Best Futures Brokers In The UK 2025
Choosing the right futures broker isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about finding a platform that gives you the tools, stability, and support to trade effectively.
IG
Futures Trading Score: 4.8/5
69% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
eToro
Futures Trading Score: 4.7/5
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Spreadex
Futures Trading Score: 4.5/5
65% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Interactive Brokers
Futures Trading Score: 4.5/5
62.5% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
Quick Answer: What is the Best Futures Broker in the UK?
For most UK traders in 2025, IG stands out as the best futures broker. It delivers professional-grade tools, FCA regulation, and global market access. With competitive pricing, advanced analytics, and a trusted reputation, IG is ideal for both active traders and experienced investors.
How Do the Best Futures Brokers Rank?
| Rank | Broker | Key Strength | Regulation | Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IG | Market depth, execution quality | FCA-regulated | Competitive | Active futures traders |
| 2 | eToro | Social trading, user-friendly | FCA-regulated | Low, transparent | Beginners & casual traders |
| 3 | SpreadEX | Flexible spreads, UK focus | FCA-regulated | Moderate | UK-based traders |
| 4 | Interactive Brokers | Low costs, advanced tools | FCA-regulated | Very low | Professionals & institutions |
| 5 | Saxo | Pro-grade platforms | FCA-regulated | Higher | Experienced traders |
| 6 | AvaTrade | Education & risk tools | Central Bank of Ireland | Moderate | Learners & cautious traders |
| 7 | Trading 212 | Commission-free trading | FCA-regulated | Zero commission | Beginners & mobile traders |
Here are the Top 7 Futures Brokers Reviewed
IG - Comprehensive market access with reliable execution.
Pros & Cons
- Extensive futures and CFD markets
- Strong research and analysis tools
- Excellent execution speeds
- Higher minimum deposits than some brokers
- Platform may overwhelm beginners
- Fees not always the lowest
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What Are the Fees and Costs of This Broker?
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Which Platforms and Tools Does This Broker Offer?
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Is This Broker FCA-Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
IG charges competitive spreads on futures contracts, with overnight financing for leveraged positions. While not the cheapest, costs are transparent. Inactivity fees apply after prolonged non-use, so traders should remain active to avoid extra charges.
IG offers web, mobile, and advanced trading platforms, including ProRealTime and MT4 integration. Tools include advanced charting, custom indicators, and automated trading options. The variety suits active traders, though beginners may find the advanced platforms complex initially.
Yes. IG is FCA-regulated, one of the most trusted UK brokers, with strict compliance and client fund protection. It has decades of experience and is considered safe, with strong risk management systems in place for futures trading.
IG is best for active or experienced traders needing extensive market access and advanced trading tools. Beginners may also benefit from IG’s education, though the platform’s depth is particularly attractive to those trading futures frequently and with higher volumes.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% 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 - Innovative social trading with diverse assets.
Pros & Cons
- Social and copy trading features
- User-friendly web and mobile platforms
- Broad asset coverage including futures and CFDs
- Limited advanced futures tools
- Higher spreads than some competitors
- Not ideal for professional high-frequency traders
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What Are the Fees and Costs of This Broker?
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Which Platforms and Tools Does This Broker Offer?
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Is This Broker FCA-Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
eToro offers zero stock commission but applies spreads on futures and CFDs. Overnight financing and withdrawal fees may apply. While transparent, spreads can be higher than competitors, so active futures traders should calculate their overall trading costs carefully before committing.
The eToro platform is intuitive, with mobile and web versions offering charting, portfolio tracking, and social trading. It’s excellent for beginners but lacks advanced futures-specific tools found in platforms like Interactive Brokers or Saxo, limiting appeal for complex trading strategies.
Yes. eToro is FCA-regulated, offering client fund segregation and investor protections. It maintains a strong reputation for security. However, as with all leveraged brokers, safety depends on user practices and understanding of the risks involved in futures and derivatives trading.
eToro is ideal for beginners or casual traders who value simplicity, regulation, and social copy trading. It’s also suitable for those seeking multi-asset exposure, though advanced or professional futures traders may prefer brokers offering deeper analytical tools and lower spreads.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 61% 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.
SpreadEX - Flexible Futures Trading with Competitive Spreads
Pros & Cons
- Tight spreads for active traders
- UK-focused broker with strong service
- Simple, intuitive platform
- Smaller range than global competitors
- Fewer advanced tools
- Limited international reach
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What Are the Fees and Costs of This Broker?
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Which Platforms and Tools Does This Broker Offer?
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Is This Broker FCA-Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
SpreadEX offers competitive spreads and no hidden charges. Its costs are attractive for frequent traders, though spreads can widen in volatile markets. Overall, it provides good value for those focused on futures within a UK-centric trading environment.
SpreadEX provides a clean, user-friendly trading platform designed for efficiency. While it covers the essentials well, it lacks the advanced research and analytical tools offered by larger brokers, making it more appealing to traders seeking simplicity over depth.
