11 Best Stock Brokers UK for 2024 – With Low Trading Fees

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Looking to buy stocks online but not sure which broker to use? This comparison guide reviews the 11 best stock brokers in the UK. Discover the best UK stock trading platform for low fees, supported markets, minimum deposits, regulation, and more.

Best for beginners
eToro
  • Ideal for beginner investors
  • Copy trade successful investors
  • Stocks, ETFs, Crypto, Forex, Indices, Commodities
Best for low fee trading
XTB (UK)
  • 0% commission on stocks & ETFs up to 100k EUR monthly turnover.
  • Free deposits & withdrawals.
  • Supports investment plans for passive investing.
Best for leverage trading
Avatrade
  • Spread bet more than 1,000 markets
  • 0% commission on all supported assets
  • Stocks, ETFs, Forex, Indices, Commodities and Bonds

eToro, XTB and Avatrade are multi-asset investment platforms. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.

The Best UK Stock Brokers for Beginners 2024

Check out the list below, which highlights the 11 best stock brokers in the UK right now:

  1. eToro – Best UK stock broker in the UK with thousands of UK and international stocks at 0% commission.
  2. XTB – UK residents can trade more than 1,850 stocks at 0% commission with leverage of up to 1:5.
  3. AvaTrade – Supports hundreds of stock CFDs alongside other asset classes. There are no commissions to pay when trading stocks.
  4. FP Markets – Offers tight raw spreads from 0.0 pips. $0 fee-free funding options are also available. Also offers 500:1 leverage. More than 10,000 stocks on global exchanges.
  5. Pepperstone – This online broker will appeal to seasoned traders that seek institutional-grade market spreads of just 0.1%.
  6. Admiral Markets – Low-fee stocks/ETFs, and over 8,000 instruments. Commission-free stock trading on eligible MT.5 accounts.
  7. Trade Nation – Popular UK-based low fixed-cost stock trading platforms with 100+ UK shares and multiple payment methods. 
  8. IG – Founded in 1974 and supports over 13,000 shares and funds. IG charges up to £8 per stock investment.
  9. Hargreaves Lansdown – Simple, regulated stock broker for beginners although stock commissions start at £11.95
  10. Capital.com – Popular CFD broker in the UK that supports almost 3,000 stocks from 18 markets. All supported stocks can be traded at 0% commission with competitive spreads.
  11. CMC Markets – Online broker is popular with UK traders that wish to engage with tax-free spread betting.

Best Stock Brokers UK Reviewed & Compared

Now let’s move on to our reviews of the best stock brokers in the UK. We explain all important factors concerning each stock broker, enabling UK investors to make an informed decision.

1. eToro – Overall Best Stock Broker UK in 2024

In our view, eToro is the overall best UK stock broker. Launched in 2007, eToro is used by over 30 million clients. UK investors are protected by up to £85,000 in the event of a brokerage collapse.

In addition to safety, eToro is one of the best stock brokers in the UK for fees. For example, it doesn’t charge any commissions to buy and sell stocks. Not only is this the case for UK stocks but international markets too. This includes stocks in the US, Europe, Asia, and more. eToro is particularly popular with investors on a budget. This is because the broker supports fractional stocks.

eToro UK review

Put simply, eToro enables investors to buy any supported stock from just $50 in the UK. While eToro is a top-rated broker for DIY investors, it also supports passive trading. For example, the broker supports dozens of ‘smart portfolios’. These are baskets of pre-selected stocks that are managed and rebalanced by eToro.

For example, there is a smart portfolio that tracks the global shipping and logistics industry. This includes stocks like FedEx, XPO Logistics, Canadian Pacific Railway, and Deutsche Post. Looking to gain exposure to Big Tech? Considering buying Amazon shares in the UK? There is also a smart portfolio for that, covering stocks like Tesla, Meta Platforms, Amazon, Visa, and MasterCard. All smart portfolios come with a minimum investment requirement of $500.

eToro UK review

Past performance is not an indication of future results.

eToro is also one of the best stock brokers in the UK for ‘copy trading’. This is also a passive way to invest in stocks. For instance, investors can choose a seasoned eToro trader to copy, and all future positions will be mirrored in their own portfolio. eToro provides plenty of stats to help choose a suitable trader. For instance, past performance, risk profile, and preferred markets. The minimum investment requirement for copy trading is $200 per trader.

