With many years of meticulous FOREX broker testing, Arincen stands out as a voice of authority. Our analyses, shaped by exhaustive data collection, are trusted by many. Each year, we gather 120 data points from more than 100 brokers. Our team of more than 20 people collaborate extensively to produce high-quality broker reviews like this one. For a detailed explanation of how we test brokers, navigate to the bottom of this article.
Skrill, along with other electronic payment platforms, has revolutionized how we handle financial transactions. From the early days of online banking to today's advanced digital wallets and mobile payment solutions, platforms like Skrill are now a big part of our daily lives and retail trading. These electronic payment platforms make it easy and efficient to send and receive money worldwide.
Skrill is one of the most popular global electronic payment platforms, along with PayPal and Neteller. Each has unique features and benefits to meet different needs. In this article, we'll dive into how electronic payment platforms work, highlight the best brokers that accept Skrill, and compare different payment methods.
We'll also look at security measures, costs, and the benefits of using these platforms. Whether you're looking to streamline your transactions or boost security in your trading activities, here is a guide to understanding how Skrill can give you a big advantage in the fast-paced world of retail trading.
Electronic payment platforms make transferring money a breeze with advanced technology, strong security measures, and smooth integration with banks. Knowing how these systems work helps you see just how efficient and secure they are, especially when used by FOREX brokers.
At its core, an electronic payment platform makes it easy to transfer funds digitally between parties. These platforms serve as intermediaries, handling payments without needing cash or checks. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works with a view to retail trading:
First, you create an account by providing basic details like your name, email, and phone number. Next, you link your bank account or credit/debit card by entering your bank details and verifying ownership. The platform might ask for verification through email, phone, or identity checks.
To initiate a transaction, whether paying for goods, transferring money, or depositing into a brokerage account, you log into the platform. The platform then verifies your identity using your login credentials and often adds extra security with two-factor authentication.
The platform processes the transaction by communicating with your bank or credit card issuer to authorize and transfer the funds. Once the transfer is complete, the platform confirms the transaction with both the sender and the recipient, wrapping up the process.
However, you might ask - “What does this have to do with FOREX trading?” Well, now that you understand how detailed and robust electronic payment methods are, you will have no doubts that you can use them as a form of payment when trading FOREX.
Security is crucial in electronic payments to guard against fraud and unauthorized access. Platforms like Skrill use several security measures to protect users:
All transactions are encrypted with advanced encryption standards (AES), ensuring the security of data transferred between users, the platform, and banks. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols encrypt data transmitted over the Internet, safeguarding sensitive information from being intercepted.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your mobile device. Platforms also use sophisticated algorithms and machine learning to detect and prevent fraudulent activities.
Additionally, payment platforms adhere to industry standards like the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) to ensure the secure handling of payment information.
Company Name | Regulations | Minimum Deposit | Main Branch | Open Account |
---|---|---|---|---|
ICM Capital | 500$ | United Arab Emirates | ||
Tradeview | 250$ | USA | ||
XTB | 500$ | UK | ||
IG | 500$ | UK |
Electronic payment platforms come in various forms, offering unique features and benefits. Understanding the different types can help you choose the most suitable option.
Digital Wallets
Digital wallets, or e-wallets, are online services that allow users to store and manage their payment information in one place. They facilitate quick and secure transactions, both online and in-person. As we have said, some of the most popular digital wallets are:
Skrill
Skrill is a digital wallet known for its low fees and ease of use. It is particularly popular among online gamblers and FOREX traders. It supports multiple currencies and offers a prepaid Mastercard for direct access to funds.
PayPal
PayPal is one of the most widely used digital wallets globally. It offers a secure way to send and receive money online. It supports payments for goods and services, peer-to-peer transfers, and integration with numerous online merchants.
PayPal provides buyer protection, easy dispute resolution, and the ability to link multiple bank accounts and credit cards. It also offers services like PayPal Credit for deferred payments.
Neteller
Neteller is similar to Skrill, catering primarily to the online gambling and trading communities. It allows users to make instant deposits and withdrawals at various online merchants.
Mobile Payment Solutions
Mobile payment solutions allow you to transact using your smartphone or other mobile devices. These solutions are particularly convenient for in-person payments and on-the-go transactions. This space is becoming increasingly competitive, but some of the most prominent mobile payment solutions include:
Apple Pay
Apple Pay allows you to make secure payments using your Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. It works both online and in physical stores and is equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology.
