Yes, we rate the Interactive Brokers GIA as very good for long-term investing as thier IBKR “universal account” that lets you invest in all asset classes via physical shares, CFDs, futures, options or funds.
59.7% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider
- Experts highlight that Interactive Brokers' General Investment Account (GIA) is tailored for sophisticated investors, offering access to a wide range of investment products including derivatives and options. The platform is noted for its low-cost structure, with no account charges and minimal dealing commissions, making it one of the cheapest options available. However, slow customer service is mentioned as a drawback.
- Across 1375 user reviews on Good Money Guide, averaging 4.6/5, customers frequently commend the platform's low fees, broad market access, and advanced trading tools. Many users appreciate the ease of use and comprehensive service, while some express concerns about the complexity of the platform and occasional delays in customer support responses.
Interactive Brokers General Investment Account Expert rating
Our expert rating is the average of the areas listed here, each scored out of 5 by our team.Our experts have rated Interactive Brokers General Investment Account across one key area of our review framework.
- Excellent5.0
Pros
- Excellent market coverage
- Advanced investment platform
- Low-cost investing
Cons
- Customer service can be slow
See full expert review
Our verdict
Interactive Brokers’ (IBKR's) GIA is aimed at sophisticated investors, and offers access to derivatives, options, and futures. The platform is one of the cheapest across all asset classes. Capital is at risk.
Is IBKR's GIA a Good Account?
IBKR's GIA is its “universal account” that lets you invest in all asset classes via shares, CFDs, futures, options or funds.
The account is excellent for sophisticated investors who want to manage their own portfolios with complex order types. It's ideal for active investors who need access to a wider range of investment products like derivatives, options, and futures. IBKR is also one of the cheapest investment platforms across all asset classes, as it was built on offering electronic discount brokerage.
Fees
There is no account charge for general investment accounts at IBKR. When you buy and sell shares minimum dealing commissions are £1 in the UK or 0.05% of the deal size.
Special Offers
IBKR clients can earn $200 for each qualified referral while giving their friend the opportunity to earn up to $1000 of IBKR stock.
What is IBKR's Platform Like to Use?
The investment platform is a slimmed-down version of its exceptional desktop trader station. For investing it gives you a good overview of shares and funds.
Customer reviews for Interactive Brokers
Customer ratings come from reviews left on this site. Every review is read and approved before it is published.Based on 1,375 reviews
- Excellent74%
- Very good14%
- Basic7%
- Poor2%
- Bad2%
Read customer reviews
Best platform for all investments
Easy to navigate and lowest fees!
The faster
The faster platforms in the world
Honesty and transparency
IBKR is just the best investment platform. I've been with them for over a year, but I've been investing for several years. The app is a bit complicated, but it's just such a reliable investing platform that you just get used to some quirks for all the benefits.
The Broker That Stands Above the Rest
I have been using Interactive Brokers (IBKR) for my trading and investment needs, and it has consistently proven to be one of the most professional and reliable brokerage platforms in the world.
1. Execution & Platform:
Trade execution is lightning-fast with deep liquidity access across global markets. The platform is robust, stable, and built for professionals while still accessible to retail investors who want advanced tools.
2. Market Access:
IBKR offers unparalleled access to stocks, ETFs, bonds, futures, options, forex, and funds in more than 150 markets worldwide. For someone managing an international portfolio, this breadth is invaluable.
3. Pricing & Transparency:
Their low commissions, tight spreads, and transparent fee structure set them apart. Unlike many brokers, IBKR doesn’t hide behind gimmicks or inflated costs.
4. Research & Tools:
The Trader Workstation (TWS) platform is a powerhouse with advanced charting, risk management tools, and analytics. IBKR GlobalTrader and Client Portal also make trading convenient on the go.
5. Safety & Regulation:
As one of the world’s most regulated brokers, IBKR provides peace of mind. Client funds are well protected, and risk management tools are built into the system, which reflects their professional DNA.
6. Education & Support:
IBKR’s educational resources, webinars, and daily market insights are a strong plus. Their customer service has been responsive and professional whenever needed.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re a professional trader, long-term investor, or someone managing complex portfolios, IBKR stands out as a global leader. It combines world-class execution, global access, and cost efficiency in a way very few brokers can match.
Perfect platform for a stock portfolio
I have been with IB for several years and til today quite satisfied.
The platform is user friendly, managing your account is easy.
Buying/sellings stocks is always simple with low fees.
IB's customer service is easy contactable and pleasant to communicate.
Can't think of a better broker than IB!
Great Brokerage
Amazing platform for investments with huge range of instruments and markets
Easy Access and Interfaces
platform is userfriendly, fee/commission and pricing policy is transparent. Training sessions are really useful.
Reliable and comprehensive
I am using since 2020 and find it very reliable and trustworthy.
they have very detailed research and news about market and stocks.
Best for pre and post Market transactions. This was the main reason to choose it.
Best Broker
Best online platform
Best investment platform
All positive in this platform. I am very picky especially in these brokers but could find one nigative side. Keep it up
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Best Trading App
Amazing app, all the features you need for day trading, swing trading, and investing, and at a fraction of the cost of other apps
All in one platform
The best and most reliable trading platform
Technically perfect and reliable
The electronic Systems of IBKR offer the perfect base for worldwide trading
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent platform, well established and strong investor protections
I been using IBKR for years now. It has some of the lowest fees and tightest spreads available for trading.
IB is top notch
InteractiveBrokers is the best investing platform not just in the UAE but also in the World. I've been using it for about 4 years and have never experienced any issues with it and I have a lot of trust investing with IBKR. They have just today introduced a local AED bank account that is available for deposits and that will help many users as their transfer costs will go down making investing accessible to basically everyone in UAE.
Trust
Fill my money in safe hand
Best Investment Broker in the World
IKBR provides the best service, the widest selection of investment instruments and the lowest fees.
best price/quality platform
I have tried many trading platforms but none was as convincing as IBKR!
- Expert opinion: Interactive Brokers (IBKR) full review
Richard is the founder of the Good Money Guide (formerly Good Broker Guide), one of the original investment comparison sites established in 2015. With a career spanning two decades as a broker, he brings extensive expertise and knowledge to the financial landscape.
Having worked as a broker at Investors Intelligence and a multi-asset derivatives broker at MF Global (Man Financial), Richard has acquired substantial experience in the industry. His career began as a private client stockbroker at Walker Crips and Phillip Securities (now King and Shaxson), following internships on the NYMEX oil trading floor in New York and London IPE in 2001 and 2000.
Richard’s contributions and expertise have been recognized by respected publications such as The Sunday Times, BusinessInsider, Yahoo Finance, BusinessNews.org.uk, Master Investor, Wealth Briefing, iNews, and The FT, among many others.
Under Richard’s leadership, the Good Money Guide has evolved into a valuable destination for comprehensive information and expert guidance, specialising in trading, investment, and currency exchange. His commitment to delivering high-quality insights has solidified the Good Money Guide’s standing as a well-respected resource for both customers and industry colleagues.
