If you’re thinking of getting started with trading here in the Philippines, most likely, one of the things you’re thinking about is: “What’s the best online trading app for me?” The response to your question will be entirely determined by the type of trading you wish to perform — is it forex, cryptocurrency, stocks, etc.
As a seasoned trader, I have tried and tested dozens of platforms, and I can tell you that having the right trading app makes all the difference, especially when you are just getting started.
In this guide, we share the best trading apps in the Philippines depending on your goals and needs as a beginner.
What to Look for in a Great Trading App for Beginners?
Before we get to recommendations, these are the most important things you should look for in a trading app:
- Easy to Use Platform – Simple and clean design and mobile-friendly.
- Low Fees – Low spreads, commissions, as well as, no ‘hiddens fees’.
- In app local – Apps who supports payment options GCash/Maya/local banks.
- Tools for Education – Video lessons, webinars, and market analytics.
- Demo or Practice Account – Allow you to learn without risk before trading live.
- Security & Regulation – Choose regulated and trusted to not lose your money.
Top Trading Apps in the Philippines for Forex Trading
Forex trading gives the opportunity to trade currency pairs such as USD/PHP, EUR/USD, or GBP/JPY. These platforms are perfect for beginners and experienced traders looking to trade forex.
1. XM – Best Overall for New Traders
XM is an international forex and CFD broker founded in 2009 as part of Trading Point Holdings Ltd. Headquartered in Cyprus, XM has a well-standing reputation for its regulatory status and transparency.
Key Features:
- Minimum deposit: $5 (around PHP 250)
- Provides MT4 and MT5 platform
- Copy trading for beginners
- Free webinars and market tutorials
- Regulated in multiple jurisdictions
- Very low spreads (ultra low accounts)
- Good for trading gold and currencies
- Hassle-free deposits & withdrawals through local partners
It is registered in several other jurisdictions as well through its affiliates, which include the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) in Belize, Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) in Dubai, and the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
These licences enable XM to serve a broad target group of customers from all over the world with customized benefits. By 2025, XM could be accessed by users from more than 190 countries (except from some limited regions like the US, Canada and North Korea).
The broker is well-known for its competitive spreads, easy-to-use platforms (MT4 and MT5), multilingual customer support, and variety of educational materials which are particularly attractive to both new investors and seasoned traders.
2. Vantage – Overall Best for Copy Trading
Vantage is a multi-asset broker with over a decade of experience serving clients around the world and has been set up in 2009 headquartered in Sydney, Australia.
Key Features:
- ECN spreads from 0.0 pips
- Copy trading via ZuluTrade
- Offers MetaTrader 4 and 5
- Excellent knowledge base and video tutorials
- Scalable as you gain experience
- Powerful tools, but novice-friendly as well
Vantage FX is a brand name of Vantage Global Prime Pty Ltd, and is authorised and regulated by various top-tier financial authorities such as the ASIC, the FCA, and the CIMA. These agencies regulate Vantage to uphold high standard of compliance and client protection.
It allows clients to trade forex, indices, commodities, shares and cryptocurrencies alongside advanced trading technology including raw ECN spreads, fast execution and up to 1:500 leverage on both the Metatrader 4 and Metatrader 5 platforms.
VantageFX has over 170 countries, reputable trading technology, competitive rates and good educational platforms, providing a sound solid option for both retail and professional traders.
3. LiteFinance – Best for Simplicity
LiteFinance (formerly LiteForex) is a forex and CFD broker established in 2005, making it one of the standing providers in the market. It is by LiteFinance Global LLC which in turn is registered in Saint Vincent, regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) for its European clients.
Key Features:
- Low starting capital requirement
- Both app and web versions are available
- Easy for beginners to learn and grow
- Responsive mobile experience
Trading in forex, commodities, indices, stocks and cryptocurrencies is available with LiteFinance on the MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 platforms. Reputable for its social trading methods, it lets you mirror other successful traders which makes it ideal for beginners.
