[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]On 27 July 2026, CME Group launched single stock futures (SSFs) on 55 major US companies, including Nvidia, Tesla, Apple and SpaceX, and a first wave of futures brokers made the contracts available from day one. SSFs let you go long or short on individual stocks with the capital efficiency of futures, 23 hours a day, but they are leveraged products, which makes the choice of broker, its costs, platform and data fees, genuinely important.
Below we compare the best brokers currently offering CME single stock futures to US traders. Every broker on this list is registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) or introduces to a registered Futures Commission Merchant, and is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA).
For broader comparisons, see our guides to the best futures trading platforms and the best futures brokers for beginners.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=”” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
Best brokers for single stock futures
[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all” class=”inv_list_row”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”iitw_new_ol” text_direction=”default”]
- Plus500US: Best for beginners and low all-in costs
- Optimus Futures: Best for platform choice and personalized service
- NinjaTrader: Best platform and lowest commissions for active traders
- Charles Schwab: Best for SSFs inside a full brokerage account
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”body_size_small”]Disclaimer: Futures trading involves substantial risk of loss.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][pirenko_fintech_award review_id=”32115″ title=”#1 Best for beginners and low all-in costs” line1_left=”Commissions from $0.49 per Micro contract” line2_left=”No market data, platform or inactivity fees” line3_left=”Minimum deposit of $10 and unlimited demo account” cust_field_left_fst=”currency_conversion_fee” cust_field_left_scd=”fractional_shares” cust_field_middle_fst=”regulators” cust_field_middle_scd=”unninvested” cust_field_right_fst=”products_and_markets” cust_field_top=”about_text” cust_field_top_title=”Plus500 Futures Summary”][pirenko_fintech_award review_id=”87468″ show_badge=”no” title=”#2 Best for platform choice and personalized service” line1_left=”Wide choice of platforms: Optimus Flow, TradingView, Sierra Chart and more” line2_left=”Low day trading margins and competitive commissions” line3_left=”Hands-on support from real futures specialists” cust_field_left_fst=”currency_conversion_fee” cust_field_left_scd=”fractional_shares” cust_field_middle_fst=”regulators” cust_field_middle_scd=”unninvested” cust_field_right_fst=”products_and_markets” cust_field_top=”about_text” cust_field_top_title=”Optimus Futures Summary”][pirenko_fintech_award review_id=”86123″ show_badge=”no” title=”#3 Best platform and lowest commissions for active traders” line1_left=”Commissions from $0.09 per Micro contract (Lifetime license)” line2_left=”SuperDOM, order flow tools and unlimited simulated trading” line3_left=”No minimum deposit” cust_field_left_fst=”currency_conversion_fee” cust_field_left_scd=”fractional_shares” cust_field_middle_fst=”regulators” cust_field_middle_scd=”unninvested” cust_field_right_fst=”products_and_markets” cust_field_top=”about_text” cust_field_top_title=”NinjaTrader Summary”][pirenko_fintech_award review_id=”24076″ show_badge=”no” title=”#4 Best for SSFs inside a full brokerage account” line1_left=”Futures alongside stocks, ETFs and options in one account” line2_left=”thinkorswim platform with paperMoney simulator” line3_left=”No minimum deposit” cust_field_left_fst=”currency_conversion_fee” cust_field_left_scd=”fractional_shares” cust_field_middle_fst=”regulators” cust_field_middle_scd=”unninvested” cust_field_right_fst=”products_and_markets” cust_field_top=”about_text” cust_field_top_title=”Charles Schwab Summary”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=”” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” offset=”vc_hidden-sm vc_hidden-xs” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1785837420894{margin-right: 30px !important;}” text_direction=”default”]
Comparison of the best brokers for single stock futures
