Flatex

The broker operates under the umbrella of FlatexDEGIRO Bank AG, a publicly listed company that also owns DEGIRO, another major European trading platform. Flatex primarily targets clients in Germany, Austria, and other EU countries, providing access to stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, and more through a user-friendly interface. One of its strongest selling points is that it offers flat-rate trading fees, which can be especially appealing to high-frequency or cost-conscious traders.

Here’s a quick overview of Flatex’s key features:

Flatex continues to expand its footprint in the European market, thanks to its competitive pricing and a strong emphasis on security and transparency.

Minimum Deposit and Funding Methods

One of the advantages of trading with Flatex is that it does not require a minimum deposit to open an account. This makes the platform accessible to beginner traders who may want to start with a small amount of capital. However, while there is no minimum required, it’s worth noting that the size of your first deposit might influence how you structure your investments or access certain instruments.

Deposit Methods

Flatex supports several convenient methods for funding your trading account:

• Bank Transfer (SEPA) – The most common method among EU residents. Transfers are typically processed within 1–2 business days.
  
• SOFORT (Klarna) – Allows near-instant deposit from a bank account via online banking.
  
• Internal Transfer – Available if you hold multiple accounts with FlatexDEGIRO Bank AG.
  

All deposits must come from a bank account in the name of the account holder. Third-party payments are not accepted.

Withdrawal Methods

Withdrawals from Flatex are straightforward but slightly more limited:

• Bank Transfer (SEPA) – The only available withdrawal method. Funds are usually received within 2–3 business days.
  
• Withdrawals can only be made to the verified bank account you registered during account setup.
  

Deposit and Withdrawal Fees

Flatex generally does not charge fees for deposits. Withdrawals are also free under standard conditions. However, some special withdrawal requests (such as transfers to foreign accounts outside the SEPA zone) may incur a small processing fee. Currency conversion charges may apply if your bank account is in a non-euro currency.

Summary of Payment Information

* Some international withdrawals may involve additional banking fees.

Overall, Flatex offers a simple and transparent system for funding and accessing your money, though the lack of alternative withdrawal methods like e-wallets or cards may be a downside for some users.

Security and Regulation

Flatex operates under strict regulatory oversight, ensuring a high level of safety for its clients’ funds and data. The broker is fully licensed and regulated by BaFin (Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht), the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority of Germany. Additionally, as part of FlatexDEGIRO Bank AG, the company holds a full banking license in Germany, providing added financial stability and operational transparency.

Client funds are held in segregated bank accounts and are protected under the German Deposit Guarantee Scheme (Entschädigungseinrichtung deutscher Banken). This scheme covers deposits up to €100,000 per client, ensuring an extra layer of security in case of insolvency.

Here are some key safety features offered by Flatex:

• Regulated by BaFin, one of the strictest regulators in the EU.
  
• Banking license through FlatexDEGIRO Bank AG.
  
• Segregated client accounts, ensuring that user funds are not mixed with company funds.
  
• Deposit protection up to €100,000 under German law.
  
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) and encryption for secure account access.
  
• Regular audits and compliance reporting to maintain regulatory standards.
  

With these measures in place, Flatex provides a robust and secure trading environment, particularly suited to clients who prioritize regulatory protection and institutional-grade fund safety.

Trading Platforms

Flatex provides a set of intuitive and streamlined trading platforms designed to meet the needs of both beginner and experienced investors. While not as feature-rich as some specialized platforms like MetaTrader, the in-house solutions are efficient, user-friendly, and seamlessly integrated with the broker’s services.

The main platforms available include:

• Flatex WebFiliale – This is the web-based platform accessible through any browser. It features tools for placing orders, viewing charts, managing portfolios, and accessing market news. The interface is clean and easy to navigate.
  
• Flatex Mobile App – Available for both iOS and Android devices, the app provides full account management and trading capabilities on the go. It includes price alerts, a portfolio overview, and access to order history.
  
• Flatex Trader 2.0 – A more advanced desktop platform designed for active traders. It offers real-time market data, technical analysis tools, customizable watchlists, and fast execution. However, this version may incur a monthly fee depending on your account type or trading volume.
  

While Flatex does not support third-party platforms like MetaTrader 4 or 5, its proprietary tools are sufficient for most users focused on long-term investing or straightforward stock and ETF trading.

Comparison of Flatex Platforms

All platforms are synced with the same account data, ensuring that you can switch between them without losing track of your activity or portfolio.

In summary, while Flatex may not appeal to algorithmic or forex traders who require external APIs or MT4 support, its native platforms are efficient, reliable, and tailored for equity and ETF investors across Europe.

Account Types at Flatex

Flatex offers several types of trading accounts tailored to different user profiles — from individual investors to corporate clients. Each account type comes with specific features, but all benefit from the broker’s secure infrastructure and flat-fee pricing model. Opening an account is done entirely online and typically requires identity verification through video identification (PostIdent or digital onboarding for EU citizens).

Available Account Types

• Individual Account – The most common choice, suitable for personal investing in stocks, ETFs, and other securities.
  
• Joint Account – Designed for two account holders, often used by spouses or family members for shared investing.
  
• Custodial Account (Junior Depot) – Opened on behalf of a minor, allowing parents or guardians to invest for their children’s future.
  
• Business Account – Available for legal entities and self-employed individuals looking to trade under a company name.
  

Features by Account Type

All account types at Flatex include free account management, access to research tools, and integrated tax reporting suitable for German residents. However, only residents of specific EU countries are eligible to open an account.

Choosing the right account depends on your goals: individual accounts are perfect for solo investors, while business accounts offer flexibility for managing capital on behalf of a firm. Custodial accounts are a popular option for long-term investment planning for children.

Final Thoughts

Flatex has earned a strong reputation in the European brokerage space for its regulated, cost-effective, and reliable trading environment. Backed by a full German banking license and listed parent company, it delivers a sense of security and transparency that many traders look for — especially in volatile markets. Its platform selection, while limited to proprietary tools, is user-friendly and sufficient for most equity-focused traders.

Let’s break down the core advantages and drawbacks of using Flatex:

Pros and Cons of Flatex

Flatex is best suited for investors in the EU who seek a trustworthy, low-cost broker for trading stocks, ETFs, and other traditional securities. While it may not cater to high-frequency algorithmic traders or non-EU residents, it stands out as a reliable choice for those who value security, simplicity, and regulation-driven services.