Google Wallet
Google Wallet, now integrated with Google Pay, allows you to store your payment information and make secure transactions using Android devices. It supports online payments, in-app purchases, and in-store transactions with NFC technology.
Cryptocurrency Payment Platforms
With cryptocurrency payment platforms, you can transact using digital currencies like Bitcoin. These platforms provide a decentralized, secure way to transfer funds without relying on traditional banking systems.
Bitcoin Wallets
Bitcoin wallets store private keys necessary for accessing and managing Bitcoin funds. They come in various forms, including hardware wallets, software wallets, and online wallets.
Other Crypto Payment Solutions
Beyond Bitcoin, many other cryptocurrencies have dedicated wallets and payment solutions. Platforms like Ethereum, Litecoin, and Ripple have their own wallets and payment networks.
ICM Capital-91.10: Best Deposit and Withdrawal Broker
Tradeview - 90.00: Trusted broker that offers very low trading costs as well as comprehensive financial literacy materials for its clients.
XTB - 85.55: Best Customer Service Broker
IG - 85.45: Best Regulations Broker plus Convenient Platform
Saxo Bank - 80.09: Excellent Private Trading Platform
CMC Markets - 80.07: More than 9,000 Assets
ThinkMarkets - 80.05: Aimed at the Audience of Traders
Broker Evaluation | 8.11 |
Regulations | |
Minimum Deposit | 500$ |
Islamic Account | yes |
Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks - Crypto |
Main Branch | United Kingdom |
Customer Service | 24/5 |
Demo Account | yes |
Trading Platforms | MT4 - MT5 - C TRADER -Web Platform |
Tradeview Forex, interchangeably known as Tradeview Markets, was established in 2004 and is headquartered in the Cayman Islands, setting itself up as a significant player in the online FOREX and CFD trading world. Regulated by the Cayman Island Monetary Authority (CIMA) and the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), Tradeview Forex is a reliable platform in a competitive market. The broker’s commitment to offering a broad and accessible trading environment shines through with its low deposit requirement and how it provides various advanced trading platforms to clientele.
Broker Evaluation | 7 |
Regulations | |
Minimum Deposit | $450 |
Islamic Account | Yes |
Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks - Crypto |
Main Branch | USA |
Customer Service | 24/5 |
Demo Account | Yes |
Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform-MT4 - MT5 -Web Platform |
Broker Evaluation | 8.55 |
Regulations | |
Minimum Deposit | 500$ |
Islamic Account | yes |
Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks |
Main Branch | United Kingdom |
Customer Service | 24/5 |
Demo Account | yes |
Trading Platforms | MT4 - MT5 -Web Platform |
Broker Evaluation | 7.54 |
Regulations | |
Minimum Deposit | 250$ |
Islamic Account | yes |
Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks |
Main Branch | United Kingdom |
Customer Service | 24/5 |
Demo Account | Yes |
Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform -MT4 - Web Platform |
Broker Evaluation | 6.09 |
Regulations | |
Minimum Deposit | 5000$ |
Islamic Account | No |
Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card |
Main Branch | Copenhagen, Denmark |
Customer Service | 24/5 |
Demo Account | No |
Trading Platforms | SaxoTrader |
Broker Evaluation | 7.07 |
Regulations | |
Minimum Deposit | 0$ |
Islamic Account | No |
Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks |
Main Branch | United Kingdom |
Customer Service | 24/5 |
Demo Account | not |
Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform -MT4 - Web Platform |
Broker Evaluation | 8.05 |
Regulations | |
Minimum Deposit | 0$ |
Islamic Account | yes |
Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks - Crypto |
Main Branch | Australia |
Customer Service | 24/5 |
Demo Account | not |
Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform -Web platform-mt4- mt5 |
There is a high degree of risk involved in trading securities like FOREX, or CFDs, which are highly complex instruments. As a trader, you could be exposed to excessive leverage, questionable broker tactics, market volatility, and limited regulatory protection. Despite your best trading techniques and risk management strategies, your efforts may not be profitable, and you could suffer losses.
Using Skrill as a payment solution with retail brokers offers several advantages and some potential drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about integrating Skrill into your trading activities.
