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The best CFD brokers in the UK combine FCA regulation, tight spreads, and user-friendly trading platforms for all experience levels.
This guide compares the top brokers for low fees, fast execution, and reliable risk management tools. Each platform listed is FCA-regulated and offers a demo account to practise before trading live.
Quick answer: What is the best CFD trading platform in the UK?
The best CFD brokers in the UK are eToro, XTB, and IG. eToro is FCA-regulated and best known for its social trading tools and wide range of assets. XTB offers advanced charting features, competitive spreads, and a user-friendly platform. IG stands out for its robust trading software, extensive market research, and reliable execution. All three are FCA-regulated and provide demo accounts to practise risk-free.
| Best overall  | Low-cost trading  | Largest CFD broker  |
| 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.5 |
| 30 million users globally trust eToro for their social trading needs, benefiting from a vast array of stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. | A reliable trading platform offering a wide range of markets, advanced tools, and educational resources to empower traders of all skill levels. | Award-winning trading platform offering extensive market access and advanced tools for both beginner and experienced traders. |
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| 61% of retail CFD accounts lose money. | 73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. | 69% 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. |
30 million users globally trust eToro for their social trading needs, benefiting from a vast array of stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
- User-friendly platform for beginners
- Copy the moves of professional traders
- Social trading & educational features
A reliable trading platform offering a wide range of markets, advanced tools, and educational resources to empower traders of all skill levels.
- User-friendly platforms with intuitive design
- Wide range of instruments, including forex, stocks, and CFDs
- Comprehensive educational tools and webinars
Award-winning trading platform offering extensive market access and advanced tools for both beginner and experienced traders.
- User-friendly platform with advanced trading tools
- Comprehensive educational resources and demo account
- Wide range of markets
5 best CFD trading platforms ranked
Here’s a quick overview of the best CFD trading platforms in the UK, based on expert testing and platform performance.
76% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
- eToro – Best overall
- XTB – Best stock exchange-listed broker
- IG – Largest CFD broker in the world
- Plus500 – One of the best for beginners
- Trading 212 – Commission-free CFD trading with a free share upon sign-up
What are the best CFD brokers in the UK?
This comparison ranks the leading CFD brokers using four key criteria every trader should consider before choosing a platform.
| Rank | CFD broker | Minimum deposit | S&P 500 index CFD fee | No. of tradeable instruments | Tier-1 licenses (regulation) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | eToro | $50 | $3.1 | 3,317 | 1 |
| 2 | XTB | £0 | £1.10 | 5,800+ | 2 |
| 3 | IG | £250 | $2.6 | 19,537 | 8 |
| 4 | Plus500 | £100 | 0.7 points (average spread cost) | 2,800 | 6 |
| 5 | Trading 212 | $1 | $1.5 | 1,785 | 2 |
CFD broker reviews
The global online trading market is expected to grow by 6.4% annually, highlighting the importance of choosing a trusted, FCA-regulated CFD platform1.
This guide ranks the best CFD brokers in the UK using five key factors: minimum deposit, S&P 500 CFD fees, number of instruments, Tier-1 licences, and platform usability.
Each platform has been tested for its research tools, education, and overall trading experience. All brokers listed are FCA-regulated or hold equivalent Tier-1 licences.
You can read about how we test platforms here.
This article was reviewed by Tobi Opeyemi Amure, a trading expert and writer at Investopedia, Investing.com, and Trading.biz.
1. eToro – Best overall
Is eToro FCA-regulated and safe for UK traders?
Yes. eToro is FCA-regulated (FRN: 583263), meaning it meets strict UK financial standards for client protection and transparency. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, and UK users are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) for up to £85,000 if the broker becomes insolvent.
What assets and markets can you trade on eToro?
eToro offers over 3,000 tradeable instruments, including CFDs on stocks, ETFs, forex pairs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. UK users can also invest in real stocks and ETFs with zero commission or trade CFDs with leverage for greater market exposure.
How much are eToro’s trading fees and spreads?
eToro charges variable spreads starting from 1 pip on major forex pairs, 0.75 points on indices, and 0.15% on stock CFDs. There are no deposit fees, though a $5 withdrawal fee applies. Overnight funding costs are charged on leveraged CFD positions.
Which platforms and tools does eToro offer?
eToro’s web and mobile platforms are user-friendly and ideal for social trading. Traders have access to ProCharts, real-time market sentiment, and a $100,000 demo account for practice. The platform’s standout feature, CopyTrader, lets users automatically mirror top-performing investors.
