Online Trading Platforms & Apps in Malaysia 2026: Fees, Markets and How to Start

Malaysians can trade shares through local stockbrokers licensed by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), from bank-backed brokers to app-first platforms. As of October 2026, standard online fees for Bursa Malaysia trades in our table start from RM1 per trade (Rakuten Trade, trades under RM100), while minimums go up to RM40 (KenTrade). Compare total cost, markets and licence status before choosing.

While Bursa Malaysia offers a wide range of opportunities, Malaysian investors are no longer confined to local stocks. Today, global stock markets are within easy reach, thanks to modern trading platforms.

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ in the US, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX), the Singapore Exchange (SGX), and the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) are some of the world’s largest and most active stock exchanges. Each offers a wealth of opportunities across tech giants, financial leaders, and emerging industries.

By expanding your portfolio beyond Malaysia, you can tap into global growth stories, hedge against local market volatility, and build a more diversified portfolio. In this guide, we compare the online trading platforms and apps available in Malaysia, covering both local and international stock trading, and explain how to get started.

How do you start trading stocks in Malaysia?

Open an online trading account with a licensed stockbroker, which also sets up the Central Depository System (CDS) account that holds your Bursa Malaysia shares. Fund the account, then place a buy order through the broker’s app or website.

What is stock trading?

Stock trading, also known as share trading or equities trading, involves the buying and selling of shares from publicly listed companies. When you buy shares, you become a partial owner or shareholder of that company. While trading stocks can lead to quick financial gains, it also carries the risk of significant losses if not managed carefully.

Where does stock trading take place?

Stock trading happens in the stock market, where buyers and sellers trade shares. In Malaysia, the primary stock exchange is Bursa Malaysia, operated by Bursa Malaysia Berhad in Kuala Lumpur.

Globally, some of the most notable stock exchanges (domestic market capitalisation at end-2025, per World Federation of Exchanges data) include:

• New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) – One of the world’s largest stock exchanges, with a market cap of approximately USD 31.4 trillion, hosting many of the world’s biggest companies.
• NASDAQ – Known for its tech-heavy listings, including companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon, with a market cap of around USD 36 trillion.
• Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) – A major gateway to Asian markets, with a market cap of approximately USD 6 trillion.
• Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) – One of China’s largest exchanges, boasting a market cap of around USD 9.1 trillion.
• Singapore Exchange (SGX) – A key financial hub in Southeast Asia, with a market cap of approximately USD 810 billion.

Each of these exchanges offers a unique set of opportunities for investors, from well-established blue-chip companies to high-growth technology firms. As a Malaysian investor, you have the flexibility to explore these markets, diversifying your portfolio and capitalizing on global economic growth.

Opening a brokerage and CDS account

To start trading, you’ll need to open a brokerage account with a licensed firm or an online trading platform. This account serves as the intermediary between you and the stock market. For trading on Bursa Malaysia, your brokerage will also assist in setting up a Central Depository System (CDS) account, where your shares will be securely held.

Placing your first trade

Once your accounts are ready, you can place your first buy order. This involves selecting the stock, specifying the quantity, and setting the price you’re willing to pay. With modern online trading platforms, this process has become seamless, with lower fees and an array of trading tools at your disposal. For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our guide on how to buy stocks in Malaysia.

How are stock prices determined?

Stock prices fluctuate based on:

• Company performance – Financial health, earnings reports, and growth potential.
• Market conditions – Economic factors, inflation rates, and global events.
• Investor sentiment – Market trends, news, and overall confidence in the economy. Prices are constantly changing throughout the trading day due to the supply and demand dynamics of the market.

Holding and selling your shares

Once you buy shares, they are stored in your brokerage account. When you decide to sell, you’ll place a sell order at your preferred price. The transaction is completed when a buyer matches your selling price and quantity.

Understanding the risks and rewards

The stock market is volatile, and while the aim is to profit by selling shares at a higher price, losses are also possible if share prices fall. Beginners should be aware of these risks and aim to diversify their portfolios to mitigate potential losses.

