Updated: February 2026
Stake is one of Australia’s most popular investing platforms, offering low-cost access to ASX and US shares through a clean, beginner-friendly app.
In this Stake review Australia, we break down fees, features, pros and cons, safety, and whether Stake is the right investing app for beginners.
If you’re comparing platforms, see our full guide to the Best Investing Apps in Australia.
Quick Verdict: Is Stake Worth It?
Best for:
- Beginner investors
- Low-cost ASX trading
- Long-term ETF investors
- Simple mobile investing
Not ideal for:
- Advanced traders needing complex tools
- Investors who want in-depth research features
What Is Stake?
Stake is an Australian online brokerage platform that allows users to invest in:
- ASX shares
- US stocks
- ETFs
- Managed funds
It is designed for ease of use and affordability, making it especially attractive to new investors.
Stake Fees (Australia)
Stake is known for its low-cost trading model, particularly for investors who want access to Australian and US shares.
For Australian shares, Stake charges a low flat brokerage fee per trade. For US shares, Stake offers competitive pricing and often promotes commission-free or low-fee trading depending on the account type.
There are no monthly account fees, which makes Stake attractive for beginners and long-term investors who don’t want ongoing platform costs.
Overall, Stake remains one of the most affordable investing apps in Australia.
Here’s a breakdown of Stake’s current fee structure:
- ASX trades: $3 brokerage
- US trades: $0 brokerage
- FX fee: Currency conversion fee applies on US investments
- Account fees: No monthly account fee
Fees may change — always confirm on Stake’s official website.
Is Stake CHESS Sponsored?
Yes — Stake is CHESS sponsored for ASX shares.
This means your shares are registered directly in your name with the ASX, rather than being held under a custodian structure.
For many Australian investors, CHESS sponsorship provides additional transparency and peace of mind.
Key Features
- CHESS-sponsored ASX investing
- Access to US markets
- Fractional US shares
- Simple mobile and desktop platform
- Portfolio tracking tools
- Tax reporting support
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Low ASX brokerage
- Beginner-friendly interface
- CHESS-sponsored shares
- No monthly fees
Cons
- FX fees on US investments
- Limited advanced trading tools
Stake vs Other Investing Apps
Stake competes with platforms like Pearler, CommSec, Superhero, and SelfWealth.
Stake is popular for US share trading and ease of use, while other platforms may be better for ETF automation or ultra-low fees.
How To Open A Stake Account
Opening an account with Stake typically takes:
- Download the app or visit the website
- Complete identity verification
- Link your bank account
- Fund your account
- Start investing
👉 Start Investing With Stake
FAQ – Stake Australia
Is Stake safe to use in Australia?
Stake is regulated and operates under Australian financial laws. The platform uses strong encryption and security protocols to protect user data.
Australian shares purchased through Stake are held under CHESS sponsorship, meaning the shares are registered in your name rather than held by the platform.
This structure provides an additional layer of protection and peace of mind for investors.
Does Stake charge brokerage on US trades?
Stake offers $0 brokerage on US trades, but FX fees apply.
Is Stake good for beginners?
Yes, Stake is widely considered beginner-friendly due to its simple interface and low fees.
Can I buy ETFs on Stake?
Yes, Stake offers access to both ASX and US-listed ETFs.
How long does it take to verify a Stake account?
Verification usually takes minutes to a few hours, depending on document checks.
Final Verdict
Stake is a strong all-round option for Australians who want low-cost, beginner-friendly investing with CHESS sponsorship.
While it may not suit advanced traders, it remains one of the most accessible platforms for long-term investors.