Best High-Leverage Forex Brokers in the UK

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Are you looking to trade forex with high leverage to potentially increase your profits? If so, it’s important to choose the best high-leverage forex broker in the UK that offers competitive trading conditions, advanced trading platforms, and quality customer service. Unfortunately, there are so many brokers available in the UK, making it challenging for forex traders to find suitable ones for their needs. 

Luckily, our professional researchers have compiled a list of the best high-leverage forex brokers in the UK for 2024 below. We also take you through how to select the best for your needs and give a brief overview of getting started.

Essence

  • The best high-leverage forex broker should provide high-leverage ratios, amplifying trading positions and potential profits.
  • Traders must select a high-leverage forex broker with FCA regulations to ensure a secure and compliant trading environment.
  • Analyse user reviews and feedback to ensure you select a suitable high-leverage forex broker.
  • While high-leverage forex brokers provide opportunities to earn huge profits, the losses can also be massive.
  • UK forex traders should employ effective risk management strategies to control potential losses.
  • Understanding market volatility and adapting to price fluctuations becomes crucial when utilising high leverage, requiring prudent decision-making and a solid trading plan.

List of the Best High Leverage Forex Brokers in the UK 2024

  • Plus500* – Best High Leverage Forex CFD Broker With Excellent Support Service
  • IG Markets – Overall Best High Leverage Forex Broker in the UK
  • Spreadex – Best High Leverage Forex Broker With Spread Betting Options
  • XTB – Best Cheapest High Leverage Forex Broker
  • AvaTrade – High Leverage Forex Broker For Mobile Trading
  • Pepperstone – Best High Leverage Forex Broker for Newbies
  • FxPro – Best High Leverage Forex Broker For Professional Traders in the UK

*80% of CFD retail accounts lose money

Compare the Best Best High Leverage Forex Brokers

Finding the right high leverage forex broker in the UK can be a challenging and time-consuming task. However, it is crucial to choose the right broker, as it can have a significant impact on your trading success.

To simplify this process, we have conducted extensive research and testing to recommend below the best 6 high-leverage forex brokers in the UK. Our research was based on a variety of factors, including trading platform features, account types, leverage options, customer support, and security measures.

Licenses
Licences & Regulations
trading fees
Trading Fees
Minimum Deposit
Minimum Deposit
Software
Software
Money Insurance
Money Insurance
Payment Methods
Payment Methods

We always want to ensure that our recommendations are unbiased. Therefore, we combined our findings from our tests with user testimonials from Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. We believe that combining these two sources of information provides a comprehensive and accurate picture of the brokers’ performance and reputation.

Compare with other broker
General Rating
Licence
Fee on GBP/USD
Fee on Amazon
Minimum deposit
Software
Money Insurance
Payment
Plus500 logo
Visit site
Risk Warning
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.
Read Review
4.2 rating-star
FCA (FRN 509909), CySEC (#250/14), ASIC, MAS, FSA, SFSA, EFSRA, DFSA, FSCA, FMA
0.6 pips to 1.7 pips
Yes
$100
Plus500 Webtrader
Yes, up to £85,000
Bank Wire Transfer, Credit/Debit Cards, Paypal, Skrill
IG Markets UK
Visit site
70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
4.1 rating-star
SEC, FCA, BaFin, DFSA, FSCA, MAS, JFSA, ASIC, CFTC, BMA, CySEC
Free
From 0.10% + 0,5% transfer fee
$0
MT4, IG Online Platform, ProRealTime, Trading Apps
Yes, up to £85,000
Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Transfer, PayPal
spreadex trading logo
Visit site
Risk Warning
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 70% of retail investors 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.
Read Review
4.7 rating-star
FCA
From 0.6 pts
0.10%
$0
Spreadex’s Online Trading Platform, TradingView
Available for some clients
Credit/Debit Cards, Bank transfer, Skrill, Neteller
XTB broker
Visit site
Risk Warning
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 76-83% 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.
Read Review
4.5 rating-star
FCA, KNF, DFSA, FSC
From 0.1 pips
Free
$0
xStation 5, xStation Mobile
Yes, up to £85,000
Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller
avatrade logo
Visit site
Risk Warning
77% 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.
Read Review
4.5 rating-star
CBI, CySEC, ASIC, FSA, FSCA, FSRA, ISA
Yes
From 0.2 pips
$100
WebTrader, MT4, MT5, AvaOptions, Automated Trading, and AvaSocial
Yes, up to $1,000,000
Credit/Debit Cards, Wire transfer, Paypal, Skrill, Neteller, Perfect Money, Boleto
pepperstone logotype
Visit site
Risk Warning
75,5% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading on margin with this provider.
Read Review
4.5 rating-star
FCA, ASIC, DFSA, CySEC, BaFin, SCB, CMA
Yes
Yes
$0
MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, Pepperstone Trading Platform
Yes, up to £85,000
Credit Cards, Bank Transfer, PayPal

