The Best Investing Platforms in the UK: A 2024 Review
Trading is risky and you might lose part, or all, of your capital invested. The information provided is for informational and educational purposes only and does not represent any type of financial advice and/or investment recommendation.
The best online investment platforms in the UK are:
Plus500 – Best for experienced traders
eToro – Best for social trading and educational resources
Saxo Markets – Best for variety of assets
Interactive Investor – Best for higher budgets
Hargreaves Lansdown – Best for Funds
AJ Bell – Best for long-term investing
InvestEngine – Best for ETF trading
Bestinvest – Best for value for money
FinecoBank – Best for low stock fees
MoneyBox – Best for beginners wanting to make smarter financial decisions
Freetrade – Best for commission-free trading
Moneyfarm – Best for ready-made portfolios
Wealthify – Best for ethical ready-made portfolios
Plum – Best for money management
Netwealth – Best for those with large budgets
Vanguard – Best for low fees
The Best Investing Platforms (UK)
Below are a selection of the best investing platforms in the UK.
1. Plus500
Best for experienced traders
Dealing fee: Costs are incorporated into the spread
Minimum deposit: £100
Annual platform fee: £0
Plus500 is recognized as a well-regarded online investment platform, known for its user-friendly interface and quick account opening process. It has a strong reputation for its customer support. However, it's important to note that Plus500's CFD trading fees are considered high, and the platform offers mediocre research tools and no recommendations or fundamental data.
Plus500 provides a range of products including futures and CFDs, with negative balance protection and a variety of available base currencies. It supports different deposit methods, including bank cards and electronic wallets. Plus500 requires a minimum deposit of $100 and offers a demo account, which is advantageous for new traders to practice strategies without financial risk.
Despite its international presence since 2008, Plus500's operations in the U.S. only started in 2021. Its U.S. platform offers a limited product portfolio, especially lacking in stocks, which is a significant departure from its international offerings. Plus500 is primarily a CFD broker, but CFDs are banned in the U.S., which explains the narrower range of investment options available on its U.S. platform.
In terms of fees, Plus500 does not charge inactivity fees, platform fees, live data fees, routing fees, or fees for depositing or withdrawing funds, except for wire transfers. This makes it a relatively low-cost broker, especially in the U.S. market.
The platform is known for its simplicity and user-friendly interface, with dynamic charts and helpful analytic tools. However, it might not satisfy traders looking for more advanced tools, as it lacks certain cutting-edge functions and is not customizable like some third-party platforms.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 80% 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.
2. eToro
Best for social trading and educational resources
Dealing fee: £0
Minimum deposit: £40
Annual platform fee: £0
eToro is a popular social trading and multi-asset brokerage platform regulated by the FCA.
It allows users to invest in various financial instruments, including cryptocurrencies and commodities. In addition, its regarded as one of the best platforms to invest in stocks in the UK.
It is known for its user-friendly interface and unique social trading features, which enable users to follow and copy the trades of experienced investors.
eToro also offers traditional investing options for individual stocks and funds.
It is also one of the cheapest investment platforms UK.
For those not fully confident in their trading skills, there are over 40 ready-made portfolios that include different market segments.
For those wanting a more hands-on approach, eToro also offers DIY accounts.
As a beginner to the platform, you will have free access to a $100,000 demo account to help perfect your strategy.
When you are ready to trade, eToro has no platform or commission fees, but you will have to pay spread and overnight fees.
There are also currency conversion fees for those withdrawing money in currencies other than USD.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 76% 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.
3. Saxo Markets
Best for variety of assets
Dealing fee: 0.10% for UK Stocks and $0.02 for US Stocks
Minimum deposit: £500
Annual platform fee: 0.12%–0.08%
Saxo Markets is part of Saxo Bank, a Danish investment bank that caters to both retail and institutional clients.
The bank was founded in 1992 and is regulated by the FCA.
It offers over 71,00 tradable assets and the option to invest in ready-made portfolios or manage your own.
