Best Stock Trading Platforms In The UK 2025
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
Choosing a stock trading platform today can feel like walking into a tech store with 50 options and no clear guide. I’ve been trading and reviewing platforms for years now, and even I sometimes get overwhelmed by all the flashy features, fee structures, and bold claims.
That’s exactly why I put this guide together. I want to help you focus on what actually matters: low and transparent fees, reliable trading tools, proper regulation, and real feedback from everyday users.
XTB
Stocks Trading Score: 4.65/5
73% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
IG
Stocks Trading Score: 4.5/5
71% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
CMC Markets
Stocks Trading Score: 4.4/5
70% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Spreadex
Stocks Trading Score: 4.4/5
81% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Quick Answer: What is the best stock trading platform in the UK?
XTB is one of the best stock trading platforms in 2025. It stands out for its low fees, powerful trading tools, and excellent user experience. I’ve tested leading platforms, and XTB is the top choice for traders seeking reliability, performance, and value.
Featured Platform - XTB
A globally recognized brokerage, XTB offers a powerful, user-friendly trading platform catering to both beginners and experienced traders. Known for its award-winning xStation 5 platform, XTB delivers fast execution, advanced charting tools, and access to over 2,100 financial instruments—including forex, indices, commodities, and CFDs on shares and ETFs. With a strong regulatory reputation and excellent customer service, XTB is a solid choice for traders looking for a reliable and comprehensive online broker.
- Minimum Deposit: £0
- Trade over 2,100 instruments (including CFDs on stocks, indices, and crypto)
- Regulated by the FCA (UK) and other top-tier authorities
- Mobile & desktop platforms (xStation 5 and xStation Mobile)
- Ideal for active traders seeking low spreads, fast execution, and professional-grade tools
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.
How Do These Platforms Compare?
| Rank | Platform | Best For | Fees | Tools & UX | User Score (Est.) | Regulation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | XTB | Beginners & value | Low | Clean, beginner-friendly | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5) | FCA, CySEC |
| #2 | IG | Full market access | Medium | Advanced, pro-grade | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3/5) | FCA |
| #3 | CMC Markets | Technical analysis | Medium | Highly customisable | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.4/5) | FCA |
| #4 | Spreadex | Simplicity & UK service | Medium | Basic, very user-friendly | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.1/5) | FCA |
| #5 | Interactive Brokers | Global professionals | Very low | Complex, powerful | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3/5) | FCA, SEC |
| #6 | eToro | Copy & social trading | No commission | Mobile-first, intuitive | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.0/5) | FCA, CySEC |
| #7 | Pepperstone | Fast execution & CFDs | Low | Fast, MT4/MT5/TradingView | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.2/5) | FCA, ASIC |
Here are the top 7 Stock Trading Platforms in the UK
- XTB – Best For Beginners and Investors
- IG – Best for Market Access and Research Tools
- CMC Markets – Top Choice for Technical Traders
- Spreadex – Easiest Platform for UK Traders
- Interactive Brokers – Best for Pro Traders
- eToro – Best for Copy Trading
- Pepperstone – Fastest Platform for Execution
XTB - Best For Beginners and Investors
What Do Our Experts Say?
XTB is where I’d send a friend who’s just getting started but wants to do more than just “buy and hold.” It’s simple without being shallow.
Pros & Cons
- Low-cost
- Beginner-friendly
- Great mobile app
- Not ideal for day traders who want more complex order types
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What are the Fees?
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What Key Features are Available?
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What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: 0% commission on stock and ETF CFDs (up to €100,000/month; 0.2% afterward, minimum €10).
• Fees: No platform fee; €10/month inactivity fee applies after 12 months of no trading.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 – no minimum required to open or fund an account.
• Spread: Competitive spreads on CFDs; real market prices for stock and ETF instruments.
XTB offers a highly rated proprietary platform, xStation 5, available on desktop and mobile. It includes real-time market data, advanced stock screeners, integrated news, and in-depth technical analysis tools. Users can trade over 2,100 instruments, including stock and ETF CFDs, with fast execution and a clean, intuitive interface. XTB also provides extensive educational content, making it an ideal platform for both new and experienced stock traders.
