A prolonged shutdown of the US government amid a standoff over funding between Republicans and Democrats in Congress could dent economic growth in the fourth quarter, but much of the lost output would be recovered when normal operations resume.

Economists estimated that the shutdown was shaving 0.1 to 0.2 percentage points off annualised inflation-adjusted gross domestic product growth per week. The hit from the shutdown, now in its third week, would be largely on consumer spending and lost federal worker productivity. About 700,000 federal workers have been furloughed while nearly as many are working without pay, which could force households to defer spending.

Many are set to miss their first full paycheck on Friday. The White House has suggested federal workers are not guaranteed retroactive pay when the government reopens, and President Donald Trump's administration has laid off some furloughed workers. Government contractors have also been sent home and normally do not receive back pay.

"There is going to be an impact on the economy," said Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY-Parthenon. "It's not going to push the economy into recession, but the longer this drags on, the more permanent losses are for Fed workers that may have had to cut back on expenses because they haven't been paid or because, essentially, while they are expecting retroactive pay, they're just being more judicious with their finances."

Congress sometimes passes annual funding for some federal departments as was the case ahead of the 2018-2019 shutdown, when large sections of the government were funded. This time, none of the departments are funded, with wider ripple effects beyond federal workers.

Though active-duty military personnel were paid last week, there have been media reports that some were underpaid. A number of states, including New York and Texas have warned that food stamps, which lower-income households depend on to supplement their grocery budgets, would not be available if the shutdown continues into November. In Pennsylvania, the state government said food stamp payments would end beginning Oct 16.

"There are the short-term effects which are already playing out, and then there are the longer-term effects which are more difficult to calibrate and that will depend specifically on when and if it's resolved," said Brian Bethune, an economics professor at Boston College. "But as this drags on, these short-term effects definitely accumulate."

Longer shutdown will increased negative effects

Similar views were shared by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, whose latest assessment showed the negative effects on the economy "will be temporary" and "increase with a longer shutdown." During the 34-day shutdown starting in late December 2018, the longest on record, GDP growth almost braked in the fourth quarter before accelerating in the January-March quarter.

Financial markets have so far shrugged off the shutdown, which has had knock-on effects on businesses that receive contracts from the government and others seeking permits and certifications. Oxford Economics estimated that US$800 million (RM3.3 billion) in new federal awards were at risk of disruption for every business day that the shutdown continued in October, with potential negative effects on the labour market.

"While contractors can manage through a short-lived suspension of federal activity, a protracted shutdown can significantly impact their cash flow, potentially leading to furloughs, pay cuts, or even layoffs," said Bernard Yaros, lead US economist at Oxford Economics.

Yaros said delayed government spending could be made up once normal operations resumed.

"However, the longer the shutdown lasts, the greater the likelihood that some contractors will never recoup all the income lost during the budget impasse," he said.

Source: Theedgemarkets

Spear testifying on Tuesday on ATA's highway bill priorities. (Photo: U.S. Senate)

The American trucking industry is facing unprecedented challenges, marked by a deepening economic crisis and deteriorating highway safety standards. While supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic brought attention to the transportation sector, the narrative surrounding these issues has been largely mischaracterized, particularly regarding the nature and extent of the purported truck driver shortage in America.

Background on the alleged truck driver shortage

The American Truck Association (ATA) has consistently promoted the idea of a chronic truck driver shortage to Congress and the public. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when supply chains experienced significant strain, this narrative gained considerable traction. Responding to what was portrayed as an urgent crisis, both state and federal governments implemented policy changes aimed at rapidly expanding the truck driver workforce. These measures included lowering standards for commercial driver's license (CDL) qualification, relaxing training requirements, and easing restrictions on who could obtain licenses.

Safety consequences of misrepresentation

The regulatory changes had far-reaching consequences that extended beyond simply increasing the number of available drivers. The trucking industry witnessed an influx of inadequately trained individuals, many of whom reportedly lacked proper understanding of American road regulations and language proficiency. This situation created a dangerous precedent on highways across the nation.Safety standards deteriorated as inexperienced drivers operating older, poorly maintained vehicles became more common on American roads. Reports indicate that some of these new entrants regularly exceeded legal driving hour limitations, operating vehicles for 18-20 hours per day—almost double the legally permitted duration.