There are three account types: Classic, Platinum and VIP. You should choose which suits you best depending on the tools and support you want.
The minimum deposit for Saxo is £500. For a beginner, this can be quite high. When doing a UK investment platforms comparison, there are others that are more budget-friendly.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 61% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs, FX or any of our other products work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Losses can exceed deposits on some products.
4. Interactive Investor
Best for higher budgets
Dealing fee: £5.99
Minimum deposit: £25
Annual platform fee: £60–£240
Interactive Investor is one the best investing platforms in the UK for those advancing in their investing skills.
It has successfully operated since 1995 and is regulated by the FCA.
Interactive Investor has a flat fee structure and offers a range of investments and research tools.
While the platform is suitable for beginners, it might not be as cost-effective compared with other platforms.
For example, if you have £2,000 worth of investments, the flat fee structure means you will pay the same amount as someone with £20,000.
Other platforms typically charge a percentage of the investment, making it more equal.
Those who do invest have access to over 40,000 UK and international investment options such as funds, ETFs, investment trusts and shares. You will also have the opportunity to invest in the FTSE 100, FTSE 250 and NASDAQ.
5. Hargreaves Lansdown
Best for funds
Dealing fee: £0 for funds and £11.95–£5.95 for shares
Minimum deposit: £100 lump sum or £25 per month
Annual platform fee: 0.45%–0% for funds and 0.45% for shares (max £45 per year)
Hargreaves Lansdown is one of the largest and most well-established investment platforms in the UK.
It has been in operation since 1981 and claims its success is because it fosters long-term relationships.
In addition, it is regulated by the FCA, is a FTSE 100 company, and has a longstanding reputation for reliability.
With over 2,500 financial assets, Hargreaves Lansdown is also one of the best fund investment platforms in the UK.
The platform itself is similar to competitors. You can choose a ready-made account or build your own portfolio. Products include various ISAs and pension accounts.
More unique is the curated list of recommended funds known as the Wealth Shortlist.
This list provides investors with a selection of top-rated funds across different sectors. You can explore the list by sector, type and objective.
6. AJ Bell
Best for long-term investing
Dealing fee: £1.50 (Funds) and £9.95–£4.95 (Shares)
Minimum deposit: £500 lump sum or £25 per month
Annual platform fee: 0.25%–0% for funds and 0.25% for Shares (max £3.50 per month)
AJ Bell is a UK-based investment platform and financial services company. It offers a wide range of investment and pension products, including:
AJ Bell Youinvest Account – Standard investment account that allows you to buy and sell a wide range of investments.
ISA (Individual Savings Account) – Invest up to a certain annual limit (as set by the UK government) without paying tax on your returns.
SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension) – Personal pension that provides tax relief on contributions and allows you to choose and manage your investments.
LISA (Lifetime ISA) – Designed to help individuals save for their first home or retirement. Contributions receive a government bonus, but there are restrictions on when and how the funds can be withdrawn.
Dealing Account – Allows you to invest in shares, funds, and other assets without the tax advantages of ISAs or pensions.
It is considered one of the best brokers for long-term investing in the UK.
AJ Bell is also known for its competitive fees and user-friendly platform.
For those looking for ready-made portfolios, AJ Bell offers eight investment ideas built by specialists. You simply need to pick one that aligns with your goals.
7. InvestEngine
Best for ETF trading
Dealing fee: £0
Minimum deposit: £100
Annual platform fee: 0%–0.25%
Invest Engine is as close as you can get to free investment platforms in the UK. You only incur an annual platform fee on a ready-made account.
The only downside of Invest Engine is that all investments are ETFs.
So if you want a diverse portfolio, you will need to open an account with another platform or broker.
However, it is regulated by the FCA, making it safe and reliable.
Account types include:
General Investment Account
Stocks and Shares ISA
Business Account
Lifetime ISA
Personal Pension
For your investment portfolio, you can build your own or choose from a ready-made growth or income portfolio.
