This 2026 guide provides a definitive Sharesies vs Hatch vs Stake comparison for New Zealand investors, navigating the competitive landscape of local and international share trading. We examine the big three platforms, breaking down essential features such as transaction fees, foreign exchange (FX) costs, and market access across the NZX, ASX, and Wall Street. Whether you are a beginner starting with $5 or an experienced trader seeking advanced tools like Stake Black, this article delivers actionable insights on fee structures—from Sharesies’ percentage-based model to the flat-fee approaches of Hatch and Stake. You will find practical advice on custody arrangements, tax obligations like the W-8BEN form, and how to choose a platform that aligns with your specific "lumpy" or "steady" investment habits.
The Evolution of NZ Share Trading Platforms in 2026
The New Zealand investment landscape has undergone a radical transformation, moving from high-fee traditional brokers to accessible, digital-first platforms. Sharesies remains the "supermarket" of investing for Kiwis, offering the broadest market access including New Zealand (NZX), Australia (ASX), and US markets. Hatch and Stake continue to specialize in the US markets, leveraging the infrastructure of US-based broker-dealer DriveWealth to provide access to over 6,000–9,500 stocks and ETFs. In 2026, the primary differentiator between these services is no longer just ease of use, but the total cost of ownership dictated by FX margins and transaction caps.
- Market Leader (Beginners): Sharesies is the most popular choice for entry-level investors due to its $0 minimum and "fun" interface.
- US Specialists: Hatch and Stake focus strictly on US equities, offering lower transaction fees for larger trades.
- Institutional Backing: Hatch is owned by global fintech FNZ, while Sharesies and Stake are privately held.
- Safety & Custody: All three platforms use separate custodian companies to hold investor assets, ensuring shares are safe even if the platform provider faces financial difficulty.
Market Leader (Beginners): Sharesies is the most popular choice for entry-level investors due to its $0 minimum and "fun" interface.
US Specialists: Hatch and Stake focus strictly on US equities, offering lower transaction fees for larger trades.
Institutional Backing: Hatch is owned by global fintech FNZ, while Sharesies and Stake are privately held.
Safety & Custody: All three platforms use separate custodian companies to hold investor assets, ensuring shares are safe even if the platform provider faces financial difficulty.
The Shift Toward Subscription and Value-Added Services
As the market matures, platforms are diversifying their revenue streams beyond simple brokerage. Sharesies now offers monthly subscription plans (ranging from $3 to $15) that cover transaction fees for specific investment volumes, aimed at regular "auto-investors". Stake offers "Stake Black," a premium tier for $15/month that provides analyst ratings, price targets, and the ability to trade on unsettled funds. This shift reflects a 2026 trend where platforms seek to provide a holistic "wealth development" environment rather than just a trading portal.
Detailed Fee Structure and Brokerage Comparison
When performing a Sharesies vs Hatch vs Stake fee analysis, the "best" choice depends heavily on your trade size. Sharesies uses a 1.9% transaction fee capped at $5 USD for US shares, $15 AUD for Australian shares, and $25 NZD for local shares. Hatch and Stake use a flat-fee model, typically charging $3 USD per trade. This means Sharesies is generally cheaper for very small trades (under ~$150 USD), while Hatch and Stake become significantly more cost-effective for "lumpy" investments of $500 or more.
| Feature | Sharesies | Hatch | Stake |
| NZX/ASX Access | Yes (Both) | No | No (US only in NZ) |
| US Brokerage | 1.9% (Capped at $5 USD) | $3 USD Flat | $3 USD Flat |
| FX Conversion Fee | 0.5% | 0.5% | 1.0% ($2 USD min) |
| Minimum Investment | $0.01 (Fractional) | $0.01 (Fractional) | $10 USD (Fractional) |
The "Silent Killer": Foreign Exchange Margins
While brokerage fees are the most visible cost, FX margins are often where the most significant fees are paid. Stake’s 1% FX fee is double that of Sharesies and Hatch (0.5%). For an investor depositing $10,000 NZD, Stake would charge $100 in currency conversion, whereas Hatch or Sharesies would charge only $50. This makes Stake the most expensive option for moving large amounts of capital into the US market, despite its competitive $3 brokerage fee.
Market Access and Investment Options
The most critical functional difference in the Sharesies vs Hatch vs Stake debate is what you can actually buy. Sharesies is the only one-stop-shop in the group, allowing Kiwis to hold Air New Zealand (NZX), Rio Tinto (ASX), and Tesla (NASDAQ) in one portfolio. Hatch and Stake are laser-focused on the US markets. While this limitation is a drawback for some, it allows Hatch and Stake to offer deeper US-specific features like access to Over-the-Counter (OTC) securities and a wider array of specialty ETFs.
- Sharesies: Access to NZX, ASX, NYSE, NASDAQ, and CBOE. Also offers managed funds and crypto.
- Hatch: Access to over 5,800+ US stocks and ETFs.
- Stake: Access to 9,500+ US stocks and ETFs.