The Great Freight Recession has been caused by an endless glut of capacity

What has followed has been described as the "Great Freight Recession," characterized as the most severe economic downturn the freight industry has ever experienced. American truck drivers, long considered the backbone of the national supply chain, have seen their livelihoods threatened by the availability of cheaper labor.As economic pressures mounted, more carriers began hiring drivers willing to work for lower wages, creating a race to the bottom in terms of both compensation and compliance with regulations. This competitive disadvantage forced even legitimate operators to consider similar practices to avoid bankruptcy, further exacerbating industry-wide problems.

Family-owned trucking firms have been wiped out

Perhaps most damaging has been the impact on generational trucking businesses, many of which were long-term members of the ATA.Family-owned trucking firms with decades of history and commitment to legal operation have found themselves unable to compete with operators who disregard regulatory requirements. Many of these established businesses have been forced to shut down, unable to maintain profitability while adhering to safety standards and labor regulations. Others are still around, but barely hanging on.

The disappearance of these legitimate operators represents not just a loss of businesses but the erosion of a culture of professionalism and safety within the industry. Their replacement with operators willing to cut corners has fundamentally altered the trucking landscape in America.

The ATA is undermining its own members

The current crisis in the trucking industry can be traced back to a fundamental mischaracterization of market conditions. Capacity issues experienced during COVID were temporary phenomena that could have been addressed through market mechanisms such as increased compensation and better incentives for qualified American drivers.Instead, the promotion of a perpetual driver shortage narrative by the ATA has led to policies that have undermined safety standards and destabilized the economic foundation of the trucking industry. What the trucking sector needs is not simply more drivers, but rather a renewed commitment to fair labor practices and rigorous safety standards that protect both drivers and the public.

Source: Yahoo Finance

Best Meme Coin Trading Platforms Compared: Features, Fees, and Security

The rise of meme coins has created a new wave of trading opportunities for investors seeking both fun and profit. Choosing the best meme coin trading platform is essential for navigating this volatile market. In this guide, we compare top platforms in 2025 based on features, fees, and security to help you trade smarter and safer.

What Makes a Great Meme Coin Platform?

Before choosing the best meme coin trading platform, traders should understand what truly defines a reliable and efficient exchange. Meme coins like Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, and PEPE are highly volatile, so the right platform must offer strong performance, security, and ease of use.

• Security and Regulation: A top-tier platform must ensure strong user protection through encryption, two-factor authentication, and regulatory compliance. This is one of the key factors when evaluating the best platform for trading meme coins.
• Low Fees and Transparency: The ideal exchange should have competitive trading fees, clear withdrawal policies, and no hidden costs, allowing users to maximize returns on meme coin trades.
• Supported Coins and Liquidity: The best trading platform for meme coins should support a wide range of trending tokens while maintaining deep liquidity to avoid price slippage during high-volume trading.
• User Interface and Tools: A simple yet powerful interface with real-time charts, analytics, and social trading tools helps both beginners and experienced traders make informed decisions.
• Speed and Stability: High server uptime and fast transaction processing are critical for capturing price swings common in meme coin markets.

Ultimately, a great meme coin platform combines strong security, low fees, wide coin access, and an intuitive user experience—making it easier for traders to stay ahead of market trends and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

5 Best Meme Coin Trading Platforms in 2025

Choosing the best meme coin trading platform in 2025 depends on several factors—supported tokens, liquidity, user experience, and security. Below is a comparison of the leading exchanges to help you decide which is the best platform for trading meme coins this year.

Each exchange brings unique advantages—some focus on liquidity, others on usability or community rewards. Before deciding where to trade, compare their features and choose the best trading platform for meme coins that fits your goals and trading experience.

5 Best Meme Coin Trading Platforms With Lowest Fees

When comparing the best meme coin trading platform options in 2025, fees play a decisive role—especially for high-frequency or arbitrage traders. Below we explore how each leading exchange handles spot and futures trading fees, maker/taker structures, and special discounts that can boost profitability for active meme coin traders.

1. Binance — Lowest Fees with BNB Discounts

Binance remains one of the best platforms for trading meme coins due to its dynamic fee system. Spot trading fees start at 0.1%, with users enjoying an additional 25% discount when paying fees using BNB tokens. Futures traders can further reduce costs via VIP tiers based on trading volume. Deposit fees are zero, and withdrawal fees depend on blockchain conditions, often refunded through periodic promotions.