Advantages of Using Skrill
Ease of Use: Skrill is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process and an intuitive interface. Linking Skrill to a brokerage account is quick, making it easy to deposit and withdraw funds.
Fast Transactions: Skrill transactions are processed instantly or within a few minutes, which is crucial in a fast-paced trading environment.
Encryption and Fraud Protection: Skrill employs advanced encryption technologies and robust fraud detection systems to protect your data and transactions.
Buyer Protection: Skrill's policies can offer valuable support in cases of unauthorized transactions or disputes, depending on the specifics of your case.
Worldwide Reach: Skrill is available in over 200 countries and supports multiple currencies, making it ideal for international traders.
Cross-Border Transactions: Skrill facilitates seamless cross-border payments, enabling transactions with brokers and clients worldwide without hassle.
Versatile Usage: Beyond trading, Skrill can be used for online shopping, bill payments, and peer-to-peer transfers.
Merchant Compatibility: Many online merchants and services accept Skrill, making it a popular online payment platform for traders.
High Fees: Skrill charges fees for certain transactions, like currency conversion and withdrawals to bank accounts. These can add up, especially if you make frequent transactions.
Deposit and Withdrawal Fees: Some brokers might also tack on extra fees for deposits and withdrawals made via Skrill, increasing the overall cost of using this payment method.
Merchant Limitations: Not all brokers accept Skrill, so checking with your broker before signing up is important.
Strict Policies: Skrill’s strict compliance and security policies can sometimes lead to account suspensions. Understanding these policies is crucial to avoiding any issues.
When using electronic payment platforms for trading or other financial activities, it’s essential to understand the various fees that can impact the overall cost of transactions. These fees can vary depending on the platform, the type of transaction, and the currencies involved. Here, we explore the different types of fees associated with electronic payment platforms and provide strategies to minimize these costs.
Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
Currencies | Starting from 1.3 Pips | 0$ | No | Available |
Stocks | Starting from 18 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
Commodities | Starting from 2.3 Pips | 0$ | No | Available |
Indices | Starting from 4 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
Transaction fees: These charges are applied for processing payments. The fees are typically a percentage of the transaction amount, sometimes with an additional fixed fee.
Currency conversion fees: These amounts are charged when a transaction involves converting one currency to another and may include a markup on the exchange rate.
Withdrawal and deposit fees: These fees are charged when transferring funds between the payment platform and a bank account or another payment method. They can vary based on the platform and the type of transfer.
Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
Deposit fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | 1.9% | 2.5% | Unavailable | 3.75% |
Withdrawal fee | 0$ | $15 | 1% | $0 | Unavailable | 2% |
You don’t have to accept all the fees you encounter. By conducting thorough research, you can hand-pick the best Skrill broker that gives you the right deal. Here are some actions to take:
Comparison shopping: Compare the fees of different payment platforms before choosing one. Some platforms may offer lower fees or better exchange rates.
Special deals: Look for platforms that offer promotions or fee discounts for new users or specific types of transactions.
Batch transactions: Combine multiple smaller transactions into a single larger transaction to reduce the overall percentage of transaction fees.
Avoid peak times: Conduct transactions during off-peak times, when platforms may have lower fees or less demand for their services.
Avoid conversion fees: Wherever possible, conduct transactions in the same currency to avoid conversion fees. This might involve maintaining balances in multiple currencies.
Currency accounts: Some platforms allow you to hold balances in different currencies, enabling you to pay and receive funds without conversion.
Minimize withdrawal fees: Linking your payment platform account directly to your bank account can reduce or eliminate withdrawal fees. Some platforms charge less for direct bank transfers compared to other methods.
Use bank transfers: Opt for bank transfers instead of card withdrawals to save on additional fees.
Favorable exchange rates: Monitor exchange rates and convert when rates are favorable to reduce currency conversion costs.
Fixed-rate options: Some platforms offer the option to lock in exchange rates for future transactions, providing cost predictability.
Rewards programs: You should always take advantage of the payment platform's rewards or loyalty programs. For example, Skrill’s Knect program rewards users with points that can offset transaction costs.
Premium accounts: Consider upgrading to a premium account if it offers lower fees or additional benefits that justify the cost.
When choosing a payment method, it’s essential to consider factors such as transaction speed, security features, convenience, fees, volatility, and acceptance. Here, we compare Skrill with credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies.
