Stock markets in Argentina: alternatives to start investing from scratch

Argentina has experienced a significant change in access to stock markets in recent years. While historically regulatory barriers limited investment opportunities, today there is a wide variety of channels for those looking to buy stocks without requiring large initial capital.

The two fundamental decisions before investing

Every aspiring investor in Argentina must clarify two essential aspects:

First decision: Portfolio geography

Focus solely on Argentine companies or diversify across international markets? This choice is crucial because local economic crises can negatively impact the performance of all domestic companies simultaneously. Access to both markets allows for smarter risk distribution.

Second decision: Management style

There are two contrasting approaches: passive investing involves depositing funds into products that generate automatic returns with minimal investor intervention. Platforms like IEB+, Front, and Ualá offer mutual funds where you don’t need to make daily decisions. In contrast, active investing requires you to select what to buy, when to sell, and how to maximize gains using tools like CFDs or leverage.

Where to invest: Banks versus trading platforms?

This distinction largely determines your experience as an investor.

Banking approach: Traditional banks act as conservative intermediaries. They offer access to stocks but are generally oriented toward long-term strategies. Commissions range from about 0.62% to 1.09% per transaction. BBVA allows trading in domestic and international stocks with a 1.09% fee, Santander Río charges approximately 1%, Banco Galicia stands out with 0.62%, and Banco Macro is more focused on the Argentine market. This option is ideal if you value familiarity and simple money transfers between your bank account and investments.

Trading platform approach: These apps are designed for investors who want full control. They let you choose exactly what to buy, when, and provide tools to amplify returns. They are especially useful if you want to buy stocks with quick reaction capacity to market opportunities.

The best trading platforms to start

International options with higher potential

MiTrade: Stands out as a low-cost alternative. It requires only a $20 USD minimum deposit and charges no commissions per trade, earning profits solely through the spread (price difference). Offers access to stocks, indices, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies via CFDs, allowing leverage to magnify results. Its spread is competitive within the sector. Ideal for those seeking maximum profitability and willing to learn active trading.

eToro: Requires a $50 USD minimum deposit. Its strength lies in copy-trading, allowing you to automatically replicate successful traders’ operations. Although the spread is higher (making it less competitive for frequent trades), it provides exposure to international markets, cryptocurrencies, and multiple instruments. A less affordable but globally recognized option.

Local Argentine platforms

IEB+: No minimum balance required to start. Its free plan “Rookie” charges no commissions beyond the spread, though it limits operations to 250,000 pesos per month. For unrestricted trading, paid plans start at 2,500 pesos monthly (charged only if you trade). To access US markets, the “Global Markets” plan costs $20 USD per month. Offers stocks, ETFs, CEDEARs, ADRs, bonds, and options. A comprehensive solution for those who want to stay focused on Spanish-speaking markets.

Front: Emerged as a reference during the pandemic, with 75% of users being first-time investors. No minimum balance required, and it stands out for personalized attention and automated fund management options. Fees vary: investment funds charge between 1.5% and 3.1% annually, custody fees between 0.3% and 0.6%, and direct trades 0.08% per transaction. Especially friendly for beginners and those who prefer delegating decisions.

Ualá: Also Argentine, with a minimum deposit of $10 USD for direct trading ($5 USD to sell) or just $1 USD if you prefer mutual funds. Facilitates access to both Argentine and US markets via CEDEARs. Offers seven mutual funds for passive income seekers. Its interface is extremely intuitive, though the spread is moderately high.

Quick comparison: Which to choose based on your profile?

Strategy according to your investor type

If you are conservative or a beginner: Argentine platforms (IEB+, Front, Ualá) or online banking are your best bet. They offer mutual funds where you deposit money and receive automatic returns. The yield is modest but requires no expertise or daily dedication.

If you seek active profitability: MiTrade is your gateway. With just $20 USD, you can start trading stocks, indices, forex, and cryptocurrencies via CFDs. Leverage allows you to multiply gains (though also risks). Ideal if you have time to learn and are willing to take control of each trade.

If you want automated delegation: eToro via copy-trading or Front via personalized management allow others to make decisions for you. You pay an additional fee in exchange for not having to monitor constantly.

If you prioritize local markets: Ualá and Front are options that respect Argentine regulation while offering international access. Less friction in local bank transfers and customer service in Spanish.

Three steps to start trading

1. Register: Choose the platform according to your profile and open an account (requires identity verification)
2. Deposit initial capital: Transfer from your bank. The minimum can be as low as $1 USD in Ualá or $20 USD in MiTrade
3. Make your first trade: Find the stock you’re interested in and execute the purchase, starting with small amounts while you learn

The reality is that how to buy stocks in Argentina today has multiple valid answers. It all depends on how much control you want to exercise, your available capital, and whether you prioritize quick profitability or long-term security. International platforms amplify potential but require more discipline. Local ones offer regulatory familiarity and simplicity. The best decision is the one that aligns with your time capacity, knowledge, and risk tolerance.