• Spot Fees: 0.1% (up to 25% discount using BNB)
• Futures Fees: Maker 0.02%, Taker 0.04%
• Additional Perk: VIP rebate structure and flexible referral cashback

2. MEXC — Zero Maker Fees for Spot Trading

MEXC has become a favorite among meme coin traders because it offers a 0% maker fee on spot markets, making it one of the best trading platforms for meme coins for scalpers and high-frequency users. The exchange also periodically offers taker fee rebates for trading popular meme pairs like DOGE/USDT or SHIB/USDT. Futures fees remain competitive with simple and transparent pricing.

• Spot Fees: Maker 0%, Taker 0.1%
• Futures Fees: Maker 0.01%, Taker 0.05%
• Additional Perk: Rebate programs for trending meme tokens

3. OKX — Fee Tiers and USDT Rebate Promotions

OKX combines deep liquidity with a transparent fee structure. It offers discounts for holding OKB tokens, making it another best meme coin trading platform for users seeking institutional-grade performance. For active traders, the maker/taker structure starts at 0.08%/0.10% and can drop significantly as trading volumes increase.

• Spot Fees: Maker 0.08%, Taker 0.10%
• Futures Fees: Maker 0.02%, Taker 0.05%
• Additional Perk: Fee rebates for OKB holders and USDT cashback events

4. KuCoin — Tiered Discounts and Trading Rewards

KuCoin’s fee model focuses on rewarding active users through its KCS token system. By holding or paying with KCS, traders can get up to a 20% discount on all trading fees. This structure, paired with a wide range of meme coin listings, positions KuCoin as one of the best platforms for trading meme coins among retail investors.

• Spot Fees: Maker 0.1%, Taker 0.1% (20% off with KCS)
• Futures Fees: Maker 0.02%, Taker 0.06%
• Additional Perk: KCS daily bonus and trading competitions

5. Bybit — Flexible Fee Discounts for High-Frequency Traders

Bybit’s low-fee environment is built for professional and arbitrage traders. Spot trading fees start at 0.1%, while futures offer a favorable 0.01% maker and 0.06% taker structure. The platform occasionally runs cashback campaigns for meme coin transactions, helping traders save more during volatile periods.

• Spot Fees: Maker 0.1%, Taker 0.1%
• Futures Fees: Maker 0.01%, Taker 0.06%
• Additional Perk: Cashback and affiliate rebate programs

For high-frequency and arbitrage-focused meme coin traders, these exchanges’ low or zero maker fees can significantly increase profitability. The key is choosing the best trading platform for meme coins that matches your trading volume, preferred pairs, and liquidity needs.

How to Choose the Right Meme Coin Trading Platform

Selecting the best meme coin trading platform is not just about finding low fees—it’s about matching your priorities as a trader. Each user values different factors such as security, asset variety, and usability. Here are several key perspectives to consider before deciding which is the best platform for trading meme coins for you.

• 1. Fee-Driven Traders: If you trade frequently or rely on short-term strategies, prioritize exchanges with low or zero maker fees and volume-based rebates. Lower transaction costs can dramatically improve profitability, especially for meme coins with high volatility.
• 2. Security-Focused Investors: Choose regulated platforms with strong encryption, proof-of-reserves, and reliable withdrawal policies. Avoid unverified platforms claiming “guaranteed” returns. The best trading platform for meme coins should offer transparency and user fund protection.
• 3. Variety Seekers: Some investors prefer exchanges that list emerging meme tokens early. Platforms supporting multiple blockchains—like Ethereum, Solana, and BNB Chain—allow users to diversify and catch trending coins before they go mainstream.
• 4. Community & Social Traders: If you enjoy following crowd sentiment or copying others’ trades, look for exchanges that include integrated social feeds, leaderboards, or copy trading functions. These features help track what top meme coin traders are doing.
• 5. Risk-Aware Users: Always verify token legitimacy before investing. Scam tokens and pump-and-dump projects are common in the meme coin space. Stick with exchanges that conduct due diligence and have established reputations in the market.

In summary, the “right” platform depends on your style—whether you value cost-efficiency, security, or innovation. Balancing these factors ensures your chosen platform supports sustainable and safe meme coin trading.

FAQs about Best Meme Coin Trading Platforms

1. Which chain is best for meme coins?

Most popular meme coins operate on Ethereum and BNB Chain due to their liquidity and ecosystem size. However, Solana-based meme coins like BONK are gaining traction for lower fees and faster transaction speeds.

