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Investing in global giants like Apple, Nvidia, Microsoft, or the S&P 500 used to require complex paperwork, high minimum balances, and costly international wire fees. Today, mobile trading platforms have made foreign stock markets accessible to everyday Filipino investors.

Gotrade allows users in the Philippines to trade fractionally in US equities and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) with as little as $1. This comprehensive guide covers how Gotrade works, step-by-step account funding, executing trades, and fundamental principles for managing risk.


What is Gotrade?

Gotrade is a mobile investment platform designed to give international investors direct access to the United States stock market.

Fractional Shares: Instead of purchasing a full share of a company trading at hundreds of dollars, Gotrade enables fractional investing. You can buy a fraction of a share based on the exact dollar amount you want to invest (starting at $1).

Commission-Free Trading: Gotrade operates on a commission-free model for standard market orders, lowering the barrier to entry compared to traditional international brokerage accounts.

Download Gotrade App!


Regulation & Security: Gotrade executes trades through Alpaca Securities LLC, a US broker-dealer regulated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Customer accounts are protected by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) up to $500,000 (including $250,000 for cash claims) against broker insolvency.

READ MORE: How a ₱10.5M Target Portfolio Can Yield ₱50,000 in Monthly Passive Income


Overview: US Stocks vs. ETFs

When building a US-focused portfolio, assets generally fall into two primary categories:


1. Individual US Stocks

Buying stock in a public company gives you fractional ownership in that business.

  • Growth Stocks: Companies reinvesting profits to expand rapidly (e.g., Nvidia, Tesla, Amazon). These carry higher volatility but potential for higher capital gains.

  • Dividend Stocks: Established businesses that distribute a portion of their earnings back to shareholders periodically (e.g., Coca-Cola, Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson).


2. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)

An ETF is a basket of securities that trades on an exchange just like a regular stock. Instead of picking individual companies, an ETF lets you purchase instant diversification across hundreds of companies in a single transaction.

  • Index ETFs: Broad market funds like the S&P 500 (e.g., VOO, SPY) or NASDAQ-100 (e.g., QQQ) track the performance of top US corporations.

  • Sector ETFs: Funds focused specifically on technology, healthcare, clean energy, or real estate.





How to Deposit Funds on Gotrade (From the Philippines)

Gotrade makes depositing Philippine Pesos (PHP) straightforward by integrating local payment channels that automatically convert your PHP into USD.


1. Open the Funding Section

Locate the deposit screen in the app.

Open the Gotrade mobile app and tap the Deposit button or navigate to the Funding tab at the bottom menu bar.


2. Select Deposit Channel

Choose your local Philippine payment option.

Choose your preferred local payment gateway. Gotrade supports instant local bank transfers (such as BPI, UnionBank) as well as e-wallets (like GCash or Maya).


3. Enter Deposit Amount

Specify your deposit in PHP or USD.

Enter the total amount you wish to transfer. The app will show a real-time exchange rate breakdown along with any transparent conversion or processing fees before you confirm.


4. Authorize Payment

Complete the transaction via Online Banking/E-Wallet.

You will be redirected to complete the payment via your selected bank app or e-wallet interface. Once authorized, funds typically reflect in your Gotrade wallet balance within minutes to a few hours, depending on the chosen method.


Get Started with Gotrade

Join Gotrade to invest in US stocks starting with just $1 in under 10 minutes. Use the referral code GQX9ZV or click the link below to set up your account:

👉 https://heygotrade.com/referral?code=GQX9ZV

RELATED: I Earned My First P100,000 Monthly Income (And Here's How I Did It)


How to Invest (Buying Your First Stock/ETF)

Once your account is funded with USD, purchasing shares takes under a minute:

  • Search for the Asset: Use the search bar in the app to find a stock or ETF by its company name or ticker symbol (e.g., AAPL for Apple, NVDA for Nvidia, VOO for Vanguard S&P 500 ETF).

  • Tap 'Buy': Click the Buy button on the asset details screen.

  • Select Order Type:

    • Buy in Dollars ($): Enter the precise dollar amount you want to invest (e.g., $5, $20, or $100). The system calculates the fractional share count automatically.