The broker provides clients ECN accounts with low spreads and freezes leverage of 1:1000. With a presence in more than 150 countries, LiteFinance is known for its multilanguage support, quick deposits and withdrawals, and community-centric mindset, which particularly attracts new traders in new markets.
| Broker | Founded / HQ | Regulation | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. XM | 2009 / Cyprus | CySEC (EU), ASIC (AU), IFSC (Global), FCA (UK), DFSA (UAE) | MT4/MT5, copy trading, negative balance protection, wide education resources | Beginners & experienced traders looking for regulated and well-rounded services |
| 2. Vantage | 2009 / Australia | ASIC (AU), FCA (UK), CIMA (Cayman) | ECN spreads, fast execution, MT4/MT5, social/copy trading, VPS | Active and scalping traders needing low spreads and fast execution |
| 3. LiteFinance | 2005 / St. Vincent & Cyprus | CySEC (EU), offshore license (Global) | ECN trading, copy trading, social features, MT4/MT5, crypto deposits | Beginners interested in social trading and users who want a low-deposit ECN option |
Top Crypto Trading Apps in the Philippines
Trade Cryptocurrency is becoming so popular in the Philippines. Although you may be just a beginner with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital currencies, these apps, which are used by many homegrown traders, offer an array of different features and consistent user experience across all platforms.
1. ByBit – Best for Derivatives & Spot Trading
Bybit – This exchange started in 2018. Its headquarters are in Dubai. Bybit ranks as one of the world’s largest crypto exchanges today. The platform offers spot trading, futures, options, staking, copy trading & AI tools like TradeGPT.
Multiple global bodies regulate it (including Kazakhstan’s AFSA and Dubai’s VARA). Recently, it got a license under EU’s MiCA through Austria’s regulatory framework.
Key Features:
- Copy trading available
- Low fees for spot and futures trading Cyber Security Expert.
- Regular promotions and bonuses
- Beginner tutorials and support
- Advanced security and trading tools
- Good liquidity for fast execution
Something significant happened in February 2025. Bybit experienced the largest-ever crypto hack – about $1.5 billion was stolen. But here’s the thing: they recovered the funds within 72 hours. Pretty impressive response time.
In the Philippines, it’s accessible & widely used. Datawallet ranks it at the top. PHP deposits work through bank transfers, GCash, PayMaya, Apple/Google Pay. Plus, they offer Tagalog support.
2. MEXC – Best for Coins Variety
This platform launched in 2018. It supports over 3,000 crypto assets. The exchange offers spot trading, futures (up to 200× leverage), P2P, copy-trading, APIs & earning programs. It serves users in more than 170 countries. This includes the Philippines. However, it restricts certain countries like the US, Canada, UK, China, Singapore & others.
Key Features:
- Over 100+ cryptocurrencies available
- Simple interface
- Copy trading for new users
- 24/7 support
- Fast, reliable mobile app
- Easy onboarding process
MEXC operates without formal licensing. This brings higher legal risk (something to keep in mind). But they enforce geo-restrictions & legal disclosures. Filipinos use it for several reasons: vast asset selection, low fees (0% maker, ~0.05–0.02% taker), and no-KYC entry initially. Although KYC does boost withdrawal limits.
3. PDAX – Best Local Crypto Exchange in the Philippines
PDAX – Nichel Gaba founded this exchange in 2017–2018. PDAX is the only fully BSP-licensed Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) in the Philippines. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas regulates it. It caters specifically to Filipinos. Direct PHP deposits & withdrawals work via banks, e-wallets, and OTC channels.