2. Can you make $100 a day with crypto?

Yes, but it depends on your capital, strategy, and market volatility. Consistent profits usually come from disciplined trading and proper risk management rather than speculation alone.

3. On which platform can I buy meme coins?

Major exchanges such as Binance, OKX, and KuCoin are commonly used to buy top meme coins like DOGE, SHIB, and PEPE. For newly launched coins, decentralized exchanges may list them earlier but carry higher risk—choose carefully when using any best meme coin trading platform.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best meme coin trading platform depends on your trading preferences and goals. Platforms like TradingView and Thinkorswim offer powerful charting tools and market analysis, making them suitable for traders looking to explore meme coins. Assess each platform’s features to find the best fit for your trading style in 2025.

Two years ago, after Hamas killed and kidnapped its way across southern Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seemed finished. "Mr. Security," as he billed himself, would either resign in shame or be driven out by a devastated public.

Yet this week he promoted his candidacy in next year's election by saying he'd saved the nation from oblivion with a slew of military successes against Iran and its proxy militias. Between those and a fractured opposition, it's looking like the country's longest-serving leader may hold onto his post for a while longer.

"He doesn't need to win the next election, just not to lose it," said Nadav Shtrauchler, a political adviser who's worked closely with Netanyahu in the past, referring to the possibility of remaining in power without a majority. "He's still there, astounding observers, whether they're impressed or frustrated."

Netanyahu, who's clocked 17 non-consecutive years at the top, out-polls all other candidates for the job. And while surveys show that his coalition — the most right-wing in Israel's history — won't attract enough votes to form the next government, neither will the opposition.

When the election is held — it's due by next October — the country risks a repeat of the years 2019-2022, when it was dragged through five ballots while a transitional government with limited authority ran the country. Apart from 18 months of that period, Netanyahu held power.

This week, Netanyahu told parliament that what he has accomplished in the two years since Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023 attacks, especially by bombing Iran's nuclear facilities in June, ensures unprecedented national safety.

If his opponents were in charge, he said, "You Members of Knesset, all citizens of Israel without exception — Jews, Arabs, leftists, rightists, ultra-Orthodox, secularists — would all go up in atomic smoke."

A day earlier, he announced that Israel's battles against Hamas, Lebanon's Hezbollah, the Houthis of Yemen, and their sponsor Iran — alongside the collapse of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime — had so boosted the country's strategic position since 2023 that he's renaming them the "War of Redemption."

What he didn't say, but everyone understood, is that the name applies to his political career as well.

For his critics, who are legion in Israel and abroad, this seems beyond belief. He was in charge on Oct. 7, 2023, the day of Hamas' attack and the worst single-day in the Jewish state's history. Indicted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes in Gaza, on trial in Tel Aviv for bribery and fraud, Netanyahu, 76, who denies all the accusations, should be at his political end point.

Sever Plocker, a longstanding commentator at the centrist Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, wrote this week what many believe — that unless Netanyahu is replaced the country can't move on. Netanyahu, Plocker wrote, is "one of the most hated statesmen in the world" and "Israel today is more isolated than ever before."

Netanyahu's handling of the war in Gaza, in which tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed, humanitarian aid was and continues to be blocked and much of the strip reduced to rubble, alienated many around the world. That derailed Israel's hopes for the normalization of ties with more Arab and Muslim countries — a major strategic goal at home and in the US.

US President Donald Trump hopes to one day persuade Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to recognize Israel and join the so-called Abraham Accords — one of Trump's flagship achievements in his first term. The kingdom's de-facto ruler has so far held off. Publicly, he has set an independent Palestinian state as a precondition — an idea opposed by Netanyahu and his coalition partners.

The economy and businesses have also taken a hit from mass call ups of Israelis for reserve duty. The country's gross domestic product is still smaller, in shekel and real terms, than it was on the eve of the conflict.

Netanyahu dominates the Likud Party, whose domestic base makes little distinction between fealty to the prime minister and to the party. The opposition, a mix of secular leftists and nationalist hawks, is united only by opposition to him, making it unlikely that an alternative coalition can emerge.

