Investing in the stock market has long been a popular way to grow wealth and secure financial futures. In the UK, the availability of share dealing platforms has made it more accessible for individuals to buy and sell shares, offering opportunities for both seasoned investors and newcomers alike.
As TradingGuide experts and professional traders, we understand the significance of choosing the right share dealing platform to match your unique investment needs. Through extensive research and analysis, we’ve curated below a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the vast landscape of share dealing platforms in the UK.
Essence
- Share dealing involves buying and selling shares of publicly traded companies on the stock market.
- As an investor, consider diversifying your portfolio by investing in a mix of shares to spread risk.
- The best share dealing platform should suit your investment requirements for an exciting experience.
- It is crucial to familiarise yourself with UK regulations and tax implications related to share dealing.
- The best share dealing platform should offer risk management tools such as stop-loss orders to limit potential losses.
- Take advantage of educational resources provided by the best share dealing platforms UK to enhance your trading knowledge and skills.
List of the Best Share Dealing Platforms in the UK
- Plus500* – Commission-Free Share Dealing Platform (via CFDs) in the UK
- eToro – Best Share Dealing Platform for Social and Copy Trading in the UK
- Hargreaves Lansdown – Most Trusted Share Dealing Platform in the UK
- DeGiro – Best Share Dealing Platform for Beginners in the UK
- Interactive Brokers – Best Overall Share Dealing Platform in the UK
*80% of CFD retail accounts lose money with this provider
In this guide
Best Share Dealing Platforms in the UK
- List of the Best Share Dealing Platforms in the UK
- Compare the Best Share Dealing Platforms
- Brief Overview of Our Recommended Brokers’ Fees and Assets
- Our Opinion & Overview of the Best Share Dealing Platforms in the UK
- What Do Other Traders Say?
- How to Start Share Dealing Investment
- How to Choose the Best Share Dealing Platform
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Compare the Best Share Dealing Platforms
In the quest for ideal share dealing platforms, we’ve meticulously assessed and compared the leading options in the market. Our comprehensive evaluation takes into account user feedback from Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot, ensuring that you have a well-rounded perspective on what each platform has to offer. The comparison table below provides valuable insights into the standout features of each platform, empowering you to make an informed choice that aligns perfectly with your share trading requirements.
| Share Dealing Platforms | Licence | Support Service | Software | Payment | Demo Account | Money Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plus500 | FCA, CySEC, ASIC, MAS, FSA | 24/7 | Plus500 Webtrader | Bank Wire Transfer, Credit/debit cards, Paypal, Skrill | Yes | Yes, up to £85,000 |
| eToro | ASIC, CySEC, FCA, FSAS | 24/5 | eToro investing platform, Multi-asset platform, Copy Trader | Debit card, Bank Transfer, eToro Money, Online Banking | Yes | Yes, up to $250,000 |
| Hargreaves Lansdown | FCA | 24/5 | WebTrader | Credit cards, Bank Wire Transfer | Yes | Yes, up to £85,000 |
| DeGiro | FCA | 24/7 | DEGIRO app, Own Trading Platform | Bank Wire Transfer | No | Yes, up to £100,000 |
| Interactive Brokers | FSA, FCA, ASIC, FINRA | 24/5 | IBKR Mobile, APIs, Trader Workstation | Bank or Wire Transfers | Yes | Yes, up to £85,000 for UK clients |
Brief Overview of Our Recommended Brokers’ Fees and Assets
For traders and investors in the UK, the selection of a share dealing platform that suits your specific trading needs is of paramount importance. It is essential to consider key factors such as the range of available assets and the associated fees. To assist you in making an informed decision, we present two informative tables detailing the fees and assets offered by our recommended share platforms UK.
Fees
| Share Dealing Platforms | Fees | Minimum Deposit Requirement | Transaction | Inactivity |
| Plus500 (CFDs) | From 0.0 pips | £100 | Free | £10 monthly |
| eToro | 2 pips | $100 | $5 withdrawal | $10 monthly |
| Hargreaves Lansdown | From £5.95 | £1 | Free | None |
| DeGiro | From £1 | £0 | Free | None |
| Interactive Brokers | From 0.08 points | £0 | The first withdrawal per calendar month is free. Subsequent withdrawals cost GBP 7 per withdrawal in the UK | None |
Assets
| Share Dealing Platforms | Forex | Stocks | Commodities | ETFs | Options |
| Plus500 (CFDs) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| eToro | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hargreaves Lansdown | No | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| DeGiro | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Interactive Brokers | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Our Opinion & Overview of the Best Share Dealing Platforms in the UK
For traders and investors in the UK, the selection of a share dealing platform that suits your specific trading needs is of paramount importance. It is essential to consider key factors such as the range of available assets and the associated fees. To assist you in making an informed decision, we present two informative tables detailing the fees and assets offered by our recommended share dealing platforms in the UK.