In terms of research, eToro enables beginners to make informed stock investment decisions. Alongside customizable pricing charts that offer real-time data, eToro also supports financial news and market insights. eToro users can also view market sentiment from leading hedge funds and sell-side analyst ratings. That said, the research department might be a bit too basic for seasoned investors.

eToro UK review

Nonetheless, eToro is available on desktop and mobile devices. It also offers one of the best stock trading apps UK for iOS and Android. This makes it convenient to buy and sell stocks on the move.

eToro also supports other asset classes. For example, those looking to buy Bitcoin in the UK can do so.

Not only is eToro one of the best Bitcoin brokers in the UK but it supports 90 other cryptocurrencies. eToro also offers one of the best crypto wallets.

This top-rated broker also supports contracts-for-differences (CFD) trading across forex, commodities, and indices (instrument availability may vary according to regions)c. It takes just minutes to get started with eToro. After registering an account, investors need to meet a minimum deposit of $50. Deposits can be made instantly with a debit card and a selection of e-wallets. eToro also supports UK bank transfers. GBP deposits attract a small deposit fee of 0.5%.

eToro
No. Stocks 3,000+
Pricing System 0% commission
Fee for Buying Amazon Stock Market spread
Min. Deposit $50
Trading Platforms
Proprietary web platform and mobile app
Top Features
Accepts debit cards and e-wallets, fractional stocks from $50, Invest passively via smart portfolios

Pros pros

  • User-friendly investment platform is ideal for newbies
  • Fractional stock investments from $50
  • Accepts debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets
  • Also one of the best crypto exchanges in the UK

Cons cons

  • GBP payments attract a 0.5% deposit fee
  • Research tools might be too basic for seasoned stock traders

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

2. XTB – Trade Over Thousands of Stocks at 0% Commission 

XTB is one of the best stock brokers in the UK – and is now offering real stocks on 15 of the world’s largest stock exchanges as well as CFDs.  XTB enables UK investors to trade stock at 0% commission and, moreover, investors can enter stock trades with leverage of up to 1:5.

This means a £1,000 stock position would require just £200 from the investor. XTB enables investors to choose from a long or short order. This means investors can speculate on rising and falling stock prices. XTB supports over 1,850 stock CFDs, including markets in the UK, the US, and Europe. We also found that XTB is one of the best stock brokers in the UK for analysis tools.

XTB review

Through its proprietary platform, xStation 5, investors will find high-level charts that can be customized, drawing tools, and technical indicators. xStation 5 is compatible with multiple device types, including web browsers, iOS/Android smartphones, and desktop software. Additionally, XTB offers fundamental research. include expert market analysis, sentiment, and insights.

In addition to stocks, XTB supports plenty of other CFD markets. This includes a wide range of commodities, such as gold, silver, and oil. Indices, ETFs, and forex are also supported. Another feature of XTB is that it offers a demo account. This supports trading with ‘paper funds’, enabling investors to practice their preferred strategies.

Investors interested in day trading will also be happy to learn that XTB is one of the best day trading platforms in the UK.

XTB review

In terms of safety, XTB is authorized and regulated by the FCA. Opening an account with XTB is simple and fast, and deposits can be made with debit/credit cards, bank transfers, and Skrill. There is no minimum deposit requirement at XTB. Finally, XTB offers top-notch customer support across telephone, live chat, and email.

XTB
No. Stocks 1,850+
Pricing System 0% commission
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock Market spread
Min. Deposit No minimum
Trading Platforms
Proprietary web and desktop platform, plus a mobile app
Top Features Real stocks and CFDs, regulated by the FCA, no commissions to trade stocks, leverage of up to 1:5 on stock CFDs, no minimum deposit requirements

Pros pros

  • Best stock broker platform for trading with leverage
  • Trade over 1,850 stocks at 0% commission
  • Trade real stocks and CFDs
  • Go long or short on stocks and other assets
  • No minimum deposit
  • One of the best forex brokers in the UK
  • Plenty of high-level analysis tools

Cons cons

  • UK traders do not have access to cryptocurrencies

76% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

3. AvaTrade – Established Broker With Regulation in Nine Jurisdictions

Launched in 2006, AvaTrade is an established online broker that specializes in CFDs. It has a superb reputation with newbies and seasoned traders alike, not least because AvaTrade is licensed in nine jurisdictions. While this doesn’t include FCA regulation, AvaTrade is authorized to offer trading services to UK residents. In terms of markets, AvaTrade supports hundreds of stock CFDs.

avatrade homepage

This includes selected stocks from the FTSE 100, NYSE, and NASDAQ. AvaTrade does not charge trading commissions on any of its supported markets. Moreover, spreads are very competitive, and there are no deposit or withdrawal fees. The minimum deposit at AvaTrade is £100. Deposits can be made via debit/credit cards, Skrill, Neteller, WebMoney, and UK bank transfers.

