How to Buy GameStop Shares? Guide For Beginners

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Yulia Pavliuk is a financial content writer with a background in language and communication. At TradingGuide, she creates clear, practical guides on personal finance and investing, making complex topics easy to understand.

Article was updated: August 18, 2026
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

GameStop became one of the most talked-about stocks after the dramatic trading events of 2021, when retail investors pushed the company’s share price sharply higher. The episode highlighted how coordinated retail trading can influence market prices, something rarely seen at this scale in modern equity markets.

Many UK investors now want to know how to buy shares in GameStop and whether the stock is still worth watching today.

The process is relatively simple. UK investors can buy GameStop shares through an online broker that provides access to US markets. Once your account is open and funded, you can search for the ticker GME and place a trade like any other listed company.

Top 3 Brokers for Buying GameStop Shares

UK investors cannot buy US shares directly from an exchange such as the New York Stock Exchange. Instead, access is provided through online brokers that offer trading on international markets.

Below are three well-known brokers that allow UK investors to buy US stocks, including GameStop.

1. eToro

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eToro has become one of the most widely recognised trading platforms among retail investors. Its interface is designed to be intuitive, which helps beginners understand the basics of buying shares without feeling overwhelmed by technical tools.

Another feature many new investors appreciate is the ability to buy fractional shares. Instead of purchasing a full share, you can invest a smaller amount and own a portion of the stock. This makes it easier to start investing in US companies without committing large sums of money.

The platform also includes social features that allow users to view public portfolios and market discussions from other traders.

Disclaimer: eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs.

Please note that CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. {etoroCFDrisk}% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs 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.

Zero commission means that no broker fee will be charged when opening or closing the position and does not apply to short or leveraged positions. Other fees apply including FX fees on non-USD deposits and withdrawals. Your capital is at risk. For more information, click here.

eToro Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔Copy/Social trading
✔Low minimum to fund an account and begin investing
{etoroCFDrisk}% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Pros
  • Simple and beginner-friendly platform
  • Fractional share investing available
  • Commission-free stock trading on many shares
  • Built-in social trading features
Cons
  • Currency conversion from pounds to US dollars
  • Fewer advanced research tools compared with professional platforms
  • Withdrawal fees may apply

2. IG Markets

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IG Markets screen 1
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IG Markets is one of the most established brokers in the UK. The company has operated in financial markets for decades and is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

The platform offers access to a wide range of global markets, including US equities. Investors can also use detailed research tools, market analysis, and advanced charting features.

Because of the depth of its tools, IG often appeals to investors who want more control over their trading decisions and access to professional-level market data.

Your capital is at risk

IG Markets Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Extensive range of offerings
✔ Leading broker with low fees
68% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
Pros
  • Long-established UK brokerage firm
  • FCA regulated
  • Access to global stock exchanges
  • Strong research tools and market insights
Cons
  • The Platform can feel complex for beginners
  • Share dealing fees may apply

3. CMC Markets

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CMC Markets is another well-known UK broker with a long presence in financial markets. Its trading platform is widely recognised for detailed charting tools and market analysis features.

The broker offers access to multiple global markets, including US stocks. Investors who enjoy analysing price charts and market trends may find the platform particularly useful.

While beginners can still use the platform, the wide range of tools means there may be a short learning curve.

CMC Markets Review 2026
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Top tier forex and CFD broker
✔ Great selection of assets
Pros
  • Competitive trading costs
  • Advanced charting and analysis tools
  • Access to international markets
  • Well-established UK broker
Cons
  • Platform designed with active traders in mind
  • Learning curve for new investors
  • Currency conversion costs when trading US shares

How to Buy GameStop Shares With eToro

The above three stock brokers in the UK have more than enough resources to trade GameStop shares successfully. However, you still need to choose a suitable one for you, meaning it should be affordable, reliable and easy to use. 

That being said, here is how to buy GME stock with eToro.

Step 1: Visit eToro’s Website
Step 2: Create a Trading Account
Step 3: Basic Knowledge Trading Test
Step 4: Identity Verification
Step 5: Make the Required Deposit and Buy GameStop shares

The only way to create a trading account with eToro is by visiting its website. To simplify things, we share various links on this page to redirect you to the broker’s website. You will then create a trading account but first, ensure you understand and agree to eToro’s terms and conditions. You can also download and install the broker’s app on your mobile device to easily track your open positions and conduct market analysis.

visit eToro step 1

If you have zero experience trading the stock market, we advise you to sign up for a demo account to practise and learn the activity. Whether you create a demo or live account, you will be required to provide your personal information to register as eToro’s client. This includes name, address, phone number, email, source of income details, etc.

create investment account step 2

eToro chooses the best trading package for you based on a basic knowledge test that will be provided. You will also be subjected to a margin trading test to determine your leverage limit. This is because eToro allows CFD trading, which carries higher risks when conducted with leverage.

complete a basic knowledge test step 3

As a standard procedure by all FCA regulated brokers, traders must verify their identities to protect their accounts. For this reason, you will be requested to upload a copy of your ID card or a passport photo. eToro also verifies your residential area by reviewing a recent utility bill or bank statement, which you will be required to share. The verification process may take 2-3 days, and an email notification will be sent once your account is fully activated.

verify your identity step 4

eToro has a minimum deposit of $50 to access the NYSE and buy GME shares. You can also trade the company’s shares as indices or CFDs, whereby you get to speculate on the rising or falling prices of the underlying asset.