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Close

Trading forex with high leverage demands a broker that fits your risk appetite and trading objectives. Explore the tables featuring critical information on fees and assets across our recommended high-leverage forex brokers. Use these details to compare and strategise, ensuring your forex trading choices align with your financial ambitions.

Fees

High Leverage Forex BrokerFeesMinimum Deposit RequirementTransactionInactivity
Plus500From 0.0 pips£100Free£10 monthly
IG MarketsFrom 0.6 pips£0Free£12 monthly
SpreadexFrom 0.6 pips£0FreeNone
XTBFrom 0.1 pips£0Free£10 monthly
AvaTrade0.03 pips£100Free£50 quarterly
PepperstoneFrom 0.0 pips£0FreeNone
FxProFrom 0.0 pips$100Free$15 once + $5 monthly

Assets

High Leverage Forex BrokerForexStocksCommoditiesETFsOptions
Plus500 (CFDs)YesYesYesYesYes
IG MarketsYesYesYesYesYes
SpreadexYesYesYesYesYes
XTBYesYesYesYesYes
AvaTradeYesYesYesYesYes
PepperstoneYesYesYesYesNo
FxProYesYesYesYesNo

1. Plus500 – Best High Leverage Forex CFD Broker With Excellent Support Service

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*Illustrative prices

Comparing Plus500 to its peers, it emerges as a top-tier, high-leverage forex broker renowned for its exceptional support services. Our interaction with its team left a lasting impression; their prompt and effective responses comprehensively addressed our inquiries and concerns. The team further solidified its commitment by following up via email, ensuring our satisfaction and fostering engagement in trading activities.

In addition to its outstanding support service, Plus500 boasts a user-friendly platform adorned with customisable features. Trading enthusiasts can access over 60 forex CFD pairs leveraging up to 1:30, along with an array of other CFD assets like shares, and commodities, ensuring diversified portfolios. Plus500 also caters to beginners by providing ample learning tools through its Trading Academy Section. For seasoned traders, there’s a specialised platform, albeit with specific qualification criteria. Based on our experience, we give this broker a 4.5-star rating. 

Plus500 Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Educational materials
✔ Regulated in many countries
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • £100 minimum deposit requirement
  • A user-friendly and intuitive design platform
  • Commission-free trades with low spreads starting from 0.0 pips
  • Free deposits and withdrawals
Cons
  • Imposes a £10 monthly inactivity fee after only three months
  • Features a single proprietary trading platform

Type Fee
Overnight Funding yes
Currency Conversion Fee 0.7%
Guaranteed Stop Order spread applies
Inactivity Fee $10 per month
Withdrawls/Deposits  $0

Plus500 provides access to 2800+ CFDs across a wide range of different asset classes, including: Indices – Country and Sector, Forex, Commodities, Individual shares, ETFs, Options

Note: 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.

2. IG Markets – Overall Best High Leverage Forex Broker in the UK

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IG Markets is a well-established forex broker in the UK that has been operating for more than 45 years. It is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Additionally, the broker offers a range of learning and trading materials that will contribute to informed decisions.

IG Markets offers retail clients up to 30:1 leverage on forex trades, while professional traders can enjoy up to 50:1 leverage on some currency pairs. This can amplify potential profits, but it’s important to note that leverage can also magnify losses. There are over 80 currency pairs available on IG Markets, including major, minor, emerging, and exotic markets. The platform also offers a range of trading tools and learning resources for maximum experience.