Which online trading platforms and apps can you use in Malaysia?

You can use any stockbroker licensed by the SC to deal in securities. Options range from bank-backed brokers such as Maybank and Hong Leong to app-first platforms such as Rakuten Trade, moomoo and Webull. The table below compares their standard online fees and markets.

The landscape of stock trading in Malaysia has evolved significantly over the past few years. While traditional banks like Maybank, RHB, and Hong Leong have long dominated the brokerage space, the entry of independent online trading platforms such as Rakuten Trade, Moomoo and Webull has introduced more accessible and cost-effective options for investors. These platforms offer lower fees, user-friendly mobile apps, and access to both local and international markets, making it easier for Malaysians to diversify their portfolios.

How we compared the platforms

This is a comparison, not a ranking or recommendation. We looked at:

• Cost: standard online brokerage for Bursa Malaysia and US trades, including minimum fees and any platform fees. Promotional rates are noted separately because they expire.
• Markets: which exchanges you can trade through the platform.
• Licence: whether the broker states it holds an SC Capital Markets Services Licence. Check this yourself on the SC Investment Checker before you open an account.
• Fee date: when we last checked each fee on the broker’s own website. Fees change often, so confirm the current rate before you trade.

Where a broker does not publish its Bursa fees on its own site, we show the rate listed on the i3investor broker comparison, which is undated, and mark the row. Fees below exclude clearing fees, stamp duty and SST, which apply to every broker (see “What other costs apply to a Bursa trade?” below).

Trading platforms in Malaysia compared (October 2026)

How do you check if a broker is licensed?

Search the firm’s name on the SC’s Investment Checker and check that it is not on the SC Investor Alert List. The SC says the alert list is not exhaustive, so a firm’s absence from it does not mean it is licensed.

Bank Negara Malaysia’s list of approved electronic trading platforms covers platforms for the wholesale money market and foreign exchange market. It is not a list of share-trading apps for retail investors.

Some overseas brokers accept Malaysian clients without holding an SC licence. If you use one, you may not have the protections available to clients of SC-licensed brokers. Check the firm’s status with the SC before you open an account.

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Overview of Online Brokerages in Malaysia and Their Offerings

Malaysia offers a growing ecosystem of SC-regulated online brokerages, ranging from bank-backed full-service providers to new-age digital platforms. Established names like Maybank, RHB, and Kenanga offer the familiarity and reliability of traditional financial institutions, often with seamless integration across banking and trading services. 

At the same time, brokers like Rakuten Trade, Moomoo, Webull, and Apex Securities provide low-cost access to global markets with modern trading interfaces. Whether you're investing in Bursa Malaysia-listed stocks or diversifying into international equities on NYSE, NASDAQ, SGX, or HKEX, understanding the platform capabilities, account types, and supported markets is essential. 

The comparison below outlines each broker’s key features and market access, helping you identify which platform fits your investment goals. Rates marked “not re-verified” in the comparison table above are the last rates we could confirm.

Am Equities

AmEquities is the stockbroking division of AmInvestment Bank, part of the AmBank Group, a well-known banking group in Malaysia. The platform supports a full range of trading accounts, including cash upfront and margin trading, and gives access to both Bursa Malaysia and US markets. 

AmEquities offers a more traditional approach, including access to remisiers (licensed dealers) for personalised trading services. It’s suitable for investors who want a mix of online trading convenience and dealer-assisted support, especially those already within the AmBank ecosystem.

Apex Securities

Apex Securities Berhad is a full-service brokerage based in Kuala Lumpur, offering online trading for both Malaysian and international markets. Previously known as JF Apex Securities, the firm provides access to a wide range of exchanges including SGX, HKEX, NASDAQ, NYSE, and more. 

Investors can trade via the Apex Trader platform, with support available for both retail and institutional clients. Regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia, Apex may suit investors seeking regional diversification with a broker that has longstanding roots in Malaysia’s capital markets.