1. Plus500 – Commission-Free Share Dealing Platform (via CFDs) in the UK
*Illustrative prices
Our extensive research into share dealing platforms in the UK has led us to Plus500, a CFD trading platform that stands out in several key areas. From our analysis, Plus500 lists over 2,000 shares from global markets, which you get to trade as CFDs only. There are also additional securities, including forex, commodities, indices, and more, for your CFD portfolio diversification. The best element is that share CFD trading at Plus500 is commission-free, and professional traders get to enjoy a leverage limit of up to 1:20.
Plus500 has competitive spreads for share CFD trading, starting from 0 pips. Moreover, you can get started with as little as £100 for live trading, which makes the broker cost-effective. For beginners, we advise you to begin your share CFD trading ventures using Plus500’s virtually-funded demo account. This is primarily because CFD share trading can be risky, and over 80% of retail traders lose their money. Therefore, consider boosting your confidence and trading skills before transitioning to live trading for increased profit potential. From our hands-on experience, we rank Plus500 with 4.6 stars.
✔ Regulated in many countries
- Commission free trading.
- Low minimum deposit requirement.
- Free transactions.
- Quality learning materials for skills development.
- A single proprietary platform with no third party or advanced options for professional traders.
- Inactivity fee applies after three months.
| Type | Fee |
| Overnight Funding | yes |
| Currency Conversion Fee | 0.7% |
| Guaranteed Stop Order | spread applies |
| Inactivity Fee | $10 per month |
| Withdrawls/Deposits | $0 |
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.
| Features | Availability |
| Minimum Deposit Requirement | £100 |
| Supported Assets | Forex, shares, commodities, ETFs, options, indices |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, bank transfer |
| Transaction Fees | £0 |
2. eToro – Best Share Dealing Platform for Social and Copy Trading in the UK
Having delved deep into the world of share platforms in the UK, eToro has emerged as a compelling choice, especially for those who value the dynamics of social and copy trading. Our research has uncovered what makes eToro a standout platform. For instance, eToro simplifies share dealing by connecting you with a vast network of traders through its social trading platform. It goes a step further by introducing the intriguing concept of copy trading, allowing you to replicate the trading strategies of seasoned experts.
What sets eToro apart is its inclusivity. It’s designed for all, regardless of your experience level. Besides social and copy trading, the platform lists a wealth of educational resources, from articles and guides to webinars and seminars. You can get started with as little as $100 and enjoy commission-free share dealing. Plus, the broker lists additional securities you can diversify your portfolio with. These and more led us to give it a 4.8-star rating.
✔Low minimum to fund an account and begin investing
- 0% commissions on buying shares.
- Share dealing volume is not limited.
- Free social and copy features for a better experience.
- Quality research and learning materials.
- Limited share dealing tools.
- The minimum deposit required to access the social trading platform is high.
| Types | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Conversion Fee | depends on your payment method, currency, and eToro Club level. |
| Overnight Fee | vary according to the value and direction (BUY or SELL) of your position |
| Withdrawal Fee | all withdrawal requests are subject to a $5 USD fee |
| Inactivity Fee | monthly inactivity fee of $10 USD (charged after 12 months) |
| Features | Availability |
| Minimum Deposit Requirement | $100 |
| Supported Assets | Stocks, commodities, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, forex, indices, NFTs |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | E-wallets, Bank transfers, debit cards |
| Transaction Fees | $5 withdrawal fees apply |
3. Hargreaves Lansdown – Most Trusted Share Dealing Platform in the UK
Hargreaves Lansdown stands as a beacon of trust and reliability in share dealing platforms. We explored the platform and noticed that share traders and investors trust it— a clear indication that it delivers on its promises. Moreover, we enjoyed its flexibility and were able to effortlessly buy, sell, and hold shares without temporal constraints. The freedom to manage our activities at our convenience is also a hallmark of this platform. Besides the streamlined account opening procedure, we were required to deposit at least £1 to get started.
