Best CFD Brokers In The UK
Thomas Drury
Co-Founder
Thomas is an experienced financial trader in leverage instruments, crypto and general investing. He has over a decade experience in finance and holds Chartered Status in the financial industry, Thomas’s speciality is trading CFDs, Forex and Day Trading. His crypto portfolio is heavily weighted towards BTC and Eth, but enjoys trading low cap crypto’s with higher volatility. Thomas’s favourite trading strategy is break out Trading.
“Our commitment at The Investors Centre is unwavering. We strive to provide clear, actionable advice that empowers you to achieve financial success. Our vision is a future where anyone can invest confidently and wisely.”
Dom Farnell
Co-Founder
Dom is an experienced retail investor, learning his craft in what he likes to call the “hard way”. Through many of these lesson’s he has crafted himself a sound investment strategy that has enabled him to make investing into a business not just a hobby. He wanted to create The Investors Centre to be able to use these lessons and help other people establish them selves in the world of investing.
“Financial clarity and integrity are the cornerstones of everything we do. We’re here to ensure that your investment journey is built on a solid financial understanding and a sound strategic foundation.”
Table of Contents
Disclaimer
How We Test
65% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Our #1 Rated Trading Platform
Quick Summary – What is the Best CFD Trading Platform in the UK?
How do the Best UK CFD Brokers Rank?
| Rank | Broker | FCA Regulated? | Minimum Deposit | Platforms | Assets | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SpreadEX | Yes | £100 | Proprietary, TradingView | Forex, Indices, Stocks, Commodities | All-round UK trading & spread betting |
| 2 | XTB | Yes | £1 | xStation 5 | Forex, Stocks, Indices, Crypto | Low-cost trading for active users |
| 3 | IG | Yes | £250 | IG Web, MetaTrader | Forex, Stocks, Indices, Options, ETFs | Advanced analysis and global access |
| 4 | eToro | Yes | £40 | eToro Web & Mobile | Stocks, Crypto, ETFs, Indices, Forex | Social trading and beginners |
| 5 | Saxo | Yes | £500 | SaxoTraderGO, PRO | Forex, Stocks, Bonds, Commodities, ETFs | Experienced traders with high volume |
| 6 | Pepperstone | Yes | £0 | MetaTrader 4/5, cTrader | Forex, Indices, Stocks, Commodities | Low-cost forex trading with MT4/5 |
The Top 6 CFD Brokers in the UK Reviewed
- SpreadEX – Best Rated CFD Broker in the UK
- XTB – Cheapest CFD Broker for regular trades
- IG– Excellent for Advanced Trading tools and analysis
- eToro – Best for other trading facilities within the same account
- Saxo – Excellent Option for Advanced Technical Traders
- Pepperstone– Noteworthy low Forex Fees
SpreadEX - Best Rated CFD Broker in the UK
Security
Fees
Support
Usability
Pros & Cons
- FCA-regulated and UK-based
- Offers both CFDs and spread betting
- No minimum deposit
- TradingView integration for advanced charting
- No MetaTrader support
- Only available to UK and Irish residents
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Is SpreadEX FCA Regulated and Safe to Use in the UK?
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What Can You Trade and On Which Platforms?
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How Much Does It Cost to Trade with SpreadEX?
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Who Is SpreadEX Best Suited For?
65% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
XTB - Cheapest CFD Broker for regular trades
Security
Fees
Support
Usability
Pros & Cons
- £0 minimum deposit
- Extremely low forex spreads
- Fast, intuitive xStation 5 platform
- Broad asset selection
- No MetaTrader support
- Inactivity fee applies after 12 months
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Is XTB FCA Regulated and Safe to Use in the UK?
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What Can You Trade and On Which Platforms?
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How Much Does It Cost to Trade with XTB?
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Who Is XTB Best Suited For?
Yes — XTB is FCA-regulated and operates under strict oversight. It offers negative balance protection and segregates client funds, making it a secure broker for UK traders.
Trade forex, stocks, indices, crypto, and ETFs via xStation 5 — a clean, fast proprietary platform available on web, desktop, and mobile with advanced charting tools.
XTB offers spreads from 0.1 pips on forex with no commission on most instruments. There’s no deposit fee, but an inactivity fee may apply after 12 months.
XTB is perfect for active and cost-conscious traders who value low spreads and efficient execution. Ideal for day traders and those focused on forex and stock CFDs.
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
IG -Excellent for Advanced Trading tools and analysis
Security
Fees
Support
Usability
Pros & Cons
- Huge range of global markets
- Advanced ProRealTime charting
- FCA-regulated with decades of credibility
- Excellent educational content
- £250 minimum deposit
- Overnight and less-visible fees can add up
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Is IG FCA Regulated and Safe to Use in the UK?
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What Can You Trade and On Which Platforms?
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How Much Does It Cost to Trade with IG?
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Who Is IG Best Suited For?
Yes — IG is fully FCA-regulated and one of the UK’s most established brokers. It offers negative balance protection and segregates client funds for peace of mind.