CGS iTrade / CGS International

CGS iTrade is the digital trading platform of CGS International, formerly CGS-CIMB Securities. CIMB sold its remaining stake to CGS International Holdings (formerly China Galaxy International Financial Holdings) at the end of 2023. CGS iTrade gives Malaysian investors access to local and global markets, including Bursa Malaysia, SGX, HKEX, NASDAQ, and NYSE. 

The platform offers advanced charting tools and comprehensive research backed by a regional analyst team. CGS iTrade is licensed by the Securities Commission Malaysia and is a suitable choice for investors who want an institutional-grade platform with broad market access.

HLeBroking

HLeBroking is the online trading arm of Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB), a subsidiary of the Hong Leong Group Malaysia. It enables trading on Bursa Malaysia and various global markets, including the US, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The platform is well integrated with Hong Leong Bank’s other services, allowing for seamless fund transfers and consolidated banking. 

Investors benefit from HLIB’s strong local presence, with access to market research and regular insights. As a platform under a traditional Malaysian financial group, HLeBroking suits clients seeking convenience and familiarity.

KenTrade by Kenanga

KenTrade is the online platform of Kenanga Investment Bank, one of Malaysia’s largest independent investment banks. The platform allows trading in Bursa Malaysia as well as selected international exchanges, and is supported by Kenanga’s research team. 

KenTrade also provides access to various investment services including margin financing, IPO applications, and portfolio tracking. Kenanga’s long-standing history in the Malaysian financial sector makes it a familiar option for investors who value local expertise and a trusted brand.

Maybank

Maybank Investment Bank’s online trading platform, often referred to as Maybank Trade, is backed by Maybank, one of the largest banks in Malaysia. 

The platform offers access to both local and global markets, including Bursa Malaysia, SGX, HKEX, and US exchanges. Maybank Trade integrates well with Maybank2u, offering seamless fund transfers and account management for retail clients.

As a bank-backed platform, it is well-suited to investors who want reliability, brand trust, and a one-stop financial ecosystem.

M+ Online / M+ Global

M+ Online is the online trading platform of Malacca Securities Sdn Bhd, a Bursa Malaysia Participating Organisation licensed by the SC for dealing in securities. M+ Online covers Bursa Malaysia, while the M+ Global app gives access to US and Hong Kong stocks.

Its advertised rates start from 0.05% for Bursa trades (minimum RM8) and 0.10% for US trades (minimum US$3). Check the full fee schedule for the account type you choose, as rates can differ by package.

Moomoo

Moomoo Malaysia is the local arm of Futu Holdings, a global brokerage backed by Tencent. The platform offers access to multiple global markets, including the US, Hong Kong, China, and Singapore. Moomoo stands out for its modern, app-first interface, real-time market data, and advanced charting tools typically found in institutional platforms. 

All trades are held in custodian accounts, and the platform is regulated by Securities Commission Malaysia. Moomoo is designed for tech-savvy investors looking for global exposure at low cost. New users get RM0 commission for 180 days; the platform fee still applies.

Phillip Capital

Phillip Capital Malaysia is part of the larger PhillipCapital Group, a financial services provider headquartered in Singapore. The Malaysian platform offers trading on Bursa Malaysia, SGX, HKEX, and US markets, with a focus on client education and personalised service. Investors can access the platform via the Phillip Online Electronic Mart System (POEMS), which includes comprehensive research tools and portfolio tracking. With a long track record in Asia, Phillip Capital suits investors looking for a regional brokerage with strong educational resources.

Rakuten Trade

Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd is an online-only broker licensed by the SC. You open an account and trade through its app or website, with no dealer or remisier. It offers Bursa Malaysia, US and Hong Kong stocks.

Its Bursa fees are tiered by trade size, which keeps small trades cheap: RM1 for trades up to RM100 and RM2.88 for trades up to RM9,999.99. Larger trades pay 0.10%, capped at RM100 for trades of RM100,000 and above (plus 0.01% on trades of RM1 million and above). It states no platform or settlement fees.

