The Top 7 Best Investment Platforms in the UK: 2024

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Adam Woodhead
Adam Woodhead

Adam Woodhead

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Adam is a Co-Founder and content creator for The Investors Centre. His key areas of interest and expertise are ETF's and blockchain technology.

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Reviewed by:
Dom Farnell
Dom Farnell

Dom Farnell

Co-Founder

Dom is a Co-Founder of TIC, a passionate investor and seasoned blog writer with a keen interest in financial markets and wealth management. "My goal is to empower individuals to make informed investment decisions through informative and engaging content."

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Last Updated 08/09/2024
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Disclaimer

Disclaimer

Please note that the information provided by The Investors Centre is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always consult a professional before making any investment decisions.

Please bear in mind that the value of investments can decrease in addition to increasing, which means there is a possibility of receiving an amount lower than your initial investment. It is generally advisable to retain your investments for a minimum of five years in order to maximize the likelihood of achieving your desired returns. Capital at risk.

Quick Answer: The Best Investment Platform is...

The best investment platform in the UK is IG. Known for its user-friendly interface and diverse range of investment options, IG offers stocks, ETFs, and more. Its competitive fees and robust research tools make it a top choice for both beginners and experienced investors.

Here are the Top 7 Investment UK Platforms...

  1. IG Best Overall Investment Platform, Rated Highest
  2. eToro – Best for Beginners & Social Trading
  3. Interactive Brokers – Best for Global Market Access
  4. Saxo – Best for Professional Investors
  5. Trading 212 – Sign-Up Bonus, Best for Commission-Free Investing
  6. Admiral MarketsGood for Forex and CFD Trading, MT4 Available
  7. Interactive Investor – Best for Large Portfolios and Flat Fees

Featured Broker

4.7/5

eToro

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

When it comes to investing, selecting the right platform can make a significant difference in your overall returns and experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, the right platform provides ease of use, transparency in fees, and access to the assets you need. In this guide, we’ll break down the top 7 investment platforms in the UK for 2024, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to choose the platform that best suits your trading style and goals.

How Do These Investment Platforms Compare?

Etoro Logo
Saxo Logo
IG
Etoro
Saxo
Trading 212
Interactive Brokers
Admiral Markets
Interactive Investor
Regulator
FCA
FCA
FCA
FCA
FCA
FCA
FCA
Platform Score
5/5
5/5
4/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
4/5
Variety of Assets
18,000+ markets, stocks, ETFs, commodities, currencies, bonds, funds
Stocks, cryptocurrencies, CFDs
Forex Stocks (including fractional shares) ETFs Options Futures Bonds Commodities
12,000+ global stocks & ETFs, commodities, forex
Forex (Spot Currencies), Stocks, ETFs, Options, Futures/FOPs, CFDs, Metals, Bonds, Mutual Funds
Stocks 3000+, ETF's, Forex, Commodities, Indices
1,000+ ETFs, Stocks (UK & International), Bonds, Ethical Investments
ISA Available
Yes
Yes (in conjunction with Moneyfarm)
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Min Deposit
£250
$10
£0
£500
£1
£100
£100
Trust Pilot Score
4.1/5
4.3/5
4.6/5
4.6/5
3.3/5
3.8/5
4.7/5
Fee Score
4.5/5
4/5
4/5
4/5
4.9/5
3.9/5
4.2/5
Overall Review Score
4.75/5
4.7/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
4.2/5
4.4/5
eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.

What are the Best Investment Platforms for UK Investors?

IG Logo
4.5/5

IG - Wide Market Range, Best Overall Investment Platform, Rated Highest

Your capital is at risk.

IG stands out for experienced traders due to its advanced trading features, including real-time market data, customisable charts, and a wide selection of analytical tools. Its ProRealTime charting software, direct market access, and ability to trade on margin make it a go-to choice for those looking to execute complex strategies across multiple markets.

Fee TypeCost
Share dealing fee (UK)£8 per trade, reduced to £3 if 3+ trades per month
Platform fee£96 per year (waived with 3+ trades per quarter)
Forex trading0.6 pip spread
International shares£10 per trade
  • 17,000+ global markets
  • 80+ currency pairs for forex trading
  • 13,000+ shares and ETFs
  • Commodities, including gold, oil, and silver
  • Indices, including FTSE 100, Dow Jones, and S&P 500

Despite its complex tools, IG’s platform is user-friendly. Both the web and mobile interfaces are well-designed, allowing traders to quickly access market data, place trades, and customise their trading environment. The platform is well-suited for traders who need powerful tools but don’t want a steep learning curve.