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”full_width_content” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” class=”iitw_1170″ advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=”” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” el_class=”iitw_1170″ advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” offset=”vc_hidden-sm vc_hidden-xs” gradient_type=”default”][iitw_broker_advanced_table table_columns=”%5B%7B%22title%22%3A%22Broker%22%2C%22cust_field%22%3A%22post_title%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22SSF%20commissions%20(from)%22%2C%22cust_field%22%3A%22custom_info%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22Minimum%20deposit%22%2C%22cust_field%22%3A%22custom_info%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22Market%20data%22%2C%22cust_field%22%3A%22custom_info%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22Platforms%22%2C%22cust_field%22%3A%22custom_info%22%7D%5D” table_lines=”%5B%7B%22table_review%22%3A%2232115%22%2C%22custom_title_1%22%3A%22%240.49%20Micro%20%2F%20%240.89%20standard%20%28per%20side%29%22%2C%22custom_title_2%22%3A%22%2410%22%2C%22custom_title_3%22%3A%22Free%22%2C%22custom_title_4%22%3A%22WebTrader%20%28web%20and%20mobile%29%22%7D%2C%7B%22table_review%22%3A%2287468%22%2C%22custom_title_1%22%3A%22Varies%20by%20platform%20and%20clearing%20firm%22%2C%22custom_title_2%22%3A%22Varies%22%2C%22custom_title_3%22%3A%22Varies%20by%20platform%22%2C%22custom_title_4%22%3A%22Optimus%20Flow%2C%20TradingView%2C%20Sierra%20Chart%20and%20more%22%7D%2C%7B%22table_review%22%3A%2286123%22%2C%22custom_title_1%22%3A%22%240.39%20Micro%20%2F%20%241.29%20standard%20%28per%20side%2C%20free%20plan%29%22%2C%22custom_title_2%22%3A%22%240%22%2C%22custom_title_3%22%3A%22From%20%2412%2Fmonth%20%28CME%20Level%20I%20bundle%29%22%2C%22custom_title_4%22%3A%22NinjaTrader%20desktop%2C%20web%20and%20mobile%22%7D%2C%7B%22table_review%22%3A%2224076%22%2C%22custom_title_1%22%3A%22%242.25%20per%20contract%20%28per%20side%29%22%2C%22custom_title_2%22%3A%22%240%22%2C%22custom_title_3%22%3A%22Exchange%20fees%20may%20apply%22%2C%22custom_title_4%22%3A%22thinkorswim%20desktop%2C%20web%20and%20mobile%22%7D%5D” table_columns_2=”%5B%7B%7D%5D” table_lines_2=”%5B%7B%7D%5D”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Commissions exclude exchange, clearing and NFA (National Futures Association) fees, which every broker passes on. Data checked on each broker’s website in October 2026.
Single stock futures at a glance
Before choosing a broker, it helps to know what you are trading. These are the main contract terms, according to CME Group:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
| Feature | CME single stock futures |
| Underlying stocks | 55 US stocks (22 also available as Micro contracts) |
| Contract size | 100 shares (standard) or 10 shares (Micro) |
| Settlement | Cash-settled, no delivery of shares |
| Trading hours | 23 hours a day, Sunday to Friday |
| Expiries | Quarterly (March, June, September, December), two consecutive quarters listed |
| Last trading day | Third Friday of the contract month, 4:00 p.m. ET |
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”body_size_small” text_direction=”default”]
Source: CME Group single stock futures, October 2026.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
How much does it cost to trade single stock futures?
Commissions are charged per side, so a round trip (opening and closing a position) costs twice the headline rate. For one Micro contract, the broker commissions alone come to:
- Plus500US: $0.98 ($0.49 per side), with no market data fees.
- NinjaTrader (free plan): $0.78 ($0.39 per side), plus market data from $12 a month for the CME Level I bundle and a $0.19 per contract clearing fee.
- Charles Schwab: $4.50 ($2.25 per side).
For an occasional trader placing a handful of trades a month, monthly data fees can cost more than the commissions, which is why we compare the all-in cost rather than the headline rate.
There are other brokers on CME Group’s list of firms offering SSFs, including TradeStation, Blue Line Futures, Edge Clear, iBroker and Lincoln Park Financial. For a list of brokers we do not recommend, you can visit our full list of brokers.