IG Markets Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Extensive range of offerings
✔ Leading broker with low fees
70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Over 80 currency pairs to explore
  • High leverage limit of up to 50:1
  • Social trading platform to connect with other global forex traders
  • MT4, ProRealTime and L-2 Dealer platforms for advanced traders
Cons
  • High spreads
  • Challenging platform for newbies to navigate

Type Fee
Minimum account £0
Opening an account £0
Overnight funding yes (depends on market)
Withdrawal fee £0
Inactivity fee £12 per month after 2 years of inactivity
Advanced graphs (ProRealTime) £30 per months

  • Stocks – the majority of assets offered are stocks and there are a total of 16,000 international company shares to choose between. Trade everything from major UK and US corporations to penny stocks.
  • Forex – trade all the major, minor, and exotic currency pairs you want with a broker that has 45+ years of experience from the market. Also, enjoy competitive spread and fast execution.
  • Index – since IG’s main market is the stock market, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it also offers a large variety of indices. Trade major North American, European, and Asian indices with a world leading online trading platform.
  • Commodities – you can also take positions on commodity futures and commodity spots. Trade precious metals such as silver and gold, food commodities such as coffee and corn, or energy commodities including natural gas.
  • Cryptocurrencies (not UK) – IG also offers cryptocurrency trading, although not in the UK due to local regulations that bans crypto trading.

3. Spreadex – Best High Leverage Forex Broker With Spread Betting Options

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SpreadEx 5

Spreadex emerges as the top choice for traders seeking a potent blend of high leverage and spread betting options within the realm of forex trading. Trading forex with Spreadex allows you to explore over 60 currency pairs while incurring low spreads starting from 0.6 pips. The broker also doesn’t have a minimum deposit requirement, and all transactions are free. This allows you to budget accordingly and get started with any amount you can afford. Leverage limits remain per ESMA ruling, meaning retail forex traders get to enjoy up to 30:1 in the FCA jurisdiction. 

Spreadex’s user-centric trading platform is designed to cater to forex traders of all skill levels, ensuring accessibility for both beginners and seasoned traders. Its TradingView platform is equipped with advanced charting tools and robust analysis resources, enabling traders to make well-informed decisions. On top of that, you get to enjoy social trading features and adequate learning resources for skills development. 

Spreadex Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔Low forex fees
✔Helpful customer service
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Over 60 forex pairs to trade
  • Reliable and responsive support service via multiple channels
  • Low forex trading spreads starting from 0.6 pips
  • User-friendly trading platform suitable for traders of all levels.
Cons
  • No demo account
  • No negative balance protection for professional traders

Type Fee
Minimum deposit Free
Overnight fee Yes
Deposit fee Free
Withdrawal fee Free
Inactivity fee Free

Currently, there are 60+ forex pairs on offer, 17 commodity CFDs and 1000 index and stock CFDs.

4. XTB – Best Cheapest High Leverage Forex Broker

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how to sign up for account at XTB
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how to sign up for account at XTB

Among the high-leverage forex brokers we tested in the UK, XTB stood out as the cheapest. From our analysis, the broker doesn’t have a minimum deposit requirement, thus allowing newbies and budget-conscious traders to start exploring the currency market. We also like its support for free transactions and low forex spreads, starting from 0.8 pips on major currency pairs. On top of that, micro lots are supported, and you get to enjoy a favourable leverage limit of 30:1 as a retail forex trader.

If you are an advanced forex UK trader, XTB goes the extra mile to offer a higher leverage limit of up to 500:1. This makes it easier to manage larger positions with a small capital. However, understand the risks of leverage trading before taking the plunge. Forex currency pairs are more than 70, and you also get to diversify your portfolio with an additional 5,800+ instruments it lists. Besides offering a high leverage, we like XTB’s ability to allow users to earn interest on uninvested funds. You will earn up to 5.2% on GBP, 3.8% on EUR, and 5.0% on USD on your uninvested money.

There’s no minimum deposit requirement at XTB, and deposits via credit/debit cards and bank transfers incur no charges.

XTB Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Constantly improving trading platforms
✔ Wide range of global markets
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • A user-friendly and customisable trading platform
  • Lists over 70 currency pairs
  • High leverage limit of up to 500:1 for professional traders
  • Excellent selection of unique learning and research materials on its xStation 5 and xStation Mobile platforms
Cons
  • No third-party platforms like the MT4/5
  • Withdrawals below £50 attract a fee

Type Fee
Opening an account $0
Account type: Standard: spread 0.5
Account type: Swap Free: spread 0.7
Forex From 0.1 pips
Stock CFDs commission 0%
ETF CFDs 0%
Crypto commission From 0.22%
Monthly Fee for maintaining an Account Free of charge or up to 10 EUR
Withdrawal fee $0
Deposit fee $0

The broker boasts a wide selection of tradable assets, consisting of 1500+ instruments, including a range of global markets, such as forex, indices, commodities, ETFs, and others.