RHB Invest

RHB Invest is the online trading platform of RHB Investment Bank, part of the RHB Banking Group, one of Malaysia’s largest fully integrated financial services groups. The platform enables trading on Bursa Malaysia, SGX, NASDAQ, NYSE, and AMEX, with additional support available through dealer-assisted services. 

RHB Invest integrates with the broader RHB ecosystem, allowing convenient transfers between banking and trading accounts. It may suit existing RHB clients or those looking for multi-market access from a local full-service bank.

UOB Utrade

UOB Kay Hian Malaysia offers online trading through UOB Utrade, a platform that gives access to both local and foreign markets, including Bursa, SGX, HKEX, NYSE, and ASX. The platform is part of UOB Kay Hian Holdings, a Singapore-based brokerage group with operations across Asia. 

UOB Utrade caters to retail and high-net-worth investors with features such as multi-currency settlement and professional research reports. It may suit Malaysian investors looking for regional reach with a broker that blends local presence and international scale.

Webull

Webull Malaysia is the local version of the US-based online brokerage Webull, known for its zero-commission trading and user-friendly mobile app. Webull offers access to Bursa Malaysia, US stocks and options, and, since 27 June 2025, Hong Kong and China A-shares. Investors benefit from features such as real-time data, extended-hours trading, and technical analysis tools, all built into a sleek app interface. 

Regulated by SC Malaysia (Webull Securities (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, licence eCMSL/A0399/2024), Webull may suit cost-conscious, mobile-first investors looking to trade both local and international equities from one app.

Affin Hwang eInvest Go

Affin Hwang eInvest Go is the retail online trading platform offered by Affin Hwang Investment Bank. Designed for digitally savvy, self-directed investors, the platform allows easy access to Bursa Malaysia stocks through a mobile-first experience. 

eInvest Go is regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC). While it currently focuses on local equities, eInvest Go benefits from Affin Hwang’s in-house research and customer support.

How does trading on Bursa Malaysia work?

You place orders through a licensed broker, Bursa Malaysia’s system matches buyers and sellers, and the trade settles two trading days later (T+2) into your CDS account. Each trade costs brokerage plus a clearing fee and stamp duty.

Bursa Malaysia is the principal stock exchange in Malaysia, headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. Formerly known as the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange (KLSE), it is one of the largest and most dynamic bourses in ASEAN. As at end-June 2026, Bursa Malaysia’s total market capitalisation was about RM2.12 trillion, up 11.2% year on year, according to Bursa’s half-year results reported by The Star. 

The exchange offers a fully integrated trading experience, including trading, clearing, settlement, and depository services, making it a seamless platform for investors. It consists of the Main Market for established companies, the ACE Market for growth companies, and the LEAP Market for SMEs, providing a wide spectrum of investment opportunities.

What other costs apply to a Bursa trade?

On top of brokerage, every Bursa trade carries these charges, whichever broker you use:

• Clearing fee: 0.03% of the trade value, capped at RM1,000.
• Stamp duty: RM1 for every RM1,000 (or part of it) of trade value, capped at RM1,000 for shares. Bursa-listed ETFs are exempt until 31 December 2028.
• SST: 8% sales and service tax may apply to brokerage and clearing fees on some trades.

For example, on a RM5,000 trade, brokerage would be RM2.88 at Rakuten Trade, RM2.50 at Webull (0.05%) and RM4.50 at moomoo (0.03% plus the RM3 platform fee), before clearing fee, stamp duty and SST.

Why should you try stock investing in Malaysia?

Malaysia, classified as an upper middle-income country, has a well-diversified economy spanning agriculture, manufacturing, services, and global trade. After a strong post-pandemic rebound with 8.7% real GDP growth in 2022, the economy continued to expand steadily, recording 5.1% growth in 2024 and 5.2% in 2025, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM).

