Futures Trading with Flexibility
NinjaTrader is a futures-focused brokerage offering low commissions, award-winning trading platforms, and a suite of customizable tools for traders. Regulated by the CFTC and NFA, it provides simulated trading, no deposit minimums, and mobile, desktop, and web access—ideal for both beginners and professionals seeking cost-effective futures trading.
Expert Reviewer Verdict
NinjaTrader stands out as a go-to platform for futures traders who prioritize low costs, advanced charting, and customization. With no deposit minimums and commissions as low as $0.09 per contract, it’s an appealing option for both beginners and experienced professionals. The platform offers desktop, web, and mobile trading, along with simulated trading for strategy testing. A major advantage is its flexibility—traders can enhance their experience with thousands of third-party add-ons or develop custom solutions. However, its futures-only offering may limit those seeking forex or stock trading beyond futures contracts. Regulated by the CFTC and NFA, NinjaTrader also provides strong compliance measures, making it a secure and competitive choice in the futures brokerage space.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No Deposit Minimum
- Low Commissions ($0.09/contract)
- Award-Winning Trading Platforms
- Simulated Trading Available
- Extensive Customization Options
Cons
- Futures-Only Trading Available
- 1% Currency Conversion Fee
- Desktop Platform Unavailable on Mac
Trust and Safety
Regulated & Secure Futures Trading
NinjaTrader operates under strict regulatory oversight, ensuring a secure trading environment for its users. It is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the National Futures Association (NFA), two of the most recognized financial regulatory bodies in the U.S. These authorities enforce compliance, reducing risks related to fraud and unethical practices. To further enhance security, NinjaTrader follows industry standards for client fund protection, adhering to segregated account requirements that keep customer deposits separate from the company’s operational funds. This safeguard ensures traders’ money remains protected even in the event of financial distress.
With robust regulatory backing and a commitment to fund security, NinjaTrader offers traders peace of mind, making it a reliable choice for futures trading.
Regulatory Body |
Status |
ASIC |
No |
CySEC |
No |
DFSA |
No |
EFSA |
No |
FCA |
No |
FMA |
No |
FSA (SC) |
No |
FSCA |
No |
FSC |
No |
JFSA |
No |
MAS |
No |
MiFID |
No |
Tradable Instruments
Diverse Futures Offerings
NinjaTrader specializes in futures trading, offering a range of contract types across multiple asset classes. Traders can access indices, energy, cryptocurrencies, metals, and treasuries, making it a versatile platform for those focused on futures markets. Unlike traditional stock or forex brokers, NinjaTrader does not support direct equity or spot forex trading, which may limit some investors.
With 100+ available assets, the platform provides exposure to key global markets, allowing traders to speculate on price movements in commodities, crypto, and financial indices. This focus makes NinjaTrader a strong choice for futures traders looking for low-cost execution, advanced charting, and professional tools. However, those seeking a broader selection of instruments outside futures will need to look elsewhere.
Trading Instrument |
Available |
COMMODITIES |
Yes |
CURRENCIES |
No |
CRYPTOCURRENCIES |
Yes |
ETF |
No |
FUTURES |
Yes |
INDICES |
Yes |
STOCKS |
No |
BONDS |
No |
OPTIONS |
No |
Account Types
Accounts for All Experience Levels
NinjaTrader offers a single type of trading account designed to accommodate both beginners and professional traders. With no deposit minimums, it is accessible to traders of all levels, including those new to futures trading. The platform’s simulated trading feature allows users to practice risk-free before transitioning to live markets.
The account is suitable for U.S. traders and provides access to low-cost futures trading with commissions starting at just $0.09 per contract. Additionally, traders can customize their experience with thousands of third-party add-ons or develop their own tools, making it highly flexible.
While it excels in futures trading, NinjaTrader does not offer specialized account types for different asset classes or managed accounts, which may be a drawback for some investors.