5. AvaTrade – High Leverage Forex Broker For Mobile Trading

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Besides testing AvaTrade, we analysed user testimonials on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. We wanted to understand their opinions regarding their experiences on this broker’s app. Surprisingly, Avatrade’s app is one of the most highly rated by users. The majority find the app to have robust security measures and a user-friendly interface. Our experience with it was also amazing since every command was easily accessible, and we efficiently navigated its features. Plus, the app is customisable and has a fast trade execution speed.

Forex trading at AvaTrade was a breeze, and we explored over 45 currency pairs. While its leverage limit remains 30:1 for forex retail traders, professional clients enjoy up to 400:1 limits. Of course, there are specific criteria you must meet to be eligible for the high leverage. Moreover, AvaTrade is home to additional asset classes like shares, commodities, indices, and more, which are perfect for portfolio diversification. And when it comes to trading tools offerings, plenty of learning materials and research resources are available. You will find them at the broker’s Ava Academy, MT4, MT5, and AvaSocial platforms.

All you need is to open a brokerage account and start using a forex trading account with a minimum deposit of £100. Furthermore, it is advisable to examine a thorough AvaTrade review to assess whether the platform suits your trading requirements.

AvaTrade Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ One of the most popular brokers in the UK/EU
✔ Quick deposits and withdrawals
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Low minimum deposit requirement of £100 for UK clients
  • Excellent selection of advanced trading tools for market analysis
  • Hosts a virtually funded demo account beginners can get started with
  • Free deposits and withdrawals
Cons
  • Its £50 quarterly inactivity fee kicks in after only 3 months
  • Limited asset offerings compared to its peers

Type Fee
Minimum Deposit £100
Inactivity Fee USD Account: $50
EUR Account: €50
GBP Account: £50
Administration Fee USD Account: $100
EUR Account: €100
GBP Account: £100
Deposit Fee $0
Withdrawal Fee $0

AvaTrade impresses with a robust portfolio of over 1250 assets, encompassing a wide range of trading instruments.

Forex – AvaTrade facilitates trading in a broad spectrum of currency pairs, enabling exposure to the dynamic forex market and diverse CFD options.

Stocks and Commodities – The platform offers a comprehensive selection of stocks and commodities, allowing users to invest in companies and raw materials across global markets.

Cryptocurrencies – AvaTrade supports trading in cryptocurrencies, providing access to a multitude of digital assets, including popular ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.

ETFs, Bonds, Treasuries, and Indices – AvaTrade’s offerings extend to ETFs, bonds, treasuries, and indices, offering diversification opportunities and exposure to various sectors and industries.

6. Pepperstone – Best High Leverage Forex Broker for Newbies

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While we find Pepperstone an excellent broker for all, we primarily recommend it to newbies entering the currency market. Through multiple tests, we discovered that it is user-friendly and has a fast trade execution speed. Moreover, Pepperstone has no minimum deposit requirement, which allows any newbie sceptical of risking a lot of money to explore the financial landscape. We also like that users highly rate its app, and beginner traders will have no challenge managing their activities on the go. 

When it comes to leverage limits, Pepperstone offers up to 500:1 for professional clients and 30:1 for retailers. The high leverage limit is available on its Pepperstone Pro account, for which you must be eligible. And the best part is that this broker features social and copy trading. As a beginner, the feature allows you to interact with other global traders and copy potentially profitable positions from the experts. 

Overall, we discovered over 100 currency pairs to trade with low spreads from 0.0 pips. There are also advanced platforms with unique resources to help you in skills and strategy development. These include cTrader, MT4, MT5, and TradingView.

Furthermore, it’s wise to delve into a detailed Pepperstone review to establish whether the platform matches your trading criteria.

Pepperstone Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Top tier liquidity
✔ No dealing desk intervention
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • No minimum deposit requirement for UK clients
  • Amazing learning materials for skills development
  • A user-friendly and modern design platform
  • Leverage limits go up to 500:1
Cons
  • Limited asset offerings compared to its peers
  • You can only trade the additional securities as CFDs and spread betting

Type Fee
Minimum Deposit  $0
Withdrawal fee $0
Deposit fee $0
Inactivity fee No
Account fee No

1200+ instruments across FX, indices, cryptocurrencies*, equities, energy and commodities, and more, across three, free powerful platforms.

*Only Pro clients get access to cryptos.