Transaction speed
Skrill: Transactions are typically processed instantly or within a few minutes, providing you with quick access to funds.
Credit/debit cards: Most card transactions are also processed quickly, often within minutes. However, some international transactions might take longer to settle.
Security features
Skrill: Offers advanced encryption, fraud detection, and buyer protection policies. Skrill transactions do not require sharing card details with merchants, adding an extra layer of security.
Credit/debit cards: Banks and card networks provide robust security features, including encryption, fraud alerts, and zero-liability policies for unauthorized transactions. However, card details are shared with merchants during transactions, which could pose a risk if the merchant's system is compromised.
Convenience and processing time
Skrill: Highly convenient with user-friendly interfaces. Transactions are generally instant, making it a great choice for quick payments.
Bank Transfers: Typically less convenient, requiring more steps and longer processing times. Domestic transfers can take a few hours to a day, while international transfers might take several days.
Fees and Charges
Skrill: Charges fees for certain transactions, such as receiving payments for goods and services, currency conversion, and withdrawals to bank accounts.
Bank Transfers: Fees vary by bank and transfer type. Domestic transfers are often low-cost or free, but international transfers can be expensive due to transfer fees and unfavorable exchange rates.
Volatility and Acceptance
Skrill: Skrill is stable and widely accepted by merchants and service providers around the world. While Skrill supports cryptocurrency transactions, it primarily operates with fiat currencies, ensuring consistency in value.
Cryptocurrencies: Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, with significant price fluctuations over the past few years. While acceptance is growing, it's still limited compared to traditional payment methods, and not all merchants accept cryptocurrencies.
Ease of Use and Mainstream Adoption
Skrill: Skrill is easy to use and has a straightforward setup process. It is widely adopted and trusted by millions of users and merchants globally, making it a convenient choice for everyday transactions.
Cryptocurrencies: Using cryptocurrencies requires a higher level of technical knowledge and understanding. Setting up a wallet and securing private keys can be challenging for non-technical users. While mainstream adoption is increasing, it remains relatively low compared to traditional payment methods like Skrill.
Using Skrill with FOREX trading is a good decision because it streamlines transactions, provides added security, and offers convenience. Here’s a detailed guide on how to link Skrill to your brokerage accounts, manage funding and withdrawals, and understand the advantages of using this platform for trading.
Steps to Link Payment Platforms to Brokerage Accounts
Not all processes will be exactly like this between brokers, but this is close enough to a universal way to link payment platforms.
Choose a FOREX Broker that Accepts Skrill
Ensure the broker is regulated and has good reviews.
Create an account with the chosen FOREX broker.
Log into your FOREX trading account on the broker’s website.
Navigate to payment options and go to the “Deposit” or “Payment Methods” section.
Choose Skrill as your payment method. You will be redirected to Skrill’s website.
Log into your Skrill account and authorize the broker to access your Skrill funds. Confirm the linking process.
Note that some brokers might require additional verification, such as submitting ID documents or proof of address.
Tip for those who have no experience
We believe that a solid foundation in education and research is essential for every successful trader. That’s why we’ve created a set of resources specifically for you. Our comprehensive articles provide an understanding of the basics, while our videos offer insights from industry insiders. Stay updated with the latest developments in the market through our newsfeed, signals, and detailed analytics.
When choosing a FOREX broker that accepts Skrill, you must consider various criteria to select a reputable and efficient broker. Here are the key factors to look for when brokers accept Skrill.
Ensure the broker is regulated by a reputable financial authority, such as the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Regulation protects traders, ensuring the broker adheres to industry standards and practices.
The broker should offer intuitive and robust trading platforms, like MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), or their proprietary platforms. Look for advanced trading tools, charting capabilities, technical analysis, and mobile trading options to enhance your trading experience.
Ensure the broker offers tight spreads on major currency pairs. Check if the broker charges commissions on trades and compare them with other brokers to ensure they are competitive. Be aware of any additional fees, such as deposit and withdrawal, inactivity, or account maintenance fees.
The broker should offer responsive customer support available 24/5 or 24/7. When you need customer service the most, this is when different levels of support stand out. Look for brokers that provide support through various channels, including live chat, email, and phone. Efficient and knowledgeable customer service can significantly enhance your trading experience, especially when issues are resolved promptly.