    • Buy in Shares: Specify the exact number of whole or fractional shares you wish to purchase.

  • Review & Confirm: Swipe or tap to confirm your order. If the US market is open (9:30 AM to 4:00 PM Eastern Standard Time), the order executes instantly. If the market is closed, your trade queues to execute as soon as trading resumes.

Download Gotrade App!


5 Basic Investment Principles to Remember

Before deploying capital into foreign markets, keep these core risk management rules in mind:

PrincipleExplanation
1. Understand Foreign Dividend Withholding TaxThe US government applies a standard 30% withholding tax on US source dividend payments for Philippine residents. Factors like capital gains from stock price appreciation are generally exempt from US tax for non-US residents.
2. Factor in Foreign Exchange (FX) VolatilityYou are buying US Dollar assets using Philippine Pesos. Your total portfolio value is impacted not only by stock price movements but also by the PHP/USD exchange rate shifts.
3. Embrace Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA)Rather than attempting to time the market with a large lump-sum purchase, invest fixed amounts on a recurring schedule (e.g., monthly). DCA smooths out market fluctuations over time.
4. Prioritize DiversificationAvoid concentrating all your capital into a single company or sector. Diversifying across broad ETFs or a mix of industries reduces single-stock drawdown risk.
5. Invest for the Long TermEquities experience short-term market volatility. Focus on long-term wealth accumulation rather than speculative day trading.

Here's Why I Do Not Invest in PAGIBIG's MP2 Savings (5 Investments to Try in the Philippines)



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


What is the minimum amount required to start investing on Gotrade?
You can start buying fractional shares with as little as $1 USD.


Do I actually own the underlying shares on Gotrade?
Yes. You hold direct beneficial ownership of the shares (including fractional share rights). You are entitled to your proportionate share of any dividends paid by companies you own.


What are the official trading hours for the US Stock Market in Philippine Time (PST)?
The US stock market regular trading session runs from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM EST. In Philippine Standard Time (PST), this translates to:

  • Standard Time (Winter): 10:30 PM to 5:00 AM PST

  • Daylight Saving Time (Summer): 9:30 PM to 4:00 AM PST


How do withdrawals work back to the Philippines?
You can withdraw your uninvested cash balance directly back to a local Philippine bank account via the app's Funding / Withdraw tab. Withdrawals typically take 1 to 3 business days to settle, subject to standard processing fees.

Investing in international markets carries risk, including potential loss of principal. Always evaluate your personal risk tolerance and financial goals before allocating funds.


How to Invest in US Stocks from the Philippines: Complete Gotrade Guide


The Philippine stock market has historically been intimidating for beginners due to complex platform interfaces, tedious account opening procedures, and high entry costs. InvestaTrade, created by Investagrams, was developed specifically to solve these pain points.



Known widely as the most popular social trading community in the Philippines, Investagrams launched InvestaTrade as a streamlined, all-in-one brokerage ecosystem. It combines chart analysis, real-time alerts, conditional trade automation, and portfolio tracking into a single app. Whether you are a beginner taking your first steps with a ₱100 budget or a disciplined dividend investor, here is your ultimate guide to mastering InvestaTrade.



What is InvestaTrade?

InvestaTrade is a fully digital stock trading platform regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and operated in partnership with licensed Philippine brokerage firms. It provides access to over 150 listed equities, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and preferred shares on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).




Standout Features of InvestaTrade


1. Zero Minimum Deposit & Ultra-Low Start

Unlike traditional brokerages that require thousands of pesos to activate an account, InvestaTrade has no minimum deposit requirement and no maintaining balance. You can open an account for free and begin executing stock trades with as little as ₱100.


2. Built-in Automation: Take Profit & Cut Loss Rules

One of InvestaTrade's biggest advantages for busy investors is its Conditional Orders feature:

  • Automatic Stop-Loss: Set automated rules to sell a stock if the price drops below your risk threshold, preserving your capital without needing to monitor the market constantly.

  • Take-Profit Targets: Lock in capital gains automatically when a stock hits your target price.


