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Interactive Investor Review 2025

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Is Interactive Investor Worth It in 2025?

Interactive Investor (ii) is a top choice for serious, long-term UK investors. Its flat-fee model benefits portfolios over £20,000, particularly ISA and SIPP users. Fully FCA-regulated with strong performance and investment choice, ii suits active investors—though smaller or infrequent traders may prefer cheaper, commission-free alternatives

Author’s Comments:

From my experience, Interactive Investor stands out for transparency and control. It feels built for investors who want to manage and hold, not trade daily. The interface isn’t the slickest, but its stability, account options, and clear pricing structure more than make up for it. It’s the kind of platform you grow into, not out of. – Thomas Drury

Summary Table – ii Verdict

Ease of Use4.2/5Reliable but interface can feel dated
Costs4.0/5Fair for larger portfolios but costly for small ones
Safety4.8/5Fully FCA-regulated and FSCS protected
Features4.4/5Strong portfolio tools and ready-made options
Overall4.3/5Excellent for serious long-term UK investors

How Easy Is Interactive Investor to Use Day-to-Day?

Interactive Investor focuses on reliability over design. The platform feels professional, with everything from portfolio tracking to order execution working smoothly. However, its data-heavy layout and slower navigation mean it’s better suited to confident investors rather than beginners seeking a modern, simplified experience.

Is ii Better for Beginners or Experienced Investors?

ii favours experienced investors managing larger portfolios. Its research tools, customisation, and reporting options appeal to users who understand markets. Beginners may find it less intuitive than modern app-based platforms, but those willing to learn will benefit from its professional structure and long-term focus.

What’s It Like Using the App vs the Web Platform?

The desktop platform is detailed and data-rich, ideal for portfolio management and research. The app, while functional, feels dated and prioritises utility over design. Both are reliable and stable, but the overall experience suits methodical investors more than casual or mobile-first users.

Any Annoyances or Learning Curves?

The interface can feel slow, and navigation sometimes requires extra clicks to find key tools like charting or transaction history. Charts are basic and lack real-time responsiveness. Once familiar, though, the platform becomes predictable, precise, and dependable for managing serious investments long-term.

How Safe and Regulated Is Interactive Investor?

Interactive Investor is one of the most secure and transparent investment platforms in the UK. It’s FCA-regulated, FSCS-protected, and operates with full client fund segregation. Its long-standing reputation and clear governance make it a trusted choice for long-term portfolio holders.

Can You Trust ii With a Long-Term Portfolio?

Yes — ii is fully authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000. Client assets are kept in segregated accounts, meaning they’re protected even if the company experiences financial difficulty

What Security Tools Protect Investors?

Interactive Investor uses two-factor authentication (2FA), end-to-end encryption, and active account monitoring to prevent unauthorised access. Regular system audits and strict data protection protocols strengthen security. Combined with its UK regulatory framework, these measures make ii exceptionally safe for long-term investing.

What Accounts and Investments Can You Access?

Interactive Investor offers one of the broadest selections of investment options in the UK. It caters to both hands-on investors and those seeking simplicity, with access to shares, ETFs, funds, and ready-made portfolios through flexible account types.

What Asset Types Are Available?

ii gives investors access to UK and global shares, ETFs, investment trusts, bonds, and mutual funds. It also provides ready-made portfolios designed by experts for passive investors. Whether you want to trade directly or take a hands-off approach, ii supports both styles effectively.

Does ii Offer ISA, SIPP, and Junior Accounts?

Yes — ii supports multiple account types: Stocks & Shares ISA for tax-efficient investing, SIPP for retirement savings, and Junior ISA for children. Each comes with the same transparent fee model, making it easy to manage all your investments under one platform.

Table – Account & Asset Availability

Account / Asset TypeAvailabilityDescriptionBest For
Stocks & Shares ISAYesTax-free investing on UK & global marketsGeneral investors
SIPPYesRetirement-focused account with investment flexibilityLong-term savers
Junior ISAYesTax-free investing for under-18sParents & guardians
General Trading AccountYesStandard account for taxable investingActive traders
Ready-Made PortfoliosYesProfessionally managed investment optionsPassive investors
Shares, ETFs & FundsYesFull market accessAll investor levels

What Does It Cost to Use Interactive Investor?

Interactive Investor uses a transparent flat-fee model instead of percentage-based charges, making it cost-effective for larger portfolios. While it’s more expensive for smaller investors, its predictable pricing and inclusive trades give long-term users excellent value and clarity.

Is the Monthly Fee Worth It?

Yes — for investors with portfolios above £30,000, ii’s flat fees are highly competitive. Plans start from around £4.99 up to £19.99 per month (Investor, Super Investor, and Pension Builder tiers). Each includes a monthly trade credit, helping offset costs for active or long-term users.

