With R3.3 trillion in total assets, Standard Bank reigned as the largest bank in the African region. This bank not only provides you with access to a formal banking account; it also allows you to trade ETFs, 160 forex pairs, 5,600 CFDs, and over 14,500 shares across 31 global exchanges.
Are you curious about the reliability of the Standard Bank OST as an investment broker? Our TRU experts tested the trading platform to examine and review the OST trading conditions, security, and compliance.
Read on to learn more about the Standard Bank Online Share Trading, its features, and how it compares to Easy Equities, its leading competitors.
What Is Standard Bank of South Africa?
With a century and a half of experience as a commercial bank, Standard Bank has been providing South Africans with access to formal banking accounts and services.
As the financial demands increased, specifically aimed at earning money passively, Standard Bank expanded its service ecosystem, ultimately integrating fintech to offer digital investment access to its clients.
What Is Standard Bank Online Share Trading?
The OST (short for Online Share Trading) is a fintech innovation by Standard Bank, specifically designed to empower South Africans with access to the global financial marketplace, enabling them to grow their capital and secure a better financial future.
Through the Standard Bank OST trading platforms, you have access to various investment instruments, including forex, CFDs, ETFs, and shares of companies across the globe. Its commitment to your capital safety is reflected through its demo account and comprehensive selection of educational resources.
The better part? You can rest assured that your funds are safe. With its proven history as a reputable banking service provider, the Standard Bank OST competitively complies with the regulatory laws and regulations of the FSCA to keep the investment platform safe from money launderers and financial terrorists.
Overview of Standard Bank Webtrader
Standard Bank launched its Webtrader (Online Share Trading) to address the increasing demand of South African consumers for online trading.
The Standard Bank OST is a great choice for traders who seek a balance between safety and profitability.
Standard Bank is one of the banking giants, not only in South Africa, but in the entire African region. This reputation and scale reflect its reputation and competitive position in the financial industry.
Additionally, Standard Bank allows access to offshore share trading. This means that OST traders can better diversify their investment portfolios, as they can access over 14,000 shares across 30 global stock exchanges.
Standard Bank Online Share Trading Login
You can log in to your Standard Bank Online Share Trading account through its website (https://www.standardbank.co.za/). Ensure that you’re an existing OST trader with valid login credentials for a seamless login process.
If not, you can easily create your Standard Bank OST account through the same website.
Offered Trading Instruments
Standard Bank OPS offers extensive investment opportunities for South African traders, particularly those who trade stocks, forex, electronic-traded funds (ETFs), and contract-for-difference (CFDs).
South African stock traders are not limited to investing only in ZA stocks. In fact, OST enables offshore share trading, allowing its traders to trade thousands of shares across 31 major stock exchanges.
Aside from global equities, OST traders can also participate in forex, ETFs, and CFD trading. The platform supports trading transactions using three base currencies, including USD, GBP, and EUR.
Standard Bank Online Share Trading Platforms
To effectively cater to the diverse needs of South African traders, Standard Bank developed two trading platforms: AutoShare Invest (ASI) and Online Share Trading (OST).
| Platform | Features | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| AutoShare Invest | Intuitive design with automated share capability for easier stock trading. | New stock/equity traders |
| Online Share Trading | Advanced charting and trading tools, access to a comprehensive suite of educational content. | Advanced and professional traders |
Standard Bank Webtrader Fee
Aside from the subscription-based monthly fee, Standard Bank OST’s fee structure includes commission, spread, and percentage-based custody fees.
Other fees involve value-added tax (VAT), administration fees, net free equity, account value taxation, interest rates, currency conversion fees, and exit fees.
Standard Bank Webtrader Demo
Standard Bank Webtrader offers a demo account that allows you to experience trading without any financial risk. The demo account provides a 20-day free trial with a simulated USD 100,000.
This is a great way to familiarize yourself with the platform and its features before committing real funds.
Read More: Easy Equities in 2025: What You Should Know Before Investing – TradersUnited
OST Standard Bank vs. EasyEquities
Both Standard Bank and EasyEquities are banking services that offer online trading services to their clients.
As per the experience of our TRU experts, here’s how EasyEquities differs from Standard Bank OST.
Comparing Fees
EasyEquities generally offers lower fees compared to Standard Bank OST. For example, EasyEquities charges 0.25% per trade with no minimum trade amount.
Comparing User Experience
EasyEquities is known for its user-friendly interface and accessibility, making it popular among new investors. Standard Bank OST, on the other hand, offers more comprehensive tools and educational resources.
Comparing Investment Options
Both platforms provide access to a wide range of investment options, but EasyEquities is often preferred for its simplicity and lower costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Close a Standard Bank Online Share Trading Account?
To close your account, you will be asked to settle the exit fee before you can transfer shares or the repository to another bank.
Exit fees are EUR 50 per International Securities Identification Number (ISIN), aside from shares listed on Danish Stock Exchanges, which impose EUR 25 per ISIN.
How Can I Contact OST Standard Back for Dispute Resolution?
Raise your complaint at your nearest branch or suite with the Branch Manager, Relationship Manager, Area Manager, or Provincial Head. Alternatively, you can contact the Complaints Resolution Centre (CRC):
- Phone: 0860 101 101
- Email: [email protected]
If your complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can escalate it to the Specialised Complaint Escalation Centre by contacting [email protected]
If you remain unsatisfied with the resolution, you can lodge a formal complaint with the relevant ombudsman or regulator. Contact details for the ombudsman or regulator will be provided by Standard Bank
Can a 17-Year-Old Use Webtrader Standard Bank?
To use Standard Bank Webtrader, you must be at least 18 years old. This age requirement ensures compliance with legal regulations and responsible trading practices.
Is Standard Bank Online Share Trading a Good Option for Stock Trading in 2025?
Generally, Standard Bank Online Share Trading is a good option for stock trading in South Africa. While its fees are relatively higher than EasyEquities, its regulatory competence and access to the global stock market ensure that its traders find a balance between opportunity and safety.
Wanna hear what other traders are saying about Standard Bank Online Share Trading? Or maybe you’re still on the hunt for the best stocks broker in South Africa? Join TradersUnited to connect with thousands of online traders worldwide and learn from their first-hand experiences and practical insights.
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