The prime minister's legal troubles have discouraged most politicians from working with him in recent years, driving Netanyahu into the arms of the ultra-nationalists and ultra-Orthodox with whom he now shares power. That pact holds two key threats to the government: a walkout from far-right partners if Hamas isn't quickly disarmed and removed from positions of influence in Gaza, and a law exempting the ultra-Orthodox from military conscription.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir are skeptical that Trump's plan for peace in Gaza — announced with great fanfare earlier this month — can bring down Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the US and many others. They have voiced hopes of resettling Gaza with Israeli Jews and annexing the West Bank — which both Trump, and consequently Netanyahu, reject.

The Trump administration is pushing Netanyahu to be patient about Gaza and not return to war. It wants Israel to focus on rebuilding in parts of the strip even if armed Hamas militants are still operating elsewhere.

The conscription of ultra-Orthodox men, also known as Haredim, still lingers over the government. In July, the United Torah Judaism and Shas parties quit government — though stopped short of collapsing it — and are still boycotting votes on any government-proposed legislation, de facto paralyzing the cabinet and feeding a dynamic that could see it fall apart.

The two parties are unlikely to fully rejoin the government unless a bill exempting most ultra-Orthodox men from military service gets underway. The exemption on religious grounds is unpopular among many voters, including Netanyahu's base, which wants to see Haredi men share the burden of fighting.

Gila Gamliel, a cabinet member in his party, said in a radio interview this week, "I believe that the government can serve out its term."

Few Israeli governments have achieved this, and speculation has been rife that Netanyahu will call early elections to harness the small popularity boost on the back of military gains and the return of hostages from Gaza.

But this week Netanyahu hinted he intends to hold off on elections when he said he wanted to pass the 2026 budget "soon." In the past, Israeli lawmakers have often blocked the passing of budgets as a way to bring down governments.

While Netanyahu got a shot in the arm after the remaining living hostages were released from Gaza, not everyone lays the win at his feet. Trump's son-in-law and confidant, Jared Kushner, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff spoke to families in Tel Aviv's Hostage Square as exchanges took place. They were hailed for their role in securing the deal, but Witkoff was met with jeers when he tried to credit the Israeli prime minister.

Trump gained a great deal of the praise for the ceasefire in Gaza, and he remains a key asset for Netanyahu. Addressing Israeli lawmakers last week, Trump urged President Isaac Herzog to pardon the prime minister.

Strategist Shtrauchler said that wasn't coincidental.

"Trump effectively launched Netanyahu's election campaign," he said. "The prime minister is counting on Trump's presence moving forward. They are fully coordinated."

Source: Bloomberg Europe

Business activity in the euro area unexpectedly reached its highest level since May 2024 as outperformance by Germany helped offset weakness in France.

The Composite Purchasing Managers' Index compiled by S&P Global increased to 52.2 in October from 51.2 in September, further above the 50 threshold separating growth from contraction. Analysts had predicted an almost unchanged reading.

The surprise was driven by services, particularly in Germany, which saw its best month on the composite measure since May 2023. That sector, however, weighed on neighbouring France, whose reading slipped for a 14th straight month as the country is gripped once again by political turmoil.

"While the economic situation in Germany brightened significantly in October, the rate of contraction has accelerated for two months in a row in France," Cyrus de la Rubia, an economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, said Friday in a statement. "As a result, economic growth in the eurozone, even though accelerating a bit, has been much weaker than it otherwise could have been."

Europe has so far weathered the trade storm unleashed by Donald Trump's tariffs, though growth remains well below the pace seen in the US. Help is on the way from higher defence spending across the region and an infrastructure revamp in Germany. But in the meantime, France's perilous fiscal predicament — and President Emmanuel Macron's repeated struggles to find a solution — are contributing to output that's creeping only slowly higher.

Despite the lacklustre growth, the European Central Bank isn't inclined to shift interest rates lower, following eight cuts in the space of a year. With inflation around its 2% target, borrowing costs are expected to be left unchanged next week.

"The composite PMI survey for the euro area adds to the case for the ECB to keep interest rates unchanged this month. It suggests the economy remains resilient in the face of the rise in US tariffs and some inflationary pressures persist," said Bloomberg Economics.

De la Rubia said price gains in the services sector remain moderate.

"The rate of inflation for sales prices has risen slightly, but remains close to the long-term average," he said. "Cost increases were slightly lower in October, so there is little danger from this side in the short term. The ECB, which pays particular attention to inflation in the service sector, is likely to see this data as confirmation of its stance not to implement further interest-rate cuts."