- Direct Ownership: Hatch and Stake provide direct ownership (under a custodian), which often includes shareholder voting rights for full shares.
Sharesies: Access to NZX, ASX, NYSE, NASDAQ, and CBOE. Also offers managed funds and crypto.
Hatch: Access to over 5,800+ US stocks and ETFs.
Stake: Access to 9,500+ US stocks and ETFs.
Direct Ownership: Hatch and Stake provide direct ownership (under a custodian), which often includes shareholder voting rights for full shares.
Managed Funds and KiwiSaver Integration
Sharesies has expanded its ecosystem to include managed funds from providers like Milford and Pathfinder, as well as a dedicated KiwiSaver scheme. This makes it a powerful tool for those who want to integrate their long-term retirement savings with their active share trading. Hatch and Stake do not currently offer managed funds or KiwiSaver options in the New Zealand market, remaining strictly focused on self-directed equity trading. Read more in Wikipedia.
User Experience: Mobile App vs. Web Interface
In 2026, mobile accessibility is non-negotiable for the modern investor. Sharesies and Stake offer highly-rated mobile apps for both iOS and Android, designed with a focus on ease of navigation and "instant" feedback. Hatch, while recently introducing an app, remains strongly focused on its robust web platform, which is favored by many serious investors who prefer the screen real estate for technical analysis.
| Platform | Best For | Interface Type |
| Sharesies | Beginners & Families | Mobile App & Web (Gamified) |
| Stake | Active Day Traders | Mobile App & Web (Pro-Level) |
| Hatch | Long-term Buy & Hold | Web-First (Professional) |
Advanced Features for Power Users
Stake is the clear winner for active traders, providing extended hours trading (pre-market and after-hours) and advanced order types like stop-loss and limit orders. Hatch also provides limit and market orders as standard. Sharesies, while simpler, has introduced limit orders but is generally not used for day trading due to its slower settlement and lack of advanced technical charting. For many Kiwis, the simplicity of the Sharesies "auto-invest" function is more valuable than Stake's technical charts.
Understanding Custody and Platform Safety
A common concern in 2026 is what happens if a platform like Sharesies or Hatch shuts down. All three platforms utilize a "custodial" model. Your shares are not owned by the platform itself, but by a legally separate nominee or custodian company. For example, Sharesies uses "Sharesies Nominee Limited". If the brokerage firm goes bust, your investments are ring-fenced and cannot be used to pay the company's creditors.
- SIPC Insurance: Stake and Hatch US holdings are often covered under US SIPC insurance for up to $500,000 USD against broker failure.
- NZ Regulation: All three are registered Financial Service Providers in New Zealand and regulated by the FMA.
- Identity Verification: All platforms require modern AML (Anti-Money Laundering) checks, usually completed in minutes with a NZ driver's licence or passport.
- Trust Accounts: Funds sitting in your "wallet" (uninvested cash) are held in trust accounts separate from company operations.
SIPC Insurance: Stake and Hatch US holdings are often covered under US SIPC insurance for up to $500,000 USD against broker failure.
NZ Regulation: All three are registered Financial Service Providers in New Zealand and regulated by the FMA.
Identity Verification: All platforms require modern AML (Anti-Money Laundering) checks, usually completed in minutes with a NZ driver's licence or passport.
Trust Accounts: Funds sitting in your "wallet" (uninvested cash) are held in trust accounts separate from company operations.
Tax Obligations: W-8BEN and FIF Rules
When you invest in the US market, you are liable for US withholding tax on dividends. Hatch and Stake handle the W-8BEN tax form as part of the sign-up process, which reduces your US tax on dividends from 30% to 15%. Sharesies also manages these tax obligations for US shares. It is crucial to remember that if your total cost of foreign investments (excluding most Australian shares) exceeds $50,000 NZD, you fall under New Zealand's Foreign Investment Fund (FIF) rules, which require a more complex tax calculation.
Fractional Shares: Investing with Spare Change
One of the greatest innovations brought to NZ by these platforms is fractional share trading. In the past, to buy a single share of a company like Berkshire Hathaway (Class A), you would need hundreds of thousands of dollars. In 2026, Sharesies vs Hatch vs Stake all allow you to buy as little as $0.01 to $10 of any company. This allows for "Dollar Cost Averaging," where you invest a fixed amount every payday regardless of the share price, a strategy proven to build wealth over the long term.
| Platform | Minimum Trade (US) | Fractional Support |
| Sharesies | $0.01 NZD | Full |
| Hatch | $1.00 USD (approx) | Full |
| Stake | $10.00 USD | Full |
The Power of Compounding Small Amounts
The ability to buy fractions means you can diversify a small portfolio across 20 or 30 companies. For families, Sharesies’ "Kids Accounts" ($1/month) are an excellent way to teach children about investing by buying small fractions of companies they recognize, like Disney or Roblox. Hatch also offers competitive Kids Accounts with lower flat-fee structures (50c USD for orders under 50 shares).