Account Types: CFD trading, General investment (for stocks and ETFs), Professional account.
(Note: No ISA or SIPP options are available.)
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 - Best for Market Access and Research Tools
What Do Our Experts Say?
IG has become a go-to for me when I need deep analysis. It’s not the cheapest or simplest, but it’s rock-solid if you know how to use it.
Pros & Cons
- Global reach
- Trusted name
- Excellent tools
- Learning curve
- Some products have higher fees
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What are the Fees?
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What Key Features are Available?
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What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: £0 commission on UK and US shares if you place 3+ trades per month; otherwise £8 (UK) and $10 (US).
• Fees: No platform fee if you’re an active trader; £24/quarter inactivity fee applies if no trades are made.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 for share dealing; £250 for margin trading or MetaTrader accounts.
• Spread: Market spreads on real shares; tight spreads on leveraged products like CFDs.
IG provides access to over 17,000 global markets, including UK and international stocks, ETFs, and investment trusts. Users can trade through IG’s award-winning proprietary platform, MetaTrader 4, or their highly-rated mobile app. The platform features advanced charting, risk management tools, and real-time news feeds. IG also offers extensive research, a demo account, and educational support—ideal for investors seeking both flexibility and depth.
Account Types: Share dealing, ISA, SIPP (via IG Smart Portfolio), CFD trading, Spread betting, Professional account.
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.
CMC Markets - Top Choice for Technical Traders
What Do Our Experts Say?
IG has become a go-to for me when I need deep analysis. It’s not the cheapest or simplest, but it’s rock-solid if you know how to use it.
Pros & Cons
- Amazing analytics
- Responsive platform
- MT4 Support
- Can be overwhelming for newcomers
- No ISA or SIPP options on the main trading platform
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What are the Fees?
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What Key Features are Available?
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What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: £0 commission on stock and ETF CFDs; charges apply on physical share trading via CMC Invest.
• Fees: No platform fee for CFD accounts; £10/month inactivity fee after 12 months with no trading.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 – no minimum deposit required.
• Spread: Competitive spreads from 0.7 pips on major instruments; share CFD spreads vary by market.
CMC Markets offers access to 12,000+ instruments, including shares, ETFs, indices, and commodities. Its proprietary Next Generation platform is known for advanced charting, customisable layouts, and built-in pattern recognition tools. For those who prefer automation, MetaTrader 4 is also supported. CMC is a strong choice for active stock traders looking for rich analytics, fast execution, and market depth.
Account Types: CFD trading, Spread betting, Professional account. (Note: Share dealing and ISA accounts are available separately via CMC Invest.)
70% 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.
SpreadEX - Easiest Platform for UK Traders
What Do Our Experts Say?
If I were starting out or just wanted a no-fuss UK platform, Spreadex would be high on my list. It’s refreshingly straightforward.
Pros & Cons
- Simple UI
- Top-notch customer service
- Fewer international markets
- Limited toolset
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What are the Fees?
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What Key Features are Available?
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What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: 0% commission – all trading costs are included in the spread (spread betting and CFD trading only).
• Fees: No platform fees and no inactivity fees, making it cost-effective for long-term or occasional users.
• Minimum Deposit: £1 – very low barrier to entry.
• Spread: Competitive fixed and variable spreads on UK shares and major indices.
Spreadex offers a simple, easy-to-use trading platform with access to thousands of UK and international shares, indices, forex, and commodities via spread betting and CFD trading. The platform features live price data, custom watchlists, charting tools, and risk management options like stop-loss orders. Known for its fixed spreads and FCA regulation, Spreadex is ideal for traders seeking cost transparency and simplicity.
Account Types: Spread betting, CFD trading, Professional account.
(Note: No share dealing, ISA, or SIPP options are currently offered.)
81% 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 - Best for Pro Traders
What Do Our Experts Say?
I don’t use IBKR every day, but when I need firepower and flexibility, I log in. It’s not beautiful, but it gets the job done — and then some.
Pros & Cons
- Institutional-level tools
- Ultra-low fees
- Steep learning curve
- Clunky UX
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What are the Fees?
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What Key Features are Available?