Yes. SpreadEX is FCA-regulated, ensuring compliance and client protection. While smaller than global competitors, it has a strong UK reputation for reliability and service. Security is robust, though international traders may prefer bigger platforms with wider global oversight.
SpreadEX is ideal for UK traders wanting competitive spreads and straightforward trading without overwhelming tools. It’s a good fit for those who prioritize simplicity and low costs, rather than global market coverage or highly advanced trading platforms.
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.
Interactive Brokers - Advanced tools and low trading costs.
Pros & Cons
- Industry-leading low trading costs
- Huge market access worldwide
- Professional-grade platforms and tools
- Steeper learning curve
- Platform complexity may overwhelm beginners
- Inactivity fees for some accounts
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What Are the Fees and Costs of This Broker?
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Which Platforms and Tools Does This Broker Offer?
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Is This Broker FCA-Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
Interactive Brokers is renowned for extremely low commissions and tight spreads. Futures trading is cost-effective, especially for high-volume traders. While fees are minimal, beginners may find account requirements and occasional inactivity charges less appealing.
IBKR’s Trader Workstation is one of the most advanced platforms available, with deep analytics, algorithmic trading, and customizable dashboards. It also supports mobile and web trading. The extensive tools suit professionals but require time to master effectively.
Yes. Interactive Brokers is FCA-regulated in the UK and highly trusted worldwide. It is considered one of the safest brokers, with strong compliance, risk management, and a robust long-standing track record for professional futures trading.
Interactive Brokers is best for professional traders, institutions, or highly experienced individuals seeking global market access, low costs, and sophisticated tools. It is less suited for beginners due to platform complexity and account requirements.
62.5% 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.
Saxo - Professional-grade platform with extensive features.
Pros & Cons
- Pro-level platforms with extensive charting
- Broad futures and derivatives markets
- Strong global reputation
- Higher minimum deposits
- Fees above budget brokers
- Steeper learning curve for casual users
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What Are the Fees and Costs of This Broker?
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Which Platforms and Tools Does This Broker Offer?
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Is This Broker FCA-Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
Saxo’s pricing is transparent but typically higher than discount brokers. Futures fees include commissions and spreads, with tiered pricing for larger accounts. It’s competitive for professionals but may be costly for smaller retail traders.
SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO provide advanced charting, order execution, and risk management. These professional-grade platforms are powerful and reliable but require some experience to use effectively. Saxo’s research and data coverage is among the best in the industry.
Yes. Saxo is FCA-regulated and globally respected, with robust financial stability. It segregates client funds and meets strict compliance requirements, making it a safe choice for serious futures traders looking for a professional-grade platform.
Saxo is best for experienced traders, professionals, or high-net-worth individuals who value deep functionality, global market access, and top-tier tools. It is less suitable for beginners due to higher fees and complex platforms.
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.
AvaTrade - Strong educational resources and risk management.
Pros & Cons
- Extensive educational resources
- Risk management tools like AvaProtect
- Multiple trading platforms, including MT4 and MT5
- Limited futures market depth
- Wider spreads than some peers
- No direct UK stock exchange access
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What Are the Fees and Costs of This Broker?
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Which Platforms and Tools Does This Broker Offer?
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Is This Broker FCA-Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
AvaTrade charges no commissions, relying instead on spreads that can be wider than competitors. Financing fees apply to leveraged positions. Its transparent pricing is beginner-friendly, but active futures traders may find costs higher than discount brokers such as Interactive Brokers.
AvaTrade supports MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, and WebTrader. It offers educational content, demo accounts, and unique risk tools like AvaProtect. While user-friendly, it lacks the advanced analytics and customisation of professional-grade platforms like Saxo or Interactive Brokers.
No. AvaTrade is not FCA-regulated but is licensed in multiple jurisdictions. It segregates client funds and follows strict compliance. Its long-standing reputation and strong emphasis on trader protection make it a reliable, secure option for beginners and intermediate futures traders.
AvaTrade is best for beginners and intermediate traders who prioritise education and accessible platforms. It’s ideal for cautious traders seeking integrated risk management, though not suited for professionals needing deep futures market access or the lowest trading costs.
76% 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.
Trading 212 - Commission-free trading with intuitive interface.
Pros & Cons
- Commission-free trading
- Very intuitive, mobile-first platform
- FCA-regulated and widely trusted in the UK
- Limited futures-specific features
- Less suitable for advanced traders
- Narrower market access than global competitors
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What Are the Fees and Costs of This Broker?
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Which Platforms and Tools Does This Broker Offer?
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Is This Broker FCA-Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
Trading 212 offers commission-free trading, making it cost-effective for casual traders. While spreads apply, they’re generally competitive. No inactivity or withdrawal fees are charged, making it one of the most accessible brokers for retail futures traders in the UK.