Inflation has remained relatively moderate compared with many global economies. Headline inflation was 1.4% in 2025 (DOSM) and averaged 1.8% in the first seven months of 2026. Bank Negara Malaysia kept the Overnight Policy Rate at 2.75% at its 3 September 2026 meeting.

Malaysia’s economy is also supported by its diversified export base, particularly in electronics, semiconductors, palm oil, and energy commodities, which positions the country as one of Southeast Asia’s major exporters. At the same time, the country continues to attract strong foreign investment, particularly in advanced manufacturing, data centres, and semiconductor supply chains.

Looking ahead, Bank Negara Malaysia expects growth of around 5% in 2026, after the economy grew 5.7% in the first half of the year, driven largely by exports and steady domestic demand (BNM, September 2026).

Eight steps to trade stocks online in Malaysia

1. Open accounts
   • Open a trading account with a Participating Organisation (PO).
   • Open a Central Depository System (CDS) account to track your share ownership.
2. Engage with a licensed dealer or remisier
   • Assign or engage a licensed dealer or remisier to handle your trades. With an online-only account, you place orders yourself and can skip this step.
3. Placing an order
   • Submit your order (buy/sell, quantity, price) to your remisier or through your broker’s app along with your CDS account number.
4. Order entry
   • Orders are entered into the Automated Trading System (ATS) by the PO or via the PO’s internet trading platform.
5. Match order
   • Bursa Malaysia’s system automatically matches buy and sell orders based on price and availability.
6. Trade confirmation
   • A trade confirmation slip is issued with transaction details by the broker.
7. Contract notes
   • The broking house sends contract notes including brokerage fees, stamp duty, clearing fees, and transaction costs.
8. Delivery and settlement (T+2)
   • Settlement is done on a T+2 basis (2 trading days post-transaction) via book entry system in the CDS account.

How do you buy foreign stocks from Malaysia?

Choose a Malaysian broker that offers the market you want, fund your account (often in USD or HKD), and place the order through its app. For US stocks, you will also sign a W-8BEN tax form. Our guide to buying US stocks in Malaysia covers this in detail.

Investing in foreign stocks allows Malaysian investors to tap into some of the world’s most dynamic markets. With platforms like Rakuten Trade, Moomoo Malaysia and Webull Malaysia, accessing US, Hong Kong, Singapore, and China stocks is now more seamless than ever.

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ are the world’s two largest stock markets by value, while HKEX and SGX remain attractive for their proximity and growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

By diversifying beyond Malaysia, investors can explore industries not prevalent locally, such as global technology giants, leading financial institutions, and emerging markets, thereby reducing risks tied to a single economy.

Why should you invest in foreign stocks?

Access to global market leaders

Foreign markets, especially the US stock market, are home to some of the biggest companies like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Tesla. Investing in these markets gives you exposure to industry leaders, high-growth sectors, and innovative companies that are shaping the future.

Diversification and risk management

Investing in foreign stocks helps Malaysian investors diversify their portfolios, spreading risk across different economies, sectors, and currencies. This reduces the impact of local market fluctuations.

Higher liquidity and market potential

Markets like the NYSE, NASDAQ, and HKEX offer high liquidity, ensuring faster transactions and competitive pricing. Additionally, foreign markets often present higher growth potential, especially in tech, healthcare, and finance sectors.

Foreign direct investment and global economic trends

As Malaysia continues to attract FDI, investing in foreign markets allows Malaysians to benefit from global economic trends, technological advancements, and multinational corporations’ growth.

