Vivid Money Broker Review 2025: Features, Fees & Pros & Cons

Pros and Cons of Vivid Money

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Integrated banking and investing in one app</li><li>Fractional investing in stocks/ETFs from €1</li><li>Wide range of cryptocurrencies available (300+)</li><li>Innovative features like cashback linked to investments</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Complex and evolving fee structure (trading & FX fees)</li><li>No portfolio transfer in/out for stocks/ETFs</li><li>Significant user reports of poor customer support</li><li>Recent strategic shift towards SME focus may impact retail users</li></ul>

Vivid Money positions itself as a European financial technology company offering an integrated solution that combines mobile banking and investment services within a single application. This review focuses primarily on the brokerage aspects of Vivid Money's personal account offering, examining its suitability for trading stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies based on information available up to early 2025.

Key Advantages

Vivid's core proposition revolves around merging everyday banking functionalities with accessible investment options in the same mobile application. Users can invest in a range of assets including stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, and even precious metals.

The platform lowers the barrier to entry for investing through fractional shares, allowing users to buy portions of expensive US and EU stocks or ETFs starting from just €1. It offers an extensive selection of over 300 cryptocurrencies, catering to growing retail interest in this asset class.

Furthermore, Vivid incorporates unique features like its "Pockets" system for financial organization and innovative cashback programs where rewards earned from card spending can be automatically linked to the performance of chosen stocks or cryptocurrencies, offering a passive way to potentially grow small sums.

Significant Drawbacks

Several important limitations temper this appeal. The fee structure has become increasingly complex, moving away from an initial "commission-free" model for stocks and ETFs to a system involving a fixed €1 fee per trade plus potentially high foreign exchange (FX) markups for non-Euro assets.

A major limitation is the inability to transfer existing stock or ETF portfolios into or out of Vivid, effectively locking users' securities investments into the platform. Compounding these issues are widespread user reports citing poor customer support experiences, including unresponsiveness and difficulties resolving account access problems.

Finally, Vivid Money has signaled a strategic shift, placing greater emphasis on its services for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which raises questions about its long-term commitment to enhancing its retail brokerage offering.

Why Choose Vivid Money?

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>All-in-one app for banking, saving, and investing</li><li>Low entry barrier with fractional shares (€1 minimum)</li><li>Unique cashback programs linked to stocks/crypto</li><li>Multi-currency accounts with competitive exchange features</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Brokerage features might feel basic for experienced traders</li><li>Recent shift away from commission-free stock/ETF trading</li><li>Focus increasingly shifting towards business customers</li></ul>

The primary reasons to choose Vivid Money often relate to its integrated ecosystem and accessibility for those new to investing.

Integrated Platform

The core appeal lies in the convenience of managing both banking (payments, transfers, budgeting tools) and investment activities (stocks, ETFs, crypto, metals) within a single, unified mobile application. This eliminates the need for multiple apps and simplifies the overview of one's financial life, particularly attractive for users seeking a holistic solution.

Accessibility for Beginners

Vivid lowers the threshold for market participation. Fractional investing enables users to buy small pieces of high-priced stocks and ETFs with minimal capital, starting from €1. The app interface is generally regarded as user-friendly and straightforward, further easing the entry for novice investors.

Innovative Rewards

The cashback programs, particularly those linked to stock or crypto performance (Stock Rewards / Crypto Rewards Pockets), offer a distinctive way to accumulate small investment amounts passively through everyday spending. This aligns with Vivid's stated goal of helping users grow their money with minimal friction.

Multi-Currency Functionality

While primarily a banking feature, the support for numerous currencies and the ability to create sub-accounts ("Pockets") with individual IBANs provide significant flexibility. This can be beneficial for managing funds intended for investment in different currency denominations (e.g., USD stocks) or for users with international financial needs.

Considering these points, Vivid's main draw appears to be the synergy between banking and basic investing, coupled with features designed to encourage initial investment steps, rather than excelling as the most cost-effective or feature-rich standalone brokerage.

However, this value proposition may be diminishing for certain user segments. The move away from commission-free stock/ETF trading to a €1 per-trade fee plus FX charges directly impacts cost-sensitive users, who were a key part of the initial target audience. Furthermore, the company's explicit pivot towards SME services, evidenced by numerous business-focused product launches, casts doubt on the future development and prioritization of the retail brokerage features compared to competitors solely focused on individual investors.

Who Is Vivid Money For?

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Beginner investors seeking an easy entry point</li><li>Users wanting integrated banking and investing</li><li>Individuals interested in fractional shares and crypto</li><li>Tech-savvy users comfortable with a mobile-first app</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Not ideal for active traders needing advanced tools/low fees</li><li>Less suitable for investors prioritizing portfolio transferability</li><li>May be less appealing now for purely cost-driven users</li><li>Users needing robust, responsive customer support</li></ul>

Vivid Money's brokerage services appear best suited for specific user profiles:

Ideal For:

Beginner Investors

The platform's emphasis on a simple interface, fractional shares starting from €1, and integrated educational content ("Vivid Classes") makes it an approachable option for those taking their first steps into investing. The connection to their banking pockets simplifies funding trades.

Users Prioritizing Integration

Individuals who value the convenience of managing spending, saving, and investing within a single application will find Vivid's "all-in-one" approach compelling.

Crypto and Fractional Share Enthusiasts

The platform offers access to a notably wide range of cryptocurrencies (300+) and makes high-priced stocks accessible through fractional investing, catering to users specifically interested in these asset types.

Mobile-First Users

The experience is heavily centered around the mobile app. Users comfortable with managing their finances primarily via smartphone will adapt easily. While a web application exists, its functionality seems geared more towards business users.

Less Suitable For:

Active or Experienced Traders

The platform lacks advanced charting tools, a wide array of technical indicators, and sophisticated order types (like stop-loss for stocks/ETFs) typically required by active traders. The €1 per-trade fee can also become costly for frequent trading.