AvaTrade
No. Stocks Hundreds of stocks from the UK and US markets
Pricing System 0% commission
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock Market spread
Min. Deposit £100
Trading Platforms
Proprietary web platform and mobile app. Plus, MT4 and MT5.
Top Features Regulated in nine jurisdictions, no trading commissions, supports MT4 and MT5

Pros pros

  • One of the best online UK stock brokers for MT4 and MT5
  • 0% commission on all supported markets
  • Tight spreads on large-cap stocks
  • Regulated in nine different jurisdictions
  • Also supports options, ETFs, forex, commodities, and indices

Cons cons

  • More suited to experienced traders
  • Limited number of stocks when compared to other brokers

76% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

4. FP Markets – Buy and Sell More than 10,000 Stocks

FP Markets logoFP Markets stands out as a prominent stock broker with a comprehensive range of offerings, including forex, shares, commodities, bonds, metals, indices, and digital currencies. This platform distinguishes itself with competitive features that cater to a variety of trading needs.

FP Markets Stock Trading

One of the key advantages of FP Markets is its competitive pricing structure, featuring tight raw spreads starting from 0.0 pips, making it a cost-effective option for traders. Additionally, the broker offers fee-free funding options, which further enhance its appeal to investors. With a maximum leverage of 500:1, FP Markets opens up significant wealth-generating opportunities.

Investors can choose from a vast selection of up to 10,000 shares from global exchanges, which underscores the platform’s versatility. Based on our FP Markets review we found that this broker also ensures swift trade execution through an NY4 server, providing an efficient trading experience.

Trading facilities at FP Markets are delivered through MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and TradingView, along with an advanced client portal that allows for real-time tracking of trades. Overall, FP Markets is a versatile brokerage in the UK, especially well-suited for experienced traders.

FP Markets
No. Stocks 10,000
Pricing System 0.06% commission
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock Not mentioned
Min. Deposit 100 AUD
Trading Platforms
MetaTrader5. MetaTrader4, IRESS, CTrader, WebTrader
Top Features Spreads from 0.0 PIPs, more than 10,000 shares available

Pros pros

  • Features a low commission
  • Forex spreads starting from 0.0 Pips
  • 10000+ worldwide financial products
  • Also offers digital currency investment opportunities

Cons cons

  • Has a steep learning curve

5. Pepperstone – Trade Stocks With Institutional-Grade Spreads 

Pepperstone is one of the best stock brokers in the UK for accessing tight spreads. For example, while UK stock trades attract a commission of 0.10%, the spread market up is just 0.10%. This is also the case for stocks listed in Germany. Those trading US stocks like Apple and Tesla will pay just $0.02 for each share traded, plus a small spread markup of 8 points.

Pepperstone review

This combination of low commissions and spreads will appeal to those trading with large amounts. Other supported stock markets at Pepperstone include Hong Kong and Australia. It is also possible to trade forex, indices, commodities, and ETFs. Pepperstone doesn’t have its own trading platform, but it does support MT4, MT5, and cTrader.

Pepperstone
No. Stocks 1,000+
Pricing System Commission from 0.10% plus spread
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock 0.02 USD per share plus 0.10% markup on the spread
Min. Deposit No minimum
Trading Platforms
MT4, MT5, and cTrader
Top Features Offers some of the lowest spreads in the market, no minimum deposit requirement, also supports spread betting

Pros pros

  • One of the best online UK stock brokers for tight spreads
  • Trade via MT4, MT5, or cTrader
  • Regulated by the FCA and other licensing bodies
  • Fast execution speeds

Cons cons

  • Does not offer real stock ownership
  • Commissions charged on all stock trades

75.3% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.