We noticed that Hargreaves Lansdown has a progressive cost structure – the more you trade, the lower your commissions. This makes it an attractive feature for frequent traders. Additionally, the platform hosts comprehensive educational and research tools, ensuring users share dealing experience is both convenient and informed. Whether you’re a newcomer eager to learn or a seasoned pro seeking deep market insights, Hargreaves Lansdown accommodates your needs. Users will also benefit from financial advisory services and free transactions, making it an economical and welcoming choice for share dealing. We give it a 4.7-star rating in this regard.
✔ Established market leader
- Trusted by millions of share dealers.
- Long track record and heavily monitored by the FCA.
- Thousands of shares on more than 23 global markets.
- No inactivity fees.
- High share dealing commission and fees.
- Charting and technical analysis are not good enough.
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | £1 |
| Deposit Fee | No |
| Withdrawal Fee | No |
| Inactivity Fee | No inactivity fees |
| Annual Fee | 0.45% |
| Features | Availability |
| Minimum Deposit Requirement | £1 |
| Supported Assets | Shares, ETFs, indices, bonds |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | Credit cards, Bank Wire Transfer |
| Transaction Fees | £0 |
4. DeGiro – Best Share Dealing Platform for Beginners in the UK
Our extensive research into share platforms UK has identified DeGiro as an exceptional choice for beginners in the share dealing world. The platform is beginner-friendly and cost-effective, making it perfect for those who are hesitant to risk substantial funds while they acquaint themselves with the intricacies of share dealing. DeGiro is also remarkable for its transparency in presenting its offerings, assuring users of a clear and straightforward trading experience.
Note that DeGiro facilitates access to both local and international share markets, allowing beginners to trade at any time. This inclusivity is invaluable for those looking to expand their portfolios and explore a wide range of investment options. DeGiro doesn’t stop at providing a user-friendly platform. It also offers valuable research and educational materials, which can significantly enhance a beginner’s trading skills. This emphasis on learning and improvement underscores DeGiro’s commitment to supporting its users on their share dealing journey. In this regard, we give it a 4.3-star rating.
✔ One of the biggest brokers in Europe
- Low share dealing commission/fees.
- User-friendly share dealing platform.
- Fast account opening procedure.
- Additional securities, including commodities, ETFs, futures, options, and bonds, for portfolio diversification.
- Limited product offerings.
- No demo account.
| Types | Fee |
| Minimum deposit | €0 |
| Withdrawal fee | €0 |
| Inactivity fee | €0 |
| Deposit fee | €0 |
| Custody fee | €0 |
| Currency conversion | 0.25% |
| Features | Availability |
| Minimum Deposit Requirement | £0 |
| Supported Assets | Shares, ETFs, commodities, options, futures, bonds |
| Mobile App | Yes (Google Play, App Store) |
| Payment Methods | Bank wire transfer |
| Transaction Fees | £0 |
5. Interactive Brokers – Best Overall Share Dealing Platform in the UK
Our comprehensive research concludes that Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is the best overall platform. This is primarily because it connects traders to a vast pool of trading instruments and global share markets. Its remarkable offering extends to low commissions across the global market landscape, solidifying its reputation as a leading online share dealing platform.
We also noticed that IBKR is committed to delivering a world-class trading experience. Its platform equips share dealers with advanced tools, providing access to over 90 order types. This level of versatility ensures that traders have the flexibility they need to execute their trading strategies effectively.
Interactive Brokers also shines when it comes to risk management. The platform offers a suite of automated tools that assist in mitigating risks, an invaluable feature for both beginners and experienced traders. Plus, there is no minimum deposit requirement, and all deposits are free of charge. For the above reasons, we give it a 4.7-star rating.
✔ Top trading platform for advanced
- Access to more than 130 share markets.
- Many advanced dealing tools.
- +90 order types and algorithmics for improved dealing.
- Free transactions and no inactivity fee.
- IBKR pro account charges inactivity fees.
- Withdrawal fees apply.
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 |
| Deposit Fee | Free |
| Withdrawal Fee | Free |
| Inactivity Fee | $0 |
| Features | Availability |
| Minimum Deposit Requirement | £0 |
| Supported Assets | Shares, forex, commodities, ETFs, options, bonds, indices |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | E-wallets, Bank transfers, credit/debit cards |
| Transaction Fees | The first withdrawal per calendar month is free. Subsequent withdrawals cost GBP 7 per withdrawal in the UK |
What Do Other Traders Say?
