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Investing app concerns: need for transparency in spreads

Users Raise Questions | Struggles with Investment App Spreads

By

Zoe Chang

Jan 21, 2026, 08:37 PM

Edited By

Elena Ivanova

2 minutes to read

A smartphone displaying a trading app with fluctuating graphs and highlighted price spreads, indicating concerns about hidden costs.

A growing number of people are expressing frustration over significant spreads when opening and closing positions in investment apps like Revolut. Complaints highlight hidden costs of up to 50 EUR per trade, leading users to seek alternatives for more volatile investments.

Context and Concerns

Despite its convenience, users are opening up about the challenges they’re facing with spread costs on the app. Users have reported that the disparity between market prices and execution prices is substantial, often leading to losses that could be avoided with clearer pricing.

One user stated, "That €10-50 hit is probably a combo of price slippage and FX fees." Users suggest that limit orders might help reduce slippage, but they still face FX markup issues.

Another added, "I’m a Metal user and have some money invested through Revolut. I don’t see any fees unless I go over the no-commission trade limit." However, others in need of features like futures and options are left wanting more from the app.

Key Themes Emerging from User Feedback

  • Hidden Costs and Pricing Transparency

    Users are calling for clarity regarding execution prices, noting that much of their losses stem from undisclosed spreads.

  • Comparative Experiences with Other Brokers

    Many users are exploring alternatives such as IBKR, Degiro, Lightyear, and Trade Republic to find better options that might offer improved transparency and lower fees.

  • User Features vs. Convenience

    There's an evident shift towards seeking platforms that balance convenience with ample features for active trading, suggesting a potential market gap.

"Using limit orders instead of market orders will stop the slippage" - A reassured user’s insight.

Key Takeaways

  • πŸ“‰ Significant variations in spreads can lead to losses up to 50 EUR per trade.

  • πŸ” "I’d like to move to an investing app that has a much more transparent spread." - Calls for clarity are growing.

  • 🌟 Users are actively exploring other platforms for better investing experiences.

As this situation develops, are investment apps adequately addressing user concerns, or is there a bigger flaw in their pricing strategies? The landscape of trading apps may soon see changes if user feedback continues to push for better practices.

Future Impacts of User Feedback on Investment Apps

There’s a strong chance that investment apps will start implementing more transparent pricing models in response to growing user dissatisfaction. With complaints about spreads averaging 50 EUR per trade, companies may improve their communication about execution prices to retain customers. Experts estimate around a 60% probability that platforms will integrate features like limit orders and clearer fee structures within the next year. This shift will likely be fueled by competition, as users actively seek alternatives that provide better value and transparency.

Lessons from the Shipping Container Revolution

In the mid-20th century, the shipping industry underwent a complex transformation with the introduction of containers that revolutionized trade. Initially met with skepticism over new pricing models and logistical challenges, many companies faced backlash until they adapted to new expectations for transparency and efficiency. Just like today's investment apps, the shipping firms had to confront user demands for clarity in costs and services. This historical shift reminds us that when faced with enough pressure from the people, industries can evolve remarkably to meet demands.