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What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: From $0 on US stocks (IBKR Lite – not always available in the UK); £3 per UK stock trade (IBKR Pro tier).
• Fees: No inactivity or platform fees; optional market data subscriptions may incur extra costs.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 – no minimum to open or maintain an account.
• Spread: Market-based pricing on shares; very tight spreads on forex and other instruments.
Interactive Brokers offers direct access to 150+ global markets, including UK, US, and European stocks. The platform supports advanced order types, algorithmic trading, and professional-grade tools via Trader Workstation (TWS), the Client Portal, and mobile apps. Known for ultra-low fees, deep liquidity, and powerful analytics, IBKR is best suited to experienced investors, active traders, and professionals seeking precision and control.
Account Types: General investment, ISA (via third-party partnerships), SIPP (via SIPP providers), CFD trading, Professional account.
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.
eToro - Best for Copy Trading
What Do Our Experts Say?
I’ve used eToro to test out different strategies without risking too much brainpower. It’s fun, accessible, and perfect for newer investors — as long as you keep an eye on the fees.
Pros & Cons
- Copy portfolios
- Mobile-friendly
- Beginner-focused
- FX fees
- Not great for advanced strategies
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What are the Fees?
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What Key Features are Available?
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What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: 0% commission on real stock and ETF trades (UK, US, and global markets).
• Fees: No platform fee; $10/month inactivity fee after 12 months of no login. $5 withdrawal fee applies.
• Minimum Deposit: $50 (approx. £40, varies by region and payment method).
• Spread: Applies only to CFD and crypto trades – not to real stock investing.
eToro combines commission-free investing with a powerful social trading network, allowing users to copy the strategies of top investors using CopyTrader™. Trade stocks, ETFs, crypto, and CFDs in one unified platform with access to real-time charts, news, and community insights. Its web and mobile platforms are intuitive and beginner-friendly, making eToro a top choice for new investors and those looking to learn through interaction.
Account Types: General investment, ISA (via third-party partnerships), SIPP (via SIPP providers), CFD trading, Professional account.
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.
Pepperstone - Fastest Platform for Execution
What Do Our Experts Say?
I turn to Pepperstone when I’m doing quick, technical trades and want precision. It’s not where I hold long-term assets, but it’s brilliant for fast action.
Pros & Cons
- Great execution speed
- Excellent integrations
- Limited for traditional stock trading
- No ISA or SIPP Options
- CFD-Only Trading
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What are the Fees?
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What Key Features are Available?
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What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: £2.25 per side per lot on Razor account (for forex and CFDs); 0% commission on Standard account (spread-only).
• Fees: No platform or inactivity fees.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 – no minimum required to open or maintain an account.
• Spread: From 0.0 pips on Razor account (plus commission); slightly wider spreads on Standard account.
Pepperstone offers fast, low-cost trading on stocks, forex, indices, ETFs, and commodities via CFDs. The platform supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, with access to advanced trading tools, charting, and automation features. Known for its ultra-low spreads and institutional-grade execution, Pepperstone is ideal for scalpers, algorithmic traders, and experienced investors seeking speed and control.
Account Types: CFD trading, Razor account, Standard account, Professional account.
(Note: No ISA, SIPP, or share dealing accounts available.)
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 Should You Look for in a Stock Trading Platform in 2025?
I’ve tested more trading platforms than I can count over the years — and if there’s one lesson I’ve learned, is that when real money’s involved, you’ve got to dig deeper.
Whenever I open a new taxable brokerage account, I take a close look at a few key factors — not just to protect my investments, but to make sure I’m getting real value from the platform. Here’s what I consider before committing:
How Transparent Are the Fees?
Plenty of platforms promote commission-free trading, but in my experience, that’s just one part of the cost equation. It’s important to dig into the full range of account fees — from inactivity fees to broker-assisted trade fees, which can be surprisingly high if you ever need to place an order by phone.
Some brokers also charge research fees, data charges, or require trading platform subscriptions to access advanced tools. If you’re using a premium service, those perks often come with added transaction costs or entry and exit fees that can eat into your returns — especially if you’re a high-volume trader.