3. Integrated Investagrams Analytics & Real-Time Alerts

Because it shares the technology stack of Investagrams, InvestaTrade includes:

  • Real-time Price & News Alerts: Instant notifications on mobile devices when stocks hit specific price levels or issue corporate disclosures.

  • Unified Single-Page Interface: Explore, chart, order, and review your portfolio without switching back and forth between separate research tools.


4. Dividend Tracking Hub

For passive income investors, InvestaTrade provides a dedicated dividend tracking dashboard. You can track cash payouts, upcoming ex-dividend schedules, and review your portfolio's cumulative passive earnings over time.




InvestaTrade Account Summary & Fee Structure


FeatureDetails
Account Opening100% Digital / Paperless
Minimum Initial Deposit₱0 (Start trading with ₱100)
Maintaining Balance₱0
Brokerage Commission RateStandard 0.25% of gross trade value
Regulatory Taxes & FeesStandard PSE, SEC (0.005%), SCCP (0.01%), and Stock Transaction Tax (0.6% on sales)
Deposit / Withdrawal MethodsE-Wallets (GCash, Maya) & Major Local Bank Online Transfers


Step-by-Step Guide to Opening an InvestaTrade Account

Getting started on InvestaTrade takes only a few minutes from your smartphone or desktop computer:

  [Step 1]                 [Step 2]                 [Step 3]                 [Step 4]
Download App /           Submit e-KYC             Fund Your Wallet         Execute First
Create Account    ──>    Information & ID   ──>   via E-Wallet or    ──>   Stock Trade on
(Mobile or Web)           Photo Verification        Online Banking           the PSE

Register Your Account: Download the InvestaTrade app (available on iOS and Android) or visit investa.trade.

Complete Digital KYC (Know Your Customer): Fill in your basic details, Tax Identification Number (TIN), and financial profile—no video call appointments required.

Upload Valid ID: Submit a clear photo of a valid government-issued ID (e.g., Passport, UMID, Driver’s License, or SSS ID).

Fund Your Account & Trade: Cash in instantly using online banking or supported e-wallets, then navigate to the trading screen to buy your first stock or REIT.



Pros and Cons of InvestaTrade


Pros


Beginner Friendly: Clean design with low barrier to entry (no minimum deposit).

Conditional Orders: Automated cut-loss and take-profit features protect trades hands-free.

Mobile-First Experience: Excellent app integration with real-time push notifications.

Instant Cash-In/Out: Easy transfer rails through top local payment channels.


Cons


PSE Focused Only: Designed primarily for Philippine equities (no direct US stock trading).

Requires Active Data: App relies heavily on real-time data feeds, requiring a stable internet connection.


InvestaTrade makes entering the Philippine stock market seamless and accessible. By stripping away complex paperwork, lowering deposit barriers, and offering built-in conditional trading tools, the platform caters equally well to retail investors building dividend portfolios and traders managing market swings.

If you are looking for an intuitive, mobile-ready broker with strong community roots and automatic risk management tools, opening an InvestaTrade account is a smart step toward growing your financial assets.



InvestaTrade Guide: How to Trade Philippine Stocks and REITs Effortlessly


SeaBank Philippines, Inc. (A Rural Bank) has officially changed its corporate name to MariBank Philippines, Inc. (A Rural Bank), effective July 31, 2025.



This rebranding follows the bank's integration into the MariBank Singapore Private Limited banking group.

In a letter addressed to customers, President Siew Ghee Kung Lim assured clients that the name change will not affect their accounts or access to banking services. "Only our name is changing," the statement read, emphasizing that the same team and trusted services will remain in place.



The change is part of a broader strategy by Sea Limited, the parent company of both MariBank and SeaBank, to unify its banking entities under the MariBank brand.


The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) approved the name change on April 21, 2025, with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) granting its approval on July 31, 2025.




MariBank Philippines plans to introduce more updates in the coming months, including a refreshed app experience, to reflect the transition.

RELATED GUIDE: Here's How to Earn Money from SeaBank Referral Code



For the time being, customers should continue to follow official SeaBank channels for all communications.



Digital Banks in the Philippines

Visit my list of Top Digital Savings Banks in the Philippines to learn more!