Other resources
- Check our Youtube channel! You will find step-by-step guides of how to invest through different trading platforms, as well as other educational videos about trading and brokers.
- Explore our tools: Check our comparison tool, broker bonuses, broker interest rates, BrokerMatch, and others.
Broker reviews
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”plus500-futures” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][pirenko_fintech title=”Plus500US at a glance” review_id=”32115″ logo=”22941″ line1_left=”Products” line1_right=”Futures on 8 asset classes, including Single Stock Futures, plus Prediction Markets” line2_left=”SSF commissions” line2_right=”$0.49 per Micro contract / $0.89 per standard contract (per side)” line3_left=”Regulators” line3_right=”CFTC-registered FCM, NFA member (ID 0001398), CME clearing member” line4_left=”Minimum deposit” line4_right=”$10″ line5_left=”Demo Account” line5_right=”Available, unlimited” button_link=”https://investingintheweb.com/visit/plus500futures” link_text=”Visit Plus500 Futures”][/pirenko_fintech][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Plus500US (Plus500US Financial Services LLC) is a Futures Commission Merchant registered with the CFTC, a member of the NFA (ID number 0001398) and a CME clearing member, and it was one of the first brokers live with single stock futures on launch day. You will find the contracts under the “Single Stocks” and “Micro Single Stocks” sectors of its WebTrader platform, covering names like Nvidia, Tesla, Apple and SpaceX.
What makes it stand out for someone starting with SSFs is the total cost of getting going: commissions start at $0.49 per Micro contract per side, there are no market data fees (most futures brokers charge monthly data subscriptions that can exceed your commission bill), the minimum deposit is just $10, and there are no inactivity, platform or routing fees, according to its fees page. Exchange fees and an NFA fee of $0.02 per side apply on top.[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”91369″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
The unlimited demo account lets you practice trading Nvidia or SpaceX futures before risking a cent. The platform itself is deliberately simple: watchlists, alerts, basic technical analysis and three order types (Market, Limit, Stop) with attachable Take Profit and Stop Loss. Advanced traders may miss depth-of-market tools, but for directional SSF trading, especially around earnings, it covers what matters.
The parent group is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: PLUS). The main limitations: it is only available to US residents, a $10 auto-liquidation fee applies per contract if you do not close a position before expiration, and only the first withdrawal each month is free (after that, 1.75%, from $1 to $150).
[/vc_column_text][pirenko_fintech_pros_cons review_id=”32115″ pros_text=”Low commissions from $0.49 per Micro contract
No market data fees
Minimum deposit of $10 and unlimited demo account
Single Stock Futures available from day one, including SpaceX” cons_text=”Only available to US residents
No depth-of-market or advanced charting tools
$10 auto-liquidation fee at expiration”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Want to know more? Check our Plus500US review and visit Plus500’s website.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”body_size_small” text_direction=”default”]Futures trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for every investor. You may lose more than your initial investment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”optimus-futures” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][pirenko_fintech title=”Optimus Futures at a glance” review_id=”87468″ logo=”22941″ line1_left=”Products” line1_right=”Futures across all major CME Group asset classes, including Single Stock Futures” line2_left=”Commissions” line2_right=”Vary by platform and clearing firm, generally competitive discount pricing” line3_left=”Regulators” line3_right=”NFA-registered Introducing Broker, clearing through CFTC-registered FCMs” line4_left=”Minimum deposit” line4_right=”Low, varies by clearing firm” line5_left=”Demo Account” line5_right=”Available” button_link=”https://investingintheweb.com/visit/optimusfutures” link_text=”Visit Optimus Futures”][/pirenko_fintech][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
Optimus Futures is an NFA-registered Introducing Broker that routes to multiple CFTC-registered clearing firms and made CME single stock futures available to its clients from launch. Its defining strength is flexibility: instead of being locked into one front-end, you can trade SSFs through the proprietary Optimus Flow platform or pair your account with TradingView, Sierra Chart, MultiCharts and a long list of other professional platforms, choosing the tool that fits your workflow.