And don’t overlook transfer fees if you decide to move your account elsewhere later. Before I ever fund a new account, I review the entire fee structure so I know exactly what I’m paying for — and when.
Are the Tools Powerful Enough for Your Trading Style?
Whether you’re a casual investor or diving into options trading or algorithmic trading, the platform should support your strategy. I look for platforms that offer portfolio and risk analysis tools, access to fractional shares, and integrations with screeners and news feeds.
Some brokers also offer premium account offerings, which include extra research, better execution speeds, or priority support. Depending on how active you want to trade, it can be worth considering.
Does the Platform Support Asset Diversification?
Is the Platform Properly Regulated?
Regulation, Safety and Security are important factors to consider when choosing a platform. I only use platforms that are authorised and overseen by trustworthy agencies like the FCA in the UK. That means the platform is committed to following strict standards, and my funds are protected.
What Are Other Traders Saying?
Before I ever fund a live account, I scroll through Trustpilot reviews, check App Store ratings, and see what people are saying in forums. If I see repeated complaints about platform stability, withdrawal delays, or unhelpful customer support, that’s a big red flag. A solid platform should offer fast, reliable service — especially when things go sideways.
Platform Evaluation Criteria
| Factor | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Affects long-term profitability | Low spreads, no hidden costs |
| Tools | Enables smarter decisions | Real-time data, screeners, charts |
| Regulation | Protects your capital | FCA, ASIC, SEC licensing |
| User Feedback | Reflects real-life reliability | 4.0+ reviews, responsive support |
Which Platform Features Actually Matter in 2025?
Today’s best trading platforms go far beyond basic buying and selling. What really sets them apart are their advanced trading features, such as options trading, cryptocurrency trading, and access to fractional shares — all designed to give investors more flexibility.
Many platforms now offer a sleek, intuitive mobile experience, so you can manage your portfolio on the go without sacrificing charting functionality or real-time analytics.
I also look for customizable tools that let me tailor dashboards and alerts to suit my strategy; as well as built-in risk management and portfolio management capabilities. Whether you’re tracking technical indicators or simply want seamless execution, the quality of a platform’s trading technology can make or break your experience.
Which Platform is Right for You?
Not every trader needs the same tools — and that’s okay. Whether you’re brand new, more advanced, or trading full-time, there’s a platform that will fit you better than the rest.
Here’s how I’d match the right platform to your trading style based on my own time spent with each one:
New to Investing?
If you’re a beginner to trading or just getting started, I’d absolutely point you toward XTB or eToro. Both are easy to set up, offer user-friendly platforms, and give you access to plenty of learning tools. XTB’s educational content is particularly strong, while eToro’s copy trading makes it easy to follow what experienced investors are doing.
Need Advanced Tools or Assets?
For those of you who want deeper market coverage or love digging into the technicals, check out IG or CMC Markets. When I want full access to charts, indicators, and international stocks, these are the platforms I lean on most. Just know there’s a bit of a learning curve — but it’s worth it.
Trading Professionally or Globally?
If you’re managing a larger portfolio, trading actively, or working across multiple markets, Interactive Brokers and Pepperstone are hard to beat. I use IBKR when I need access to obscure international markets or want ultra-low fees, while Pepperstone is my go-to for speed and precision.
Quick-Glance Platform Comparison
| Trader Type | Recommended Platforms | Why These Platforms Stand Out |
|---|---|---|
| New to Investing | XTB, eToro | Easy to set up, user-friendly interfaces, strong education. XTB excels in learning tools; eToro offers copy trading. |
| Need Advanced Tools or Assets | IG, CMC Markets | Ideal for technical analysis and global asset access. Great charting, indicators, and research tools. |
| Trading Professionally or Globally | Interactive Brokers, Pepperstone | Best for high-volume and international trading. IBKR offers ultra-low fees; Pepperstone excels in speed and execution. |
How to Open and Manage a Brokerage Account: Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re new to investing or switching brokers, opening and managing a brokerage account is more straightforward than it might seem. Here’s how to get started — and stay in control of your investments.
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Account
Before signing up, decide what kind of account suits your goals:
- Taxable brokerage account – great for general investing with no withdrawal restrictions.