The growth portfolio is designed to help you grow your money over the long term.
In addition, the income portfolio is there to give you a regular income, as well as capital growth. All ETFs pay regular dividends, and the money goes straight into your account.
8. Bestinvest
Best for value for money
Dealing fee: £0 for funds and £4.95 for shares
Minimum deposit: £0
Annual platform fee: 0.4%–0% for a DIY portfolio and 0.2%–0% for a ready-made portfolio
Best Invest provides a range of services and products, including investment accounts, pensions and ISAs.
The platform is low-cost and allows you to invest in shares, funds and ETFs.
Additionally, when you start investing, you can either deposit a lump sum or set up a monthly saving plan.
Like all the choices for the best online investment platform UK, you can choose from a ready-made portfolio or build your own.
The pre-made portfolios fall into one of three categories: Expert (risk and reward), Smart (cost-effective) and Direct (specific investments).
9. FinecoBank
Best for low stock fees
Dealing fee: £0
Minimum deposit: £40
Annual platform fee: 0.25% of the total value of funds in your portfolio
Fineco Bank is an Italian bank that offers a wide range of financial services, including online banking, trading, and investment products.
It operates primarily in Italy and the UK and is regulated by the FCA.
Fineco Bank has been in operation since 1999 and is considered one of the best stock investment platforms in the UK because of its low fees and stock selection.
While the bank has an excellent reputation, the research and educational resources are not as good as other platforms.
As such, Fineco Bank is not the best for beginner traders.
If you do decide to invest with them, it is recommended that you also have a second platform with more beginner-friendly research tools and educational resources.
10. MoneyBox
Best for beginners wanting to make smarter financial decisions
Dealing fee: £0, but there is a 0.45% FX fee on US Stocks
Minimum deposit: £1
Annual platform fee: 0.45% plus £1 per month subscription fee. The first three months are free.
Moneybox is a UK-based financial technology company that offers an app designed to simplify saving and investing.
It aims to make it easier to start investing by rounding up everyday purchases and investing the spare change.
You can invest in ETFs, US stocks, ETCs and tracker funds.
Beginners who don’t want to go through the process of investing can choose from three ready-made portfolios: Cautious, Balanced and Adventurous. You should choose depending on your goals and attitude to risk.
Those who want a more hands-on approach can build their own portfolios.
Moneybox also offers:
Stocks and Shares ISA
General Investment Accounts
Lifetime ISAs
Personal Pensions
11. Freetrade
Best for commission-free trading
Dealing fee: £0
Minimum deposit: £2
Annual platform fee: £0–£144
FreeTrade is a UK-based, commission-free investment platform that allows users to invest in a range of financial instruments.
It aims to make investing accessible to a broader audience by offering a user-friendly app and zero-commission trading on certain investment products.
While the app is regulated by the FCA, it was only founded in 2016. As such, FreeTrade has yet to prove its reliability.
In addition, FreeTrade has already faced several controversies, with the FCA issuing two notices for false advertising.
That being said, the app has won multiple awards, including:
British Bank Awards 2021 – Best Online Trading Platform
Good Money Guide 2021 – Best Commission-Free Stockbroker
As one of the top investment platforms in the UK, you have access to over 6,500 financial instruments and the ability to buy fractional shares of stocks and ETFs.
This means you can invest in high-priced stocks with smaller amounts of money.
12. Moneyfarm
Best for ready-made portfolios
Annual fund management fee: 0.20%
Minimum deposit: £500
Annual platform fee: 0.75%–0.35%
Moneyfarm is a robo-advisor that offers online investment management services.
The app uses technology and algorithms to create and manage diversified investment portfolios based on risk profiles and financial goals.
It offers seven ready-made portfolios. To find which one is right for you, there is a questionnaire you need to complete when you sign up.
Moneyfarm also offers free, personalised financial advice via email, phone, chat or face-to-face.
