Best investing lessons for beginners in the Philippines

The Starter Investor Reading Notes on Investing Lessons

Top 11 Picks: Online Brokers for Novice Traders with Limited Funds

The Starter Investor Reviews Online Brokers for 2023

Effective from our update on April 5, 2023, we have rebranded from Marginal Investor to The Starter Investor. For additional details, please visit our About Us page.

Updated March 25, 2023

What are the online brokers with the lowest minimum requirement to open an online stock trading account in the Philippines?

Based on our analysis, we have compiled a list of our Top 11 Picks:

• BDO Securities

• BPI Trade

• RCBC Securities, Inc.

• COL Financial Group, Inc.

• A&A Securities, Inc.

• UCPB Securities, Inc.

• Philstocks Financial, Inc.

• Wealth Securities, Inc.

• VC Securities Corporation

• Unicapital Securities, Inc.

• AP Securities, Incorporated

We conducted a thorough review of all 34 online brokers listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) Trading Participants Online Brokers and Directory, with the aim of identifying the most suitable online broker for novice traders with limited funds. Our selection criteria included the minimum amount required to open an online stock trading account, available funding methods, and the user-friendliness of the platform. Our top picks are online brokers that meet the following requirements:

• Require a minimum investment of Php 15,000.00 or less, as stated in their Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section on their website.

• Offer funding methods such as GCash and Maya mobile app, bills payment, and online banking.

• Provide user-friendly online stock trading platforms.

#1. BDO Securities

https://www.bdo.com.ph/securities/home

• No, there is no maintaining balance needed to maintain your BDO Securities account.

• A BDO Securities account without any cash flows (either deposits or withdrawals) for two (2) years will be placed on the inactive list. You can prevent account dormancy by making either a deposit or withdrawal on your account at least once every two (2) years.
• Funding the online trading account:
• For instructions, the company website provided this link: https://youtu.be/qNkdn6S5m1Y

#2. BPI Trade

https://www.bpitrade.com/

• There is no minimum investment required to open a BPI Trade account. 

• Funding the online trading account:
• Before you can purchase any shares of stock, you must first deposit funds into your BPI Trade Settlement Account (SETA). Your SETA will be debited or credited depending on the amount of your transaction/s. It is important to note that your SETA requires an Average Daily Balance (ADB) of Php 500.00 (visit www.bpi.com.ph for details).

#3. RCBC Securities, Inc.

https://www.rcbcsec.com/

• There is no minimum deposit required to open an account according to the company's FAQs.

• Funding the online trading account:
• You have 3 options to fund your account:
• RCBC Online
• RCBC Branch
• RCBC Telemoney

#4. COL Financial Group, Inc.

https://www.colfinancial.com

• For Starter accounts, the minimum deposit is Php1,000.00.

• Funding the online trading account:
• You can fund your COL Account through any of the following options:
• Option 1: Online Banking via Bills Payment
• Use your online banking facility to fund your COL account. Just enroll COL FINANCIAL under your bills payment then pay that bill.
• Banco de Oro (BDO)
• Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
• Metrobank
• Asia United Bank (AUB)
• Chinabank
• Robinsons Bank
• Unionbank
• PNB
• GCASH
• MAYA

• Option 2: Over-the-Counter via Bills Payment
• Visit any of the company's partner bank branches and fill-out a payment slip. Forms of payment can be in cash or check. Check should be payable to COL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
• Banco de Oro (BDO)
• Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
• Metrobank
• Asia United Bank (AUB)
• Robinsons Bank
• Unionbank
• PNB

#5. A&A Securities, Inc.

https://aa.psetradex.ph/

• A & A have no minimum investment to open an account. Before any purchase may be made, the account must have enough cleared funds to cover the total value of the intended purchase order of stocks, inclusive of all charges.

• Funding the online trading account:
• Direct deposit to A&A’s Banco De Oro bank account
• Deliver check payment to the A&A’s office
• Clients based outside the Philippines may wire their funds to A&A's Security Bank account

#6. UCPB Securities, Inc.

https://www.ucpbsec.com/

• There is no required minimum amount to open an account with UCPB Securities. However, you will need not less than P500 to purchase a minimum amount of stocks at the stock market.

• Funding the online trading account:
• You can deposit funds to its UCPB bank account through the following:
• Over-the-Counter Deposit
• UCPB Connect
• InstaPay

#7. Philstocks Financial, Inc.

https://www.philstocks.ph/

• For as low as Php 5,000.00, you can already open a Philstocks account. Your investment will be used in purchasing stocks and does not represent a balance requirement. 

