/L/20/1135), Financial Sector Conduct Authority South Africa (FSA) EF Worldwide (PTY) Ltd (54018), FSC (Financial Services Commission) (SIBA/L/20/1135), FSCA (Financial Sector Conduct Authority) (54018) | FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) (190941), Gambling Commission (Great Britain) (8835) | FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) (509956), CySEC (Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission) (078/07), FSCA (Financial Sector Conduct Authority) (45052), SCB (Securities Commission of The Bahamas) (SIA-F184), FSA (Financial Services Authority of Seychelles) (SD120) | Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) (595450), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC)(310328), FSA (Financial Services Authority of Seychelles) (SD073) |
Min Deposit | 200 | 10 | 50 | No minimum deposit | 5 | No minimum deposit | 100 | 25 | No minimum deposit | 100 | 1 |
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Used By | 200,000+ | 730,000+ | 35,000,000+ | 1,000,000+ | 10,000,000+ | 400,000+ | 400,000+ | 250,000+ | 60,000+ | 7,800,000+ | 30,000+ |
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Platforms | MT5, MT4, MetaTrader WebTrader, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play), MetaTrader iPhone/iPad, MetaTrader Android Google Play, MetaTrader Mac, cTrader, cTrader Web, cTrader iPhone/iPad, cTrader iMac, cTrader Android Google Play, cTrader Automate, cTrader Copy Trading, TradingView, Virtual Private Server, Trading Servers, MT4 Advanced Trading Tools, IC Insights, Trading Central | MT4, MT5, R Mobile Trader, R StocksTrader, WebTrader, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play), Windows | eToro Trading App, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play), CopyTrading, Web | MT4, Mirror Trader, Web Trader, Tablet, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play) | MT5, MT5 WebTrader, XM Apple App for iPhone, XM App for Android Google Play, Tablet: MT5 for iPad, MT5 for Android Google Play, XM App for iPad, XM App for iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play), Mobile Apps | MT4, MT5, cTrader,WebTrader, TradingView, Windows, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play) | MT4, MT5, Web Trading, AvaTrade App, AvaOptions, Mac Trading, AvaSocial, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play) | easyMarkets App, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Platform, TradingView, MT4, MT5 | Web, Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play), iPad App, iPhone App, TradingView | MT4, MT5, cTrader, FxPro WebTrader, FxPro Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play) | MT5, MT4, MetaTrader WebTrader, Admirals Mobile Apps, iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play), Admirals Platform, StereoTrader |
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Risk Warning | Losses can exceed deposits | Losses can exceed deposits | 61% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. | 69% - 80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs 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. | CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 74.12% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs 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. | 75-95 % of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs | 71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider | Your capital is at risk | 65% of retail CFD accounts lose money | 75.78% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs and Spread Betting with this provider | Losses can exceed deposits |
Demo |
IC Markets Demo |
Roboforex Demo |
eToro Demo |
XTB Demo |
XM Demo |
Pepperstone Demo |
AvaTrade Demo |
easyMarkets Demo |
SpreadEx Demo |
FxPro Demo |
Admiral Markets Demo |
Excluded Countries | US, IR, CA, NZ, JP | AU, BE, BQ, BR, CA, CW, CZ, DE, ES, EE, EU, FM, FR, FI, GW, ID, IR, JP, LR, MP, NL, PF, PL, RU, SE, SJ, SS, SL, SI, TL, TR, DO, US, IT, AT, PT, BG, HR, CY, DK, FL, GR, IE, LV, LT, MT, RO, SK, CH | ZA, ID, IR, KP, BE, CA, JP, SY, TR, IL, BY, AL, MD, MK, RS, GN, CD, SD, SA, ZW, ET, GH, TZ, LY, UG, ZM, BW, RW, TN, SO, NA, TG, SL, LR, GM, DJ, CI, PK, BN, TW, WS, NP, SG, VI, TM, TJ, UZ, LK, TT, HT, MM, BT, MH, MV, MG, MK, KZ, GD, FJ, PT, BB, BM, BS, AG, AI, AW, AX, LB, SV, PY, HN, GT, PR, NI, VG, AN, CN, BZ, DZ, MY, KH, PH, VN, EG, MN, MO, UA, JO, KR, AO, BR, HR, GL, IS, IM, JM, FM, MC, NG, SI, | US, IN, PK, BD, NG , ID, BE, AU | US, CA, IL, IR | AF, AS, AQ, AM, AZ, BY, BE, BZ, BT, BA, BI, CM, CA, CF, TD, CG, CI, ER, GF, PF, GP, GU, GN, GW, GY, HT, VA, IR, IQ, JP, KZ, LB, LR, LY, ML, MQ, YT, MZ, MM, NZ, NI, KP, PS, PR, RE, KN, LC, VC, WS, SO, GS, KR, SS, SD, SR, SY, TJ, TN, TM, TC, US, VU, VG, EH, ES, YE, ZW, ET | BE, BR, KP, NZ, TR, US, CA, SG | US, IL, BC, MB, QC, ON, AF, BY, BI, KH, KY, TD, KM, CG, CU, CD, GQ, ER, FJ, GN, GW, HT, IR, IQ, LA, LY, MZ, MM, NI, KP, PW, PA, RU, SO, SS, SD, SY, TT, TM, VU, VE, YE | US, TR | US, CA, IR | US, CA, JP, SG, MY, JM, IR, TR |
You can compare Shares Vs Funds ratings, min deposits what the the broker offers, funding methods, platforms, spread types, customer support options, regulation and account types side by side.
We also have an indepth Top Shares Vs Funds for 2025 article further below. You can see it now by clicking here
We have listed top Shares vs funds below.
eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs.
Please note that CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 61% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs 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.
This communication is intended for information and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or investment recommendation. Past performance is not an indication of future results.
Copy Trading does not amount to investment advice. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.
Copy trading is a portfolio management service, provided by eToro (Europe) Ltd., which is authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission.
Cryptoasset investing is highly volatile and unregulated in some EU countries. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.
Don't invest unless you're prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment, and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
eToro USA LLC does not offer CFDs and makes no representation and assumes no liability as to the accuracy or completeness of the content of this publication, which has been prepared by our partner utilizing publicly available non-entity specific information about eToro.