This is one of the best UK investment platforms for beginners who don’t want to spend lots of time researching and executing trades.
If you are wanting to test your investing skills, a platform that offers DIY accounts might be more suitable.
13. Wealthify
Best for ethical ready-made portfolios
Annual fund management fee: 0.16%–0.70%
Minimum deposit: £1
Annual platform fee: 0.60%
Wealthify is another app that uses a robo-advisor algorithm to create and manage investment portfolios based on risk profiles and financial goals.
There are five portfolio options:
Cautious
Tentative
Confident
Ambitious
Adventurous
In addition to risk and goals, you can also choose to only invest in ethical and sustainable companies.
One big advantage of a robo-advisor and a managed account is that the robot is always working. This means you will never miss out on a good opportunity.
14. Plum
Best for money management
Annual fund management fee: 0.06% to 1.06%
Minimum deposit: £1
Annual platform fee: Starting from £2.99
Plum is a FinTech company that offers an automated savings and investment app.
This app uses artificial intelligence to analyse spending habits and income to determine how much you can save or invest.
It then automatically sets aside small amounts of money into savings or investment accounts.
Again, all investment portfolios are ready-made and managed so there is no opportunity to build your own.
However, if you are wanting to start investing but don’t have the time or skills, apps like this are a great choice.
15. Netwealth
Best for those with large budgets
Discretionary Management Fee: 0.40%–0.70%
Estimated Underlying Fund Costs: 0.20%
Estimated Annual Costs of Trading: 0.70%–1.0%
Minimum portfolio size: £50,000
Netwealth is a UK-based digital wealth management platform that provides personalised investment solutions to individual investors.
It offers a range of investment services with the goal of providing efficient and cost-effective portfolio management.
The platform was founded in 1999 and is FCA regulated.
Despite being a digital platform, Netwealth has a more traditional approach to investing and is definitely more suited to corporations and trusts.
The platform is free to join, which allows you to look around. But unfortunately, you can’t preview any of the portfolios.
There are also high-calibre financial advisors that you can hire by the hour or keep on retainer. However, the hourly fee is £200 and continuous portfolio advice costs 0.2% of your portfolio value.
16. Vanguard
Best for low fees
Dealing fee: £0
Minimum deposit: £500 lump sum or £100 per month
Annual platform fee: 0.15% (max £375)
Vanguard is an American company renowned for investment management and is one of the best investment brokers in the UK.
It offers a wide range of investment products, including:
Mutual funds
ETFs
Stocks and Shares ISA
Junior ISA
General Investment Account
Personal Pension
It is known for its low-cost investment options and long-term, passive investment strategies.
There is an excellent selection of ready-made portfolios and opening an account is very easy.
On the downside, all investments are Vanguard’s own products.
Reviews also state that the mobile apps are not as developed as competitors and the research tools could be much better.
What Is an Investing Platform?
An investing platform is a digital service that allows you to buy, sell, and manage various financial assets, such as:
Stocks
Bonds
Mutual funds
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
These platforms have become increasingly popular due to the rise of online trading and investing.
An investing platform might also be known as an:
Investment platform
Online brokerage platform
Funds platform
The best UK investing platforms provide users with the tools and resources they need to:
Access financial markets
Make investment decisions
Some key features and functions of an investing platform include:
Account Opening – Such as individual brokerage, retirement and other specialised accounts.
Market Access – Platforms give access to financial markets and investment products. This allows you to invest across different countries and industries.
Trading Tools – Helping you execute buy and sell orders and provide real-time market data. Some platforms offer stock charts and other analysis tools to help users make informed decisions.
Research and Analysis – Many platforms offer research and analysis tools. Tools include stock screeners, analyst reports, and financial news. All are designed to help you research and evaluate investment opportunities.
Portfolio Management – You can manage your portfolios through the platform. This often includes performance tracking, asset allocation tools, and portfolio rebalancing options.