Account Type |
Available |
DEMO ACCOUNT |
Yes |
ISLAMIC ACCOUNT |
No |
SEGREGATED ACCOUNT |
Yes |
MANAGED ACCOUNT |
No |
SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS |
Yes |
SUITABLE FOR PROFESSIONALS |
Yes |
US TRADER |
Yes |
Commission and Fees
Low-Cost Futures Trading
NinjaTrader offers competitive pricing for futures traders, with low commissions and no deposit minimums. While the platform keeps trading costs low, traders should be aware of additional fees, including inactivity and withdrawal charges.
Account Minimum
There is no deposit minimum, making NinjaTrader accessible to traders of all levels. However, intraday margins start at $50 per contract.
Trading Fees
NinjaTrader charges a $0.09 commission per contract and a $0.15 clearing fee per contract, making it one of the most cost-effective futures brokers.
CFD Fees
NinjaTrader does not charge CFD fees.
Forex Fees
NinjaTrader does not support forex trading, so no forex fees apply.
Futures Fees
Futures trading incurs a $0.09 commission per contract, plus a $0.15 clearing fee per contract.
Account Fee
There are no account maintenance fees.
Inactivity Fee
A $25 inactivity fee applies to accounts that log in but do not place a trade in a given month.
Deposit Fee
ACH and incoming wire transfers are free, but bounced checks incur a $30 fee.
Withdrawal Fee
ACH and debit withdrawals are free, while domestic wire transfers incur a $30 fee. International wire transfers cost 30 units of the originating currency.
Overnight Funding Fee
NinjaTrader does not charge overnight funding fees.
Currency Conversion Fee
A 1% fee applies to currency conversions, with a minimum charge of 10 units of the currency being sold.
Guaranteed Stop Order Fee
NinjaTrader does not charge a guaranteed stop order fee.
Trading Platforms
Seamless Multi-Device Trading
NinjaTrader provides a versatile trading experience with desktop, web, and mobile platforms. Designed for both beginners and professionals, the platform offers award-winning tools, simulated trading, and extensive customization options.
Mobile Trading Apps
NinjaTrader supports mobile trading on iOS and Android, ensuring traders can access markets on the go. The mobile app offers seamless integration with the desktop and web platforms, allowing for a fluid trading experience across devices.
Web Trading Apps
The web-based platform is accessible via Apple and Google browsers, providing a flexible trading environment without requiring downloads. It offers real-time market access and key features for active traders.
Desktop Trading Apps
NinjaTrader’s desktop platform is available for Windows and Mac, offering advanced charting, strategy automation, and customization with third-party add-ons. It is an ideal choice for traders who need powerful analytical tools and a stable trading environment.
Trading Platform |
Available |
MT4 |
No |
MT5 |
Yes |
CTRADER |
No |
PROPRIETARY |
No |
Desktop and Web Platform |
Available |
DESKTOP WINDOWS |
Yes |
DESKTOP MAC |
Yes |
WEB PLATFORM |
Yes |
Mobile Platform |
Available |
ANDROID |
Yes |
iOS |
Yes |
Unique Features
Advanced Futures Trading Tools
NinjaTrader sets itself apart with award-winning trading platforms that cater to both beginners and experienced traders. Its simulated trading feature allows users to test strategies risk-free before committing real capital.
One of its standout features is extensive customization, offering access to thousands of third-party add-ons or the ability to develop your own trading tools. This makes it highly adaptable for traders seeking a personalized trading experience. With low commissions ($0.09 per contract) and no deposit minimums, NinjaTrader provides an affordable entry into futures trading. The platform is available on desktop, web, and mobile, ensuring seamless access across devices. For traders looking for a feature-rich futures platform, NinjaTrader delivers a powerful, flexible, and cost-effective trading environment.
Research and Education
Learn & Trade with Confidence
NinjaTrader provides traders with comprehensive learning resources to enhance their trading skills. The platform offers simulated trading, allowing users to practice strategies in a risk-free environment before entering live markets.
Traders can access educational tools through the NinjaTrader Learn portal, which includes tutorials, guides, and platform walkthroughs. These resources cater to both beginners and experienced traders, helping them maximize the platform’s advanced features.