Pros and Cons

4.8/5

eToro – Best for Beginners & Social Trading

eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.

eToro is perfect for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly platform and unique social trading features. With the option to copy trades from experienced investors, newcomers can learn by observing seasoned traders. It also offers commission-free stock trading, which is ideal for those just starting their investment journey.

Fee TypeCost
Stock Trading£0 commission
Forex TradingFrom 1 pip
Withdrawal Fee$5 per withdrawal
Inactivity Fee$10 per month
  • Trading Account
  • ISA with Moneyfarm partnership
  • Copy Trading Account
  • Demo Account

eToro offers a broad array of assets that cater to various investment styles:

  • Stocks & Shares: Users have access to over 4,500 stocks from global exchanges.
  • Cryptocurrencies: Including major ones like Bitcoin and Ethereum among others.
  • ETFs: More than 500 ETFs covering diverse sectors and geographies.
  • Indices: Trade on the world’s leading indices such as NASDAQ, FTSE 100, and more.
  • Commodities: Options include gold, oil, silver, and other popular commodities.

eToro is designed to be user-friendly, with a clean interface that’s easy to navigate, even for beginners. Its standout feature is social trading, allowing users to follow and copy the trades of experienced investors. The mobile app is intuitive, making trading accessible for everyone.

Pros and Cons

IBKR logo
4.5/5

Interactive Brokers - Best for Global Access, Low-Cost Trading

The inclusion of Interactive Brokers’ (IBKR) name, logo or weblinks is present pursuant to an advertising
arrangement only. IBKR is not a contributor, reviewer, provider or sponsor of content published on this site, and
is not responsible for the accuracy of any products or services discussed.

Interactive Brokers is best known for providing access to over 135 markets worldwide, making it ideal for investors looking for global diversification. Its professional-grade tools, such as advanced charting and a suite of risk management options, make it a favourite among serious investors. Low trading fees further enhance its appeal for those trading across various markets.

Fee TypeCost
Stock TradingFrom £0.005 per share
Forex TradingFrom 0.08 pips
Account Maintenance£0
Inactivity Fee£0
  • Trading Account
  • Stocks and Shares ISA
  • Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)
  • Multi-Currency Accounts
  • Access to 135+ global markets
  • 13,000+ stocks
  • 8,000+ mutual funds and ETFs
  • Bonds, futures, and options
  • Forex and commodities

Although Interactive Brokers offers a feature-rich platform, it can be overwhelming for beginners. However, advanced traders will appreciate the extensive tools available for global market access. Its Trader Workstation (TWS) is a powerful tool, offering real-time data and complex order types for detailed market analysis.

Pros and Cons

Saxo Logo
4.6/5

Saxo – Best for Professional Investors

Your capital is at risk.

Saxo Markets is tailored for professional investors seeking advanced trading tools and market research. It provides access to over 22,000 instruments across global markets. With its high-level research and dedicated customer support, Saxo is designed for serious traders looking for premium services and market analysis.

Fee TypeCost
Stock TradingFrom £8 per trade
Forex SpreadsFrom 0.4 pips
Inactivity Fee£25 per quarter
Platform FeeNone
  • Trading Account
  • Stocks and Shares ISA
  • Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)
  • Corporate Accounts
  • 22,000+ global assets
  • 9,000+ stocks and ETFs
  • 50+ forex pairs
  • Commodities and indices
  • Advanced derivatives including options and bonds

SaxoTraderGO is highly sophisticated, yet its intuitive design makes it accessible to both intermediate and advanced traders. Its multi-screen interface allows for custom setups, providing quick access to charts, research, and trading functions. SaxoTraderPRO is available for professional users requiring more advanced tools.

Pros and Cons

Trading 212 Logo
4.5/5

Trading 212 – Sign-Up Bonus, Commission-Free, New Investor Friendly

Your capital is at risk.

Trading 212 is known for offering commission-free trading, making it one of the most affordable platforms for investors. It also provides access to both UK and US stocks without hidden charges, perfect for beginners or seasoned investors looking to reduce costs. Its simple, clean interface makes trading straightforward.