SeaBank Philippines Rebrands to MariBank Philippines


In a time when savings accounts from digital banks are offering interest rates rivaling traditional investments, time deposits (TDs) continue to hold their appeal for those who want guaranteed, predictable earnings.



By locking in your money for a set period, you can earn a higher interest rate compared to regular savings—without the volatility of the stock market or the complexity of mutual funds.

For 2025, some Philippine digital banks have stepped up with competitive TD offers, making them attractive alternatives to both low-interest brick-and-mortar banks and high-risk investments.


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1. OwnBank

1-Year Time Deposit Rate: 6.5% p.a.

OwnBank remains a favorite among savers for its consistently high, non-promotional interest rates. As of February 10, 2025, its updated TD rates are:

  • 15-day: 5.3% p.a.

  • 30-day: 5.5% p.a.

  • 90-day: 5.8% p.a.

  • 180-day: 6.0% p.a.

  • 360-day: 6.5% p.a.

The appeal lies in its stability. Unlike some digital banks that slash rates after a promo period, OwnBank has kept competitive yields for years.


This makes it ideal for conservative investors who prefer certainty over surprises. Pair that with daily interest crediting on savings accounts and high-yield TDs, and you have a solid platform for steady growth.


Also check out the 5 Credit Cards with No Annual Fees in the Philippines


2. Maya Bank

1-Year Time Deposit Rate: 5.75% p.a.

6-Month Time Deposit Rate: 6.0% p.a.

Maya Bank’s Time Deposit product has been drawing attention since its March 2025 update. The bank offers:

  • 3 months: 5.5% p.a.

  • 6 months: 6.0% p.a.

  • 12 months: 5.75% p.a.

While its 1-year rate is slightly lower than OwnBank’s, Maya wins in short-term TD competitiveness. If you’re the type who doesn’t like to commit funds for too long—or wants more liquidity—Maya’s shorter tenors can give you solid returns without tying up your money for a full year.



3. UNO Bank

1-Year Time Deposit Rate: 6.0% p.a.

UNO Digital Bank offers a clean, no-frills 6% p.a. on its 1-year time deposit. This makes it a solid middle ground for those who want higher returns than traditional banks without chasing promos.

UNO also offers competitive shorter terms, but its 6% 1-year option stands out for balance—good yield, stable offer, and the security of ₱1 million PDIC coverage. It’s a good option for those who want a slightly higher yield than Maya but without needing to commit to OwnBank’s full-year lock-in.



4. CIMB Bank – MaxSave Time Deposit

1-Year Time Deposit Rate: 5.5% p.a. (MaxSave TD)

CIMB’s MaxSave offers reasonable rates and is known for its customer-friendly account opening process, which can be done entirely online. While 5.5% p.a. is slightly lower than its top competitors, CIMB makes up for it with strong brand trust, a well-developed app, and the ability to seamlessly transfer funds between your savings and time deposit accounts.


For risk-averse savers who value stability and an established track record in the Philippine market, CIMB remains a reliable choice.

If you are looking for low-interest loans, here's my list of Personal Loans With the Lowest Interest Rates in the Philippines.


5. Tonik Digital Bank

1-Year Time Deposit Rate: 6.0% p.a.

Tonik has made a name for itself with bold interest rates and creative savings products like "Stashes" and "Group Stashes." Its 1-year time deposit sits at a competitive 6.0% p.a., matching UNO Bank’s rate and often paired with seasonal promos.

Tonik’s edge lies in its fast onboarding and quirky, gamified savings experience. While it’s relatively new compared to CIMB, it has quickly gained a loyal following among younger, tech-savvy savers.





Tips for Maximizing Time Deposits in Digital Banks


Diversify Terms: Split your funds across different tenors so you don’t lock everything up for too long.

Check PDIC Coverage: Never exceed ₱1 million per bank for full insurance protection.

Monitor Rate Changes: Digital banks can adjust rates quickly, so be ready to move your funds if better options arise.

Consider Laddering: Open multiple TDs with staggered maturities to balance liquidity and returns.

Pair with High-Interest Savings: Keep some funds in a high-yield savings account for emergencies.