6. Admiral Markets – Low Spread UK Stock Broker With 8,000+ Instruments and 5-Star Customer Service

Admiral Markets is a UK based broker and the brand with more than 20 years operation on financial markets, reliable great customer service and over 8,000 instruments to choose from. It has a gigantic suite of offerings and a great social rating on TrustPilot and other platforms. Admiral Markets has a minimum deposit of $25, offers 1:500 leverage on specific products, and has a negative balance policy. It has a large list of 3,400 stocks, more than the majority of its competitors. It trades in the UK as Admiral Markets UK Ltd and is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

admiral markets

Through Admiral Markets UK Ltd, UK residents can purchase stocks and ETFs, either as shares or through Contracts for Difference (CFDs). However, users will need to choose a specific MetaTrader account to execute the transaction. The process of buying a stock and buying an ETF is largely the same, just that the ETFs offer the benefit of diversification. 

For example, to invest in Class A Alphabet stock, users will need an Invest.MT5 account. The commission will be $0.02 with 1 free trade a day. To invest in an Alphabet stock CFD, users will need a Trade.MT5 account. This comes with a commission of $0.02, a current typical spread of 0.7 pips, and 6 commission free trades per day. 

On Trade.MT4/ Trade.MT5 accounts the commissions start also from 0.02, but it is charged only from ETF CFDs and Stocks CFDs trading.

admiral markets google stock

The CFD enables users to go either long or short the asset, while investing only allows a long position. Both options allow traders to benefit from any dividends offered by the company. Admiral Markets further offers fractional shares, which is a recent addition to the platform that allows people to invest in tiny slices of a stock. 

Other positive elements of this provider are that it has a superb standard of customer service, impressive online ratings, and a responsive support team. It’s also an integrated platform for the modern investor, with comprehensive educational resources, personal finance through Admiral Markets Wallet, and even offers bonds as well as an Islamic Forex account. 

The dashboard interface is better than most others, being easy to navigate, and with seamless MetaTrader integration. The main issue is that it is not possible to transfer a portfolio of stocks from another broker to Admiral Markets at the current time.

Admiral Markets
No. Stocks 3400+
Pricing System 0% commission on specific MT accounts, $0.02 otherwise
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock Fixed cost spread
Min. Deposit $25
Trading Platforms
MT4, MT5, MT Web, Mobile App
Top Features 8,000 instruments, top customer support, low or zero spreads on stocks, fractional shares

Pros pros

  • Charges low fixed cost spreads
  • Regulated by the FCA
  • Superb customer support
  • No minimum deposit
  • Excellent TrustPilot ratings

Cons cons

  • No crypto products
  • Cannot transfer stock portfolio from other brokers to Admiral Markets

75.3% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.

7. Trade Nation – UK-Based Low Fixed Cost Stock Trading Platform 

Launched in 2014, Trade Nation holds its headquarters in the United Kingdom. In the UK, the Financial Services Authority (FCA) regulates this stock trading platform. Traders can buy and sell over 100 UK-based shares by using Trade Nation’s proprietary trading platform, TN Trader. 

Trade Nation home

On this platform, one only needs to pay low fixed-cost spreads. Since there are no hidden fees or added charges, Trade Nation proves to be a very transparent trading platform. Various UK-based shares such as Vodafone, BT, and Barclays. Other than stocks, users can also trade commodities, indices, and forex pairs with Trade Nation. 

On Trade Nation, investors can leverage risk-management tools such as stop orders to automatically exit trades to limit losses. The platform also provides daily reports twice a day, to provide traders with valuable insights into the markets. 

Trade Nation can also be accessed through the mobile app, which is powered by ChartIQ. This comes with 90+ trading indicators and multiple drawing tools, which can assist traders when conducting technical analysis. Users can also connect with Meta Trader 4 if they wish to trade CFDs (Contract for Differences). 

Trade Nation does not take a minimum deposit from investors. It accepts payments in multiple fiat-based payment options, including VISA, AstroPay, and Mastercard. The platform also accepts e-wallet options such as Skrill and Neteller. 

Trade Nation features

For safety purposes, Trade Nation holds all customer funds in segregated accounts in the Barclays Bank, England. The platform is covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). 

