China has approximately 240 million A-share investor accounts, making it the world's largest retail investor base. East Money (东方财富) and Tonghuashun (同花顺) are the dominant trading platforms. International platforms like Robinhood are not available in China. This guide covers stock trading options in China.
Stock Trading Platform Comparison
| Feature | East Money (东方财富) | Tonghuashun (同花顺) | Robinhood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Revenue (2025) | ¥160.68B (+38.5%) | ¥60.29B (+44%) | ~$3B (est. +58%) |
| Net Profit (2025) | ¥120.85B (+25.8%) | ¥32.05B (+75.8%) | First full-year profit |
| Registered Users | Hundreds of millions | Hundreds of millions | 25.2M funded accounts |
| Key Product | East Money app, Tiantian Fund | THS iFinD, THS app | Commission-free trading |
| Market Focus | A-shares, funds, HK stocks | A-shares, global data | US stocks, crypto, options |
| China Available | Yes (#1 internet finance) | Yes (#1 by users) | No (US only) |
| Commission | Varies by broker | Varies by broker | $0 stock/ETF trades |
Detailed Platform Analysis
East Money (东方财富) — China's #1 Internet Finance Platform
East Money reported ¥160.68B revenue in 2025 (+38.5%) with net profit of ¥120.85B (+25.8%). Its Tiantian Fund (天天基金) network is China's largest fund sales platform. East Money's Guba (股吧) stock forum is China's most active retail investor community. The platform covers A-shares, fund trading, Hong Kong stocks, and financial information services.Tonghuashun (同花顺/THS) — China's #1 Trading Software
Tonghuashun reported ¥60.29B revenue in 2025 (+44%) with net profit of ¥32.05B (+75.8%). It is China's most widely used stock trading software by user count. THS iFinD provides professional-grade financial data and analytics. The platform is known for its powerful charting tools, real-time market data, and comprehensive stock screening capabilities.Robinhood — US Only, Not in China
Robinhood reported ~$3B revenue in 2024 (+58%) with Q4 revenue of $1.01B (+115%), achieving its first full-year net profit. It has 25.2M funded accounts and is the largest zero-commission broker in the US. However, Robinhood does not operate in China and has no plans to enter the Chinese market.Stock Trading in China: Key Facts
- **A-Share Investors**: ~240 million investor accounts (2024). Retail investors account for a significant portion of daily trading volume.
- **Trading Hours**: A-shares trade Monday-Friday, 9:30-11:30 AM and 1:00-3:00 PM (Beijing time). T+1 settlement (buy today, sell tomorrow).
- **Foreign Access**: Foreigners can trade A-shares through Stock Connect (Hong Kong-Shanghai/Shenzhen), QFII/RQFII programs, or by opening accounts with select brokers.
- **Other Platforms**: **Xueqiu (雪球)**: Popular investor social platform with stock discussion and portfolio tracking. **Futu Niuniu (富途牛牛)**: Hong Kong-based broker popular with Chinese investors for US/HK stock trading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Robinhood available in China?▶
No. Robinhood operates exclusively in the United States. East Money and Tonghuashun are the leading stock trading platforms in China.
Can foreigners trade Chinese stocks?▶
Yes, through Stock Connect (via Hong Kong brokers), QFII/RQFII programs, or select domestic brokers. Major international brokers like Futu also provide access to Chinese markets.
What is the best stock trading app in China?▶
Tonghuashun (同花顺) is the most popular by user count for its powerful tools. East Money (东方财富) is best for fund investment and community. Both are free to download.
How do I open a stock trading account in China?▶
Chinese citizens need an ID card and bank account. Foreigners typically use Stock Connect via Hong Kong brokers or international platforms like Futu. Account opening is fully digital.
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