7. FxPro – Best High Leverage Forex Broker For Professional Traders in the UK

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In our extensive experience with high-leverage forex brokers in the UK, FxPro has undoubtedly proven itself to be the go-to choice for professional traders. With over 70 currency pairs and additional asset classes, FxPro caters to diverse trading strategies. Its user-friendly platform, available on MT4, MT5, cTrader, and FxPro Web, showcases an intuitive design, ensuring a seamless trading experience. We were also impressed by the broker’s remarkable order execution speed, which is crucial for capturing market opportunities.

FxPro offers commission-free forex trades, boasting competitive spreads starting from 0.6 pips on major currency pairs. The leverage limit goes up to 1:30 for retail clients and an impressive 1:500 for professional clients. However, to enjoy high leverage for professional traders, you must be categorised as a professional by fulfilling specific criteria. From our analysis, FxPro has a minimum deposit requirement of £100 and free transactions, which we believe is reasonable for any user looking to dive into the currency market.

FxPro Review 2024
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Unique trading tools
✔ Trustworthy broker
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Lists over 70 currency pairs to trade
  • Low forex trading fees
  • Quality learning and research materials
  • Responsive and reliable support service
Cons
  • While the support team is impressive, it is only available five days a week
  • No buying and taking full ownership of the featured assets

Type Fee
Minimum deposit $100
Withdrawal fee $0
Inactivity fee $15 once + $5 monthly

FxPro offers traders a wide range of investment products, including 70 currency pairs, as well as over 2000 different stocks.

What Do Other Traders Say?

Exploring unfiltered user feedback is pivotal in selecting the ideal high leverage forex broker. Below, we present insights gathered from real traders for the leading high leverage forex brokers in the UK. These diverse experiences offer valuable perspectives, aiding in your decision-making process.

1. XTB

XTB review 1 XTB review 2 XTB review 3

Traders admire XTB for its comprehensive leverage options and educational resources. The platform’s analytical tools and customer support have been noted as exceptional by users.

  • “I have shares in other brokers, but I’m using this app to check prices and charts because it’s simply better. Flawless usability” – Kosciej

  • “Very good app. Customer service is welcoming. Lots of information for new traders available for free. Feel very valued and accepted as a beginner. Best app I have found after trying 10+ others.” – Thomas Ashley

  • “Excellent account managers who keep in touch. Find the app easy to use. Lots of educational content to help me learn. Good use of news and kept up to date with any stock market changes.” – Ross

2. SpreadEx

SpreadEx review 1 SpreadEx review 2 SpreadEx review 3

SpreadEx stands out for its simplicity and accessibility in high leverage forex trading. Users appreciate the straightforward interface and diverse leverage options available.

  • “Easy to use Platform, v friendly staff. Never had any issues” – Matthew Hill

  • “Been with Spreadex more than ten years, great range of markets, particularly among UK smaller caps. Pay up quickly when a short goes to ‘zero’ too, much better experience than I have had with CMC for example.” – TheAceTrader

  • “A very useful financial spread betting app that should cover all your needs. It’s definitely the most useable of the broker apps that I’ve tried. A great platform that lets you analyse the markets, place spread bets & manage your risk and positions all on your phone. They’ve also got a great range of tools and excellent customer service which I found very attractive. 10/10 for my experience with Spreadex thus far” – JakeReadman

3. AvaTrade

AvaTrade review 1 AvaTrade review 2 AvaTrade review 3

Users commend AvaTrade for its diverse, high-leverage forex offerings and educational resources. The platform’s user-friendly interface and range of trading tools are highly regarded.

  • “I loved the quality of service that was provided by Mrs Alev Nazli.she was very nice and so professional all the way. Really satisfied.” – Ssaabwe Clian

  • “Very smooth and clean, educational videos to support your understanding of the system and trading in general. Interactive customer service that actively try to support you as best they can, very friendly and understanding” – Jaundre Koekemoer

  • “Application is easy to use. The customer services is very helpful. And it’s a great way to learn and trade with professional help alway their to assist” – Stefan Strydom

4. Pepperstone

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Pepperstone receives acclaim for its efficient, high-leverage trading infrastructure and variety of available platforms. Users value the low-latency execution and diverse leverage options.

  • “One of best broker of the world. Nice support, brazilian account manager, trading view plataform, local brazilian withdraw.” – Juninsm

  • “I’ve used many trading platforms, and this is my favourite. Took me a while to get used to it, as it was slightly different from what I was used to, but now love it & all its features.” – Jana from Gold Coast

  • “Easy to open. Easy to use. Easy to add money. Easy to withdraw money. Good customer service. Fast execution. Less spreads. Just learn how to trade and have fun.” – Pruthviraj Rathod.