Fee TypeCost
Stock Trading£0 commission
Forex TradingFrom 0.3 pips
Inactivity FeeNone
Withdrawal FeeNone
  • Trading Account
  • Stocks and Shares ISA
  • Invest Account
  • Demo Account
  • 10,000+ global stocks and ETFs
  • 40+ forex pairs
  • Commodities (gold, oil, silver)
  • Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum)
  • Indices (S&P 500, FTSE 100)

Trading 212 offers a simple and easy-to-navigate platform, ideal for beginners. The mobile app is highly rated for its functionality and design, enabling users to trade on the go with ease. Its intuitive interface is also well-suited for quick trades.

Pros and Cons

Use code TIC to get a free share worth up to £100

4.2/5

Admiral Markets - Good for Forex and CFD Trading, MT4 Available

67% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs 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.

Admiral Markets is highly regarded for its expertise in forex and CFD trading, offering a wide range of currency pairs, indices, and commodities. The platform’s competitive spreads and access to global financial markets make it ideal for traders focused on forex and CFDs. With advanced charting tools and educational resources, Admiral Markets appeals to both intermediate and professional traders.

Fee TypeCost
Forex TradingFrom 0.5 pips
CFD TradingFrom 0.1%
Inactivity Fee£10 per month
Withdrawal FeeNone
  • Trade.MT5 Account (CFDs)
  • Invest.MT5 Account (Stocks and ETFs)
  • Forex Account
  • Demo Account
  • 40+ currency pairs for forex
  • 4,000+ CFDs on stocks, indices, and ETFs
  • 100+ commodities (gold, oil, silver)
  • Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple)
  • Indices (DAX, NASDAQ, FTSE 100)

Admiral Markets offers a robust MetaTrader platform, suitable for both beginners and seasoned professionals. Its customisable layout, combined with powerful charting tools, ensures a smooth trading experience. Mobile and desktop versions are well integrated, ensuring seamless transitions for traders on the go.

Pros and Cons

interactive investor logo linking with homepage
4.4/5

Interactive Investor – Best for Large Portfolios and Flat Fees

Your capital is at risk.

Interactive Investor is known for its flat-fee pricing structure, making it ideal for investors with larger portfolios. Instead of percentage-based fees, Interactive Investor charges a fixed monthly fee, providing cost predictability. With access to a wide range of investment options, including stocks, funds, and ETFs, it’s a popular choice for long-term investors looking to manage sizable portfolios.

Fee TypeCost
Monthly Fee£4.99 to £19.99
Stock Trading£3.99 per trade
Forex TradingNot available
Fund Trading£0
  • Trading Account
  • Stocks and Shares ISA
  • Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)
  • Junior ISA
  • 40,000+ global stocks and ETFs
  • 3,000+ funds
  • 500+ investment trusts
  • Commodities (gold, oil, silver)
  • Bonds and gilts

Interactive Investor’s platform is straightforward and easy to navigate, with a clean design that allows users to manage portfolios efficiently. It offers customisable tools for portfolio tracking and investment insights, making it well-suited for both new and seasoned investors.

Pros and Cons

Types of Investment Accounts

When selecting an investment platform, understanding the various types of accounts is critical. In the UK, the most popular accounts are Stocks & Shares ISAs, General Investment Accounts (GIAs), and Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs).

  • Stocks & Shares ISAs allow tax-free investing up to £20,000 annually, with no capital gains or dividend taxes, making them ideal for both long-term and short-term investments.
  • GIAs are more flexible, allowing unlimited investments but without the tax advantages. They are best suited for those who have maxed out their ISA allowance or prefer fewer restrictions.
  • SIPPs are tax-efficient accounts for retirement savings, offering significant tax relief. However, withdrawals are restricted until you reach pension age.

Each account type aligns with different financial goals, so understanding their benefits helps you choose the one that best fits your situation.