Eight steps to trade foreign stocks online from Malaysia

1. Choose a trading platform
   • Select an online brokerage platform like Moomoo, Webull, or Maybank Trade that offers access to foreign markets.
2. Open accounts
   • Open a trading account with the chosen platform.
   • Ensure your platform supports the desired markets (US, HK, SG, China).
3. Fund your account
   • Deposit funds in your trading account, ensuring you comply with any currency exchange requirements if trading in USD, HKD, SGD, or CNY.
4. Research foreign stocks
   • Utilize the platform’s research tools to analyze foreign stocks, market trends, and company performance.
5. Placing an order
   • Place a buy order for your selected foreign stock, specifying the price, quantity, and market.
6. Order execution
   •Your order is processed through the chosen foreign stock exchange (e.g., NASDAQ, HKEX) and confirmed once matched.
7. Trade confirmation
   •Receive a trade confirmation with details of the transaction, fees, and currency conversion if applicable.
8. Settlement and portfolio management
   • The settlement process may vary based on the market (US stocks settle on T+1, one business day after the trade, since 28 May 2024) and shares are credited to your account.
   • Continuously monitor and manage your foreign stock portfolio for performance and rebalancing.

What types of investments can you buy?

Investing today involves a variety of financial instruments that allow individuals to grow their wealth by allocating capital to businesses and assets. Here are some of the most common types of investments:

What types of stocks are there?

Understanding the different types of stocks can help you build a well-rounded portfolio while managing risk. Here are the most common stock categories every investor should know:

Why does diversification matter?

Diversification means spreading your investments across different asset classes and markets to reduce risk. If you would rather not pick individual stocks, an ETF lets you hold many companies in one trade. StashAway’s ETF Explorer lets you choose and invest in individual ETFs across global asset classes.

Why StashAway ETF Explorer?

• Global diversification: Invest across various regions and industries to mitigate market risks.
• Idea to investment in 1 minute: Just choose, invest, and you’re done
• Cost-effective and flexible: Low fees, no lock-ins, and no minimum investment required.

Diversification matters because it helps protect your wealth while unlocking growth opportunities worldwide.

Frequently asked questions

Which trading platforms are licensed in Malaysia?

Stockbrokers in Malaysia must hold a Capital Markets Services Licence from the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) to deal in securities. Bursa Malaysia trades go through Participating Organisations of the exchange. Check any broker on the SC’s Investment Checker before you open an account. Bank Negara Malaysia’s approved electronic trading platform list covers wholesale money and foreign exchange markets, not share-trading apps.

Which trading app has the lowest fees in Malaysia?

It depends on your trade size and market. As of October 2026, for a RM5,000 Bursa trade, brokerage is RM2.50 at Webull (0.05%), RM2.88 at Rakuten Trade and RM4.50 at moomoo (0.03% plus a RM3 platform fee). For larger trades, percentage rates and caps matter more. Clearing fees, stamp duty and SST apply on top.

What fees do I pay when I buy shares on Bursa Malaysia?

You pay your broker’s brokerage fee, plus a clearing fee of 0.03% of the trade value (capped at RM1,000) and stamp duty of RM1 per RM1,000 of trade value (capped at RM1,000 for shares). Bursa-listed ETFs are exempt from stamp duty until 31 December 2028. An 8% SST may apply to brokerage and clearing fees on some trades.

Can I buy US stocks from Malaysia?

Yes. Several SC-licensed brokers, including Rakuten Trade, moomoo, Webull and M+ Global, let you buy US stocks from a Malaysian account. You usually fund the account in US dollars and sign a W-8BEN form for US tax purposes. US trades settle one business day after the trade (T+1).

Do I need a CDS account to trade stocks in Malaysia?

Yes, for Bursa Malaysia shares. The Central Depository System (CDS) account records the shares you own, and your broker opens it for you when you open a trading account. Some brokers, such as moomoo, state that CDS account opening is free. You do not need a CDS account for shares listed on foreign exchanges.

How long does it take for a share trade to settle?

Bursa Malaysia trades settle on T+2, two trading days after the trade, when shares and cash move through your CDS and trading accounts. US stock trades have settled on T+1 since 28 May 2024. Other foreign markets have their own settlement cycles, so check with your broker.

Is it safe to use an overseas broker that is not licensed in Malaysia?

Some overseas brokers accept Malaysian clients without an SC licence. If you use one, you may not have the protections available to clients of SC-licensed brokers, and disputes may fall under another country’s rules. Check the firm on the SC’s Investment Checker and Investor Alert List before you open an account.