Commissions depend on the platform and clearing combination you choose and are generally competitive for a discount futures broker, with low day trading margins available on many contracts.
[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”91372″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
Where Optimus consistently earns praise is service: real futures specialists who answer the phone, help configure your platform and data setup, and guide you through contract specs and margin questions. That matters more than usual with a brand-new product like single stock futures, where margins, symbols and liquidity are still settling in the first months after launch.
For traders who want more control over their setup than an all-in-one app offers, without jumping straight to professional clearing relationships, Optimus sits in a sweet spot.
[/vc_column_text][pirenko_fintech_pros_cons pros_text=”Wide choice of trading platforms and data feeds
Personalized support from futures specialists
Low day trading margins and competitive discount pricing
Access to multiple clearing firms” cons_text=”Pricing varies by setup rather than one published rate
Choice of platforms and clearing can overwhelm complete beginners” table_pros=”%5B%7B%7D%5D” table_cons=”%5B%7B%7D%5D”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Want to know more? Check our Optimus Futures review and visit Optimus Futures’ website.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”body_size_small” text_direction=”default”]Futures trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for every investor. You may lose more than your initial investment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”ninjatrader” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][pirenko_fintech title=”NinjaTrader at a glance” review_id=”86123″ logo=”22941″ line1_left=”Products” line1_right=”Futures across CME Group asset classes, including Single Stock Futures” line2_left=”Commissions” line2_right=”$0.39 Micro / $1.29 standard per side (free plan); from $0.09 / $0.59 with Lifetime license” line3_left=”Regulators” line3_right=”NinjaTrader Clearing, LLC: CFTC-registered FCM, NFA member (ID 0309379)” line4_left=”Minimum deposit” line4_right=”$0″ line5_left=”Demo Account” line5_right=”Available, unlimited simulated trading” button_link=”https://ninjatrader.com” link_text=”Visit NinjaTrader”][/pirenko_fintech][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
NinjaTrader, now owned by Payward, the company behind Kraken, made CME single stock futures available to eligible users on launch day and brings the most aggressive commission structure in the industry for high-volume traders. On the free plan, you pay $0.39 per Micro and $1.29 per standard contract per side, the $99 a month plan drops that to $0.29 and $0.99, and the one-time $1,499 Lifetime license unlocks $0.09 per Micro and $0.59 per standard contract, the lowest per-trade rates on this list, according to its pricing page.
[/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”91375″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
The platform is the real differentiator: the SuperDOM depth-of-market ladder for one-click order entry, advanced charting, order flow tools, automated strategy support and unlimited simulated trading. There is no minimum deposit and day trading margins are among the lowest available.
The trade-offs: market data requires paid subscriptions (from $12 a month for the CME Level I bundle), free plan accounts pay a $35 inactivity fee for each 30-day period without live trades, and the platform’s learning curve is steep for newcomers, according to its account fees page. For active traders who will amortize the license through volume, though, nothing on this list beats it on cost per trade.
[/vc_column_text][pirenko_fintech_pros_cons pros_text=”Lowest commissions for volume traders (from $0.09 per Micro)
Professional-grade platform with SuperDOM and order flow tools
No minimum deposit and low day trading margins
Unlimited free simulated trading” cons_text=”Paid market data subscriptions
$35 inactivity fee on the free plan
Steep learning curve for beginners” table_pros=”%5B%7B%7D%5D” table_cons=”%5B%7B%7D%5D”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]Futures accounts are cleared through NinjaTrader Clearing, LLC, a CFTC-registered FCM (Futures Commission Merchant) and NFA member.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”body_size_small” text_direction=”default”]Futures trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for every investor. You may lose more than your initial investment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”charles-schwab” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][pirenko_fintech title=”Charles Schwab at a glance” review_id=”24076″ logo=”22941″ line1_left=”Products” line1_right=”Stocks, ETFs, options, bonds and futures, including Single Stock Futures” line2_left=”Futures commissions” line2_right=”$2.25 per contract, per side” line3_left=”Regulators” line3_right=”SEC / FINRA (brokerage) and CFTC / NFA (futures)” line4_left=”Minimum deposit” line4_right=”$0″ line5_left=”Demo Account” line5_right=”Available (paperMoney on thinkorswim)” button_link=”https://www.schwab.com/futures” link_text=”Visit Charles Schwab”][/pirenko_fintech][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
Charles Schwab is the only broker on this list where single stock futures sit alongside stocks, ETFs, options and retirement accounts under one roof. If you already invest with Schwab, adding futures approval to your account gives you SSF access through thinkorswim, one of the most complete retail trading platforms available, with the paperMoney simulator included for risk-free practice.