Who is eToro best suited for?
eToro is best for beginner and intermediate traders who want an easy-to-use CFD platform with social trading features. It may not be ideal for advanced users seeking more technical platforms such as MetaTrader 4 or cTrader.
Key rating criteria:
| Minimum deposit | S&P 500 index CFD fee | No. of tradeable instruments | Tier-1 licenses (regulation) |
| $50 | $3.1 | 3,479 | 3 |
Read our eToro review.
Pros:
- Trading platform compatible across all devices
- Social trading and copy features
- No commission on stocks and ETFs, coupled with competitive spreads
- Low minimum deposit requirement
- Offers a free demo account
Cons:
- Conversion fees for GBP
- Higher non-trading fees
- £5 withdrawal fee
{etoroCFDrisk}% 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. Other fees apply. Your capital is at risk. For more information, click here.
2. XTB – Best stock exchange-listed broker
Is XTB FCA-regulated and safe for UK traders?
Yes. XTB is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA, licence no. 522157), ensuring strong client protection and transparent trading practices. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, and the broker has a long-standing reputation across European markets for reliability and low-cost trading.
What markets can you trade on XTB?
XTB provides access to over 6,900 markets, including forex, indices, commodities, stock CFDs, and ETF CFDs. Traders can use leverage up to 30:1 and benefit from tight spreads starting at 0.1 pips, with zero commissions on stock and ETF CFDs.
How much are XTB’s trading fees and spreads?
Spreads begin from 0.1 pip on forex CFDs, 0.004 points on commodities, and 0.04 points on indices. XTB charges no deposit fees, though small withdrawals below £50 incur a £5 fee. Withdrawals above that amount are free. An inactivity fee of £10 per month applies after 12 months of no trading, and currency conversion fees are 0.5%.
Which platforms and tools does XTB offer?
XTB’s proprietary xStation 5 platform is available on desktop, web, iOS, and Android, offering advanced charting, custom layouts, and quick order execution. The built-in trading calculator lets you estimate costs, profits, and losses before placing trades, and stop loss or take profit levels can be adjusted directly from the chart.
What education and support does XTB provide?
XTB offers a comprehensive Trading Academy, with videos, webinars, and interactive courses for all experience levels. Each client also has access to a personal account manager to assist with platform setup, trading queries, and account management.
Who is XTB best suited for?
XTB is ideal for intermediate and advanced traders seeking a customisable platform, competitive spreads, and educational support. Its demo account (£100,000 virtual funds) makes it equally suitable for beginners looking to learn CFD trading in a realistic environment.
Key rating criteria:
| Minimum deposit | S&P 500 index CFD fee | No. of tradeable instruments | Tier-1 licenses (regulation) |
| £0 | £1.10 | 5,800+ | 2 |
Pros:
- User-friendly trading platform
- Low forex fees
- Swift deposit and withdrawal process without any fee
- Customer service is available through live chat
Cons:
- High charges for stock CFDs.
- Account inactivity fees
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
3. IG – Largest CFD broker in the world
Is IG FCA-regulated and safe for UK traders?
Yes. IG Markets Ltd is FCA-regulated (FRN: 195355) and also licensed by ASIC in Australia and BaFin in Germany. Founded in 1974, IG is one of the world’s most established brokers and was named “Most Trusted Broker” and “Best Overall Broker 2023” by ForexBrokers.com. Client funds are held in segregated bank accounts, ensuring a secure trading environment.
What markets can you trade on IG?
IG offers access to over 17,000 markets, including CFDs on stocks, forex, indices, commodities, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. Most assets are available for trading 24 hours a day, making IG one of the most versatile CFD brokers in the UK.
How much are IG’s trading fees and spreads?
Spreads start from 0.1 pips on major forex pairs, with variable pricing depending on market conditions. Deposits and withdrawals are generally free, though payment provider charges may apply. An inactivity fee is only charged after two years without trading. Stock CFD fees can be higher compared to some competitors, particularly for small-volume traders.
Which platforms and tools does IG offer?
IG’s proprietary web and mobile platform combines advanced charting, risk management tools, and full account control. Traders can also use MetaTrader 4 (MT4) for automated trading and technical analysis, or the L2 Dealer platform for Direct Market Access (DMA) and faster order execution.