Trade Nation
No. Stocks 100+
Pricing System 0% commission
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock Fixed cost spread
Min. Deposit None
Trading Platforms
TN Trader (Proprietary trading platform), Meta Trader 4, Mobile trading app.
Top Features Low fixed cost spreads charges, offers risk-management tools, multiple payment options

Pros pros

  • Charges low fixed cost spreads
  • Regulated by the FCA
  • Risk-management tools offered
  • No minimum deposit
  • Supports mobile trading app and MT4
  • Multiple payment options

Cons cons

  • Only offers 100+ UK Shares

75% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider

8. IG – Regulated Investment Platform Supporting Over 13,000 Stocks and Funds  

IG was founded in 1974 and is popular with both beginners and seasoned investors alike. It supports more than 13,000 real stocks and funds across the UK and US markets. Regarding the former, this includes the London Stock Exchange and the Alternative Investment Market (AIM). In terms of fees, IG charges £8 per trade on UK-listed stocks. Trading at least three times a month reduces the commission to £3.

IG broker review

US-listed stocks are charged at £10 per trade. But this is reduced to £0 when trading three times or more per month. Do note, however, that IG charges a 0.5% conversion fee when buying and selling US stocks. IG is also one of the best stock brokers in the UK for investing in ETFs. IG also supports stocks and shares ISAs and SIPPs. Additionally, IG also enables UK residents to trade stock CFDs, with leverage of up to 1:5 available.

IG
No. Stocks 13,000+
Pricing System £8/£3 commission on UK stocks, depending on trading activity. £10/£0 on US stocks, depending on trading activity.
Fee for Buying Amazon Stock £10 per trade. Reduced to £0 when trading at least three times a month. Plus a 0.5% FX fee.
Min. Deposit £250 when opting for a debit/credit card or e-wallet. No minimum on UK bank transfers.
Trading Platforms Proprietary web platform and mobile app. Plus ProRealTime and MT4.
Top Features Established in 1974, supports more than 13,000 shares and funds, trade US stocks from £0

Pros pros

  • Trade UK and US stocks from £3 and £0 respectively
  • Over 13,000 stocks and funds supported
  • Best stock trading platform in the UK for ISAs
  • No minimum deposit when making a UK bank transfer

Cons cons

  • £250 minimum deposit when using a debit/credit card or e-wallet
  • Need to trade three times a month to get the lowest commissions

9. Hargreaves Lansdown – Top-Rated UK Stock Broker for Beginners   

Hargreaves Lansdown is an established UK stock broker that is popular with beginners. It offers a simple investment platform that can be accessed online or via the Hargreaves Lansdown app. The latter is supported for both iOS and Android devices. Hargreaves Lansdown supports all UK-listed stocks across the London Stock Exchange and AIM. It also supports UK-listed ETFs, funds, and bonds.

Hargreaves Lansdown review

Additionally, Hargreaves Lansdown is also one of the best stock brokers in the UK for accessing initial public offerings (IPOs). That said, Hargreaves Lansdown is also one of the most expensive UK brokers. Unless 10 or more positions are executed each month, the broker charges £11.95 per trade. As such, Hargreaves Lansdown will not appeal to those investing small amounts. After all, an £11.95 charge on a £100 stock trade would convert to a commission of 11.95%.

Hargreaves Lansdown
No. Stocks All UK-listed stocks. Plus stocks on the NYSE and NASDAQ.
Pricing System £11.95 per trade. Reduced when trading at least 10 times per month.
Fee for Buying Amazon Stock £11.95 plus 1% FX charge
Min. Deposit £1
Trading Platforms Proprietary web platform and mobile app.
Top Features Regulated by the FCA, supports all UK-listed stocks

Pros pros

  • Regulated by the FCA and covered by the FSCS
  • Top-rated broker for customer service
  • Access small-cap stocks on the AIM

Cons cons

  • High trading commissions at £11.95
  • Need to trade 10 times a month to get a lower commission
  • 1% FX fee to buy international stocks

10. Capital.com – Trade Nearly 3,000 Stocks Across 18 Markets    

Capital.com is a leading CFD trading platform that supports almost 3,000 stocks. This provider is suitable for those looking to diversify across multiple international markets. Capital.com supports 18 exchanges in the UK, North America, Asia, and Oceania. All supported stocks can be traded at 0% commission and competitive spreads.

Capital.com review

Capital.com also offers fee-free deposits and withdrawals. The platform enables traders to enter long or short stock positions with leverage of up to 1:5. Capital.com also supports ETFs, indices, forex, and commodities. The minimum deposit at Capital.com is £20 when using a debit/credit card or e-wallet. But bank transfers require a deposit of at least £250.