Investors Needing Portfolio Portability

The inability to transfer stock/ETF portfolios in or out is a significant drawback for users who may wish to consolidate assets or switch brokers in the future.

Purely Cost-Driven Users

While the Standard plan is free (with activity conditions), the introduction of trading commissions and FX markups makes Vivid less competitive on cost alone compared to brokers offering genuinely commission-free stock/ETF trading.

Users Requiring Reliable Support

Given the volume of negative feedback regarding customer service responsiveness and effectiveness, users who anticipate needing prompt and helpful support, especially for resolving critical issues like account access, should exercise caution.

The target audience for Vivid's brokerage component seems to be evolving. What began as an appeal to anyone seeking simple, low-cost investing now appears more focused on beginners who value the integrated banking experience above all else, or existing banking customers venturing into investments.

Furthermore, the pronounced strategic shift towards SME services introduces uncertainty regarding the long-term development roadmap for retail brokerage features. Resources and innovation may increasingly flow towards the business segment, potentially leaving retail investors with a less competitive or slower-evolving platform compared to dedicated retail brokers.

Fees and Commissions

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Free account option (Standard plan) available</li><li>Interest Rate Pocket transactions (MMF buy/sell) are free</li><li>Potentially lower crypto fees for high-volume Prime users</li><li>Clear fee disclosure before placing orders</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>€1 fixed commission per stock/ETF trade (high for small amounts)</li><li>1% FX markup on US stock/ETF trades (can be reduced based on turnover)</li><li>Complex tiered crypto fees based on plan and volume</li><li>Various potential account fees (inactivity, extra pockets, gambling)</li></ul>

Vivid Money employs a multi-layered fee structure that varies depending on the account plan, asset type, and trading activity. Understanding these costs is crucial for potential users.

Account Plans

Vivid offers tiered personal plans:

• Standard: €0 per month, but a €3.90 monthly maintenance fee applies if the user doesn't make at least one card payment or maintain a balance over €1,000
• Prime: €9.90 per month, offering enhanced benefits like higher cashback limits, more free pockets, and potentially lower fees

Stock & ETF Trading Fees (Invest Pocket)

• Commission: A fixed fee of €1 is charged per trade (both buy and sell) for stocks and ETFs, regardless of order size. The minimum order size is €1. This fixed fee structure significantly impacts the cost-effectiveness of small trades; a €1 fee on a €10 trade equates to a 10% commission.
• FX Conversion Markup (for non-EUR assets): When trading assets priced in USD (like many US stocks/ETFs), an additional FX conversion markup is applied on top of the €1 commission. The standard markup is 1%. This markup can be reduced based on the user's total trading turnover (buy + sell value) in the previous calendar month, with different tiers for Standard and Prime users.

Cryptocurrency Trading Fees (Crypto Pocket)

• Fees are tiered based on both the user's plan (Standard, Prime) and their crypto trading turnover from the previous month
• The fee structure is complex, with multiple turnover brackets. As of April 2025, fees range from 2% (Standard plan, <€5k turnover) down to 0% for Prime users with over €400k monthly turnover (though the 0% rate applies only up to a €300k trading limit, with 0.25% thereafter)
• Standard plan users also face a minimum fee of €1 per buy/sell trade (not applicable to crypto swaps)

Other Key Fees

• Precious Metals: 1% for Standard users and 0.5% for Prime users per trade
• Money Market Funds: Buy/sell is free, but an annual service fee (0.3% for Prime, 1% for Standard) is calculated daily and deducted upon selling
• Standard Plan Inactivity Fee: €3.90/month if activity/balance requirements aren't met
• Additional Money Pockets: €1.99 per month for each extra bundle of 3 pockets beyond the free limit
• Gambling & Cash Equivalent Fee: A significant 3% fee applies to transactions related to gambling or certain "cash equivalents," explicitly including crypto purchased on external exchanges
• ATM Fees: Withdrawals are free up to a monthly limit only if the withdrawal amount is €50 or more

Vivid states that specific costs are disclosed within the app before an order is placed (ex-ante) and reported afterwards (ex-post). However, the overall structure, particularly the tiered FX and crypto fees dependent on past activity, introduces complexity for users trying to predict costs accurately. The €1 fixed commission on stock/ETF trades is a notable departure from the "commission-free" narrative and disadvantages investors making small, regular investments via fractional shares.

Product Selection and Markets

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Access to over 2,000 stocks and ETFs (US & EU)</li><li>Extensive cryptocurrency selection (300+)</li><li>Fractional investing available across stocks and ETFs</li><li>Offers precious metals (Gold, Silver) and Money Market Funds</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Limited exchanges/markets explicitly mentioned (US/EU focus)</li><li>No options, futures, bonds, or other complex derivatives</li><li>Product availability can change (delistings)</li><li>Crypto selection might vary by country/regulation</li></ul>

Vivid Money provides access to a selection of popular investment products primarily targeting retail investors.

Stocks & ETFs

• Range: Offers access to a substantial number of stocks and ETFs, cited as over 2,000 or sometimes over 3,000. The catalogue includes equities listed on US and European exchanges. Specific execution venues used by their brokers include Euronext, Tradegate, LSE, and NYSE.
• Fractional Investing: A key feature is the ability to invest in fractional shares of stocks and ETFs, allowing users to buy portions of shares with investments starting from €1. This makes high-priced stocks accessible to investors with smaller capital.
• Ownership: With "Invest 2.0" via Vivid Money B.V., customers gain direct ownership of the underlying stocks and ETFs, including shareholder rights like receiving dividends. This is an improvement over the previous model which utilized derivatives.

