Methodology

What BerryQuartz is

BerryQuartz is a research and comparison website for online brokers and investment platforms. We organise publicly available information about each platform into the same set of fields so that platforms can be compared fairly.

How platforms are researched

For each platform we collect information from the provider's own website and documents (fee schedules, terms, product lists) and from public regulator registers. We record the official sources used on each profile where available.

How information is verified

There is no automatic data feed. Information is checked by hand, and each profile shows the date it was last verified. Providers can change fees, products and terms at any time, so always confirm the details with the provider before you act.

How fees and regulation are checked

Fees are taken from the provider's published fee documents and entered as the provider states them. Regulatory status is marked as verified only after the platform has been found on the regulator's own public register. If a detail could not be confirmed, it is shown as "Not verified" rather than estimated.

How scores are calculated

Each platform can receive a score from 0 to 5 in each category listed below. The overall score is the weighted average of the category scores, using the same weights for every platform. An overall score is shown only when every category has been scored; otherwise we show the individual criteria and no overall number.

How comparisons and the Finder work

The comparison pages show the stored fields for the platforms you choose. The Finder applies fixed rules to the same fields; the rules are listed on the Finder page. Neither tool uses artificial intelligence, and neither gives personalised advice.

Commercial relationships

Some links on this site are affiliate links, and BerryQuartz may earn a commission if you open an account through them. Affiliate links are labelled. See the affiliate disclosure for details.

What BerryQuartz does not guarantee

  • That any information is complete, current or free of errors.
  • That a platform is suitable for your circumstances. Our content is general information, not personalised financial advice.
  • Any investment result. Investing involves risk, including the loss of capital.

Score categories and weights

Score categories and weights
Category Weight What it covers
Regulation & safety 25% Regulator, register verification, investor protection, client-money arrangements.
Fees 20% Trading, account, FX, deposit/withdrawal and inactivity costs against the product range offered.
Product availability 15% Breadth and depth of instruments and markets.
Platform & usability 15% Web, mobile and desktop platforms, tools, stability, ease of use.
Research & education 5% Research, analysis and learning resources.
Customer support 10% Channels, hours, language coverage, documented response quality.
Beginner suitability 10% Onboarding, learning aids, guardrails, clarity of pricing.

An overall score is published only when every category has been scored. Otherwise the individual criteria are shown without an overall number.

Investing and trading involve risk, including the possible loss of capital. BerryQuartz provides general information and research, not personalised financial advice.