Live Chat | Phone | |||
Available | Available | Available | Available | Available |
Quick response | Very Fast | Very Fast | Very Fast | Very Fast |
Skrill uses various measures to protect consumers from scams and fraud. First, it uses SSL/TLS Encryption, which ensures that data transmitted between your device and its servers is encrypted and secure. Through 2FA, you must provide two forms of identification before accessing your account, adding an extra layer of security.
Of course, in today’s world, you would have been asked to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) process that requires you to provide identification documents to verify your identity. How does this help you against fraud? Well, it reduces the likelihood of fraudulent accounts being created.
Like many diligent financial institutions, it is highly likely that Skrill continuously monitors account activity to detect and prevent unauthorized transactions. It will send alerts for unusual activities, such as login attempts from new devices or locations. Skrill also uses machine-learning algorithms to analyze transaction patterns and flag suspicious activities in real-time.
By employing these sophisticated security measures, online payment providers like Skrill work to protect you from scams and fraud. its multi-layered approach combines advanced technology, regulatory compliance, and user education to create a secure online payment environment.
A regulated broker adheres to a stringent set of guidelines and operational standards, designed to ensure transparency, security, and integrity in all transactions. Electing to trade with an unregulated broker amplifies the risk of financial loss, fraud, and exposure to unethical practices. For a list of the best regulators, read our article here.
Put simply, Arincen is a social networking platform that brings together traders and experts to exchange expertise and ideas. Together, we evaluate the best FOREX companies worldwide while offering a compressive suite of services and tools, all in one place, either via a computer or a mobile app. The platform is so rich that one can create his own private portfolio of traders and experts they like and, at the same time, follow the experts’ recommendations and investment sentiments.
Further, thanks to Arincen, users can watch market-price developments and the latest news. They can also benefit from the network’s educational courses and exciting Webinars—all done in a modern and fast-paced work environment. In short, Arincen: We Meet to Simplify the Trading World.
Electronic payment platforms like Skrill have revolutionized how we handle financial transactions, offering unmatched convenience, security, and efficiency. With Skrill, transferring money globally is straightforward, thanks to advanced encryption and robust security measures that protect users.
Skrill is particularly useful for FOREX trading, providing a reliable and efficient payment method. However, it's essential to be aware of the associated costs, such as transaction fees and currency conversion charges, to make well-informed decisions. By understanding how Skrill works, including its security protocols and fee structures, you can maximize the benefits and minimize costs, ensuring a secure and successful trading experience.
Skrill's unique features cater to diverse needs, whether you're into trading, online shopping, or peer-to-peer transfers. Its user-friendly interface and quick setup process make it easy for anyone to get started. Plus, with its wide acceptance among merchants and service providers worldwide, Skrill is a go-to choice for many users.
The team at Arincen collected more than 120 pieces of data covering more than 100 licensed FOREX companies. Data collection was done in three ways:
Companies’ websites.
Other websites that have ranked FOREX companies.
A survey questionnaire (called Survey “1”) was sent to the companies invited to participate in the exercise. We have identified 13 criteria for our assessment, each containing several aspects and carrying its relative weight. These include licensing, deposits and withdrawals, and the number of assets.
Afterward, we validated the data by:
Registering with FOREX companies as a secret shopper and/or as Arincen.
Survey number “2,” in which we asked these companies’ customers for important feedback and experience.
The next step was to evaluate and rank each company, relying on the hard work of 15 Arincen employees. We were cautious in ensuring the most accurate assessment possible, including considering different languages and the various mobile-app operating systems, e.g., Apple, Samsung, etc.
To add credibility to our research project, we sent a third and final survey (referred to here as Survey “3”) to enable participating FOREX companies to evaluate our research and whether it accurately reflects the realities on the ground. We were fortunate enough to receive a mark of 9.9 out of 10! We have kept the margin of error to a minimum, a measly 1%. Please click here to learn more about how we came up with the evaluation.
Forex Risk Disclaimer
Trading foreign exchange on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors. The high degree of leverage can work against you as well as for you. Before deciding to trade foreign exchange you should carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite. The possibility exists that you could sustain a loss of some or all of your initial investment and therefore you should not invest money that you cannot afford to lose. You should be aware of all the risks associated with foreign exchange trading, and seek advice from an independent financial advisor if you have any doubts.