Capital.com
No. Stocks Almost 3,000
Pricing System 0% commission
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock Market spread
Min. Deposit £20 (debit/credit cards and e-wallets). £250 (bank transfer).
Trading Platforms Proprietary web platform and mobile app.
Top Features Trade nearly 3,000 stocks across 18 markets, no trading commissions

Pros pros

  • Trade thousands of stocks from 18 UK and international markets
  • 0% commission policy
  • Get started with just £20 when using a debit/credit card or e-wallet

Cons cons

  • Does not support real stock ownership
  • £250 minimum deposit when making a bank transfer

11. CMC Markets – Popular Stock Trading Platform for UK Spread Betting    

CMC Markets is one of the best online stock brokers in the UK for spread betting. This enables UK traders to avoid paying tax on profits, as spread betting falls within the remit of gambling. CMC Markets supports over 10,000 stocks from various UK and international exchanges. Trading fees will vary depending on the chosen market.

CMC Markets review

For example, UK stocks can be traded at 0.10%, and spreads start from 1 point. US stocks attract a commission of between 1-4 cents per share, plus a minimum spread of 2 points. One of the main drawbacks of CMC Markets is that it has high overnight holding costs. US stocks, for example, attract an annualized interest rate of 8.06%. Nevertheless, CMC Markets supports thousands of other spread betting markets, including forex, commodities, and bonds.

CMC Markets
No. Stocks 10,000+
Pricing System The commission depends on the market. UK stocks cost 0.10% per slide, plus the spread.
Fee for Trading Amazon Stock 1-4 cents per share traded, plus a minimum spread of 2 points
Min. Deposit No minimum
Trading Platforms Proprietary web platform and mobile app. Plus MT4.
Top Features Supports more than 10,000 stocks, tax-free spread betting markets

Pros pros

  • Spread bet over 10,000 stocks and avoid UK capital gains tax
  • No minimum deposit to get started
  • Authorized and regulated by the FCA

Cons cons

  • Charges up to 4 cents for each US-listed stock traded
  • Not suitable for beginners

How We Ranked the Top UK Stock Trading Platforms

When choosing a stock broker in the UK, investors should consider its regulated status, trading fees, minimum deposit requirement, and supported share markets. This information should be clearly stated on the broker’s website.

Read on to discover what factors we look for when ranking the best stock brokers in the UK.

  • Range of Stocks – The UK stock market has been sluggish in recent years, so it’s best to opt for a broker that also supports international exchanges. eToro supports over 3,000 stocks from the UK, US, Europe, Asia, and more.
  • Fees – We prefer stock brokers that have low fees. eToro, for example, offers UK and international stocks at 0% commission. In comparison, Hargreaves Lansdown charges £11.95. It charges an additional 1% on international stocks.
  • Tools & Analysis – The best stock brokers in the UK provide customers with pricing charts, research tools, and technical indicators. Moreover, eToro supports smart portfolios and copy trading. These tools enable investors to trade stocks passively.
  • Minimum Deposit – Some UK stock brokers have high minimum deposits. For example, Capital.com requires at least £250 when opting for a bank transfer. IG requires £250 when using a debit card. Across all supported methods, eToro has a minimum deposit of just $50.
  • Demo Account – We also like UK stock brokers that offer demo accounts. These enable users to practice their stock trading endeavors in a risk-free environment.
  • Mobile App – Most, but not all, UK stock brokers offer a mobile app for iOS and Android. This connects to the primary account and enables investors to buy and sell stocks on the move.
  • Payment Methods – Check what payment methods the stock broker supports before signing up. Most brokers support debit cards and bank transfers. Also, check what fees apply (if any) for the preferred payment method.
  • Customer Service – The best UK stock brokers offer top-notch customer service. This is usually available via live chat, but some brokers also offer telephone support.

Following the above criteria will enable investors to choose the best online stock broker in the UK for their needs.

How do Stock Brokers Work?

Stock brokers enable UK investors to buy shares in companies. Brokers are intermediaries, sitting between investors and the stock exchange. Most, but not all, stock brokers charge a commission for this service. For example, Hargreaves Lansdown charges £11.95 on each buy and sell order. eToro, on the other hand, enables investors to buy stocks at 0% commission.

FTSE 100 Index

The process of buying stocks via a broker is usually very straightforward. After opening an account, the investor will need to deposit some funds. Most brokers in the UK support debit cards and bank transfers. After that, the investor can search for the stock they want to buy and complete the order.