The Bottom Line

If you want steady, reliable returns, OwnBank’s 6.5% p.a. for 1 year is the safest high-yield choice. For a solid middle ground, UNO Bank and Tonik offer 6.0% p.a., while Maya shines in shorter terms with up to 6.0% p.a. for 6 months. CIMB offers lower rates but brings stability and strong platform reliability.


Digital Banks in the Philippines

Visit my list of Top Digital Savings Banks in the Philippines to learn more!

Highest Time Deposit Rates from Philippine Digital Banks in 2026


Did you know you can now cash in to your Maya wallet using your credit card—with zero convenience fees? That’s right—Maya is running a promo that allows users to cash in using Visa credit cards without being charged the usual 2%–3.5% service fee. I tried it myself using my BDO Visa credit card, and here’s everything you need to know before trying it yourself.



What Is the Maya Visa Credit Card Cash-In Promo?

Maya is currently offering a No Convenience Fee promo when you cash in using any Visa credit card, directly through the app. This is a major win for users who want to fund their Maya wallet without bank transfers, InstaPay, or trips to physical stores. You can now top up directly from your credit line at no additional cost—if you do it right.


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Promo Period

As of writing (August 2025), the promo is ongoing, but like all promos, it may be time-limited. Check the Maya app announcements or their social media pages to see if it’s still active.





My Personal Experience with BDO Visa Credit Card

I tested the process myself using my BDO Visa credit card, and here’s how it went:

  • ✅ The transaction pushed through instantly

  • ✅ I was not charged any convenience fee

  • ✅ The amount was credited to my Maya wallet in real time

  • ✅ It worked as long as the amount was under ₱5,000

However, there were a few key limitations:

  • ⚠️ Maximum of two transactions under ₱5,000 were allowed per day

  • ⚠️ My attempts to cash in ₱5,000 or higher were declined

  • ⚠️ BDO only allowed a total of ₱9,998 (₱4,999 × 2) in one day

So if you’re using a BDO Visa credit card, you can cash in up to ₱9,998 daily using this method—as long as you split the transactions.



Important: Check for Quasi-Cash Fees

While Maya waives their own convenience fee during the promo, some banks treat wallet top-ups as “quasi-cash transactions”, which may trigger cash advance fees or interest charges.



How to Avoid This


Check your bank's policy before using their credit card

Call your bank and ask: “Do you charge quasi-cash or cash advance fees for wallet top-ups?”

Use banks that treat Maya top-ups like regular purchases (BDO Visa seems to be one of them)

Banks known for quasi-cash fees include some foreign banks, fintech cards, and even certain local Mastercard issuers. Visa cards seem to work better overall for this promo.

Apply for a BDO Credit Card now!


How to Cash In to Maya Wallet Using Your Credit Card

Here’s the full step-by-step process:

  1. Open the Maya app

  2. Tap “Cash In” from the home screen

  3. Select “Credit/Debit Card”

  4. Tap “Link a New Card” and enter your Visa credit card details

  5. Set your desired amount (keep it under ₱5,000 per transaction)

  6. Confirm the payment and complete any OTP verification from your bank

  7. Wait for the top-up to reflect—should be instant

You’ll receive confirmation from both Maya and your credit card provider.




Reminders Before You Try It


💡 Only Visa credit cards are eligible for the no-fee promo (not Mastercards)

🔐 Make sure your card supports online transactions and 3D Secure

⚠️ Some banks might decline transactions flagged as wallet top-ups

📈 If you exceed daily limits, you may need to wait 24 hours before trying again



Final Thoughts

This Maya Visa credit card cash-in promo is a smart way to add funds to your wallet for free, especially if you're investing through DragonFi Lite, paying bills, or sending money. Just be mindful of your card’s policies and transaction limits to avoid any surprise fees.

If you’re using a BDO Visa card like me, it’s a safe bet—but always start with small amounts and monitor your credit card statement after your first few transactions.


More Financial Guides


How to Cash In to Maya Wallet Using a Credit Card (with No Fees!)