• Funding the online trading account:
• Over-the-counter cash or check deposit to their BDO, BPI and Chinabank accounts
• Fund Transfer to their BDO, BPI and Chinabank accounts
• Bills Payment Via BDO, BPI, Metrobank, UnionBank
• Other funding options: Remittance

#8. Wealth Securities, Inc.

https://www.wealthsec.net/login.asp

• You have to deposit an initial amount of P10,000.00 prior to trading. You may likewise choose to deposit shares of stocks which are listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange with current market value equal to at least P10,000.00 during its opening.

• The maintaining balance of the account is the minimum deposit of P10,000.00. No withdrawals of cash should be made to decrease the balance. However, if by reason of purchases from the minimum deposit, the market value of the stock is less than P10,000.00 and no withdrawals of cash there from has been made, the required maintaining balance is still complied with. Failure to maintain the balance will prompt us to prevent access to your account.

• Funding the online trading account:
• You can make a deposit for the account of Wealth Securities, Inc. in any of the following banks:
• Union Bank
• East West Bank
• BDO
• RCBC Commercial Bank
• BPI
• Metrobank
• Asia United Bank
• Security Bank

#9. VC Securities Corporation

https://vcsecurities.biz/

• The initial investment is Php 10,000 that will be used for the purchase of your stocks.

• Funding the online trading account:
• All clients must be BDO account holders.
• Walk-in funding through its business centre located at the 6th floor Wilson Corporate Center, 225 Wilson St., Greenhills, San Juan
• Deposit through its BDO bank account

#10. Unicapital Securities, Inc.

https://utradeph.com/

• The minimum initial deposit required is ten thousand Philippine pesos. (Php 10,000.00).

• Funding the online trading account:
• You can fund your UTrade account via Over-the-Counter Deposit or Online Banking Payments at any of the banks listed below:

• Over-the-Counter Deposit: At any branch of BDO, BPI or Chinabank.
• Online Payment: You can also fund your account via an Online Transfer or ATM Funding.

#11. AP Securities, Incorporated

https://apsecuritiesinc.com.ph/

• Minimum opening amount for New APS Online Account is Php 15,000.00.

• Funding the online trading account:
• Via cheque deposit to the company's office.
• Cheque for pick up
• Deposit or transfer online to any of their bank accounts:
• Metrobank
• BDO
• Security Bank
• RCBC
• PNB
• Bank of Commerce
• For remittances
• Bank: BDO

EXPANDED LIST OF ONLINE BROKERS FOR STOCK TRADERS IN THE PHILIPPINES

We have included a list of additional online brokers that did not meet our selection criteria, which may be suitable for traders with more substantial capital. As novice traders grow and gain more experience, they may eventually become eligible to use the services of these brokers as well.

AAA Southeast Equities, Inc.

https://aaa-equities.com.ph/

 

• P50,000.00 is the minimum balance required to open an account.

• You may fund your account through any of its 3 partner banks:

• BDO
• Metrobank
• Unionbank
• BPI

AB Capital Securities, Inc.

https://www.abcapitalonline.com/

• No minimum investment is required based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Abacus Securities Corporation

https://www.mytrade.com.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 100,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Alpha Securities Corporation

https://alpha.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 5,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

BA Securities, Inc.

https://baseconline.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 5,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Coherco Securities, Inc.

https://cohercotrade.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum deposit required to open an account is Php 150,000.00.

• You may deposit funds at either of our bank accounts at BDO or East West Banking Corporation. 

China Bank Securities Corporation

https://www.chinabankseconline.ph/

• China Bank depositors who open an online trading account and designate their China Bank deposit account as their settlement account are not required to put up an initial deposit.
• However, those who will nominate a deposit account with another bank are required to put up a minimum initial deposit of Php 50,000.00 which can be used to buy stocks, according to the company's Frequently Asked Question. 
• Funding the online trading account:
• Option 1: Bills Payment Via China Bank Online Banking.
• Option 2: Over-the-counter Bills Payment in any China Bank branch

Eagle Equities, Inc.

https://eagleconnect.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 20,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Eastern Securities Development Corporation

https://eastern-sec.com/

• The minimum investment required is Php 5,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

DA Market Securities Inc.

https://www.itrade.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 50,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Globalinks Securities & Stocks, Inc.