Some of the best stock brokers in the UK support fractional investing. This enables investors to buy a ‘slice’ of a stock, rather than purchasing a full share. At eToro investors can buy stocks in over 3,000 companies at a minimum of $50 per trade.

Things to Consider Before Trading Stocks in the UK

Investing in stocks can be a great way to build wealth over time. However, knowing which stocks to buy can be challenging for beginners. After all, there are thousands of stocks listed across the London Stock Exchange and AIM. And even more on international markets, such as the New York Stock Exchange and the NASDAQ.

It is important to remember that stocks can both rise and fall in value. This means that investors should consider the risk of loss. Plenty of research should be conducted before choosing a company to invest in. Moreover, investors should create a diversified portfolio across multiple companies, markets, and industries.

This process is made easier when the chosen stock broker supports fractional shares. Alternatively, beginners might also consider investing in an index fund, such as the FTSE 100 or S&P 500. Through one investment, this offers access to 100 and 500 different stocks respectively.

Where to Get Stock Tips and Insights

The process of finding the top UK stocks can be an overwhelming task. Thus, it is important to use research tools that can help provide valuable insights and data. We recommend Benzinga Pro as one of the top financial research and stock market news platforms. 

Benzinga Pro homepage

Benzinga Pro is an intuitively designed platform that offers powerful market insight. Through the ‘Daily Trade Picks’ feature, one can access daily thoughts and news from professional day traders. You can also access exclusive market-moving stories ranging from M&A deals to drug trial results. 

Through the Stock Scanner mode, users can identify new potential trades that are trusted by day traders. Other features include quick keyword search, and sentiment indicators that understand the potential impact of a story. 

Benzinga Pro offers three pricing packages – ranging from $37 per month (Basic), $147 per month (streamlined), and $197 per month (Essential). Features such as real-time scanners, daily signals, and unlockable bonuses can be accessed with the Essential feature. 

How to Get Started with a Regulated UK Stock Broker

Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to get started with a UK stock broker in just five minutes. We explain the steps with eToro, which is one of the best stock brokers in the UK for beginners.

Step 1: Open an eToro Account

It takes just minutes to open an account with eToro. Visit the eToro website, click on ‘Sign Up,’ and fill out the registration form.

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

eToro open an account

Provide eToro with a full name, home address, date of birth, mobile number, email, and any other requested information. Then confirm the mobile number and email address to proceed.

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

Step 2: KYC Documents

UK investors will need to upload a copy of their passport or driver’s license. eToro will also request proof of address. This needs to have been issued within the past three months. Examples include bank statements and electricity bills.

Those that do not have the KYC documents to hand can come back to this step at a later date. This is the case as long as the deposit amount is €2,000 (about £1,700).

Step 3: Deposit Investment Funds  

Before buying stocks on eToro, investors need to deposit some funds.

eToro deposit funds

Most eToro customers use a UK debit card, but e-wallets and bank transfers are supported too. The minimum deposit is $50 in the UK.

Step 4: Search for Stock to Buy

The next step is to find a stock to buy. Those that already know the name of the company they want to invest in can use the search box.

How to buy stocks on eToro

In our example above, we are searching for Amazon stock. Alternatively, click on ‘Discover’ followed by ‘Stocks’ to view all supported shares.

Step 5: Buy Stocks 

Click on the ‘Trade’ button next to the chosen stock. In doing so, an order box will appear.

How to buy stocks on eToro

Type in the investment amount from $50 upwards. Finally, click on ‘Open Trade’ to complete the stock investment.

Note: If the order box states ‘Set Order’ (like in our example above), this means the respective stock exchange is closed. Click ‘Set order’ and eToro will open the trade when the market reopens.

Conclusion

In summary, the best stock brokers for beginners in the UK have been reviewed and ranked. When choosing a stock broker, make sure to compare the fees, their trading platforms and any additional features that you are likely to use.

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

FAQs

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Kane Pepi
Editor
Kane Pepi
Editor

Kane Pepi is an accomplished financial and cryptocurrency writer who has an extensive portfolio of over 2,000 articles, guides, and market insights. With his expertise in specialized subjects such as asset valuation and analysis, portfolio management, and financial crime prevention, Kane has built a reputation for providing clear explanations of complex financial topics. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and a Master's Degree in Financial Crime, and is currently pursuing his Doctorate degree, which focuses on investigating the complexities of money laundering in the cryptocurrency and blockchain technology sectors. Kane's wealth of knowledge and experience in the field make…