Who is IG best suited for?
IG is best for experienced traders who value deep market access, professional-grade tools, and a wide asset range. Its user-friendly platform and strong global regulation make it equally appealing to serious beginners seeking long-term reliability.
Key rating criteria:
| Minimum deposit | S&P 500 index CFD fee | No. of tradeable instruments | Tier-1 licenses (regulation) |
| £250 | $2.6 | 19,537 | 8 |
Read our IG review.
Pros:
- Access to more than 17,000 tradeable instruments
- Choice of three diverse trading platforms
- Comprehensive educational and research resources
- No charges for deposits and withdrawals
Cons:
- High stock CFD fees
- Higher initial deposit requirement
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.
4. Plus500 – One of the best for beginners
Is Plus500 FCA-regulated and safe for UK traders?
Yes. Plus500UK Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 509909), one of the UK’s top-tier regulators. The broker is also licensed by CySEC and several other financial authorities worldwide. As a London Stock Exchange-listed company (LSE: PLUS), Plus500 publishes audited financials and follows strict governance standards. UK clients benefit from segregated client accounts and FSCS protection up to £85,000, making Plus500 a safe and transparent CFD broker.
What markets can you trade on Plus500?
Plus500 gives traders access to over 2,800 CFDs covering forex, stocks, indices, commodities, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. The broker also offers Plus500 Invest for real stock trading (available in select countries) and Plus500 Futures for U.S. traders. All trading is executed via CFDs, meaning you don’t own the underlying assets but can speculate on price movements using leverage.
How much are Plus500’s trading fees and spreads?
Plus500 runs on a commission-free model, with all fees built into the spread.
- Forex CFDs: low spreads, e.g. EUR/USD ≈ 1.1 pips
- Indices: average spreads, e.g. S&P 500 ≈ 0.6 points
- Stocks: higher spreads, e.g. Apple ≈ 0.8 points
There are no deposit or withdrawal fees, and the inactivity fee (£10 / $10 per month) only applies after three months without login. Other small charges include overnight funding, guaranteed stop order premiums, and a currency conversion fee (up to 0.7%).
What payment methods and deposits does Plus500 support?
You can fund your account via debit/credit card, bank transfer, PayPal, or Skrill, with no deposit fees. The minimum deposit is £100 (or equivalent in your base currency). Withdrawals are processed quickly and are typically free unless your payment provider applies its own charge.
Which platforms and tools does Plus500 offer?
Plus500’s WebTrader and mobile app (iOS and Android) are known for their clean design, clear pricing, and secure two-step login. The platform supports price alerts, real-time charts, an economic calendar, and a demo account for practice. It lacks third-party integrations like MetaTrader 4, algorithmic trading, and in-depth research tools, but its ease of use and fast execution make it ideal for straightforward CFD trading.
Key rating criteria:
| Minimum deposit | S&P 500 index CFD fee | No. of tradeable instruments | Tier-1 licenses (regulation) |
| £100 | Spreads and other fees apply. 0.7 points is the average spread cost during peak trading hours. The spread is subject to change as it is dynamic. | 19,537 | 8 |
Read our Plus500 review.
Pros:
- No commission on buy/sell transactions
- Competitive spreads
- Free unlimited Demo account
- Over 2,800 tradable instruments
- Real-time quotes and sophisticated analytical tools
- Fast and dependable order execution
Cons:
- No available API integrations
- Lack of social copy trading
- Limited educational and research tools
80% 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.
5. Trading 212 – Commission-free CFD trading with a free share upon sign-up
Is Trading 212 FCA-regulated and safe for UK traders?
Yes. Trading 212 is FCA-authorised, holds client money in segregated accounts, and UK users benefit from FSCS protection up to £85,000. It no longer offers crypto trading.
What markets can you trade on Trading 212?
CFDs on 29 commodities, 36 indices, 1,536 shares, and 184 forex pairs. Fractional shares are available on Invest/ISA. No cryptocurrencies.
How much are Trading 212’s fees and spreads?
Invest/ISA: £0 commission. CFDs/forex: pay the spread.
Other costs: 0.15% FX conversion, possible deposit fee on amounts over £2,000, and overnight funding on leveraged CFD positions.
What are the minimum deposit and payment options?
Minimum deposit: £1 for Invest/ISA, £10 for CFD.
Payments: bank transfer, debit/credit card, Apple Pay and Google Pay. Deposits are typically instant.