Cryptocurrencies

• Selection: Vivid offers one of the largest cryptocurrency selections among European neobanks, listing over 300 different coins and tokens. This includes major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, as well as a wide variety of altcoins.
• Ownership & Custody: Through "Crypto 2.0," provided by Vivid Digital S.r.l. (a registered VASP in Italy, Spain, and France), users directly own the cryptocurrencies they purchase. Assets are held with a regulated custodian, identified as Copper.
• Availability: Access to specific cryptocurrencies and features like staking may vary depending on the user's country of residence due to differing regulations.
• Staking: The "Crypto Earn Pocket" allows users to stake selected cryptocurrencies to earn rewards, paid out weekly in the staked asset. A fixed fee of 0.5% applies to buy/sell transactions within this pocket.

Other Investment Products

• Precious Metals: Users can invest fractionally in Gold and Silver via a dedicated "Precious Metals Pocket," with investments starting from €0.01.
• Money Market Funds (MMFs): Available through the "Interest Rate Pocket," allowing users to invest cash balances in low-risk EUR and USD denominated MMFs to earn interest.

Limitations

• Market Access: Focus is primarily on US and EU markets. Access to other global exchanges (Asia, Australia, etc.) is not mentioned.
• Instrument Types: The offering is limited to stocks, ETFs, crypto, precious metals, and MMFs. More complex instruments like options, futures, warrants, or traditional bonds are not available.
• Delistings: Vivid notes that the availability of specific instruments can change, and assets may be delisted due to factors like corporate actions or decisions by partner brokers/exchanges.

The product range caters well to the typical interests of modern retail investors, particularly with its strong crypto offering and fractional share capabilities. The shift from derivative-based products to direct asset ownership under licensed entities significantly enhances the quality and security of the assets held by users, providing actual shareholder rights and segregation under relevant laws like the Dutch Wge. This move aligns Vivid more closely with traditional brokerage standards, offering better protection than the previous derivative model which carried counterparty risk. However, the lack of more sophisticated instruments and broader global market access restricts its appeal for advanced investors.

Platform Experience

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Generally intuitive and user-friendly mobile app interface</li><li>Integrated banking and investing views</li><li>Vivid Beat community feature for social interaction</li><li>Offers Market and Limit order types for stocks/ETFs</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Primarily mobile-focused; web access limited (mainly business)</li><li>Lacks advanced charting tools and technical indicators</li><li>Order types limited (no stop-loss for stocks/ETFs, only crypto)</li><li>User reviews mention occasional app instability/bugs</li></ul>

Vivid Money's platform experience is heavily centered around its mobile application, designed for ease of use and integration.

Interface & Accessibility

• Mobile App: This is the primary interface for both personal and business users. Reviews often describe the app's design as simple, intuitive, and user-friendly, particularly appealing to those less familiar with complex trading platforms. It effectively integrates banking and investment sections, allowing users to navigate between spending, saving, and investing seamlessly.
• Web Access: A web app or terminal exists, but its functionality appears limited, especially for personal accounts, with more features potentially available for business users. This mobile-first approach might disadvantage users who prefer the larger screen real estate and potentially more powerful features of desktop trading platforms offered by competitors.

Trading Tools & Features

• Pockets: The "Pockets" system remains a central organizational feature, allowing users to segregate funds for different purposes, currencies, or investment goals (e.g., Invest Pocket, Crypto Pocket, Interest Rate Pocket, Savings Plan Pocket).
• Charting & Analysis: The platform provides basic price information. However, there is no evidence of advanced charting capabilities, customizable technical indicators (like MACD, RSI, Moving Averages commonly found on other platforms), or sophisticated analytical tools within the Vivid app itself. User feedback often characterizes the investment platform as "basic".
• Order Types:
  • Stocks & ETFs: Users can place Market Orders (executed at the best available price) and Limit Orders (executed only if a specified price is reached). A significant limitation is that Limit Orders are only valid for a single trading day ('day orders'). Crucially, Stop-Loss orders, a fundamental risk management tool for limiting potential losses, are not available for stock and ETF trading.
  • Cryptocurrencies: More order types are available for crypto, including Market Orders, Limit Orders, Stop-Loss, and Take-Profit orders. When triggered, these stop orders execute as market orders.
• Vivid Beat: An integrated social community feature allowing users to share posts, comments, and insights about their investments. Users can tag specific assets ($ tickers) and share portfolio performance (as percentage changes, not absolute values). This aims to foster community learning but relies heavily on the quality of user-generated content and carries the risks associated with following crowd sentiment.
• Savings Plans: The platform supports setting up automated, recurring investments into stocks, ETFs, crypto, and precious metals, facilitating regular saving and investing habits.

Performance & Stability

While many users find the app smooth, some reviews report issues such as login problems, bugs affecting functionality (like viewing recurring transfers), or general instability.

Overall, the platform prioritizes a simple, integrated mobile experience, which is advantageous for beginners and those seeking convenience. However, this comes at the cost of advanced functionality. The absence of critical tools like stop-loss orders for stocks/ETFs and sophisticated charting capabilities makes it ill-suited for active traders or those relying on technical analysis. The limited order duration (day orders only for stock/ETF limit orders) further restricts trading strategies. While Vivid Beat adds a social dimension, its practical value for making sound investment decisions is debatable and depends on user engagement and content quality.

Account Opening

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Fully digital and reportedly fast onboarding process</li><li>No minimum deposit requirement mentioned for account opening</li><li>Accessible via mobile app download</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Requires identity verification (photo/video, documents)</li><li>Tax ID required for investment/crypto pockets</li><li>Process can face delays or issues (based on user reviews)</li></ul>

Opening an account with Vivid Money is designed to be a straightforward, digital process conducted primarily through the mobile app.

Process

The onboarding is fully online. Prospective users download the Vivid mobile app and follow the in-app instructions. The process is marketed as being quick, often completed in just a few minutes.

