InvestBeacon

Frequently looked up

Q1What do I need to open a brokerage account?

Most brokers require a valid ID or passport, a tax identification number, your residential address and a bank account in your own name. Depending on the broker and your country of residence, you may also need to complete a short identity verification process and provide proof of address.

Q2Can I open a brokerage account as a complete beginner?

Yes. Most brokers accept beginners and do not require previous investing experience. During the application process, you may be asked questions about your investment knowledge, financial situation and goals.

Q3What is the minimum amount I need to start investing?

The minimum amount depends on the broker and the investments you want to buy. Some brokers allow you to start with as little as €1 through fractional shares, while others may require larger deposits.

Q4How can I tell if a broker is regulated?

A regulated broker will usually display its legal entity, license number and regulatory authority on its website. In most cases, this information can be found at the bottom of the broker's homepage or inside its legal documentation. All brokers listed on our platform are regulated, and each review includes the relevant regulatory authorities overseeing the broker. If you want to verify a broker yourself, checking the regulator's official register is always a good place to start.

Q5What happens if my broker goes bankrupt?

In most cases, client assets such as stocks and ETFs are held separately from the broker's own assets. This means that if the broker becomes insolvent, your investments should not automatically become part of the broker's bankruptcy estate. The exact process depends on the broker's structure and jurisdiction, but regulated brokers are generally required to maintain safeguards designed to protect client assets.