Key Features:
- BSP-regulated platform
- Supports PHP trading pairs
- Supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP and more
- Educational support in Tagalog
- Fast local withdrawals
- Great for Filipino beginners in the world of crypto trading
The platform offers trading in major cryptos. Plus tokenized government bonds & digital collectibles. The PDAX mobile app focuses on three things: security, regulation compliance & support for beginners.
| Exchange | Regulation & Safety | PHP Convenience | Main Features & Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Bybit | Globally regulated (AFSA, VARA, MiCA), large-scale hack in Feb 2025 resolved quickly | PHP deposits via GCash/PayMaya, Tagalog support | Advanced derivatives, copy trading, potential regulatory scrutiny abroad |
| 2. MEXC | Unlicensed, global geo‑restrictions, serves Philippines | Crypto-to-crypto only, no direct fiat conversion | Vast altcoin availability, ultra-low fees, legal uncertainty |
| 3. PDAX | Fully licensed and regulated by BSP | Direct PHP on‑ramp/off‑ramp with local channels | Local support, secure, includes bonds/collectibles, limited asset variety |
Best Stock Trading Apps in the Philippines
Are you planning to invest in stocks listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE)? These are some of the top brokers you can consider. Digital platforms have changed everything. Buying & selling stocks is now more accessible than ever—right from your smartphone or laptop.
Whether you’re just starting out or already have experience in trading, choosing the right stock trading app can make a big difference in your investing journey.
We’ll introduce you to the top 3 stock trading apps in the Philippines. These were chosen for their ease of use, regulatory reliability, features, & overall convenience.
1. COL Financial – Most Trusted and Beginner-Friendly
COL Financial is the most well-known stock trading platform in the country. It has helped thousands of Filipinos start their investing journey. Why? Thanks to its easy-to-understand interface & vast library of learning materials.
Key Features:
- Regulated by the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE)
- Offers access to stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds
- Real-time stock quotes, charts, & company research
- Minimum investment: ₱1,000
If you’re a first-time investor, COL is a great starting point. The platform offers market insights and webinars to help you make smarter investing decisions. It’s also trusted by long-term investors who prefer manual stock picking & holding.
2. First Metro Securities – Best for Active Traders
First Metro Sec is backed by Metrobank. Known for its strong platform features & reliability. It offers tools for both long-term investors and short-term traders.
Key Features:
- Regulated by the PSE and the SEC
- Offers IPO subscriptions, margin trading, & fund investments
- Mobile app available on both iOS and Android
- Free webinars and daily market reports
Planning to actively buy and sell stocks? Want more advanced tools (like price alerts & custom watchlists)? This is one of the best choices. You also get access to new stock offerings (IPOs), which many Filipinos look forward to.
3. GStocks PH (via GCash) – Best for Convenience and Accessibility
GStocks PH, in partnership with AB Capital & GCash, is making stock investing even more accessible to everyday Filipinos. With just your GCash account, you can now invest in the stock market. No need to go through a traditional broker.
- Seamless integration with GCash (no separate app needed)
- Commission-free trades
- Minimum investment as low as ₱50
- Simple, easy-to-use mobile interface
For GCash users who want to try investing without opening a separate brokerage account—this is the fastest & easiest way to begin. It removes the traditional barriers to entry. No large capital, no paperwork, & no complicated tools.
| Trading App | Best For | Minimum Investment |
|---|---|---|
| COL Financial | Beginners and long-term investors | ₱1,000 |
| First Metro Securities | Active traders and IPO buyers | ₱5,000 |
| GStocks PH (GCash) | Convenience and small capital | ₱50 |
Trading apps in the Philippines have made starting your investment journey much easier than before. Getting started is simple now. Whether you want to trade forex, crypto, or stocks – there’s an app for everyone. From beginners to pros, options are everywhere.
Apps like XM provide a trusted space for forex & gold trading worldwide. Many people use it because it’s reliable. PDAX is different though. It’s watched by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, which means it follows local rules. This makes it PERFECT for crypto traders who want local help & PHP funding choices.
COL Financial? That’s still the top pick for Filipinos wanting to invest in stocks. Easy to use & they give you guidance too.
The KEY thing is picking a platform that fits your goals. Think about how you learn best. Consider your funding method too (this matters more than you think).
Start small when you begin. Use demo accounts – they’re free! Take advantage of learning tools & grow your knowledge slowly. Time is your friend here.
Trading has risks, yes. But with the right tools & mindset, it can help you grow your money. It’s a powerful step toward financial freedom.
Remember: choosing the RIGHT platform makes all the difference. Don’t rush this decision. Your future self will thank you for taking time to pick wisely.
