Stake Review Australia (2026): US Stock Trading, Fees & Is It Safe?
Stake launched in Australia offering something no other broker had: zero brokerage on US stocks. For Australians who wanted to invest in NYSE and NASDAQ-listed companies without paying $10–$20 per trade, it was a game-changer. How does Stake hold up in 2026?
What Is Stake?
Stake is an Australian online investment platform specialising in US stock and ETF trading, with ASX trading now also available. It targets investors who want exposure to companies like Apple, Tesla, Nvidia, and Microsoft, or US-listed ETFs like the S&P 500 index fund IVV.
How Stake Makes Money (Zero Brokerage Explained)
Stake earns revenue through: currency conversion spread (~0.7% when converting AUD to USD), premium plan subscriptions (Stake Black at $9/month), ASX brokerage fees, and interest on uninvested cash.
Stake Fees in 2026
- US stock trades: Zero brokerage. Currency conversion ~0.7%.
- ASX trades (Basic): $3 per trade
- ASX trades (Stake Black, $9/month): $0 per trade, reduced FX rate ~0.5%
- No inactivity fees
Is Stake Safe?
Stake is ASIC-regulated and holds an Australian Financial Services Licence. US trades are executed through DriveWealth LLC, a US SEC-regulated broker-dealer. Investor funds are held in segregated accounts. US stock holdings are covered by SIPC protection up to $500,000. Note: No CHESS sponsorship on ASX trades — shares held in custodial accounts.
Stake for US Stocks
This is where Stake genuinely excels. Access to thousands of NYSE and NASDAQ-listed stocks and ETFs at zero brokerage makes it the best value option in Australia for US market investing. Fractional shares are available, meaning you can buy $100 worth of any US stock regardless of its share price.
Stake for ASX Stocks
Stake's ASX offering is competitive but lacks CHESS sponsorship. For ASX-focused investors who prioritise direct share ownership, Pearler ($6.50/trade with CHESS) or SelfWealth ($9.50/trade with CHESS) remain better options.
Is Stake Worth It in 2026?
For Australians wanting US stock and ETF exposure, Stake is the best-value option available. Combine Stake for US exposure with Pearler or SelfWealth for CHESS-sponsored ASX investing, and you have a strong, cost-effective investment setup for 2026.
General information only. Not personal financial advice.