If you're a Maya user hunting for higher savings interest rates, good news: up to 15% p.a. Maya Savings boost is still active as of August 1, 2025 — and yes, the Lazada and Grab "hacks" still work.



This savings trick is perfect for those who want to make the most of Maya's tiered incentive system without overspending or relying on unclear promos.

Here's a breakdown of how it works, how you can unlock up to 15%, and a step-by-step guide on using Lazada to do it — hassle-free and cost-effective.


Open Maya App

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Breakdown: Up to 15% p.a. for Select* Maya Users

Maya’s tiered interest rates are based on your spending behavior. Here’s the current setup:


Requirement Boosted Interest (on Savings Balance)


  • ✅ Base Rate 3.5% p.a. on all balances

  • ✅ Spend P35,000 via QRPh / Maya Card +6.5% p.a.

  • ✅ Spend P40,000 via Landers Maya Credit Card +3% p.a.

  • ✅ Spend P2,000 via Maya Easy Credit +2% p.a.

Total Possible Up to 15% p.a.

Note: Promos and boosted rates are for SELECT users — Maya sometimes targets based on account activity.




How to Easily Unlock the First 10% Using Lazada (Updated August 2025)

One of the simplest and most cost-efficient ways to unlock the 6.5% QRPh/Card Spend boost is through Lazada cash-ins using your Maya Wallet and card. Here's how:


Step-by-Step Lazada Hack



1. Link Your Maya Wallet/Card to Lazada


Go to Lazada > Wallet > Cash In > Cards

Add your Maya Virtual or Physical Card


2. Fund Your Maya Wallet


Make sure your Maya Wallet has at least ₱35,000. This is the spending requirement for the 6.5% interest boost.


3. Start a Cash-In on Lazada


Choose Cash In via Linked Card (your Maya card).

Enter ₱35,000 as the amount.


4. Wait for the Confirmation


Maya will send you an SMS confirmation once the cash-in is successful.


5. Get the 10% Interest


Within a few days, you should see your interest rate jump to 10% (3.5% base + 6.5% QRPh/card boost).


6. Transfer Back to Maya


Use Lazada's 1-time free bank transfer to move the ₱35,000 back to your Maya Wallet or other e-wallets.

This closes the loop — no actual net spending, but you still unlock the interest.



Why Lazada?

Cash-in is free, and they offer a 1-time bank transfer out — no fees, no hassle.



GrabPay Variant Still Works Too

Similar steps apply to GrabPay, where you can load funds via your Maya card, then cash out or use them — also counting toward the required spend. However, Lazada remains the preferred option due to ease of transfers and fee-free setup.




Final Notes

This technique works as of August 1, 2025, but Maya may update terms anytime.

These boosts are technically spend-based, so while you're moving money around, the system counts it as eligible "spend".

Always verify via the Maya app or SMS that your boosts are active.


More Financial Guides

Yes, the 15% Maya Savings Hack Still Works — Here's How (Lazada & Grab Edition)


Commuters on Metro Manila's busiest railway can now experience a faster, more convenient way to travel. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) today officially launched cashless payment options for the MRT-3, marking a significant upgrade in the urban transit system and positioning it as a pioneer in seamless payment technology.



DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon led the unveiling at the MRT-3 Ayala Station, personally demonstrating the ease of the new system. He highlighted that commuters can now simply tap their debit or credit cards directly at the gates or, for e-wallet users, generate a QR code from their mobile apps for scanning.


"There is no additional fare here," Secretary Dizon assured commuters. "The system is, whatever is deducted from your GCash, your credit card, your debit card, it is the same as if you bought a single journey ticket."


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This innovative payment setup is touted by the transport chief as the first of its kind globally, capable of accepting both Near Field Communication (NFC) taps and QR codes from a single terminal. The DOTr also announced plans to extend these same cashless options to LRT-1 and LRT-2 lines in the near future, with the support of GCash and RCBC.



How to Use GCash at MRT-3 Gates

For the millions of Filipinos who rely on e-wallets, paying for their MRT-3 ride using the GCash app is now remarkably straightforward:

STEP 1 - Open your GCash app: Ensure you have the latest version installed on your smartphone.