With a focus on customization, NinjaTrader supports thousands of third-party add-ons, enabling traders to refine their strategies. Additionally, its award-winning trading platforms come with built-in analytical tools to support data-driven decision-making. For those seeking a cost-effective futures trading experience, NinjaTrader combines education, advanced tools, and simulated trading to help traders succeed.
Customer Support
24/5 Expert Support for Traders
NinjaTrader offers comprehensive customer support, ensuring traders receive assistance whenever needed. Support is available through chat, email, and phone, allowing users to connect via their preferred method. The platform provides 24/5 technical support, making it accessible throughout the trading week.
For those looking to enhance their platform knowledge, NinjaTrader’s Learn portal offers tutorials and guides to help traders navigate its tools efficiently. Whether troubleshooting technical issues or seeking guidance on platform features, traders can expect responsive and knowledgeable support. With a commitment to user experience, NinjaTrader ensures that both new and experienced traders have access to the assistance they need to trade confidently.
Account Opening
Simple and Secure Registration
NinjaTrader offers a quick and user-friendly account opening process, ensuring traders can start trading futures with ease. The entire process is fully online, making it convenient for users worldwide.
Registration: New users begin by creating an account with their email address, followed by an email confirmation to verify their identity.
Verification: Traders must provide personal and financial information, including their trading experience and affiliations. An identity verification check is also required to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Document Upload: As part of the process, users must review and acknowledge terms and risk disclosures, then provide an electronic signature to finalize the account setup.
With no deposit minimums, NinjaTrader makes futures trading accessible to both beginners and professionals, while maintaining strong security measures and regulatory compliance.
Deposit and Withdrawals
Fast and Flexible Transactions
NinjaTrader provides a hassle-free funding process with zero deposit fees and multiple withdrawal options. Whether depositing or withdrawing, traders have access to secure and efficient transaction methods.
Deposits: Traders can fund their accounts using ACH transfers or wire transfers, both of which are free. This ensures a cost-effective way to start trading. However, a bounced check incurs a $30 fee, so traders should ensure sufficient funds when making payments.
Withdrawals: ACH and debit card withdrawals are completely free, making them the most cost-effective options. Domestic wire transfers incur a $30 fee, while international wire transfers cost 30 units of the originating currency.
With low-cost funding and flexible withdrawal options, NinjaTrader ensures a seamless transaction experience for futures traders, helping them focus on trading without worrying about excessive fees.
Final Thoughts
NinjaTrader is a cost-effective and feature-rich platform designed specifically for futures traders. With no deposit minimums, low commissions ($0.09 per contract), and award-winning trading platforms, it offers an attractive option for both beginners and professionals. The platform’s customization capabilities, including thousands of third-party add-ons, set it apart from competitors.
However, its futures-only focus may be a limitation for traders looking for stocks, forex, or options. Additionally, traders should be aware of the $25 inactivity fee and wire transfer withdrawal costs.
Regulated by the CFTC and NFA, NinjaTrader ensures a secure trading environment, with segregated accounts protecting client funds. Its desktop, web, and mobile platforms provide a seamless trading experience, and the availability of simulated trading helps users refine their strategies.
Contact Info
222 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 1450 Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
FAQs
-
Question: Does NinjaTrader Have a Minimum Deposit Requirement?
Answer: No, NinjaTrader has no deposit minimum, making it accessible for traders of all experience levels. However, intraday margins start at $50 per contract. -
Question: What Trading Instruments Are Available on NinjaTrader?
Answer: NinjaTrader specializes in futures trading, offering commodities, cryptocurrencies, indices, and treasury futures. It does not support stocks, forex, or options. -
Question: What Are NinjaTrader’s Trading Fees?
Answer: NinjaTrader charges a $0.09 commission per contract and a $0.15 clearing fee per contract. There are no CFD or forex fees, but traders should note the $25 inactivity fee. -
Question: Does NinjaTrader Offer a Demo Account?
Answer: Yes, NinjaTrader provides a simulated trading environment, allowing users to test strategies before trading live.