Trading 212’s mobile and web platforms are simple, fast, and highly intuitive. Features include real-time data, smart order execution, and educational materials. However, it lacks advanced futures-specific tools, making it less appealing for professional or high-volume traders.
Yes. Trading 212 is FCA-regulated, ensuring strict oversight, segregated client funds, and robust protection. It has a strong safety record, but like all brokers, trading futures involves risks due to leverage and market volatility.
Trading 212 is ideal for beginners and casual traders seeking commission-free access and ease of use. It’s best for those wanting simplicity and affordability, but advanced futures traders may prefer brokers offering deeper tools, research, and professional-grade platforms.
*Other fees may apply. See terms and fees.
When investing, your capital is at risk
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Futures Broker?
Choosing the right futures broker requires balancing costs, safety, and features. Regulation ensures protection, while fees affect long-term profitability. Platform usability and trading tools matter for performance. A broker should match your experience, trading style, and risk tolerance for the best outcome.
What Are the Key Features of Top-Rated Futures Brokers?
Top futures brokers offer FCA regulation, competitive fees, strong execution, diverse markets, and reliable platforms. Educational support and demo accounts are useful for beginners. Professionals typically prefer brokers with deep liquidity, advanced order types, and detailed risk-management tools for complex strategies.
Why Does Regulation and Safety Matter When Picking a Broker?
Regulation by the FCA ensures brokers segregate client funds, maintain financial stability, and follow strict compliance. Safety features like 2FA, withdrawal controls, and transparent reporting reduce risks. Without regulation, traders face higher risks of fraud, insolvency, or poor dispute resolution.
What Fees and Hidden Costs Do Futures Brokers Charge?
Brokers may charge spreads, commissions, overnight financing, withdrawal fees, and inactivity fees. Low-cost brokers appeal to active traders, but higher-fee brokers may offer premium research and tools. Transparency is vital—hidden charges can erode profitability, especially for frequent futures trading strategies.
What Exactly Is Futures Trading?
Futures trading involves contracts to buy or sell assets at a set price on a future date. It allows speculation on market moves or hedging risk. Futures cover commodities, indices, and currencies, making them versatile but often high-risk financial instruments.
How Does Futures Trading Actually Work?
Traders enter futures contracts with standardized terms on exchanges. Profit or loss depends on price changes between contract initiation and expiry. Positions can be closed before expiry or rolled over. Leverage amplifies gains and losses, making futures both attractive and risky.
Why Do Investors Trade Futures?
Investors trade futures for speculation and hedging. Speculators aim to profit from price moves, while hedgers offset risks in commodities, currencies, or indices. Futures also provide portfolio diversification and leverage, though they demand careful risk management due to volatility and potential losses.
Leverage Impact on Futures Trading: Example
| Leverage | Initial Margin Required | Market Movement (5%) | Profit/Loss on Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | £10,000 | +£500 | +£500 |
| 2:1 | £5,000 | +£500 | +£1,000 |
| 5:1 | £2,000 | +£500 | +£2,500 |
| 10:1 | £1,000 | +£500 | +£5,000 |
Final Thoughts: Best Futures Brokers in the UK 2025
The best futures brokers in the UK include eToro for beginners, IG for active traders, SpreadEX for UK-focused trading, Interactive Brokers for professionals, Saxo for advanced platforms, AvaTrade for education, and Trading 212 for commission-free simplicity.
Top 5 Brokers
1
IG
69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
2
eToro
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider.
3
SpreadEX
65% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
4
IBKR
62.5% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
5
Saxo
64% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
FAQs
What is a futures broker, and how do they work?
A futures broker provides the platform and tools to trade futures contracts — agreements to buy or sell an asset at a set price on a future date. They act as intermediaries, offering access to global markets, risk management features, and trading support.
Can I trade futures as a beginner?
Yes, many brokers like eToro, AvaTrade, and Trading 212 offer demo accounts, educational hubs, and user-friendly platforms to help beginners get started. Just make sure to understand the risks, especially when trading with leverage.
What fees should I expect when trading futures?
Fees can include brokerage commissions, spreads, futures contract fees, data fees, and overnight charges. Some brokers are commission-free, but it’s important to review each platform’s full pricing structure to avoid surprises.
Are UK futures brokers regulated?
Yes — top brokers like IG, Spreadex, and Interactive Brokers are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures strong client protections such as segregated funds, negative balance protection, and compliance with strict financial rules.
Which broker is best for low-cost futures trading?
If keeping costs down is a priority, Interactive Brokers is known for low commissions and margin rates. Spreadex and Trading 212 also offer commission-free structures and tight spreads, making them great for cost-conscious traders.
References
- FCA – Financial Conduct Authority
- Investopedia – Futures Trading Explained
- Interactive Brokers – Fee Schedule
- IG Group – Futures Trading Overview
- AvaTrade – Trading for Beginners
- eToro – Trading Fees and Copy Trading Info
- Spreadex – Spread Betting and CFD Trading