- ISA or SIPP (UK) – ideal for tax-efficient savings and retirement planning.
- Joint or custodial accounts – for managing family investments.
Some brokers also offer premium account options with added tools or support.
Step 2: Compare Brokers
Look at factors like:
- Commission-free trading and hidden fees (e.g. broker-assisted trade fees)
- Available asset classes and fractional shares
- Platform usability and customer support
- Regulation and SIPC insurance (or FCA in the UK)
Step 3: Fund Your Account
Most brokers let you fund your account via bank transfer or debit card. Some have minimum investment requirements — these can range from £0 to £1,000+, depending on the platform.
Step 4: Start Investing
Once funded, you can start trading stocks, ETFs, or other assets. Use portfolio and risk analysis tools to track your performance, and explore educational content or expert commentary to stay informed.
Step 5: Monitor and Adjust
Review your investments regularly. If your goals change, rebalance your portfolio or explore new asset classes for diversification.
What Are Consumers Saying About These Platforms?
I always check what other traders are saying before I fully commit to any platform — and I highly recommend you do the same. Trustpilot, Reddit, app reviews… you’ll find patterns if you look closely.
Here’s what I noticed across some of the most-used platforms:
- XTB: Most users (myself included) rave about the educational content. It’s genuinely helpful.
- IG: People trust IG — and that matters. It’s been around forever, and users appreciate the platform’s depth. But the learning curve is steep. I’ve seen reviews saying it feels “overwhelming” at first, and I agree.
- eToro: Beginners love the social, almost gamified vibe. But experienced traders often mention the wider spreads and FX fees.
- Interactive Brokers: This one gets serious praise from seasoned traders. The tools are unmatched — but the interface? It is powerful but far from pretty. I’ve heard more than one user call it “brutal” to learn at first.
My advice? Always start with a demo account. It’s the easiest way to get a feel for a platform before putting any real money on the line.
Conclusion: What’s the Best Stock Trading Platform for You?
I always check what other traders are saying before I fully commit to any platform — and I highly recommend you do the same. Trustpilot, Reddit, app reviews… you’ll find patterns if you look closely.
We have found that the top three platforms to trade stock (2025) are: XTB, IG and CMC Markets.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my trading journey, is that what works perfectly for me might not be ideal for you — and that’s completely okay.
If you’re just getting started, you’ll probably love XTB or eToro for their simplicity and educational tools. More advanced traderss will enjoy platforms like IG, CMC, or Interactive Brokers and they’ll probably suit your trading style better. And if speed is your priority, Pepperstone could be the winner.
TLDR? Whatever your experience level, the smartest move is to start with a demo account. It costs nothing, and it’ll help you see if a platform fits your style before committing real funds.
FAQs
What is the best stock trading platform for beginners in 2025?
Based on my experience, XTB and eToro are great picks for beginners. They offer simple interfaces, low fees, and strong educational tools to help you get started confidently.
Which trading platform has the lowest fees?
Interactive Brokers consistently offers the lowest fees, especially for high-volume traders. XTB also has commission-free stock trading, making it a solid low-cost option for most investors.
Are these platforms regulated and safe to use?
Yes — all platforms I reviewed, including IG, CMC, and Pepperstone, are regulated by trusted authorities like the FCA, ASIC, or SEC. That means your funds are protected and the platform is held to high standards.
Can I trade international stocks on these platforms?
Absolutely. Platforms like IG, Interactive Brokers, and CMC Markets offer access to global markets including the US, UK, EU, and Asia. Just watch for FX conversion fees.
Should I use a demo account before trading with real money?
Definitely. I always recommend starting with a demo account. It’s the best way to get a feel for the platform’s tools and layout without risking any of your money.
References
- XTB Official Website – Trading Platform & Fees
- IG Group – Share Dealing & Trading Platform
- CMC Markets – Next-Generation Trading Platform
- Spreadex – Spread Betting & CFD Trading
- Interactive Brokers – IBKR Global Trading
- eToro – Investing & Copy Trading Platform
- Pepperstone – Forex and CFD Broker
- FCA Register – Financial Services Register
- Trustpilot – User Reviews for Trading Platforms
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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.
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