Plan NameMonthly FeeUK Share DealingFund TradingFX Conversion
Investor Plan£4.99£5.99£3.991.5%
Super Investor£9.99£3.99£3.991.0%
Pension Builder (SIPP)£12.99£3.99£3.991.0%

Are There Any Hidden or Extra Charges?

ii is transparent but not entirely fee-free. Expect FX conversion fees on overseas trades (typically 1.5%), trading commissions after your free monthly credit, and ongoing fund management charges. These remain competitive but can add up for frequent traders or smaller portfolios.

Comparison Table – ii Fees vs Competitors

PlatformPricing ModelMonthly FeeFree TradesFX FeesBest For
Interactive Investor (ii)Flat subscription£4.99–£19.991 free trade / month1.5%Large portfolios & long-term investors
Hargreaves LansdownPercentage-basedNone (0.45% of assets)None1.0%Smaller investors
Trading 212Commission-free£0Unlimited0.15%Beginners & casual traders
eToroSpread-based£0Unlimited0.50%Social traders & crypto users

How Does Interactive Investor Compare to Other UK Platforms?

Interactive Investor competes strongly with top UK brokers thanks to its flat-fee pricing and broad account options. It’s particularly attractive for serious, long-term investors, though commission-free platforms like Trading 212 or eToro may better suit beginners with smaller portfolios.

Flat-Fee vs Commission-Free: Which Model Wins?

The winner depends on portfolio size. ii’s flat fee saves money for larger investors, as costs don’t rise with balance value. However, for smaller or infrequent traders, commission-free brokers such as Trading 212 and eToro are cheaper and more flexible for casual use.

How Does ii Stack Up Against Hargreaves Lansdown, Trading 212, and eToro?

Comparison with Hargreaves Lansdown, Trading 212, and eToro

PlatformPricing ModelEase of UseRegulationKey StrengthIdeal For
Interactive Investor (ii)Flat fee (£4.99–£19.99/month)ModerateFCA & FSCSPredictable costs for larger portfoliosLong-term UK investors
Hargreaves Lansdown0.45% of assets (tiered)Very user-friendlyFCA & FSCSExcellent support and reputationConservative or passive investors
Trading 212Commission-freeEasyFCANo trading feesBeginners and small investors
eToroSpread-basedEasyFCACopy trading and crypto accessSocial and crypto traders

What’s the Customer Support Experience Like?

Interactive Investor provides solid customer support, though not always the fastest. Users can reach the team via live chat, email, or phone, and most issues are resolved efficiently. However, response times can vary during peak trading periods, especially for complex account queries.

How Fast and Helpful Is ii’s Support Team?

ii’s live chat is generally helpful for everyday questions, while phone support is available during business hours for more detailed assistance. Response quality is strong, but wait times can occasionally stretch — especially around tax year-end or major market events.

What Are Other Users Saying About ii?

Interactive Investor holds an average Trustpilot rating of around 4.7/5, with many users praising its reliability, transparent pricing, and range of investment options. Common complaints mention slow responses and occasional platform glitches, but most agree ii delivers dependable long-term service overall.

Final Verdict: Should You Choose ii in 2025?

Interactive Investor earns a 4.3/5 in 2025. It remains one of the UK’s most trustworthy and transparent investment platforms, backed by FCA and FSCS protection. Choose ii if you prioritise cost stability, account variety, and long-term planning — not if you want low-cost, beginner simplicity.

Best For:

  • Long-term investors
  • ISA & SIPP users
  • Those managing £20k+ portfolios

Trade Smarter, not Harder

Trading and investing involve risk. Capital at Risk

FAQs

Is Interactive Investor good for beginners?

Interactive Investor is okay for those new to investing, but it is particularly effective for individuals who plan to invest regularly and grow their portfolio. The flat-fee model may not be cost-effective for small balances or infrequent trading.

Does Interactive Investor charge a monthly fee?

Yes, Interactive Investor charges a flat monthly payment starting at £4.99. 

Can I open both an ISA and a SIPP with Interactive Investor?

Absolutely. I use both through II, and it’s one of the few platforms that lets you manage your Stocks & Shares ISA, SIPP, and General Investment Account from a single dashboard.

Does Interactive Investor support fractional shares?

No, Interactive Investor does not currently offer fractional shares. You’ll need to buy whole shares, which may be a limitation if you’re investing with smaller amounts.

Is Interactive Investor covered by the FSCS?

Yes, it is. Funds held with II are protected up to £85,000 under the FSCS

References

  1. Interactive Investor – Our Charges
  2. Interactive Investor – ISA Charges 
  3. Trustpilot – Interactive Investor Reviews 
  4. Smart Money People – Interactive Investor Reviews 
  5. Interactive Investor Super 60 –  Performance Review Q1 2025 
  6. Interactive Investor ACE 40 – Performance Review Q1 2025