E*TRADEvs
StakeStock Broker Comparison
This comparison pits a long-established US broker against an international, commission-free trader. The tension centers on platform depth and research tools versus simple, global stock access.
Key Differences
- 18 exchanges supported vs Stake's 3.
- 2Futures trading available on E*TRADE; Stake offers none.
- 3Advanced research tools and stock screener exist in E*TRADE; Stake lacks.
Who should choose E*TRADE vs Stake?
Find out which stock broker best suits your investing profile.
Choose if…
Choose E*TRADE if you want the Power E*TRADE platform with advanced options analytics and access to CME futures from the same account.
E*TRADE vs Stake: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 4.3/ 5 | 3.9/ 5 |
| Min deposit | N/A | N/A |
| Spreads from | N/A | N/A |
| Commission / lot | N/A | N/A |
| Inactivity fee | None | None |
| Deposit fee | Free |
E*TRADE vs Stake Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- Power E*TRADE platform with professional options analytics and strategy scanner
- Commission-free stocks and ETFs with $0.50/contract options for active traders
- Futures trading available on CME products from the same account
- Morgan Stanley analyst reports now included for account holders
- 40+ year operating history; SEC, FINRA, and SIPC regulated
Cons
E*TRADE vs Stake: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
7
E*TRADE
criteria wins
1
Stake
criteria win
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | E*TRADE | Stake |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Fail | Fail |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Fail | Pass |
| Costs | ||
| Commission-free trading | Pass | Pass |
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Fail | Fail |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Pass | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Pass | Fail |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Pass | Fail |
| Stock screener tool | Pass | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Pass | Fail |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Pass | Fail |
E*TRADE vs Stake: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: ETRADE rates 4.3/5 and Stake rates 3.9/5. ETRADE has a marginal edge in our scoring, but the difference is small enough that your specific priorities — fees, platforms, or regulatory jurisdiction — should guide the final choice.
Both E*TRADE and Stake hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each broker's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
Minimum deposit and negative balance protection data are not confirmed for this pair. Both hold top-tier regulatory status, meaning client fund protections apply to both. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each broker's site.
E*TRADE lists maximum leverage of 1:4. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
E*TRADE supports Proprietary Web/Mobile, while Stake supports Proprietary Web/Mobile. Both provide Proprietary Web/Mobile.
Yes, you can open an account with Stake independently of your ETRADE account. There is no formal transfer process for open positions; you would need to close existing trades with ETRADE before funding and trading with Stake.
Yes, both E*TRADE and Stake offer commission-free stock trading according to our data. Keep in mind that commission-free brokers may still charge spread costs, foreign exchange fees, or platform fees — always check the full fee schedule on each broker's website.
Stake scores higher on investor protection criteria, with compensation scheme coverage and segregated client funds. For stock investors, confirming compensation scheme coverage ensures your assets are protected up to a defined limit if the broker becomes insolvent.