IG gives you access to forex, shares, indices, commodities, options, and ETFs across its proprietary web and mobile platforms, plus ProRealTime and limited MetaTrader support.
Spreads start at 0.6 pips on major forex pairs. While trading costs are competitive, overnight financing and non-core fees should be reviewed closely before opening positions.
IG is ideal for experienced traders who want deep market access, advanced tools, and pro-level charting. It’s also a great fit for those trading multiple asset types.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
eToro - Best for other trading facilities within the same account
Security
Fees
Support
Usability
Pros & Cons
- Industry-leading copy trading features
- FCA-regulated and beginner-friendly
- Zero-commission stock and ETF trading
- Intuitive web and mobile platforms
- USD-only accounts (conversion fees for GBP)
- Limited tools for advanced technical traders
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Is eToro FCA Regulated and Safe to Use in the UK?
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What Can You Trade and On Which Platforms?
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How Much Does It Cost to Trade with eToro?
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Who Is eToro Best Suited For?
Yes — eToro is FCA-regulated and offers negative balance protection. It’s widely trusted, with additional safeguards like segregated funds and multi-asset access.
Trade CFDs on stocks, indices, crypto, forex, and ETFs — plus invest in real assets. Use eToro’s sleek in-house platform on desktop or mobile.
eToro charges no commissions on stocks and ETFs. CFD spreads are competitive, but there’s a fixed $5 withdrawal fee and currency conversion costs for GBP users.
Perfect for beginners and casual traders who want an easy entry point into CFDs, and anyone keen to follow or copy more experienced investors.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 51% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Saxo - Excellent Option for Advanced Technical Traders
Security
Fees
Support
Usability
Pros & Cons
- Access to 60,000+ instruments globally
- Award-winning SaxoTraderGO and PRO platforms
- Tiered pricing model for active traders
- Deep analytical tools and risk controls
- £500 minimum deposit
- Not ideal for complete beginners
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Is Saxo FCA Regulated and Safe to Use in the UK?
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What Can You Trade and On Which Platforms?
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How Much Does It Cost to Trade with Saxo?
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Who Is Saxo Best Suited For?
Yes — Saxo is FCA-regulated and considered a safe, reputable broker. Client funds are protected under FSCS, and its infrastructure supports high-level security.
Trade CFDs on forex, stocks, indices, commodities, options, and bonds. Use SaxoTraderGO (web and mobile) or SaxoTraderPRO (desktop) for advanced charting and tools.
Pricing is tiered — more active traders benefit from lower spreads and commissions. While platform access is free, extra fees apply for live data and inactivity
Saxo is best for experienced, technically proficient traders who want deep market access, premium tools, and flexible asset exposure across global markets.
64% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Pepperstone - Noteworthy low Forex Fees
Security
Fees
Support
Usability
Pros & Cons
- Ultra-tight forex spreads (as low as 0.1 pips)
- Supports MT4, MT5, and cTrader platforms
- Fast execution and deep liquidity
- £0 minimum deposit
- No proprietary platform
- Limited built-in research tools
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Is Pepperstone FCA Regulated and Safe to Use in the UK?
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What Can You Trade and On Which Platforms?
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How Much Does It Cost to Trade with Pepperstone?
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Who Is Pepperstone Best Suited For?
Yes — Pepperstone is FCA-regulated and offers client fund protection through segregated accounts and negative balance protection. A highly trusted choice for UK traders.
Trade CFDs on forex, indices, shares, and commodities using MetaTrader 4/5 or cTrader — ideal for traders needing fast execution and algorithmic capabilities.
Pepperstone offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips with commission or a standard account with no commission and slightly wider spreads. No fees for deposits or withdrawals.
Perfect for active forex traders seeking low-cost execution, ultra-fast platforms, and flexibility. Also ideal for scalpers, EA users, and algorithmic traders.
81.7% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
What Are CFDs and How Do They Work?
What Is a CFD (Contract for Difference)?
A CFD is a financial contract that allows you to speculate on the price movement of an asset without owning it. You can profit from rising or falling prices, making CFDs a flexible tool for short-term trading.
How Does CFD Trading Actually Work?
You open a position based on whether you think an asset’s price will go up (buy) or down (sell). If the market moves in your favour, you profit from the difference in price. If not, you incur a loss. CFDs use leverage, so small price moves can have big impacts
What Can You Trade with CFDs in the UK?
UK CFD brokers typically offer access to forex, indices, stocks, commodities and ETFs. This wide range lets traders diversify and target multiple markets—all from one platform.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing a CFD Broker?
Is the Broker FCA Regulated?
Always choose a broker authorised by the FCA. FCA regulation ensures your funds are held securely, with protections like negative balance safeguards and strict financial standards.
What Fees and Spreads Should You Expect?
Look out for trading spreads, commissions, overnight charges, and potential inactivity fees. The best brokers keep costs transparent and competitive—especially for high-volume or forex traders.
Do They Offer a Demo Account or Risk-Free Testing?