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Futures commissions are $2.25 per contract per side, according to Schwab’s futures page, notably higher than the futures specialists on this list, but you get Schwab’s research, 24/7 support and the convenience of managing your actual stock portfolio and your futures hedges from the same place. That combination is genuinely useful for investors who want to hedge single-name risk around earnings without selling shares, one of the most practical use cases for the new contracts.
Note that futures trading requires a separate approval on top of a standard Schwab brokerage account, additional market data fees can apply at some exchanges, and futures balances are not covered by SIPC (Securities Investor Protection Corporation) protection.
[/vc_column_text][pirenko_fintech_pros_cons pros_text=”SSFs alongside stocks, ETFs and options in one account
Excellent thinkorswim platform with paperMoney simulator
Strong research and 24/7 support
No minimum deposit” cons_text=”Higher commissions than futures specialists ($2.25 per side)
Futures approval required on top of the brokerage account” table_pros=”%5B%7B%7D%5D” table_cons=”%5B%7B%7D%5D”][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”body_size_small” text_direction=”default”]Futures trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for every investor. You may lose more than your initial investment. Futures accounts are not protected by SIPC.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”Hello” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]
How we chose the best brokers for single stock futures
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1785928710975{padding-top: 20px !important;}” text_direction=”default”]Our team has professional experience in finance and portfolio analysis, and we have reviewed well over 100 brokers and trading platforms since we started publishing comparisons. This ranking follows the same methodology we apply across the site.
First, availability and regulation: we started from CME Group’s official list of brokers supporting single stock futures, and only considered firms registered with the CFTC and NFA, or introducing brokers clearing through registered FCMs. The list keeps growing (TradeStation, for example, now appears on it), and we will update this comparison as more brokers add SSFs.
Second, total cost of trading: commissions, market data subscriptions, platform fees and non-trading charges (minimum deposits, inactivity and withdrawal fees), using each broker’s published pricing rather than headline claims. With futures, data fees in particular can quietly exceed commissions for occasional traders, so we weighted the all-in cost, not just the per-contract rate.
Third, platform quality for the product’s main use cases: directional trading and overnight earnings reactions. We assessed order types, charting, depth-of-market tools, mobile experience and demo accounts, and gave weight to support quality, which matters more than usual with a newly launched product where margins and contract specs are still settling.
Final thoughts
Plus500US leads as the most accessible way to start trading single stock futures, combining low commissions, no market data fees, a $10 minimum and an unlimited demo. Optimus Futures is the pick for traders who want platform flexibility with hands-on support, while NinjaTrader offers the lowest per-trade costs for high-volume traders willing to invest in the platform and Charles Schwab suits investors who want SSFs as a hedging tool inside a full brokerage account.
Whichever you choose, make sure you understand how single stock futures work, including margin, cash settlement and expiration mechanics, and start with a demo account. For related comparisons, see our guide to the best futures platforms for day trading.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”” el_class=”body_size_small” text_direction=”default”]This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation. Futures trading involves leverage and carries a substantial risk of loss, and you may lose more than your initial investment. Futures accounts are not protected by SIPC.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Forex and Money Market Senior dealer
Financial Markets, Banking and Finance Expert