STEP 2 - Look for "Commute" and tap it: This dedicated icon simplifies access to the QR ticketing feature.

STEP 3 - A QR Code will appear: This unique code is your digital ticket.

STEP 4 - Tap or scan your QR Code at an MRT-3 entry gate: Simply present your phone screen with the QR code to the designated scanner.


STEP 5 - The gate will open: Proceed through the turnstile.

STEP 6 - Do the same at the exit gate: The process is identical for exiting the station, ensuring your fare is correctly calculated.


Important Note: Your GCash account must have a minimum balance of ₱28 to successfully use the Commute QR code feature. For added convenience, users can also download a copy of their Commute QR for subsequent gate uses.


Wide Range of Participating Banks

Beyond GCash, the DOTr confirmed a broad list of banks supporting the MRT-3's new cashless payment method, offering flexibility for cardholders:



  • GCash: Visa (Debit), QR Code
  • Landbank: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • BPI: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • BDO: Mastercard (Credit), Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • HSBC: Visa (Debit)
  • GOTyme: Visa (Debit)
  • Union Bank: Visa (Debit)
  • RCBC: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • Metrobank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Security Bank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Maya: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • Chinabank: Mastercard (Credit)


This expansion of payment options is expected to significantly reduce queuing times, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall commuting experience for MRT-3 passengers, ushering in a new era of modern urban transportation in the Philippines.

You Can Now Pay For Your MRT-3 Ride Using Your GCash App!


Where to invest, how to sign up, and what to expect from each platform.

The Philippine stock market has become more accessible than ever thanks to digital brokerages that allow you to buy, sell, and manage stocks from your phone or computer. Whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes or a more seasoned trader seeking better tools, choosing the right broker is your first step to investing success.

Here are the 10 best online stockbroker platforms in the Philippines for 2025, including where to sign up, how to access each one, and what makes them unique.



1. COL Financial

COL Financial is one of the most established stock brokers in the Philippines and is often considered the go-to platform for beginners. It offers detailed research reports, webinars, and a straightforward web-based interface. With a minimum deposit of just ₱1,000 for an "Easy" account, it’s easy to get started—even if you’re new to investing.


Although it doesn’t have a mobile app, COL’s platform is stable and reliable. You can log in via browser on mobile devices, and its research tools and customer service support make it a favorite among long-term, conservative investors.


Platform: Web-only (no mobile app)


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2. DragonFi

DragonFi is one of the newest and most modern trading platforms in the Philippines, offering advanced charting, conditional orders, and a sleek interface powered by TradingView. With a low deposit requirement of ₱1,000, you can start accessing powerful tools typically reserved for institutional investors.

You can download the DragonFi app from the App Store or Google Play, or use their browser-based platform. DragonFi also offers access to dividend screening, investment clubs, and will soon include retirement accounts through its SEC-accredited PERA (Personal Equity and Retirement Account) feature.


Platform: Web and mobile app (iOS & Android)

Facebook Page: DragonFi


3. BDO Securities

BDO Securities is the in-house stockbrokerage of BDO Unibank, making it especially convenient for existing BDO account holders. Transfers between your BDO savings account and trading account are seamless and fast, and you can begin investing with as little as ₱1,000.

The platform is mobile-friendly but primarily accessed through web browsers. It provides access to research, IPOs, and mutual funds. While it’s not as flashy as newer platforms, it’s reliable, regulated, and trusted by millions of Filipinos.


Platform: Web-based (mobile-responsive)



4. DragonFi Lite (via Maya App)

DragonFi Lite is built right into the Maya app, making it one of the most accessible ways to start investing in Philippine stocks—especially for new investors. There's no minimum deposit, and you can begin buying stocks using your existing Maya Wallet balance.

To access DragonFi Lite, simply download or open the Maya app, sign in, and tap on the "Stocks" section. You’ll be guided through an easy onboarding process and can begin trading within minutes. It's perfect for beginners who prefer simplified interfaces and already use Maya for daily transactions.

Platform: Download the Maya app from App Store or Google Play


5. First Metro Securities

First Metro Sec is backed by Metrobank and offers a wide range of investment products, including mutual funds and ETFs, alongside regular stock trading. It caters to both beginners and intermediate investors, with educational content and in-depth research from seasoned analysts.


