Brokerage fees generally consist of a proportional component calculated as a percentage of the transaction amount (typically between 0.10% and 0.50% with online brokers) and a fixed flat fee per order. A minimum commission per order is frequently applied. For example, for a 5,000 euro share purchase, fees may include a fixed flat fee and a percentage of the amount.

ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) have significantly lower fees than other UCITS. The average ongoing charges for ETFs are approximately 0.35%, which is well below bond funds (1.25%), profiled funds (2.05%), or flexible management (2.45%). This difference is explained by the less complex structure of ETFs.

Custody fees correspond to fees charged by the account-holding institution for the safekeeping of securities in a portfolio. They cover administration costs, secure custody of assets, and processing of corporate actions. These fees can be calculated in different ways: flat fee per security line, percentage of portfolio value, or a combination of both. Online brokers have often eliminated these fees, while traditional banks still apply them.

ESMA guidelines impose several rules for performance commissions: a minimum reference period of five years, a crystallization frequency of at most once per year, and calculation net of all other fees. For example, a fund can only charge a commission if the net asset value exceeds its all-time high (High Water Mark). These rules aim to protect investors and ensure transparency.

The AMF decided to prohibit transaction commissions effective January 1, 2026. These commissions were charged during UCITS transactions and were deemed detrimental to investors. This measure aims to improve transparency and reduce hidden costs for investors.

Subscription fees correspond to recurring costs for access to specific services such as real-time market data or advanced analysis tools. These fees can be charged monthly or annually, depending on the institution. Some institutions also charge recurring account maintenance fees for basic services. Therefore, it is not always true that these fees are charged monthly.

Performance commissions constitute variable remuneration charged only when the fund exceeds a predefined objective. They are generally set between 10% and 25% of outperformance relative to a benchmark index. For example, a fund may charge a commission if its performance exceeds that of an index such as the Eurostoxx 50.

Financial fees can be classified as fixed or variable. Fixed fees include flat amounts such as fixed fees per order or annual subscriptions. Variable fees depend on the amount or performance, such as proportional fees or performance commissions.