What is Forex Trading?

BEWARE OF SCAMS

Engaging in forex trading necessitates a firm grasp of its dynamic nature, which involves trading currency pairs and substantial market volatility, leading to potential gains as well as losses. Before entering the forex market, crafting a well-defined trading strategy and establishing a robust risk management plan to safeguard your investments is essential.

Moreover, exercising caution is imperative, as there is a risk of encountering forex broker scams and unregulated platforms. Since this market operates 24/7, always invest with what you can afford to lose. Plus, stay informed about market developments and continuously educate yourself to make well-informed trading decisions.

Remember that past performance does not indicate future results, and there are no guarantees of profit in forex trading.

Forex trading, also referred to as currency trading or foreign exchange, is the buying and selling of global currencies with the aim of earning a profit. Forex is the largest financial market globally, with an average daily turnover of over $7 trillion.

Forex trading involves trading currency pairs, such as the EUR/USD, USD/JPY, and GBP/USD, with the value of one currency being measured against the value of another. Traders typically buy a currency pair if they believe its value will soar in the long run and sell it if they think its value will fall.

The currency market is open 24 hours a day, five days a week, with trading occurring in major financial centres worldwide, including London, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney. This makes it a highly liquid and accessible market for traders of all experience levels.

What is Leverage?

Leverage in forex trading is whereby traders use borrowed funds from their brokers to increase the potential of high returns on investment. Simply put, leverage allows traders to control larger positions in the currency market with a smaller amount of capital. In the UK, the highest leverage offered to retail traders is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and is typically limited to 30:1 for major currency pairs. To ensure compliance with these regulations and to have access to responsible and regulated trading conditions, traders often seek the services of FCA-regulated brokers.

While leverage can bring about increased profits, it can also leave you with massive losses. Therefore, traders should always use it cautiously and only apply it in trades they are confident in profiting from. Plus, have a good understanding of how leverage works and how to effectively manage risks that come with using it. This includes setting stop-loss orders to limit potential losses and avoiding over-leveraging positions. You must also ensure you are trading with the best leverage trading platforms offering transparent and fair trading conditions, including competitive spreads, low fees, and reliable execution.

How Leverage Works

As mentioned earlier, leverage trading allows traders and investors to maximise their exposure to the financial markets. Leverage works by enabling a trader to put up only a fraction of the total value of the trade as collateral. This is known as the margin. Your broker will then provide the remaining funds necessary to execute the trade. 

For instance, let’s say you wish to purchase company XYZ shares worth £10,000. Unfortunately, you only have £2000 as your initial capital. In this case, your broker will allow you to trade on margin per ESMA regulations. In UK stock investment, retail traders can enjoy leverage limits of up to 5:1 (20% margin). This means you can manage the £10,000 position with an initial capital of £2000 while your broker lends you £8000. 

Note that while leverage can bring about massive profits, losses are inevitable. Therefore, we advise you to apply leverage if you are confident in your strategy. You do not want to risk more than your initial capital. Plus, apply risk management controls such as stop-loss and take-profit orders to mitigate massive losses. This is if a trade works against you. 

Brokers always issue margin calls in events where the market moves against traders, or they exceed margin requirements. In a margin call, you will be required to deposit more funds to maintain an open position. Should you fail to respond per the brokers’ requests, your broker may liquidate the position to cover losses. 

High Leverage Vs Low Leverage

In trading, you will encounter high and low leverage limits. Since leverage or margin trading is like a double-edged sword, you must understand the difference between the two. It is also crucial to be familiar with the risks involved in applying high leverage vs low leverage for informed decisions. 

You can open larger positions with high leverage and potentially earn higher returns. This is unlike low leverage, whereby you open smaller positions relative to your account size. The best element about low leverage compared to high is that you reduce the risk of significant losses in case a trade works against you. 

Additionally, low leverage has favourable margin requirements compared to higher leverage. Traders opting for low leverage have more flexibility in managing their margin requirements. They can afford to maintain larger margin amounts. As a result, it reduces the likelihood of margin calls and allows for a more relaxed trading experience. 

In contrast, high leverage allows traders to maintain smaller margin amounts to control larger positions. This means the margin requirements are closer to the trader’s entry price, leaving less room for market fluctuations before a margin call is triggered.