Requirements

• Personal Information: Applicants need to provide standard personal details, including full name, citizenship, phone number, email address, and residential address.
• Identity Verification (KYC): As a regulated entity, Vivid requires identity verification. This typically involves uploading photos or scans of valid identification documents (like passports or potentially national ID cards/D-Visas) and may include submitting photos, video recordings, or undergoing biometric checks like face scans. Vivid utilizes third-party providers like Fourthline for these KYC procedures. Failure to provide necessary documents can lead to delays or rejection.
• Tax Identification Number (TIN): Providing a valid TIN is mandatory to activate and use the investment features (Invest Pocket) and the cryptocurrency trading features (Crypto Pocket). This is a regulatory requirement for financial institutions.

Minimum Deposit

There appears to be no minimum deposit required to open the main Vivid account itself; the Standard plan starts free. Funding for investment pockets can start from as low as €0.01, although the minimum trade size is €1.

Timeline

While Vivid and its partners promote a rapid onboarding experience ("minutes"), some user reviews indicate that the verification process or account activation can sometimes encounter delays or technical difficulties. The timeline for business account opening can vary depending on complexity.

Agreement

Users must review and accept various legal documents during onboarding, including the Client Agreement, Privacy Policy, Risk Disclosure, and Best Execution Policy.

The fully digital nature of the account opening process aligns with modern user expectations for fintech services. The process aims for speed and convenience. However, the mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks, including identity verification and TIN collection for investment services, are standard regulatory hurdles. While necessary for compliance, these steps can occasionally introduce friction or delays if documents are not accepted automatically or if technical issues arise, potentially contrasting with the seamless experience portrayed in marketing materials.

Deposit and Withdrawal

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Multiple deposit methods (SEPA, Instant SEPA, Card, Google/Apple Pay, PayPal)</li><li>Instant SEPA transfers supported (incoming & outgoing)</li><li>Free ATM withdrawals up to monthly limit (plan-dependent)</li><li>No deposit limits mentioned</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>ATM withdrawal fees apply above limits or for small amounts (<€50)</li><li>Potential holds on large incoming transfers (e.g., from brokers)</li><li>Card top-up limits may apply</li><li>Potential 3% fee on transfers related to external crypto exchanges</li></ul>

Vivid Money offers several methods for funding accounts and accessing money, leveraging both traditional and modern payment rails.

Deposit Methods (Top-Up)

Users can add funds to their Vivid account via:

• SEPA Transfers: Standard SEPA credit transfers are accepted. Vivid also supports Instant SEPA transfers, allowing funds to arrive within minutes if the sending bank is compatible. Incoming Instant SEPA is free.
• Card Top-Up: Users can instantly top up their account using a linked debit or credit card. Vivid Prime users receive up to €1,000 per month in free instant card top-ups, suggesting potential fees or lower limits apply to Standard plan.
• Mobile Wallets: Top-ups via Apple Pay and Google Pay are supported.
• PayPal: Funds can be transferred from a PayPal account.
• Peer-to-Peer: Users can request money directly from other Vivid users within the app.

No general deposit limits for the main account are explicitly mentioned.

Withdrawal Methods

• SEPA Transfers: Funds can be transferred out via standard or Instant SEPA transfers. Outgoing Instant SEPA is free.
• ATM Cash Withdrawals: Users can withdraw cash globally using their Vivid Visa debit card at ATMs accepting Visa. Withdrawals are free up to a monthly limit (€200 Standard, €1000 Prime), but only if each individual withdrawal is €50 or more. A fee of 3% (minimum €1) applies to withdrawals under €50 or those exceeding the monthly allowance. Additionally, ATM operators might charge their own fees, over which Vivid has no control.
• Investment Proceeds: To withdraw funds from selling investments (stocks, ETFs, MMFs), the proceeds are first credited to the respective pocket's cash section. Users then need to transfer these funds internally (instantly) to a main Money Pocket before withdrawing via SEPA or ATM. Note that settlement of sell orders can take up to two business days before funds are available in the cash pocket.

Fees

Refer to Section 4 for detailed fee breakdowns. Key points include ATM fees and the potential 3% "Gambling and Cash Equivalent Fee" which might apply to transfers involving external crypto exchanges.

Speed

Card, wallet, and PayPal top-ups are typically instant. Instant SEPA transfers (in and out) occur in minutes. Standard SEPA takes 1-2 business days. ATM withdrawals are immediate. Internal transfers between Vivid pockets are instant.

Reported Issues

A significant concern highlighted in user reports involves substantial delays (e.g., up to 9 days) and requests for documentation for large incoming SEPA transfers, particularly those originating from established brokers like Interactive Brokers. This suggests potential bottlenecks or stringent checks within Vivid's AML/risk management processes for funds coming from investment platforms.

While Vivid provides convenient and often instant deposit methods, the withdrawal side presents notable drawbacks. The €50 minimum threshold for free ATM withdrawals penalizes users needing smaller cash amounts, making it costly compared to banks without such restrictions. More critically, the reported delays and holds on incoming transfers, especially from reputable brokerage sources, represent a significant operational issue. Users expecting to quickly access funds transferred from liquidated investment portfolios elsewhere may face frustrating delays and administrative hurdles.

Furthermore, the ambiguity surrounding the 3% "Gambling and Cash Equivalent Fee" and its potential application to SEPA transfers involving external crypto exchanges is a major point of concern. If applied broadly, this fee would severely limit the practicality of using Vivid as an on/off-ramp for the wider crypto ecosystem, effectively discouraging users from moving crypto-related funds to or from major exchanges without incurring substantial costs.

Portfolio Transfer

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Cannot transfer existing stocks/ETFs into Vivid</li><li>Cannot transfer stocks/ETFs out to another broker</li><li>Crypto deposit/withdrawal to external wallets seems unavailable/unclear</li></ul>

The ability to transfer existing investment portfolios into or out of a brokerage account is a crucial feature for many investors, offering flexibility and facilitating consolidation or switching providers. Vivid Money's capabilities in this area are currently very limited.