PlatformStocks & Shares ISAGeneral Investment Account (GIA)Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)Junior ISA (JISA)Lifetime ISA (LISA)Demo Account
IGYesYesNoNoNoYes
eToroYes (via Moneyfarm)YesNoNoNoYes
Interactive BrokersNoYesNoNoNoYes
Saxo MarketsNoYesNoNoNoYes
Trading 212YesYesNoNoNoYes
Admiral MarketsNoYesNoNoNoYes
Interactive InvestorYesYesYesYesNoYes

How to Start Investing Online

Starting your online investment journey has never been more straightforward. First, choose a platform based on factors like fees, asset availability, and ease of use. Once you’ve picked a platform, select an account type that fits your goals—whether it’s an ISA for tax-efficient investing, a GIA for flexibility, or a SIPP for retirement planning. After setting up the account, fund it via bank transfer or debit card, and you can begin exploring your investment options, such as stocks, ETFs, or funds.

Many platforms also provide educational resources and tools that guide you through your first trades, making the process even easier.

Executing Trades: Buying and Selling Investments

Once your account is fully set up and funded, you can begin trading. Most platforms provide user-friendly interfaces where you can search for specific assets like stocks, funds, or ETFs. To execute a trade, select the asset, enter the number of shares or amount you wish to invest, and confirm. Most trades are completed instantly. You can also choose different order types such as market orders (execute immediately at current price) or limit orders (execute only at a specified price).


Utilizing ‘Stop Loss’ and ‘Limit’ Orders for Risk Management

‘Stop loss’ and ‘limit’ orders are essential tools for managing risk and improving trade execution. A stop loss automatically sells your position if the asset’s price falls below a pre-set level, reducing potential losses during market downturns. On the other hand, a limit order ensures that your asset is bought or sold only when it reaches a specified price, giving you control over trade conditions. Both strategies help you manage volatility and protect your investments.

How Do You Open an Account with a Trading Platform?

Opening an online investment account is a straightforward process that only takes a few minutes. After selecting your preferred platform, choose between an ISA, GIA, or SIPP based on your needs. The setup involves filling in basic personal details like your name, address, and National Insurance number. Next, you’ll be asked to verify your identity by uploading documents such as a passport or driving license. Funding the account can be done through a bank transfer, debit card, or sometimes PayPal. Some platforms have minimum deposit requirements, while others allow you to start with as little as £1.

What Fees Are Associated with Trading Apps?

Investing fees can significantly impact your overall returns, especially if you’re an active trader or have a large portfolio. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common fees:

Fee TypeDescriptionTypical Range
Trading FeesCharged per trade when buying or selling stocks£0 to £10 per trade
Platform FeesAnnual fee for using the platform0.2% to 1% of portfolio value
Currency Conversion FeesApplies when trading foreign stocks0.5% to 1.5% of transaction
Inactivity FeesCharged if you don’t trade for a set period£0 to £10 per month
Withdrawal FeesCharged for withdrawing funds from the platform£0 to £5 per withdrawal

Knowing these fees will help you make more informed decisions when choosing a platform.

How Did We Conduct Our Research?

 

To ensure accurate and comprehensive insights, we conducted extensive research by analysing data from reputable financial institutions, user reviews, and expert analyses.

We reviewed each platform based on key factors, including fees, usability, tradable assets, customer support, and available accounts. We also tested each platform’s functionality, considering ease of use for both beginners and experienced investors. We consulted independent surveys and market data to evaluate the performance and reliability of these platforms.

Our goal was to provide an unbiased and detailed comparison of the top investment platforms in the UK for 2024.

FAQs

eToro is highly recommended for beginners due to its user-friendly design and social trading features. It allows new investors to follow and copy trades from experienced traders, making it easier to learn. Additionally, eToro offers commission-free stock trading, perfect for newcomers.

IG is ideal for advanced traders, offering a comprehensive range of technical analysis tools, real-time data, and extensive charting options. It also provides access to a wide variety of global markets, including forex, CFDs, and indices, making it perfect for professional traders.

Yes, all reputable investment platforms operating in the UK, including the ones mentioned in this blog, are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This regulation ensures they meet strict standards for security and transparency, protecting investors from fraud or malpractice.

Trading 212 offers commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, making it one of the most cost-effective platforms. Additionally, there are no platform or inactivity fees, making it an excellent choice for investors focused on minimizing trading costs.

Yes, most platforms, including Interactive Investor, IG, and eToro, offer Stocks & Shares ISAs, allowing you to invest up to £20,000 annually without paying tax on capital gains or dividends. Some platforms also offer additional tax-efficient accounts like SIPPs and Junior ISAs.

References

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