Overall, high leverage is suitable for professional or experienced traders. This is because such traders have a deep understanding of the market and are open to taking bigger risks based on their skills. In contrast, low leverage is suitable for beginners. You will reduce the risks of incurring massive losses. 

Always start by learning the markets and developing solid strategies before applying leverage. Plus, start with small capital and keep increasing as you become more familiar with online trading/investing. 

FCA Leverage Limits

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) oversees online brokers’ activities in the UK. Among the responsibilities is ensuring the leverage limits set by ESMA for retail traders are adhered to by the broker. This is to protect traders from excessive risks that might leave them with massive losses. Note that leverage limits dictate the maximum amounts brokers can offer retail traders. The limits vary depending on the asset you trade, whether forex, shares, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and more. See below the leverage limits the FCA imposes across various asset classes. 

  • Major currency pairs – Up to 30:1
  • Major indices – Up to 20:1
  • Commodities except gold – Up to 10:1
  • Individual equities – Up to 5:1
  • Cryptocurrencies – Up to 2:1

The above leverage limits apply to traders in the UK and EU countries. They directly affect individuals trading CFD assets. Brokers who fail to adhere to these limits are prone to penalties, fines, or even licence revocation within the UK region. 

Pros and Cons of High Leverage Forex Trading

One of the key advantages of high leverage forex trading is the use of increased leverage, which allows traders to control larger positions in the market with a smaller amount of capital. However, the activity carries significant risks and is not suitable for all investors. 

Below, we shed light on the pros and cons of high leverage forex trading to ensure you understand what you will be signing up for when trading with such brokers in the UK. 

Pros

  1. High profit potential – High forex trading leverage allows traders to magnify their potential profits by controlling larger positions with a smaller capital.
  2. Boosts capital efficiency – Leverage increases your initial investment capital, making it easier for you to control larger trading positions. 
  3. Combats low volatility – It’s a no-brainer that the currency market carries low volatility than other financial markets. With high leverage forex trading, you have an opportunity to amplify the effects of movements that fail to occur on your trading results. 

Cons

  1. Increased risk of losses – While high leverage forex trading can magnify losses, it can also leave you with massive losses and debts if you are not careful. 
  2. Constant liability – When participating in high leverage forex trading, note that you will always be in debt that must be paid off to continue trading. 
  3. Margin calls – When trading with high leverage, traders may be subject to margin calls if their trading account balance falls under the required margin level. This can result in the forced closure of positions, leading to significant losses.

How To Choose the Right High Leverage Broker in the UK

Choosing the right high leverage forex broker in the UK is an important decision for any trader, whether you are a beginner or experienced. The broker you choose can have a significant impact on your trading success, and there are several factors to consider when making your decision. Here are some key points to note when selecting a high-leverage forex broker in the UK. 

The security of your funds should be of top priority when choosing a forex broker. Look for brokers that are regulated by reputable authorities, such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. This ensures that the broker operates under strict rules and regulations to protect your funds. Moreover, you can easily take legal action against such brokers in case of an agreement breach.

Look for a broker offering a wide range of currency pairs, as well as other financial instruments such as commodities, stocks, and indices. This will provide you with more trading opportunities and allow you to diversify your portfolio.

High leverage can increase your potential profits, but it can also increase your risks. Look for a broker that offers a suitable leverage ratio that aligns with your trading strategy and risk appetite. Our recommended forex brokers above have high leverage limits that could potentially maximise your returns.

The trading platform is another primary element to never overlook. Make sure the broker you select offers a reliable and user-friendly trading platform that suits your trading style. The platform should also host a variety of trading tools, such as technical analysis tools, economic calendars, and market news, to help you make informed trading decisions. If you are a beginner, consider the selection of learning resources and a demo account.

A broker with responsive and reliable customer support service can be valuable, especially if you need help with your account or have questions about your trades. Therefore, test a broker’s responsiveness before making a final decision. Whether it operates 24/7 or only five days a week, ensure its availability fits your trading schedule.

It is also crucial to compare reviews and recommendations from other traders on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. Only settle for brokers with positive reviews and a solid reputation in the industry.

Learn about the UK options trading in our other article.

Getting Started with High Leverage Broker

Getting started trading with a high-leverage forex broker in the UK can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple steps, you can start trading and potentially grow your investment in no time. Below, we take you through the process of getting started with a high-leverage forex broker in the UK so you can be fully prepared to dive into the forex market and enjoy your experience. 