You can sign up via their website or download the FirstMetroSec GO app. Minimum deposit is ₱5,000 (waived if you’re a Metrobank account holder). It’s a solid all-around broker with good customer support and tools for portfolio tracking.


Platform: Web and mobile app (FirstMetroSec GO)

Facebook Page: First Metro Securities


6. BPI Trade

BPI Trade is a straightforward option for BPI account holders looking to begin investing in the stock market. While it lacks a mobile app, it integrates well with BPI Online, allowing users to fund their trading accounts instantly.


To open an account, visit their website and complete the online form. While the interface is basic and not as modern, it remains a secure and reputable platform backed by one of the Philippines’ largest banks. It’s a dependable option for those who already bank with BPI.


Platform: Web-only

Facebook Page: BPI Trade


7. Philstocks

Philstocks is a PSE-licensed broker offering both web and mobile trading platforms with real-time data and technical analysis tools. It's a favorite among active traders for its simple interface and accessible tools. Minimum deposit is only ₱1,000.


You can download their app (Philstocks Mobile) via the App Store or Google Play. Philstocks also offers tutorials and webinars to help beginners navigate the stock market with confidence.


Platform: Web and mobile app (Philstocks Mobile)

Facebook Page: Philstocks


8. AB Capital Securities

AB Capital Securities is one of the most respected brokers in the Philippines, particularly favored by long-term investors and retirees. It provides well-researched market insights, reliable execution, and a solid support team. With a ₱5,000 minimum deposit, it's ideal for those looking to build a serious investment portfolio with professional-grade guidance.


You can trade with AB Capital via their official website, or more conveniently through GCash using the GStocks PH feature. Simply open the GCash app, tap "GInvest" then "GStocks PH," and choose AB Capital as your broker during registration. This integration offers Filipinos a smooth, mobile-first experience—no need to open a separate brokerage account elsewhere.


Platform: Web-based and GCash GStocks PH




9. MakeTrade by RCBC Securities

RCBC Securities is the official stock brokerage arm of RCBC Bank and provides a streamlined experience for RCBC account holders. With direct integration to RCBC banking services, investors can easily fund their accounts and manage investments in one ecosystem. The platform offers access to real-time stock data, market research, and personalized watchlists.


Accessible via its web-based trading platform, RCBC Securities focuses on security and reliability over flashy features. While it doesn’t have a mobile app, it remains a solid choice for conservative investors and RCBC clients looking for stability, ease of use, and trusted financial backing.


Platform: Web-based

Facebook Page: RCBC Securities


10. Luna Securities

Luna Securities is a low-cost, no-frills stockbroker offering easy access to the PSE with a simple online platform. With a ₱1,000 minimum deposit, it’s beginner-friendly and provides essential tools for stock investing without overwhelming users.

While it doesn’t offer mobile apps or sophisticated charts, Luna’s strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. Investors looking for a basic, PSE-accredited broker will find Luna a practical choice for budget-conscious trading.


Platform: Web-based

Facebook Page: Luna Securities Inc.


How to Register with a Philippine Stock Broker

Registering for an online broker in the Philippines typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, especially if you already have a valid ID and an internet connection. Here’s what most brokers will require during sign-up:


Common Requirements


  • Valid government-issued ID (e.g., Passport, Driver’s License, UMID)

  • Tax Identification Number (TIN)

  • Email address and mobile number

  • Bank account details (for deposits/withdrawals)

  • Selfie or video verification (some platforms require biometric checks)

  • Signature specimen (uploaded via photo or digital form)

  • Employment and financial information (source of income, risk profile)

Some brokers like DragonFi and Maya offer fully digital onboarding, while traditional banks like BPI and RCBC may require printed forms or in-person verification for some users.


Final Thoughts

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to investing in the Philippine stock market. Whether you’re after advanced trading tools or a simple mobile setup, these 10 platforms offer something for everyone. Your next step is to pick one, register, and start your investing journey.


The 10 Best Online Stock Broker Platforms in the Philippines

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