Remember to always have a budget when trading the GameStop stock and choose the number of shares you can afford. Also, understand the risks involved in a trading method you use and ensure you conduct a thorough market analysis.

buy gamestop shares step 5

Tips for Choosing a Broker to Buy GameStop Shares

The broker you choose affects far more than the trade itself. Fees, market access, and platform design can shape your investing experience, especially when trading US stocks from the UK. A few practical checks can help beginners avoid common mistakes.

Always start with regulation. UK investors should prioritise brokers authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures the firm follows strict financial standards.

FCA oversight also means client funds must be kept separate from company money. In certain cases, investors may also have protection through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) if a broker fails.

Buying US shares often involves more than just a trading fee. Some platforms advertise commission-free trades but apply charges elsewhere.

Look carefully at:

  • currency conversion fees when exchanging GBP to USD
  • share dealing commissions
  • inactivity or platform charges

Even small differences in fees can make a noticeable impact over time.

Not all brokers offer access to American exchanges. Before opening an account, check that the platform supports trading on major markets such as the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ.

Some brokers also provide extended trading hours for US stocks, which can be useful when reacting to market news.

A clear and well-organised platform makes a big difference for beginners. You should be able to search for stocks quickly, view charts without confusion, and place orders without navigating multiple menus.

Platforms that combine strong regulation, fair pricing, and a simple interface often provide the best starting point for new investors entering international markets.

GameStop Shares Price Today

GameStop trades on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker GME, which means its price moves during US market hours.

For UK investors, trading typically runs from 2:30 pm to 9:00 pm UK time, depending on daylight saving changes.

You can see the latest GameStop share price in the live chart below, including key market data such as the current price, daily change, and trading volume.

About GameStop

How to buy GameStop shares logo

GameStop is a US company that sells video games, gaming consoles, and accessories. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Grapevine, Texas, the company trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker GME.

For many years, GameStop operated thousands of physical stores where customers could buy or trade video games. As digital downloads and online gaming became more popular, this traditional retail model faced growing pressure.

The company attracted global attention in 2021 during the well-known short squeeze, when a surge of retail investor buying pushed the share price sharply higher. Since then, GameStop has remained one of the most widely followed stocks among individual investors, particularly those interested in high-volatility shares.

Is GameStop Stock Undervalued or Overvalued?

It is not easy to determine whether GameStop is undervalued or overvalued. Traditional valuation methods usually look at profits, revenue growth, and comparisons with similar companies, but these measures do not always explain the large price swings seen in GameStop’s shares.

Part of the reason is strong retail investor interest. Online communities and social media discussions have often influenced demand for the stock, which can lead to sharp price movements.

Because of this, GameStop is often viewed as a stock driven by both company fundamentals and investor sentiment, making its price harder to evaluate than many traditional retail companies.

FAQs

Can UK investors buy GameStop shares directly from the US exchange?

No. Individual investors normally access US markets through an online broker. These platforms act as intermediaries that connect retail investors to stock exchanges.

Do I need a large budget to invest in GameStop?

Not necessarily. Many brokers now offer fractional shares. This allows investors to purchase a portion of a share rather than paying the full share price.

When can UK investors trade GameStop shares?

GameStop trades during US market hours. For UK investors, this usually means between 2:30 pm and 9:00 pm, although the exact times may shift slightly during daylight saving changes.

Are there extra taxes when buying US shares from the UK?

Tax treatment depends on your overall gains and income. Capital gains may be taxable once they exceed the annual allowance, while dividends from US companies can involve withholding tax arrangements.

Is GameStop going out of business?

No. Although GameStop had a massive setback in 2019 that resulted in it closing hundreds of stores, the company is recovering slowly by showing growth potential, especially in the recent sale of its shares to Wallstreetbets users.

What is GameStop famous for?

GameStop is a retailer company specialising in video games, gaming merchandise, and consumer electronics.

Conclusion

GameStop remains one of the most closely watched stocks among retail investors. For UK beginners, buying shares is straightforward. Open an account with a regulated broker, deposit funds, and search for the ticker GME to place a trade.

However, GameStop’s share price has often been influenced by both company fundamentals and strong retail investor interest. Understanding this dynamic can help beginners better evaluate the risks and opportunities before investing.

One Reply to “How to Buy GameStop Shares? Guide For Beginners”

  • Charlotte says:

    I bought a small batch of GameStop during the volatility a couple of years ago, purely as a speculative play. It’s less than 3% of my portfolio and I treat it as high risk money. The swings were far wilder than my usual UK dividend holdings, so position sizing really mattered.

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