Stocks & ETFs

• Transfers Out: Vivid explicitly states that it is not possible to transfer stocks or ETFs held in the Invest Pocket directly to another broker. Users wishing to move their holdings must first sell their assets within Vivid, converting them to cash, and then transfer the cash proceeds out of their account.
• Transfers In: Consequently, transferring existing stock or ETF positions into a Vivid account from another broker is also not supported. Assets purchased through Vivid are held in a custodial account managed by Vivid Money B.V., and the system does not accommodate incoming securities transfers.

Cryptocurrencies

• External Wallet Transfers: The functionality to deposit cryptocurrencies from external wallets or withdraw cryptocurrencies held in Vivid to external wallets has been mentioned as "coming soon" in various communications dating back to early 2022 and mid-2023.
• Current Status: Despite these announcements, clear confirmation of widespread availability is lacking in the provided materials. The question "Is it possible to withdraw, deposit or stake my cryptocurrency holdings?" remains listed in the Crypto help section overview, suggesting it's either still not fully rolled out, subject to limitations, or a persistent area of user confusion. No definitive confirmation confirms that standard crypto deposits and withdrawals to external wallets are currently operational for all users.

The complete absence of in-kind transfer capabilities for stocks and ETFs represents a significant limitation compared to most established brokers. This lack of portability forces users to liquidate their positions if they decide to switch providers, which can have several negative consequences:

• Tax Implications: Selling assets can trigger capital gains taxes, which might have been deferred if the assets were transferred in-kind.
• Market Risk: Users are forced to be out of the market during the period between selling on Vivid and repurchasing on a new platform, potentially missing out on market gains or buying back at higher prices.
• Inconvenience: Manually selling and repurchasing an entire portfolio is significantly more cumbersome than an automated transfer process.

This effectively creates a lock-in effect for securities investments made through Vivid.

Similarly, the continued uncertainty surrounding the ability to transfer cryptocurrencies to and from external wallets is a major drawback for crypto users. Standard practice in the crypto industry allows users to move their assets freely between platforms and self-custody wallets. The prolonged delay in implementing this basic functionality at Vivid, despite repeated mentions, raises questions about technical challenges, regulatory complexities, or perhaps a strategic decision to keep crypto assets within their ecosystem. This severely restricts the utility of Vivid's crypto offering for anyone wanting to engage with DeFi, use assets on other platforms, or maintain full control via self-custody.

Safety and Fund Protection

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Regulated entities (CSSF for E-money, AFM for Investments, VASP for Crypto)</li><li>Segregation of client funds/assets from company funds (Stichting Vivid Money)</li><li>Dutch Investor Compensation Scheme (ICS) covers investments up to €20k</li><li>App security features (Biometric login, hidden CVV, notifications)</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Complex regulatory structure across multiple entities/jurisdictions</li><li>Deposit guarantee specifics for S.A. entity unclear post-Solarisbank</li><li>Protection effectiveness relies on correct implementation and segregation</li><li>User reports of account blocks raise concerns about access despite safety nets</li></ul>

Vivid Money operates through a structure involving multiple regulated entities across different European jurisdictions, employing various measures to protect client funds and assets.

Regulatory Oversight

• Vivid Money S.A. (Luxembourg): Provides e-money accounts (Money Pockets), cards, and payment services. It is licensed and supervised as an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) by Luxembourg's CSSF.
• Vivid Money B.V. (Netherlands): Offers investment services (Invest Pocket, Interest Rate Pocket for stocks, ETFs, MMFs). It is licensed and supervised as an Investment Firm by the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM).
• Vivid Digital S.r.l. (Italy/Spain/France): Provides cryptocurrency services (Crypto Pocket). It is registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) with relevant authorities in Italy (OAM), Spain (Bank of Spain), and France (AMF).
• Vivid Money GmbH (Germany): Acts primarily as a service provider to the other entities, managing the app interface, marketing, and cashback programs.

Fund and Asset Segregation

Vivid employs specific mechanisms to separate client assets from its own operational funds, a crucial measure in case of insolvency:

• E-Money (Vivid Money S.A.): Client funds held as electronic money are required by EMI regulations to be safeguarded, typically by holding them in segregated bank accounts separate from the firm's own money.
• Uninvested Cash (Vivid Money B.V.): Cash held in the Invest Pocket or Interest Rate Pocket's cash sections is safeguarded through a separate legal entity, Stichting Vivid Money. This foundation holds the funds in its own bank accounts and invests them in highly regulated Qualifying Money Market Funds (QMMFs). This structure legally isolates client cash from Vivid Money B.V.'s operational assets.
• Invested Securities (Vivid Money B.V.): Stocks, ETFs, and MMFs held in custody by Vivid Money B.V. fall under the provisions of the Dutch Securities Giro Act (Wet giraal effectenverkeer - Wge). This law mandates legal segregation, ensuring that client securities are not part of Vivid Money B.V.'s estate in bankruptcy.

Compensation Schemes

• Dutch Investor Compensation Scheme (ICS): Investments held through Vivid Money B.V. (stocks, ETFs, MMFs) are protected by the ICS. If Vivid B.V. were to fail and the required asset segregation also failed (a double failure scenario), investors could claim compensation up to a maximum of €20,000 per person. This scheme compensates for the loss of assets due to firm failure/fraud, not for market-related investment losses.
• Deposit Guarantee Scheme (DGS): Many sources mention €100,000 deposit protection. This typically applies to bank deposits. When Vivid used Solarisbank as its banking partner, this protection likely applied via the German DGS. However, now that e-money accounts are provided by Vivid Money S.A. (a Luxembourg EMI), the standard protection mechanism is safeguarding, not DGS. The exact applicability of any DGS to the current e-money balances needs clarification, as EMIs operate under different rules than banks.