PMIs are closely watched by markets as they arrive early in the month and are good at revealing trends and turning points in an economy. A measure of breadth of changes in output rather than depth, business surveys can sometimes be difficult to map directly to quarterly GDP.

Data later Friday showed the UK's composite PMI increased more than anticipated, to 51.1. The US' reading is expected to dip to 53.5.

Source: Theedgemarkets

Thinkorswim vs TradingView: Breaking Down the Pros, Cons for Beginners and Pros

When comparing TradingView vs Thinkorswim, both platforms stand out for their unique features tailored to different types of traders. In this article, we’ll dive into the strengths and weaknesses of each, helping you decide which platform is best suited for your trading needs in 2025. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trader, we've got you covered.

What is Thinkorswim and TradingView

TradingView vs Thinkorswim are two of the most widely used platforms in the trading world. Each offers distinct features designed for different types of traders. Here's a breakdown of what they offer:

• Thinkorswim: A robust trading platform developed by TD Ameritrade, mainly aimed at active traders. It excels in stock and options trading with advanced analysis tools. Offers paper trading for practice and testing strategies. A common question is is thinkorswim free? Yes, it is free to use with a TD Ameritrade account.
• TradingView: A social trading and charting platform known for its ease of use and visually appealing interface. It’s ideal for visual traders, with customizable charts and a community of traders sharing strategies and insights. When comparing TradingView vs Thinkorswim, TradingView is typically preferred for its user-friendly charting interface.

• Thinkorswim offers advanced technical analysis tools, including in-depth charting, options analysis, strategy testing, and risk management features. It is especially favored by traders who need detailed technical insights and prefer to trade options and stocks.
• TradingView stands out for its high-quality charts, easy navigation, and a wide array of asset classes like stocks, forex, and cryptocurrencies. For many traders, the TradingView vs Thinkorswim charts comparison favors TradingView for its superior charting and simplicity, particularly for those focused on technical analysis.

Thinkorswim vs TradingView: Pros and Cons for Different Traders

1. Beginners & Visual Learners: → TradingView

• Intuitive interface, making it easier for beginners to navigate the platform.
• Free version offers basic tools that allow for exploration without financial commitment. Is Thinkorswim free? Thinkorswim offers free access with TD Ameritrade, but its advanced tools may require premium access.
• TradingView vs Thinkorswim — TradingView’s charting and social features make it ideal for those starting out in trading.

2. Active Options & Stock Traders: → Thinkorswim

• Advanced options analysis tools like probability analysis and strategy chains.
• Highly customizable charting and robust risk management features.
• Thinkorswim vs TradingView — Thinkorswim excels in providing detailed market analysis and order execution for active traders.

3. Technical Analysis Enthusiasts & Multi-Asset Traders: → TradingView

• Top-notch charting capabilities with high customization options. TradingView vs Thinkorswim charts — TradingView provides a more user-friendly and visually appealing charting experience.
• Support for a wide range of assets including stocks, forex, and cryptocurrencies.
• Allows for script writing with Pine Script, perfect for traders who want to create their own indicators and strategies.

4. Serious Learners Needing Realistic Simulations: → Thinkorswim

• Thinkorswim’s paper trading account offers a real-world trading simulation, helping users practice with no financial risk.
• Its depth and accuracy make it a top choice for those who want to transition to live trading.
• If you're looking for Thinkorswim alternatives, consider platforms like MetaTrader for forex traders or Interactive Brokers for global stock markets.

Thinkorswim vs TradingView: Comparing 5 Key Trading Categories

1. Fees and Pricing Plans

• Thinkorswim: Free to use if you open an account with TD Ameritrade, but advanced features may require access to premium tools. A common question is, is thinkorswim free? Yes, it’s free to use, but additional services like real-time market data may have associated costs.
• TradingView: Offers both a free version with limited features and paid plans that unlock more advanced tools. The free version provides access to basic charting and trading features, while premium plans offer more advanced functionalities, such as multiple chart layouts and additional indicators.

2. Data and Market Access

• Thinkorswim: Offers comprehensive access to U.S. stocks, options, and futures, with deep integration for active traders. It's a great choice for traders focusing on the U.S. market.
• TradingView: Provides global coverage of markets including stocks, forex, and cryptocurrencies, which makes it a highly flexible platform for traders seeking access to a wide variety of assets. When comparing TradingView vs Thinkorswim, TradingView’s broader global market coverage is a clear advantage for international traders.