A good CFD broker should offer a free demo account. It’s the safest way to test their platform, tools, and execution quality without risking real capital upfront.
Is the Trading Platform User-Friendly?
Whether on mobile or desktop, your platform should be fast, reliable, and easy to use. Look for customisable dashboards, smooth order execution, and intuitive charting tools.
Are Educational Tools and Analysis Available?
Top CFD brokers support your growth with in-platform education, trading tutorials, market updates, and technical analysis. These resources help beginners build skills and experienced traders stay sharp.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Trading CFDs?
Pros of CFD Trading in the UK
CFDs offer flexibility to trade rising or falling markets without owning the asset. You can access thousands of global instruments, use leverage, and benefit from tax advantages like CGT-free spread betting.
Key Risks and Disadvantages You Need to Know
CFD trading carries high risk, especially with leverage. Losses can exceed deposits without protections. Market volatility, overnight fees, and limited regulation on offshore brokers can also catch traders off guard.
What Are Leverage and Margin – And How Do They Work?
What Is Leverage in CFD Trading?
Leverage lets you control larger positions with less capital. For example, 5:1 leverage means you can trade £5,000 with £1,000. It can amplify profits—but also increases potential losses just as quickly.
How Does Margin Work?
Margin is the capital you must deposit to open a leveraged position. If your trade moves against you, your broker may issue a margin call, requiring you to top up or risk liquidation.
What Risk Controls Should You Enable?
Enable stop-loss orders, take-profit limits, and negative balance protection where available. These tools help limit downside risk and prevent losing more than you’ve deposited—especially critical with leveraged positions
Are CFD Profits Taxable in the UK?
When Does Capital Gains Tax Apply to CFD Trading?
If you trade CFDs as an individual and profit, those gains are typically subject to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) once you exceed your annual allowance. It’s your responsibility to track gains, losses, and file accurately with HMRC.
What’s the Difference Between CFD Trading and Spread Betting?
While CFD profits are taxable, spread betting is currently exempt from CGT, income tax, and stamp duty in the UK—so long as it’s not your primary income source. It’s often preferred for short-term trades with tax efficiency in mind.
How Should You Report Your Gains to HMRC?
Use the Self Assessment tax return to report your CFD gains. Keep detailed records of every trade, including dates, profits, and losses. If unsure, speak with a tax adviser to ensure compliance with UK tax laws and HMRC guidelines.
Final Verdict – Which Is the Best CFD Broker for You?
Choosing the right CFD broker comes down to your goals, trading style, and level of experience. After reviewing each platform in depth, here’s how they stack up:
- New to trading? Try eToro for a simple interface and social copy trading.
- Looking for low-cost, high-frequency trades? XTB delivers tight spreads and zero commissions.
- Advanced trader needing full market access? IG offers pro-level tools and global reach.
- Prefer spread betting alongside CFDs? SpreadEX remains the best all-round option in the UK.
- Technical analyst? Saxo provides deep charting tools and tiered pricing.
- Forex-focused? Pepperstone is hard to beat for raw spreads and fast execution.
All brokers featured here are FCA-regulated and were tested using real accounts and trades. We prioritised safety, cost, asset range, and ease of use to help UK traders make an informed decision.
No matter your experience level, we always recommend starting with a demo account to test your strategy risk-free. Then, choose the platform that fits you — not just the one with the biggest marketing claims.
Top 5 Brokers
1
SpreadEX
65% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
2
XTB
73% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
3
IG
71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
4
eToro
51% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider.
5
Saxo
64% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
FAQs
What is the safest CFD broker in the UK?
The safest CFD brokers are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). IG, CMC Markets, and XTB are well-known for their strong compliance and security measures.
Do all CFD brokers offer negative balance protection?
FCA-regulated brokers must provide negative balance protection to retail clients, ensuring you won’t lose more than your initial deposit.
Which CFD broker has the lowest fees?
XTB and Pepperstone are among the most cost-effective CFD brokers in the UK, offering tight spreads and low or no commissions on major markets.
Can I practise CFD trading without risking real money?
Yes, most brokers like eToro, AvaTrade, and IG offer free demo accounts so you can practise with virtual funds.
Are CFDs suitable for beginners?
CFDs can be suitable for beginners if used with caution. Start with a demo account, limit leverage, and choose a beginner-friendly platform like AvaTrade or eToro.
References
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – Contract for differences | FCA
- XTB CFD Trading – Trade CFDs on global currency pairs
- IG Group – CFD Trading Platform Overview & Educational Resources
- CMC Markets – CMC Markets: CFDs, Spread Betting & Forex Trading
- Pepperstone – Open a share CFD or spread bet account
- AvaTrade UK – AvaTrade: Regulated broker | Forex & CFD trading
- Admirals (Admiral Markets) – CFD Trading – Trading Forex, Commodities, Stocks and ETFs
- Saxo Markets UK – CFD Trading | Contracts for Difference | CFDs
- eToro UK – The power of CFD trading on eToro
- UK Government – Capital Gains Tax on Investments