Which platforms and tools does Trading 212 offer?
Clean web and mobile apps (10M+ downloads), economic calendar, Chrome plug-in, and charting with 45 indicators and 19 drawing tools. Demo account with £50,000 virtual funds. No MetaTrader and limited advanced research/customisation.
Who is Trading 212 best suited for?
Best for beginners and cost-conscious investors who want commission-free Invest/ISA, fractional shares, and a simple app. Active CFD traders and experts may prefer brokers with tighter FX spreads, deeper research, or MT4/advanced tools.
Key rating criteria:
| Minimum deposit | S&P 500 index CFD fee | No. of tradeable instruments | Tier-1 licenses (regulation) |
| $1 | $1.5 | 1,785 | 2 |
Read our Trading 212 review.
Pros:
- No commission is charged on real stocks and ETFs
- Fast and straightforward account setup
- Easy-to-use trading platforms
Cons:
- Restricted range of research tools
- No educational articles
- No MetaTrader
What are CFDs and how do they work?
A Contract for Difference (CFD) is a derivative instrument that lets you trade on price movements of assets like stocks, forex, indices, or commodities without owning them. You profit (or lose) from the difference between the opening and closing price of the trade, which is settled in cash rather than physical assets.
How does CFD trading work?
When trading CFDs, you choose whether to go long (buy) or short (sell) on an asset.
- Example: You buy 100 CFDs on a stock at £10. If the price rises to £10.50, your profit is £50 (0.50 × 100). If it falls, you lose the same amount.
CFDs use leverage, meaning you can control larger positions with smaller deposits, but this also amplifies losses.
What can you trade with CFDs in the UK?
CFDs are available on:
- Forex: major, minor, and exotic currency pairs
- Stocks & ETFs: UK, US, and global equities
- Indices: FTSE 100, S&P 500, DAX 40, NASDAQ
- Commodities: gold, oil, gas, agricultural products
- Cryptocurrencies: limited offering via FCA-regulated brokers
Under FCA rules, retail traders are restricted to maximum leverage of 1:30 to limit risk.
How to choose the right CFD broker?
Is the broker FCA-regulated?
Always ensure the broker is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). FCA regulation guarantees segregated client funds, negative balance protection, and transparent risk disclosures. Avoid unregulated brokers, as you’ll have no protection under UK law if disputes arise.
What fees and spreads apply?
Compare spreads, commissions, and overnight financing costs. Look for transparent pricing and low trading costs.
Typical charges include:
- Spreads: from 0.1 pips on major forex pairs.
- Commissions: around £3–£6 per trade on stock CFDs.
- Overnight fees: for holding positions past market close.
- Inactivity fees: around £10–£20 monthly after prolonged inactivity.
- Withdrawal/conversion fees: often free with FCA brokers, but check for FX charges.
Do they offer a demo account?
Choose brokers with a free demo account to test trading conditions risk-free. Reputable providers such as IG, eToro, and XTB offer unlimited virtual accounts with real-time pricing.
Is the trading platform user-friendly?
The best brokers support stable and intuitive platforms like MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, or proprietary web apps. Key features to look for:
- Fast execution (under 50 ms latency)
- Advanced charts and indicators
- Custom layouts and one-click trading
- Real-time alerts and risk tools
What education and market research do they provide?
Select brokers offering tutorials, webinars, daily analysis, and trading simulators. A strong education hub helps traders understand leverage, risk, and strategy building.
How secure is the broker?
Prioritise platforms with data encryption, segregated accounts, and two-factor authentication to protect funds and personal data.
What leverage and margin options are offered?
FCA-regulated brokers cap leverage at 1:30 for retail clients, reducing risk. Higher leverage increases both profit potential and exposure, so choose levels that suit your strategy.
How good is customer support?
Reliable brokers provide 24/5 customer support via live chat, email, and phone. Test responsiveness before committing funds.
Does the broker have a good reputation?
Read verified reviews and trader testimonials to assess reliability, execution speed, and transparency.
💬 Expert insight:
The final step, in my opinion, would be to look at the cost of trading with the broker. This final step is not straightforward as brokers tend to hide the cost of trading with misleading marketing messages but it is worth spending time and doing your homework to find your best option.
Andrew Merry, IChief Commercial Officer at Trade Nation. From our interview.
What are the main advantages and risks of CFD trading?