As part of our rigorous research process, we’ve dived into the insights and experiences shared by users on various platforms – Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot – to present you with unbiased recommendations. The wisdom of the crowd is an invaluable asset when selecting the ideal share dealing platform, and we’ve done the legwork to ensure you can confidently make your choice. These user comments reveal the true strengths and potential shortcomings of each platform, granting you the power to make informed decisions.
1. Plus500
Positive reviews highlight Plus500’s intuitive mobile app and the simplicity of its interface, making it accessible to expert traders. Users find it appealing for its straightforward approach to CFD trading.
-
“After many years of trading on this platform I had the chance to learn and improve my trading skills. It’s the best app and easy to use. I’ve tried other platforms but this one it’s far better ?” – Ludovic Gyorfi
-
“Very good, no problems with deposits or withdrawals, real time prices, you can make alot of money here.” – ramzyki
-
“I had a good experience with Plus500.
I recommend for those who want to achieve their goals come and invest with Plus500 and you will never be regret.” – Anonymous user
2. eToro
Users across Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot consistently praise eToro’s user-friendly interface and social trading features, which allow them to follow and copy the strategies of experienced investors. It’s touted as an excellent choice for beginners looking to learn the ropes.
-
“Good reliable platform for investing in various asset classes and also for day trading. The assigned RMs are proactive and available to give guidance as needed. The RM follows up until the query is resolved.” – Ankit
-
“Really I think it is amazing app” – AmirFerdos
-
“I personally feel that this the most user friendly platform for new user yo trade. Especially on their chart, all basic functions even usual paid functions like volume profile visible range is there for reference. Thanks etoro!” – Joe Lee
3. Hargreaves Lansdown
Hargreaves Lansdown’s reliability in providing a wide range of investment options and exceptional customer service consistently earns high marks. Its mobile app garners accolades for its simplicity and effectiveness.
-
“Can’t falt the service with H&L. Their broker fees are slightly more than competitors, but I feel you are well looked after for this cost. You also have stocks from around the world at your finger tips.” – Rob
-
“Extremely useful improvements
First impressions are that this is the best implementation so far. I like the speed in getting to my family’s total investment values. It is great to have Reuter’s news readily at hand. I expect you are working on incorporating facilities to match those of your main on-line site; I wish you well with that.” – Moonlight Roamer -
“Would highly recommend Hargreeves and landsdown. Have been investing with them for my personal investment accounts and for my daughter. Their staff are very polite and efficient in responding to questions.” – Dhelliwe Matambanado
4. DeGiro
Users laud DeGiro’s competitive fees and straightforward platform. It’s often recommended for cost-conscious traders and those who prefer a no-frills, efficient share dealing experience.
-
“I have been using De Giro for a number of years. As I trade regularly (often weekly), their fee structure is the most appealing to me. I also think it is an easy to use platform.” – Frans
-
“Overall, very good way to get into investing and trading.” – TheArhold
-
“Could be a bit more intuitive and have more detailed reports. Or even a export your wallet growth. Still, it is easy to use, easy to trade with a push of a button and the service provided is also good.” – Ricardo Mayerhofer
5. Interactive Brokers
With an emphasis on global markets and advanced trading tools, Interactive Brokers earns recognition for catering to seasoned share dealing investors who require a comprehensive suite of resources and an extensive product range.
-
“Very good app, I’m using it on regilar basis. There is no such slow login issues for me, login lasts few seconds. Also the login is remembered when using biometric for some days/weeks, so you would need to enter passwords again, which is good security level.” – Vasil Popov
-
“IBKR’s iPhone app is far better for trading and for checking portfolio, browsing options prices, and looking at the market with watch lists, than Robinhood’s or Fidelity’s. They’re what I use for watchlists and to peruse options prices, even if I’ll end up trading on other brokers’ phone apps. It’s miles better. As for the broker, IBKR Pro has easily paid for itself and migrating to it has been objectively profitable for me. This is because of its better access to markets and trading hours allowing me to place certain trades. I’ve also been happy enough with trade execution and commissions costs.” – User4658991
-
“Best broker in the business – I’ve been with them 20 years. Lowest margins, best product range and fast execution.” – John
How to Start Share Dealing Investment
Starting a share dealing investment may seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge, strategy, and a well-thought-out plan, you can set yourself on the path to financial growth and security. Remember that investing involves risks, and it’s important to be well-prepared and patient on your journey toward building a successful investment portfolio. Here are some tips to note before getting started.