Platform Security

The Vivid app incorporates several security features: biometric login options (Face ID/fingerprint), hidden card CVV numbers (only accessible within the app), and real-time transaction notifications. Vivid also employs internal monitoring and fraud prevention systems.

On paper, Vivid's safety framework appears comprehensive, utilizing licensed entities, established legal segregation mechanisms (Stichting, Wge), and investor compensation schemes. However, the multi-entity structure spanning Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France can make it complex for users to pinpoint which entity, regulation, and protection scheme applies to each specific pocket or asset they hold. Clear communication of this intricate setup is challenging. The frequently cited €100k deposit guarantee likely pertains to the previous banking partnership and might not accurately reflect the safeguarding provisions for e-money under the current Luxembourg EMI structure.

A more significant concern arises from the contrast between these stated safety measures and the numerous user reports of unexpected account blocks and difficulties accessing funds. While regulatory frameworks aim to protect assets in case of insolvency, these operational issues suggest potential problems with the practical implementation of risk management, AML procedures, or system stability. Even if funds are ultimately secure and segregated, prolonged inability to access them, coupled with poor support, significantly undermines user trust and the perceived safety of the platform in day-to-day use.

Customer Service

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Multiple contact channels available (Chat, Email, Web Form)</li><li>24/7 availability claimed for chat and email support</li><li>Dedicated phone lines for blocking lost/stolen cards</li><li>Stated aim for fast chat response (within 2 minutes)</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Widespread negative user reports about responsiveness and effectiveness</li><li>Lack of general phone support for resolving issues</li><li>Support perceived as unhelpful or providing generic responses</li><li>Issues exacerbated during periods like migrations or account reviews</li></ul>

Vivid Money offers several channels for customer support, but user experiences reported widely suggest significant shortcomings in responsiveness and effectiveness.

Available Channels

• In-App Chat: Presented as the primary support channel, accessible 24/7 according to Vivid. The company aims for a response time of under 2 minutes for business customers, though similar targets for personal accounts are not explicitly stated but implied by 24/7 availability.
• Email: Support via email is available, with specific addresses for business help, review follow-ups, and privacy inquiries. General support is likely accessed via a web form. Email support is also claimed to be available 24/7.
• Web Contact Form: A form on the website can be used, particularly for issues accessing the account, privacy matters, or inquiries from third parties.
• Phone Support: Crucially, phone support is limited to dedicated hotlines for immediately blocking lost or stolen cards in specific countries (Germany/Intl, France, Spain, Italy). There is no general phone number provided for resolving account issues, technical problems, or other queries. Vivid explicitly states they do not initiate calls to customers.

Availability

Vivid claims 24/7 availability for its chat and email support channels.

Reported Performance

Despite the stated availability and multiple channels, a large volume of user feedback across various platforms (App Stores, Reddit, Product Hunt) paints a negative picture of Vivid's customer service. Common complaints include:

• Lack of Responsiveness: Users report significant delays in receiving replies, sometimes days or weeks, or receiving no response at all.
• Ineffectiveness: Support is often described as unhelpful, unable to resolve issues, or providing generic, non-specific answers. Users report being passed between departments or told cases are "escalated" with no tangible progress.
• Inaccessibility: The lack of a general support phone number is a major frustration point, especially when users are locked out of their accounts or facing urgent issues.
• Exacerbating Factors: Support issues appear particularly acute during periods of high demand, such as platform migrations (e.g., the move from Solarisbank to Vivid 2.0) or when accounts are flagged for review or blocked.

There appears to be a significant disconnect between the customer service infrastructure Vivid claims to offer (24/7 chat/email) and the actual experiences reported by many users. While having multiple digital channels is standard, the lack of effective phone support for complex or urgent issues (beyond card blocking) is a notable deficiency compared to traditional banks and even some neobank competitors. The widespread reports of unresponsiveness and unhelpful interactions suggest potential understaffing, inadequate training, or systemic issues within the support process. This poor service quality becomes a critical risk factor when combined with other reported problems like account blocks or transfer delays, leaving users feeling stranded and unable to resolve serious financial issues promptly.

Reputation and Reviews

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Appreciated for its initial concept of integrated banking/investing</li><li>Positive mentions of app UI and fractional investing accessibility</li><li>Successfully raised significant venture capital funding</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Overwhelmingly negative recent reviews regarding support and account stability</li><li>Reports of unexpected account closures or blocks</li><li>Concerns about changing terms, fees, and cashback conditions</li><li>Reputation potentially impacted by SME focus shift and past migration issues</li></ul>

Vivid Money's reputation presents a mixed picture. While the initial concept garnered positive attention and significant investment, recent user reviews across various platforms indicate growing dissatisfaction, primarily centered on operational issues rather than the core product idea.

User Feedback

• App Stores (Apple App Store, Google Play Store): Ratings are varied but show a trend of recent negative reviews. While some users praise the app's interface, ease of use, and initial features like cashback and fractional investing, many recent reviews are highly critical. Common complaints include terrible customer support, unexpected account blocks or closures, issues with verification or transfers, and frustration with changing terms and conditions, particularly regarding fees and cashback eligibility. Some long-term users note a decline in the value proposition over time.
• Reddit & Forums: Discussions on platforms like Reddit (e.g., r/eupersonalfinance, r/germany) echo the App Store sentiments. Threads detail experiences with account blocks, transfer holds, unresponsive support, and general warnings to avoid the platform due to these reliability issues. There's also discussion about the company's structure (multiple entities, past reliance on Solarisbank) and the perceived risks associated with using a newer fintech for primary banking or significant investments.
• Product Hunt: Reviews show a low average rating, with comments mirroring the themes of poor customer service and difficulty closing accounts.