https://gtrade.ph/

• GLOBALINKS only requires you to initially deposit Php 20,000.00 in opening your account.
• Funding the online trading account:
• Over-the-Counter Deposit
• Over-the-Counter Bills Payment
• Online Bills Payment
• Online Fund Transfer

HDI Securities, Inc.

https://hdisecurities.com/

• To open an account, an initial investment of at least P25,000.00 is required.
• Funding the online trading account:
• Bank Deposit to their BDO account
• Deposit your check at their office
• Wire funds to their BDO bank account

First Metro Securities Brokerage Corporation

https://www.firstmetrosec.ph/

• There is no minimum investment required based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Investors Securities, Inc.

https://www.investorsonline.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 50,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Lucky Securities, Inc.

https://luckyseconline.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 5,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated. It's important to mention that their services are limited to Institutional clients only.

Jaka Securities Corporation

https://jakaseconline.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 25,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated. Their services are limited to Institutional clients only.

Mercantile Securities

https://www.mercantilesec.com/

• The minimum investment required is Php 5,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated. Their services are limited to Institutional clients only.

Meridian Securities, Inc.

https://msitradeonline.psetradex.ph/

• Minimum Initial Deposit is Php 25,000.00.
• Funding the online trading account:
• Clients have to make a deposit at the company's Bank: BDO account.

Maybank Trade

https://maybanktrade.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum funding needed to open is Php 1 Million in combined cash and/or stock value.

Optimum Securities Corporation

https://optimumonline.psetradex.ph/

• Minimum investment required to open an account is an initial deposit of Php 25,000.00.
• Funding the online trading account:
• You can deposit (Cash or Checks) through Over-the-Counter payment at any branch of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation branch nearest you.

Triton Securities Corporation

https://triton.psetradex.ph/

• The minimum investment required is Php 10,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

Timson Securities, Inc.

https://timson.com.ph/

• The minimum initial deposit to open an account is Php 100,000.00.
• Funding the online trading account:
• You can deposit funds to your Timson Trade account via the Merchant Payment facility of its partner banks:
• BDO
• BPI
• Metrobank

Regina Capital Development Corporation

https://www.reginacapital.com/portal/

• The minimum investment required is Php 25,000.00 based on the information available in the PSE Directory of Trading Participants. However, the minimum amount needed to open an account is not posted on the company's website and thus cannot be validated.

In conclusion, choosing the right online broker is crucial for novice traders with limited funds, as it can greatly impact their investment journey. Our thorough review of 34 brokers listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) Trading Participants Online Brokers and Directory has helped identify the top picks that meet our selection criteria of minimum investment, funding methods, and user-friendliness. We hope that our list will serve as a valuable guide for traders starting in the stock market. Remember to always do your research and invest wisely. Happy trading!

Helpful Articles and Websites

You may also find the following websites and articles helpful:

Stock Trading Websites

BPI Trade website

COL Financial website

The Philippine Stock Exchange, Inc. website

Related Posts

Building Wealth in Later Life: Investment Opportunities for the Fourth Quarter (Ages 55-65)

Home | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Disclosure

Grow Your Wealth: Top 5 Profitable Agri-Business Venture Categories for 2023

The Starter Investor Ideas on Agribusiness Venture Categories

Effective from our update on April 5, 2023, we have rebranded from Marginal Investor to The Starter Investor. For additional details, please visit our About Us page.

Updated April 5, 2023

Top 5 Profitable Agri-Business Venture Categories for 2023

TO EFFECTIVELY START AN AGRI-BUSINESS VENTURE, it is crucial to comprehend the distinct characteristics and challenges of the different categories in the agribusiness industry. In this blog post, we will examine five agribusiness venture categories and suggest some noteworthy projects for each.

#1. Aquaculture:

Aquaculture, as defined by National Geographic in its article “The Art and Science of Agriculture,” refers to the art and science of cultivating marine or freshwater life for food and industry. This complex field involves both art and science, as it requires a deep understanding of the biology and ecology of aquatic organisms, as well as advanced technologies for maintaining and controlling their growth and development. With the global demand for seafood on the rise, aquaculture is increasingly seen as a crucial component of sustainable food production and a way to alleviate pressure on wild fisheries says Our World in Data. The following are some noteworthy aquaculture projects:

• Bangus Farming

• Tilapia Farming

• Catfish Production

• Shrimp Production

#2. Agriculture:

Agriculture refers to the art and science of cultivating the soil, growing crops and raising livestock, according to the same National Geographic article “The Art and Science of Agriculture.” It is both an art and a science, requiring a deep understanding of the natural systems that support plant and animal life, as well as advanced techniques for managing these systems in ways that promote sustainable food production. While agriculture has played a vital role in human civilization for thousands of years, it is facing new challenges in the modern era, including climate change, soil degradation, and water scarcity. As such, there is an increasing need for innovative and sustainable approaches to agriculture that can meet the growing demand for food while protecting the planet's natural resources. The following are some agri-business ideas falling under this category:

• Cacao Production

• Dragon Fruit Farming

• Herbs and Spices

• Mais Production

#3. Livestock:

Livestock, as defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, refers to domesticated animals that are primarily raised to provide a wide range of goods and services, such as meat, milk, eggs, hides, fibers, feathers, and traction. The livestock systems encompass all aspects of the supply and utilization of these commodities, including the availability and distribution of livestock, the various production methods employed, assessments of current and future consumption and production levels, the individuals involved in livestock production, and the advantages and consequences of raising livestock. One can consider various projects related to livestock and poultry production, which may include:

• Chicken and Layer Poultry

• Duck Farming

• Goat Production

• Hog and Cattle Raising

• Rabbit Production

#4. Horticulture:

Horticulture is defined as that branch of agriculture concerned with growing plants that are used by people for food, medicinal purposes, and aesthetic gratification, according to the definition provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The following are some agri-business ventures falling under this category: 

• Moringa

• Vegetables and Fruits

• Azolla Farming

• Landscaping

#5. Sustainable Agricultural Practices:

Multiple definitions for sustainable agricultural practices exist, but they are mostly complementary to each other. Three of these definitions are listed below:

According to an article on Greentumble.com titled “10 Sustainable Agriculture Methods and Farming Practices,” sustainable agriculture is defined as a food system that emphasizes local production, reduces chemical use, conserves energy and water, and values biodiversity. This type of agriculture must prioritize the needs of people by providing nutrient-rich food and improving rural quality of life, while also being profitable and incorporating ecologically sound farming practices that promote healthy biodiversity and resource management.

Meanwhile, sustainable agricultural practices involve the efficient use of natural resources, reducing the impact of agriculture on the environment, and increasing the capacity to adapt to climate change. These practices include crop rotation, increased crop diversity, use of cover crops, no-till and reduced-till systems, integrated pest management (IPM), integration of livestock and crops, sustainable agroforestry practices, and precision farming. Proper management of natural systems and resources is necessary to achieve environmental sustainability in agriculture, which can provide important public goods through ecosystem services. This definition was an adaptation from an excerpt from the new policy brief “Achieving sustainable agricultural practices: From incentives to adoption and outcomes” by Valeria Piñeiro, Joaquín Arias, Pablo Elverdin, Ana María Ibáñez, Cristian Morales Opazo, Steve Prager, and Máximo Torero. The brief is drawn from “A Scoping Review on Incentives for Adoption of Sustainable Agricultural Practices and Their Outcomes,” (Piñeiro et al. 2020, Nature Sustainability).

Finally, the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture says that sustainable agricultural practices are intended to protect the environment, expand the Earth’s natural resource base, and maintain and improve soil fertility. Based on a multi-pronged goal, sustainable agriculture seeks to:

• Increase profitable farm income.
• Promote environmental stewardship.
• Enhance the quality of life for farm families and communities.
• Increase production for human food and fiber needs.

Marginal Investor will focus on three subcategories of sustainable agricultural practices in this post. These money-making projects are:

• Soilless sustainable farming systems: 

This involves the use of soilless systems such as aeroponics, aquaponics, and hydroponics to grow crops using significantly less water and land compared to traditional farming methods. This reduces the environmental impact of crop production, particularly in areas with limited water resources or poor soil quality.

• Fungi-based sustainable production: 

This refers to the cultivation of fungi such as mushrooms using environmentally friendly methods. Fungi-based production is a sustainable alternative to meat production and has a lower environmental impact than conventional livestock farming.

• Soil-based sustainable production: 

This involves the use of sustainable soil management practices such as vermicomposting and vermiculture. These practices improve soil fertility and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can harm the environment and human health.

Note: Our categories are just one possible way to group these agriculture-related topics, and other groupings are also possible.

Related page: 

AGRI-BUSINESS | Exploring Investment Opportunities in Agri-business: Investing in Farmland and Agri-business Companies