- Education is Key – Begin by gaining a fundamental understanding of the stock market, investment strategies, and risk management. Read books, take online courses, and seek guidance from financial experts to become well-informed.
- Define Your Investment Goals – Clarify your objectives. Are you looking for long-term growth, income, or a combination of both? Knowing your goals will help you choose the right investments.
- Set a Budget – Determine how much you’re willing to invest. Create a budget that aligns with your financial situation and risk tolerance. Ensure that you only invest money you can afford to lose.
- Choose the Right Share Dealing Platform – Research and select a reputable share dealing platform that suits your share trading UK needs. Evaluate factors like trading fees, account management charges, available investment options (stocks, bonds, ETFs, etc.), and the quality of customer support.
- Diversify Your Portfolio – Avoid putting all your funds into a single stock or asset. Diversifying your portfolio by investing in a variety of assets can help spread risk and enhance your chances of achieving your investment goals. Consider a mix of stocks, bonds, and other asset classes.
- Develop a Trading Strategy – Create a comprehensive trading plan that outlines your approach to buying and selling shares. Define your entry and exit points, set stop-loss orders to limit potential losses, and establish profit-taking strategies. Your strategy should reflect your risk tolerance and investment goals.
- Stay Informed – Stay updated on market news, economic developments, and company announcements that might impact your investments. Knowledge is a powerful tool in share dealing. Subscribe to financial news sources, follow market trends, and participate in investment communities or forums to stay informed.
- Start Small and Learn – It’s often advisable to begin with a small investment and gain experience as you go. This allows you to learn the ropes and adjust your strategy based on real-world market dynamics. Practice with virtual trading accounts if available to build confidence.
- Monitor Your Investments – Regularly track the performance of your investments. Set aside time for periodic reviews and be prepared to adapt your strategy as market conditions change. Use investment tracking tools and apps to monitor your portfolio’s performance.
How to Choose the Best Share Dealing Platform
Choosing the right broker in the UK is a critical step to kickstart your trading journey, offering not only an exceptional experience but also the potential for profitable returns. To assist you in making an informed decision, consider the following pivotal factors when selecting the ideal share dealing platform in the UK.
Trading shares through a UK share dealing platform is only legal and secure when conducted through a brokerage firm that holds licenses and is regulated by esteemed global financial authorities. Key among these is the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Such licences not only ensure legality but also underscore the trustworthiness of the platform with your investment funds.
Assess the variety of tradable assets available on the platform. A broad selection, including stocks, commodities, currencies, and indices, provides you with ample opportunities to diversify your investment portfolio, mitigating risks. We would recommend to read about the best UK commodity brokers in our another article.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the broker’s fee structure. Consider not only the upfront commission charges but also hidden costs, spreads, and margin rates. An analysis of these expenses will help you identify a platform that aligns with your budget and trading strategy.
The platform’s performance is of paramount importance. It should be reliable, swift, and user-friendly, facilitating your trading activities. Additionally, investigate the availability of research tools and educational resources, which are invaluable for making informed trading decisions.
Reliable and responsive customer service is indispensable. Test the broker’s customer support to ensure they can assist you when issues arise or you have questions about your trades. Prompt and effective customer service can make a substantial difference in your trading experience.
Many brokers offer demo accounts, allowing you to practise trading with virtual funds. Utilise these accounts to acquaint yourself with the platform’s features and test your trading strategies risk-free. This is an excellent way to build confidence and refine your approach before committing real capital.
What is Share Dealing?
Share dealing, often referred to as stock trading or equity trading, is the process of buying and selling shares or stocks in publicly traded companies. It is a fundamental aspect of financial markets, where investors and traders participate in the exchange of ownership in these companies. The primary objective of share dealing is to capitalise on price movements to generate profits or build long-term investment portfolios.
When you buy shares, you effectively purchase a portion of ownership in the company, and the value of your investment can fluctuate based on the company’s performance and market dynamics. Share dealing is a dynamic and versatile financial activity that offers individuals and institutions various strategies and approaches to potentially grow their wealth.
Different Types of Share Dealing Platforms
When it comes to share dealing, investors have a choice of three primary platform types, each catering to different levels of involvement and assistance:
- Execution Only Platforms
Execution-only platforms are designed for self-directed investors who want complete autonomy in making their trading decisions. These platforms provide the tools and infrastructure needed to execute trades but do not offer personalised advice or recommendations. Investors using execution-only platforms rely on their own research and market knowledge to make informed trading choices. This platform type is typically favoured by experienced investors who are confident in their ability to manage their portfolios independently.