Pros of CFD trading in the UK
- Access global markets through one platform.
- Trade rising or falling prices (long or short).
- Use leverage to control larger positions with less capital.
- No stamp duty, as you don’t own the underlying asset.
- Advanced tools like copy trading, automation, and APIs.
- Fast execution, ideal for day trading or short-term strategies.
Key risks of CFD trading
- Leverage amplifies losses as well as profits.
- Overnight funding fees can reduce returns over time.
- High volatility may trigger margin calls.
- 70–80% of retail accounts lose money trading CFDs.
- Limited investor protection versus traditional share dealing.
- Reliance on broker execution and integrity.
⚠️ Risk warning: CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Always use stop-loss orders, take-profit limits, and strict capital management to control risk.
How do leverage and margin work in CFD trading?
What is leverage in CFD trading?
Leverage lets you control larger trades with a smaller deposit. For example, with 1:30 leverage, £1 controls a £30 position. This boosts both profits and potential losses.
FCA leverage limits for retail traders:
- 1:30 – major forex pairs
- 1:20 – minor forex, gold, and major indices
- 1:10 – commodities
- 1:5 – equities
How does margin work?
Margin is the amount needed to open a leveraged trade. At 1:30 leverage, you must deposit roughly 3.33% of the trade’s value. If your balance drops below the broker’s required level, you’ll face a margin call or have positions automatically closed.
What risk controls should you use?
- Stop-loss orders – limit potential losses automatically.
- Take-profit orders – secure profits at target prices.
- Guaranteed stop-loss – ensures closure at exact prices during volatility.
- Negative balance protection – prevents losses exceeding your deposit.
Using these tools helps maintain capital stability and long-term trading discipline.
⚠️ Risk warning: Leverage magnifies both profits and losses. CFDs are complex instruments, and 80% of retail accounts lose money when trading them.
Do you pay tax on CFD profits in the UK?
When does Capital Gains Tax apply?
Yes. CFD profits are subject to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) because they are treated as speculative financial instruments. You don’t pay stamp duty, since you don’t own the underlying asset.
For 2025/26, CGT applies when total annual gains exceed £3,000. Losses can be used to offset other capital gains within the same tax year.
CFD trading vs spread betting
| Tax | Subject to CGT | Tax-free in the UK |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | No ownership of asset | No ownership |
| Contract type | Fixed-size contracts | Price-per-point wagers |
| Regulation | FCA-regulated | FCA-regulated |
| Best for | Investors seeking structured exposure | Short-term speculators |
Both are leveraged and regulated by the FCA, but spread betting profits are tax-free, while CFD profits are taxable.
How to report CFD gains to HMRC
Declare profits via Self Assessment under the Capital Gains section. Keep accurate records of:
- Opening and closing trade prices
- Contract sizes and fees
- Overnight funding charges
- Annual profit/loss summaries
⚠️ Note: Tax rules depend on personal circumstances and may change. For personalised advice, consult a qualified tax professional or visit HMRC.gov.uk.
Final thoughts
When it comes to CFD trading platforms in the UK, several top contenders stand out.
Each platform has its unique features and strengths that cater to different types of traders.
eToro is the best overall, offering a user-friendly social trading experience, while Pepperstone provides advanced trading tools and competitive spreads.
IG Markets excels in its wide range of tradable instruments and trusted platform.
Ultimately, the best CFD trading platform for you will depend on your trading style, experience level, and specific requirements.
You must spend time researching and comparing the factors discussed in my guide.
FAQs
Is it legal to trade CFDs in the UK?
Yes, it is legal to trade CFDs in the UK. CFD trading is a regulated activity and is subject to oversight by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which is the regulatory body responsible for supervising financial markets and ensuring consumer protection in the UK. The FCA sets rules and guidelines that CFD brokers must adhere to, including capital requirements, client fund segregation, and fair trading practices. Traders should ensure that they engage with regulated CFD brokers that are authorised and licensed by the FCA or another recognised regulatory authority.
Is CFD trading tax-free in the UK?
No, CFDs are not tax-free in the UK. While you don’t pay stamp duty because you don’t own the underlying asset, profits from CFD trading are subject to Capital Gains Tax. However, losses can be used to offset tax liabilities. It’s important to consult a tax advisor for precise information as tax laws can be complex and vary from person to person.
What is the safest CFD broker in the UK?
