In my experience as a trader, choosing CommBank comes with specific advantages and disadvantages that are important to weigh, especially if you prioritize safety and well-established institutions. The most significant advantage for me has always been regulation and stability. CommBank is one of Australia’s largest banks, operating since 1911 and regulated strictly by ASIC and APRA. This means my funds feel protected by the country’s robust financial oversight and the Australian Financial Claims Scheme, which is not always the case with smaller brokers. Their digital platforms, like the CommBank app and CommSec, are mature and user-friendly, making day-to-day management of investments straightforward. The ability to trade more than 2,000 ASX-listed stocks and a select set of ETFs is enough for many local investors. The process for things like bank transfers, salary deposits, and accessing funds via an ATM, has always felt seamless and dependable to me, even for business transactions. However, the downsides are quite clear and have shaped my trading decisions. CommBank’s offerings are limited almost exclusively to Australian securities. If you, like me, want to access a broader suite of global forex or international markets, you'll soon find these options lacking. Fee structures can also be more complex than many specialist forex brokers, and their foreign exchange fees, cross-border transfer charges, and trading commissions can add up quickly. It’s also worth noting that support for forex trading specifically is minimal, which might be a dealbreaker if that’s your main focus. In summary, I see CommBank best suited for those seeking regulatory security, stability, and simplicity in managing Australian assets—not for advanced traders seeking diverse global markets or low-cost forex execution.