- Advisory Platforms
Advisory platforms strike a balance between self-directed and fully managed services. With advisory platforms, investors gain access to expert advice and recommendations from professional advisors. While investors can make their own trading decisions, they also have the option to seek guidance and insights from these advisors. This platform is often chosen by individuals who value the input of financial experts but still want to have some control over their investments.
- Discretionary Platforms
Discretionary platforms provide a fully managed service in which professional portfolio managers handle investment decisions on behalf of the investor. Investors provide guidelines and objectives, and the portfolio manager makes trading decisions to meet those goals. This hands-off approach is suitable for individuals who prefer to delegate the responsibility of managing their investments to experts, especially if they have limited time or expertise in trading.
5 Quick Steps To Start Share Dealing
You’ve embraced the idea of share dealing in the dynamic UK market and are eager to take your first steps towards building your investment portfolio. Below, we’ll walk you through a comprehensive step-by-step process to ensure a smooth start to your share dealing journey. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned investor, these steps will help you navigate the intricate world of share trading UK with confidence.
Begin your journey by visiting the official website of a reputable share dealing platform. Your choice of platform can significantly influence your trading experience, so ensure it is well-suited to the UK market. Once there, understand the platform’s terms and conditions. You should also consider installing its trading app to easily track your investments whenever you step away from your trading station.
Once on the platform’s website, initiate the account creation process. This typically involves providing your personal information, including your name, contact details, and a secure password. Take your time to ensure accuracy in this step, as it’s the foundation of your trading account.
In accordance with FCA regulations, you’ll need to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process. This is to ensure that your identity and location are validated, promoting transparency and security in financial transactions. Prepare necessary identification documents, such as your passport or driver’s licence, and proof of address, like a utility bill or bank statement, for a seamless verification process.
With your account created and verified, it’s time to fund it. Share dealing platforms in the UK often offer various deposit methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and sometimes e-wallets. Ensure you transfer a sum of money that aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Armed with funds in your share dealing account, you’re now poised to open your first position. Before diving in, conduct thorough research on the shares or assets you intend to invest in. Pay attention to its performance, recent news, and the potential to align with your investment goals. Utilise the trading interface provided by the platform to execute your trade. Most importantly, specify the amount you wish to invest and the price at which you aim to buy, officially marking your entry into the world of share dealing in the UK.
FAQs
You can easily start trading shares by creating a share dealing account with a broker that is heavily monitored by top-tier authorities globally.
Yes. However, it won’t be as easy as using a share dealing broker. So if you want to buy shares, just find a broker, like the ones we recommend above.
Depending on a share dealing broker’s requirements, you can start share trading with as little as £100. This is because some share dealing platforms do not have minimum deposit requirements or trading commissions.
Shares involve having direct equity in a specific company you invest in, whereas stocks involve owning one or multiple share units in different companies.
Yes. Share trading is legal in the UK and has become among the most popular trading activities.
Yes. You are free to buy and sell the same stock repeatedly with a regulated broker like the ones we recommend above. Simply understand the restrictions that come with this form of trading.
Conclusion
From this ultimate guide and our experience as professional investors, it’s a no-brainer that the choice of a share dealing platform in the UK is paramount to your financial success. The key, as we’ve emphasised, is to align your choice with your unique trading experience and frequency. And as the saying goes, ‘horses for courses,’ it’s all about finding the perfect fit. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a newcomer to the market, our recommended share dealing platforms offer a spectrum of options to cater to your specific needs. By selecting wisely, you not only enhance your trading journey but also significantly boost your chances of making profitable investments.
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.
eToro is really great in what they are doing! The easiest platform with clear info, educational materials and allows copying. 5+++
Is there any free share dealing platform in the UK?
Which trading platform is safe and good for an investor who would like to invest in split shares?
The guide pointed me in the right direction, suggesting eToro for social trading and Hargreaves Lansdown for a trustworthy experience – a recommendation that truly resonated. The clear breakdown of fees and user comments shared a genuine perspective. It's a concise and informative read, making it perfect advice for stepping into the world of stock trading.
I was curious if I could buy shares without a broker and came across this guide. It's full of useful information! I learned that while some platforms allow direct purchasing, it's easier and safer to use a trusted platform. The article provided a clear overview of different platform types, and I realized I made the right choice with eToro. Wish I had found this guide earlier when I was just starting to invest!