Customer Support and Educational Resources
In 2026, the quality of support is a major factor for Kiwis. Hatch is frequently praised for its Wellington-based team that offers phone call-backs and highly personalized email support. Sharesies operates primarily via online chat and a comprehensive help centre, which is efficient but less personal than Hatch’s approach. Stake provides local email and phone support but is often seen as more "digital-self-service" compared to the high-touch model of Hatch.
- Hatch LearnHub: Offers a "10 minutes a day" free getting started course.
- Sharesies Blog: Features extensive beginner guides and market updates.
- Stake Academy: Focuses on technical trading concepts and market analysis.
- Community Groups: All three platforms have active NZ social media communities where investors share strategies.
Hatch LearnHub: Offers a "10 minutes a day" free getting started course.
Sharesies Blog: Features extensive beginner guides and market updates.
Stake Academy: Focuses on technical trading concepts and market analysis.
Community Groups: All three platforms have active NZ social media communities where investors share strategies.
Reliability and System Uptime
All three platforms have faced challenges during periods of extreme market volatility (e.g., "meme stock" crazes). However, in 2026, their underlying technology, largely powered by DriveWealth for US trades, has become significantly more robust. Stake is generally regarded as having the most stable "active trading" infrastructure, while Sharesies is occasionally criticized for slower execution during peak times.
Transferring Your Portfolio: Is it Possible?
As investors grow, they often outgrow their initial platform. You can transfer US shares between Sharesies vs Hatch vs Stake, but it is often a manual and potentially costly process. Stake frequently runs "Portfolio Transfer" promotions, offering free shares or covering transfer fees for investors moving their portfolio from Hatch or Sharesies to Stake.
- ACAT Transfers: Stake supports standard Automated Customer Account Transfer (ACAT) for US shares.
- Hatch Assistance: Hatch will often help cover fees charged by your old broker for the move.
- Fractional Limitations: You generally cannot transfer fractional shares; these must be sold to cash first.
- Timeframes: Moving a portfolio between platforms can take anywhere from 3 to 10 business days.
ACAT Transfers: Stake supports standard Automated Customer Account Transfer (ACAT) for US shares.
Hatch Assistance: Hatch will often help cover fees charged by your old broker for the move.
Fractional Limitations: You generally cannot transfer fractional shares; these must be sold to cash first.
Timeframes: Moving a portfolio between platforms can take anywhere from 3 to 10 business days.
Why Move from Sharesies to Hatch or Stake?
The most common reason Kiwis move is the fee cliff. Once a portfolio grows beyond $20,000 or $30,000, the 1.9% capped fee on Sharesies (even with a subscription) can become less efficient than the flat $3 fee on Hatch or Stake. Additionally, more experienced investors often want the voting rights and direct ownership experience that Hatch and Stake provide.
Final Verdict: Which Platform is Right for You?
There is no single winner in the Sharesies vs Hatch vs Stake comparison; the right choice depends on your investor profile in 2026. If you are a beginner who wants to invest $20 a week across NZ, AU, and US companies, Sharesies is unbeatable. If you are a serious "buy and hold" investor making $500+ monthly contributions to US ETFs, Hatch’s flat fees and professional support make it the superior choice. If you are an active trader who needs pre-market access and technical charting for US stocks, Stake wins on features.
Final Thoughts
As we move through 2026, the New Zealand share market is more accessible than ever. Whether you prioritize the simplicity of Sharesies, the professional US focus of Hatch, or the technical edge of Stake, the key is to start early and stay consistent. Be mindful of the "silent" FX fees and ensure your platform choice matches your trading frequency. By understanding these nuances, you can ensure your hard-earned money is working for you, not just for the platform's bottom line.
FAQ
Is it free to sign up for Sharesies, Hatch, and Stake? Yes, all three platforms offer free sign-ups with no initial account opening fees.
Which platform is cheapest for US shares? Hatch and Stake are generally cheapest for trades over $150 USD due to their flat $3 fee. Sharesies is cheaper for very small trades.
Can I buy NZX shares on Hatch or Stake? No, currently only Sharesies offers access to the New Zealand Stock Exchange (NZX) among these three.
Do I own the shares in my own name? Technically, they are held by a custodian on your behalf. Hatch and Stake provide more "direct" ownership features like voting rights.
What is Stake Black? It is a $15/month subscription for Stake that provides advanced tools like analyst ratings and trading on unsettled funds.
Do I have to pay tax on dividends from US shares? Yes, but the platforms handle the W-8BEN form to ensure you only pay the reduced 15% US withholding tax.
What is the minimum I can invest? Sharesies has a $0.01 minimum, while Stake requires $10 USD for US trades.
Can I transfer my existing shares into these apps? Yes, Stake and Hatch facilitate US share transfers, though fees may apply and you can't transfer fractions.
Are these platforms safe? Yes, they are all regulated by the FMA and use separate custodian companies to hold your assets.
Which platform has the best mobile app? Sharesies and Stake have highly-rated apps; Hatch is traditionally web-first but recently expanded its app presence.