3. Charting and Technical Analysis Tools

• Thinkorswim: Known for its powerful charting capabilities and technical analysis tools, especially for options traders. Advanced charting options and a broad range of indicators make it a strong contender. TradingView vs Thinkorswim charts — Thinkorswim’s charting tools are more robust, but they come with a steeper learning curve.
• TradingView: Offers excellent charting tools, particularly for beginners and technical analysts. The platform provides highly customizable charts with a user-friendly interface, allowing for quick access to multiple chart types. Many traders prefer TradingView's charts due to its simplicity and accessibility.

4. User Interface and Customization

• Thinkorswim: Thinkorswim has a complex interface that may require a learning curve for new users, but it offers deep customization options once you become familiar with it. This makes it more suitable for active traders who need access to advanced features.
• TradingView: One of TradingView's key selling points is its simple and intuitive interface, designed to make charting and trading as easy as possible. The platform also offers a high level of customization, particularly with its layout and chart settings.

5. Mobile Trading Experience

• Thinkorswim: Offers a full-featured mobile app, but it can feel less intuitive than TradingView's mobile version. It’s best for experienced traders who need advanced tools on the go.
• TradingView: Known for its excellent mobile app that mirrors the desktop experience. The app is simple to use and highly responsive, making it a great option for traders who value seamless mobile charting and trading.

Which Platform is Better for Traders in 2025?

• If you're focused on advanced technical analysis, access to options trading, and a variety of U.S. markets, Thinkorswim is likely a better fit for you.
• If you prefer intuitive charting with global market access, TradingView is a great option, especially for visual learners and traders looking for a simplified experience. When considering TradingView vs Thinkorswim, it’s clear that TradingView is more suitable for those prioritizing ease of use and broad market exposure.

How to Use TradingView and Thinkorswim

TradingView vs Thinkorswim are two of the most widely used platforms in the trading world. Each offers distinct features designed for different types of traders. Here's a breakdown of what they offer:

• Thinkorswim: A robust trading platform developed by TD Ameritrade, mainly aimed at active traders. It excels in stock and options trading with advanced analysis tools. Offers paper trading for practice and testing strategies.
• TradingView: A social trading and charting platform known for its ease of use and visually appealing interface. It’s ideal for visual traders, with customizable charts and a community of traders sharing strategies and insights.

• Thinkorswim offers advanced technical analysis tools, including in-depth charting, options analysis, strategy testing, and risk management features.
• TradingView stands out for its high-quality charts, easy navigation, and a wide array of asset classes like stocks, forex, and cryptocurrencies. It also allows social trading through its ideas stream, where traders can share insights.

• If you're an advanced trader focused on detailed analysis and a variety of market options, Thinkorswim is likely a better fit for you.
• If you prefer intuitive charting and interacting with a large community of traders, TradingView is an excellent choice, especially for visual learners and social traders.

FAQs about Thinkorswim vs TradingView

1. Do professionals use TradingView?

Yes, many professional traders use TradingView for its intuitive charting tools, easy customization, and the ability to share trading ideas with a global community. While Thinkorswim vs TradingView shows that Thinkorswim offers more advanced tools for detailed technical analysis, TradingView still remains a favorite for its ease of use and visual appeal.

2. Is ThinkorSwim good for beginners?

While Thinkorswim offers a wide range of powerful tools, it is not the easiest platform for beginners due to its steep learning curve. If you're just starting out, you might find TradingView a better choice due to its user-friendly interface and simplicity. However, if you're serious about learning and trading options or stocks, Thinkorswim provides everything you need as you grow your skills.

3. Is Thinkorswim the best platform?

Thinkorswim is highly regarded for its depth in options trading, technical analysis, and paper trading. However, whether it’s the "best" depends on your needs. For more basic charting and social trading, TradingView might be a better fit. In comparison to other platforms, Thinkorswim alternatives like Interactive Brokers or MetaTrader might be better suited for those who prefer lower commissions or more specialized trading features.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when comparing TradingView vs Thinkorswim, each platform offers unique features tailored to different types of traders. While TradingView excels in its ease of use and charting capabilities, Thinkorswim is better suited for advanced traders seeking in-depth analysis and powerful tools. Choose the platform that aligns with your trading style and goals.