The safest CFD brokers are those authorised and regulated by the FCA, with a proven track record of financial stability, transparent operations, and segregated client accounts. Top-tier examples include IG, XTB, and eToro, all of which maintain robust compliance frameworks, Tier-1 banking relationships, and negative balance protection for retail clients. Always verify the broker’s FCA license number on the Financial Services Register.
Do all CFD brokers offer negative balance protection?
Under FCA rules, yes for retail clients. UK-regulated brokers must provide negative balance protection, ensuring clients cannot lose more than their deposited funds. However, professional clients who waive certain protections may not have this feature. Always review the account type and contractual terms before trading leveraged products.
Which CFD broker has the lowest fees?
Fee structures vary by broker and asset class. Generally, XTB, Plus500, and Trading 212 offer some of the most competitive spreads for retail traders.
– XTB: Zero commission on stock and ETF CFDs, spreads from 0.1 pips.
– Plus500: Commission-free trading with dynamic spreads around 0.7 points on major indices.
– Trading 212: Commission-free CFD trading with no deposit or withdrawal fees under normal conditions.
Non-trading fees, such as overnight financing or currency conversion, should also be considered when calculating the total cost per position.
Can I practise CFD trading without risking real money?
Yes. Most FCA-regulated brokers offer demo accounts with simulated market data and virtual funds. This allows users to test strategies and learn platform mechanics before committing real capital. Demo trading is essential for beginners to understand leverage, margin requirements, and order execution under real market conditions.
Are CFDs suitable for beginners?
CFDs can be used by beginners, but only after developing a solid understanding of leverage, risk management, and position sizing. Beginners should start with demo trading, use low leverage (1:10 or less), and prioritise education on market dynamics. The FCA mandates brokers to disclose that 70–80% of retail accounts lose money, underscoring the need for disciplined risk control and realistic profit expectations.
What are the best CFD brokers for shares?
Leading CFD brokers for share trading in the UK include IG, eToro, and XTB.
– IG: Offers over 17,000 share CFDs globally with advanced analysis tools.
– eToro: Provides access to UK, US, and EU equities with social trading integration.
– XTB: Enables commission-free stock CFDs with tight spreads and in-depth charting via xStation.
Each broker supports fractional exposure, allowing retail traders to access high-value shares with minimal capital.
Which CFD brokers accept Bitcoin deposits?
FCA-regulated brokers do not accept cryptocurrency deposits due to compliance restrictions. However, some offshore brokers may support Bitcoin transfers. UK traders should exercise caution, using FCA-regulated brokers that accept traditional methods (bank transfers, debit cards, e-wallets) ensures fund security and legal protection.
How do I trade CFDs on Interactive Brokers?
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) offers CFD trading for clients in eligible jurisdictions, including the UK.
To trade CFDs:
1. Open a margin-enabled IBKR account.
2. Enable CFD permissions under account settings.
3. Use the Trader Workstation (TWS) platform to search for CFD instruments (denoted by “CFD” in the symbol).
4. Place buy/sell orders as you would with equities or forex, adjusting leverage and stop levels.
IBKR provides transparent pricing and deep liquidity, but may have a steeper learning curve for new traders.
Who are the cheapest CFD brokers?
Based on comparative spreads, commissions, and non-trading fees, the cheapest CFD brokers for UK clients are typically:
– XTB – zero-commission trading on stock and ETF CFDs
– Trading 212 – commission-free structure for retail CFDs
– Plus500 – low spreads and no withdrawal fees
Always verify additional costs such as swap charges and inactivity fees, which vary by broker.
Which are the largest CFD brokers in the world?
The global leaders in CFD trading, measured by client volume, regulatory coverage, and asset diversity, include:
– IG Group (UK) – over 45 years in operation, listed on the London Stock Exchange.
– eToro (Israel/UK) – 30+ million registered users worldwide.
– Plus500 (Israel/UK) – listed on the LSE with multi-jurisdictional regulation.
– CMC Markets (UK) – over 12,000 CFDs and a strong institutional reputation.
These firms dominate the global CFD sector through scale, liquidity access, and robust compliance oversight.
Are CFDs better than spread betting?
CFDs and spread betting share structural similarities but differ in tax treatment. CFD trading is subject to Capital Gains Tax but allows precise position sizing, while spread betting is tax-free in the UK but involves price-per-point wagers. Traders seeking long-term exposure and hedging typically prefer CFDs; short-term speculators often use spread betting.
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