Step 1: Visit the Broker’s Website
Step 2: Sign Up
Step 3: Account Verification
Step 4: Deposit Funds
Step 5: Start Trading

Once you are familiar with the forex market and have selected the best high-leverage forex broker, visit its website to sign up for a trading account. Before you begin the registration process, understand the broker’s terms and conditions. You can also download its app on your mobile device to effectively manage your position on the go.

Once you have selected a broker, create an account using your personal details, such as your full name, email address, phone number, and country of residence. Remember to always provide accurate information since FCA-regulated brokers verify users’ identities and locations.

In this procedure, the broker will require you to provide some documents like an ID card, driver’s license, or passport for identity verification. You should also share a copy of your recent bank statement or utility bill to prove your address. Once your account is verified, an email notification will be sent.

The next step is to deposit funds into your trading account per the broker’s requirements. Brokers in the UK typically accept various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets (Neteller or Skrill). So, choose a convenient payment method to transact with.

Once a broker confirms your deposit, you can start trading by selecting the currency pairs you want to trade and setting up your trading strategy. Remember to start with a small amount and practice using a demo account before trading with real money.

Note:High leverage is a powerful tool that can multiply your gains, but it is also risky as it can magnify your losses. In this regard, ensure you are confident in your trading strategy before applying leverage in your forex trades. Also, have sufficient funds to cover your margin requirement.

Find out about the cheapest brokers UK in our other guide.

FAQs

Which leverage is good for beginners?

For beginners, it is generally recommended to start with a lower leverage ratio, such as 10:1 or 20:1, to minimize the risk of large losses. You can gradually increase the leverage ratio as you gain more experience and become more comfortable with the risks associated with leverage.

What is the max forex leverage in the UK?

The maximum forex leverage that retail clients can use is 30:1 for major currency pairs and 20:1 for non-major currency pairs. Professional clients may be able to access higher leverage ratios, but they must meet certain criteria and pass an assessment test. You should confirm a broker’s leverage limit before making a commitment.

How do high-leverage brokers make money?

High-leverage brokers make money by charging a spread or a commission on each trade. They may also earn revenue by taking the opposite side of their clients’ trades or by earning interest on clients’ funds held in their trading accounts.

Is high leverage in forex trading a good idea?

Yes. High-leverage forex trading can be a good idea for experienced traders who are able to manage their risk effectively and have a solid trading strategy. However, it is generally not recommended for beginners or traders who are uncomfortable with the risks associated with leverage. High leverage can bring about huge profits and losses, so it is essential to use it responsibly and with caution.

Conclusion

Trading with high-leverage forex brokers in the UK can be a great way to potentially increase* your investment returns. With our recommended brokers and the step-by-step procedures outlined above, you can take advantage of the benefits of high leverage while minimizing the potential downside. Whether you are a newbie or a professional trader, the key is to remain disciplined and always stay informed about market developments and changes in trading conditions.

*Your capital is at risk

How we test?

Our test process is really based on two different aspects: our independent tests and research, as well as user reviews from Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot, etc.

The first thing we do when testing is to check every detail and test every tool and instrument. Our experts spend more than 200 hours on every article. We pay special attention to the specific function or the criteria that we’re comparing during the comparing stage. This means that we must determine which broker is more suited for beginners, and which is better suited for experts, for example. Find out more about our test process here.

Thadeus Geodfrey logo
Thadeus Geodfrey

Is a regular dad trying to be smart about how we play and win in this big game of life. He has worked within the very best of the financial industry producing numerous training resources. He is an experienced copywriter with immense financial background. Now earns a full time living as a Trader, and as our writer.

His articles help everyday families build sustainable wealth, stop stressing about their financial security, and start living the life they’ve always wanted.
If he is not trading or writing, he is at the gym.

3 Replies to “Best High-Leverage Forex Brokers in the UK”

  • Emma J says:

    This high-leverage forex guide is awesome! It explained everything so well, guiding me to make smart choices in the UK market. The way it talks about risks, the pros and cons, and the step-by-step starting guide is super helpful. It's like having a friend who really knows forex, making it easy for anyone new to trading. Big thumbs up!

  • Henry Dubois says:

    This guide expanded my knowledge in the forex field. Although I've traded on the market before, the article introduced me to new platforms, particularly IG Markets and City Index. The risk management methods and overview of high leverage were very insightful and helpful. Now I have more tools for successful trading. Thanks for the valuable advice!

  • Porter says:

    I would recommend Pepperstone for beginners. For more experienced traders, XTB is a great choice

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