Funding and Valuation

Vivid Money has attracted significant venture capital funding, raising over €200 million in total, including a €100 million Series C round in early 2022 that valued the company at €775 million. Key investors include Greenoaks Capital, Ribbit Capital, and SoftBank Vision Fund 2. This indicates strong initial investor confidence in the business model and growth potential.

Strategic Shifts

The company's public shift towards focusing on the SME market and the challenges reported during the migration away from Solarisbank infrastructure ("Vivid 2.0" migration) may also influence its reputation among retail users, potentially signaling a de-prioritization of their segment.

The prevailing narrative from recent user reviews suggests that while Vivid's concept of an integrated financial app with easy investing was initially appealing, significant operational problems related to account stability, fund access, and customer support have severely damaged its reputation among a vocal segment of its user base. The negative experiences often revolve around feeling helpless when issues arise due to the lack of effective support channels. While the platform has achieved substantial user growth (over 500,000 claimed) and secured major funding, the persistence of these operational complaints raises concerns about its ability to provide a reliable and trustworthy service, particularly for users entrusting significant funds or relying on it for essential banking functions.

Learning Resources

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>"Vivid Classes" offer structured lessons for beginners</li><li>Content covers basics of investing (stocks, ETFs, bonds) and crypto</li><li>"Vivid Beat" community feature allows peer-to-peer exchange</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Limited depth for intermediate or advanced investors</li><li>Quality and reliability of community advice (Vivid Beat) is variable</li><li>Fewer resources compared to dedicated educational platforms or large brokers</li></ul>

Vivid Money incorporates some educational features aimed primarily at helping novice users understand basic financial concepts and investment products.

Vivid Classes

This is the main structured educational offering within the platform. It consists of short, written lessons and quizzes designed to guide users through fundamental topics.

• Content: Currently features courses titled "Why Invest?" covering basics like stocks, ETFs, bonds, and portfolio building, and a "Crypto" course. The content aims to demystify investing for beginners.
• Format: Lessons appear to be text-based with accompanying quizzes.

Vivid Beat

While primarily a social feature, Vivid positions it partly as a learning tool where users can exchange trading experiences, tips, and opinions, potentially learning from the "wisdom of the crowd". Users can see aggregated portfolio performance (percentage changes) of others and follow discussions tagged by specific assets.

In-App Content

The app also includes a newsfeed with financial news, reports, and analyses, contributing to general market awareness.

The available resources, particularly Vivid Classes, provide a decent starting point for absolute beginners needing to grasp core investment terminology and concepts. The integration within the banking and investing app makes learning convenient.

However, the depth and breadth of the educational content appear limited compared to dedicated financial education platforms or the extensive research and learning centers offered by major established brokers. Vivid Classes currently cover only introductory topics. Relying on Vivid Beat for learning carries inherent risks; community forums can propagate misinformation or speculative behavior just as easily as sound advice. Therefore, while helpful for orientation, Vivid's learning resources are unlikely to satisfy the needs of investors seeking in-depth knowledge, advanced strategies, or comprehensive market analysis.

Added Benefits

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Generous cashback programs (up to 150€/month for Prime)</li><li>Cashback can be linked to stock/crypto performance</li><li>Multiple "Pockets" (sub-accounts) with individual IBANs</li><li>Interest Rate Pocket offers yield on cash balances</li><li>Savings Plans for automated investing</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>Cashback benefits often require Prime subscription and meeting conditions</li><li>Interest rates and cashback percentages/limits subject to change</li><li>Metal card primarily a perk for Prime users</li></ul>

Beyond the core banking and trading functions, Vivid Money offers several additional features and benefits designed to enhance user value and engagement, many of which are tied to its premium subscription plan.

Cashback Programs

This is a prominent feature complex with multiple layers:

• Standard Cashback: Both Standard and Prime users earn baseline cashback on card purchases (e.g., 0.2% Standard, 1% Prime under Cashback 2.0). Prime users may get higher rates, especially outside the EEA (e.g., 3% on restaurant payments).
• Stock/Crypto Rewards: Cashback earned can be automatically placed into "Stock Rewards" or "Crypto Rewards" pockets, where its value fluctuates based on the performance of a chosen stock or cryptocurrency. This uniquely links spending rewards to investment performance.
• Super Deals / Champion / Shopper: Special programs offering significantly higher cashback rates (up to 25% or 50% mentioned) with specific merchants or through the in-app "Shopper" portal.
• Limits & Conditions: Cashback is typically capped monthly (e.g., up to €20 Standard, up to €100 or €150 Prime depending on source/program). Eligibility for some cashback programs (like Cashback 2.0) requires meeting certain conditions, such as minimum monthly card spending (€500) or maintaining a minimum account balance/investment holding (€1000 balance or €100 investments). These conditions and rates can change.

Pockets (Sub-accounts)

Users can create multiple sub-accounts ("Pockets") within their main account, each with its own unique German, Spanish, or Italian IBAN. This allows for granular budgeting, saving for specific goals, or segregating funds in different currencies. Standard users get 3 free pockets, and Prime users get up to 15. Shared Pockets allow collaboration with other Vivid users.

Interest Rate Pocket

This feature allows users to earn interest on their cash balances held within this specific pocket. Funds are typically invested in low-risk Money Market Funds. Vivid offers promotional interest rates for new users (e.g., 4% or 3% p.a. for the first two months) and ongoing rates based on the user's plan (e.g., 2.25% p.a. for Prime after promo, post-April 2025 change). Rates are subject to change and may have balance tiers.

Other Notable Benefits

• Savings Plans: Users can set up automated recurring investments (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly) into stocks, ETFs, crypto, or precious metals, starting from €1 per installment. This promotes disciplined investing.
• Metal Card: Prime subscribers receive a distinctive metal Visa debit card (often purple), which lacks printed card numbers/CVV for enhanced security. Standard users typically receive a plastic card.
• Multi-Currency Support: Ability to hold and transact in numerous currencies (40 for Standard, 107+ for Prime) within different Pockets, often using competitive exchange rates (though markups apply).

These added benefits, particularly the integrated cashback-investment link and the flexible Pockets system, contribute significantly to Vivid's unique selling proposition. They effectively blend banking utility with passive or active investment growth opportunities within the same app. However, many of the most attractive perks (higher cashback limits, more pockets, metal card, potentially better interest rates or lower fees) are reserved for paying Prime subscribers, reinforcing the importance of the subscription model for accessing the platform's full potential. Users should also be aware that conditions, limits, and rates associated with these benefits are subject to change. For more on this topic you can read our full in-depth Vivid Money review.

Final Verdict

Pros

<ul class="tick"><li>Innovative integration of banking and investing in one app</li><li>Accessible entry point for beginners (fractional shares, simple UI)</li><li>Extensive cryptocurrency selection and staking options</li><li>Unique cashback features linked to investments</li></ul>‍

Cons

<ul class="dismiss"><li>High €1 fixed commission per stock/ETF trade, especially for small amounts</li><li>Lack of portfolio transferability for stocks/ETFs</li><li>Widespread concerns about customer support reliability and account stability</li><li>Basic trading tools and limited order types for stocks/ETFs</li><li>Strategic shift towards SME focus creates uncertainty for retail users</li></ul>

Vivid Money presents an ambitious attempt to create an all-encompassing financial "super app," merging everyday banking with accessible investment opportunities in stocks, ETFs, and a particularly broad range of cryptocurrencies. Its key strengths lie in this integration, the user-friendly mobile interface, the low entry barrier offered by fractional investing, and innovative features like cashback linked to investment performance. The platform's direct asset ownership model (Invest 2.0, Crypto 2.0) and multi-layered regulatory oversight provide a solid foundation for asset safety.

However, the platform's suitability as a primary brokerage, especially for users comparing options on a dedicated review site, is significantly undermined by several critical weaknesses. The introduction of a €1 fixed commission per stock/ETF trade marks a departure from its earlier low-cost appeal and makes frequent or small investments comparatively expensive. The complete inability to transfer stock/ETF portfolios into or out of Vivid is a major restriction on user flexibility and a significant disadvantage compared to industry standards.

Perhaps most concerning are the persistent and widespread user complaints regarding customer service and account reliability. Reports of unresponsive support, unexplained account blocks, and difficulties accessing funds erode trust and pose a substantial operational risk for users. Furthermore, the trading platform itself remains relatively basic, lacking advanced charting tools and essential order types like stop-loss for stock/ETF trading.

Finally, Vivid's clear strategic pivot towards serving SME clients raises legitimate questions about its long-term commitment to developing and supporting its retail brokerage offering.

Conclusion

Vivid Money may appeal to beginners primarily seeking an integrated banking and simple investment experience within one mobile app, particularly those attracted to fractional shares, a wide crypto selection, and novel cashback mechanisms. The platform offers an easy initial entry into the world of investing.

However, it is difficult to recommend Vivid Money as a primary brokerage account for most users at this time due to:

• High relative costs for small stock/ETF trades
• Lack of portfolio transferability
• Serious and widely reported issues with customer support and account stability
• Limited trading tools for anyone beyond a basic buy-and-hold investor
• Uncertainty surrounding its long-term focus on retail brokerage

Investors prioritizing low costs, advanced trading tools, portfolio portability, or reliable customer support will likely find better-suited alternatives among dedicated brokerage platforms. The operational risks highlighted by user reviews currently outweigh the benefits of its integrated approach for many potential brokerage clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vivid Money safe to use for investing?

Vivid operates through regulated entities across Europe with appropriate licenses for e-money, investment, and crypto services. Client assets are legally segregated from company assets, and investments are protected by the Dutch Investor Compensation Scheme up to €20,000. However, numerous user reports of account blocks and access issues raise concerns about operational reliability even if the underlying asset safety structure is sound.

Which is better for investing: Vivid Standard or Prime?

Prime (€9.90/month) offers better value for active investors due to lower FX markups on USD stocks/ETFs and lower crypto trading fees. Standard (free) users face the same €1 fixed commission per stock/ETF trade but higher FX costs and crypto fees. If you trade USD assets or cryptocurrencies regularly, the Prime plan savings may offset the subscription cost.

Can I transfer my existing stock portfolio to Vivid?

No. Vivid does not support incoming stock or ETF transfers from other brokers. You would need to sell your positions at your current broker, transfer the cash to Vivid, and then repurchase the securities. This is a significant limitation compared to most established brokers.

Does Vivid offer cryptocurrency withdrawals to external wallets?

While Vivid has mentioned crypto withdrawals as "coming soon" in various communications, clear confirmation of widespread availability is lacking in current materials. This limitation makes Vivid less suitable for users wanting to interact with the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem or maintain self-custody of their assets.

How does Vivid's €1 fixed commission affect small investments?

The €1 fixed commission per stock/ETF trade significantly impacts cost-effectiveness for small amounts. For example, a €10 trade incurs a 10% fee, and a €50 trade a 2% fee. This structure disadvantages the fractional investing feature that allows purchases from €1, as the fees would make such small trades prohibitively expensive percentage-wise.

What are the main risks of using Vivid as my primary broker?

The main risks include: potential account access issues based on user reports, lack of portfolio transferability creating a lock-in effect, limited trading features for active investors, and uncertainty about long-term focus given the company's shift toward business clients. These factors should be carefully weighed against the convenience of the integrated banking-investing model.

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Disclaimer: Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. This review is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Platform features, fees, and conditions may change over time. Always conduct your own research before making investment decisions, and consider consulting with a qualified financial advisor for personalized guidance.

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