Education and Resources – Online UK investment platforms often provide educational materials. Some platforms are better than others. Resources often include webinars, guides and videos.
How to Choose a Good Trading Platform
Choosing the best UK investment platform for beginners is essential. The right platforms allow for a smooth and positive introduction to investing.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting:
1. User-Friendly
Look for a platform with an intuitive and user-friendly interface.
As a beginner, you want a platform that is:
Easy to navigate
Has clear instructions on how to execute trades
Provides access to research tools
Allows you to manage your account
2. Educational Resources
A platform for beginners should offer resources to help you understand the basics of investing and trading.
Look for platforms that provide tutorials, webinars, articles, and other learning materials.
3. Demo Account
Consider choosing a platform that offers a demo account or virtual trading.
This feature allows you to practise trading with virtual money. They don't have time limits. Spending time here helps you to gain valuable experience without risking real funds.
4. Customer Support
Reliable customer support is crucial for beginners. You may have questions or encounter issues while using the platform.
Ensure the platform offers responsive customer support through channels like email, phone, or live chat.
5. Low Minimum Deposit
As a beginner, you might want to consider one of the cheapest UK investment platforms.
Not everyone starts trading with a large sum. It’s ok to start with less than £50.
Look for platforms with low minimum deposit requirements that fit your budget.
6. Limited Fees
Beginners should be mindful of trading fees. They can significantly impact returns, especially when dealing with small amounts of money.
Choose a platform with low or no commissions and reasonable fees.
7. Market Access
Ensure the platform provides access to the markets and instruments you're interested in trading. Some platforms may focus on specific asset classes or have limited offerings.
8. Security and Regulation
Prioritise platforms that are well-regulated by reputable financial authorities. Security is paramount when dealing with personal and financial information.
Ideally, being based in the UK, you want the platform to be regulated by the FCA.
9. Research Tools
Look for platforms with basic research tools, such:
Market news
Company profiles
Stock charts
Fundamental data
These can help you make informed decisions as a beginner.
10. Community and Social Features
Some platforms offer social trading features or communities where you can learn from and interact with other traders.
This can be beneficial for beginners seeking insights and support.
11. No-Pressure Environment
As a beginner, you want a platform that doesn't pressure you into making rapid decisions or engaging in risky trading practices. Avoid platforms that use aggressive marketing tactics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an investment platform?
An investment platform is a digital service that allows you to buy, sell, and manage various financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs. Most platforms will also allow you to open pensions and ISAs.
Which is the best investment platform in the UK?
The best investment platform in the UK will depend on your goals and budget. However, some of the top-rated are eToro, AJ Bell, InvestEngine, Bestinvest, Interactive Investor, FinecoBank, MoneyBox, Hargreaves Lansdown, Saxo Markets, Freetrade, Moneyfarm, Wealthify, Plum, Netwealth and Vanguard.
Which investment platform is best suited for a beginner in the UK?
The investment platforms best suited for a beginner in the UK include eToro, AJ Bell, InvestEngine, Bestinvest, MoneyBox, Hargreaves Lansdown, Saxo Markets, Freetrade, Moneyfarm, Wealthify, Plum, and Vanguard.
What happens if an investment platform goes bust in the UK?
If an investment platform goes bust in the UK, the FSCS may provide some protection to eligible customers (currently £85,000 per person per firm) if the platform can’t pay. However, the level of protection and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the type of investments held within the platform.
What investment platform should I use in the UK?
Some of the best investment platforms to use in the UK include eToro, AJ Bell, InvestEngine, Bestinvest, Interactive Investor, FinecoBank, MoneyBox, Hargreaves Lansdown, Saxo Markets, Freetrade, Moneyfarm, Wealthify, Plum, Netwealth and Vanguard.
How does an investment platform work?
An investment platform operates as an online service that allows you to buy, sell, and manage various financial instruments like stocks, bonds, and funds. Once you pick a platform, you create an account, deposit funds and select investments based on your goals and risk tolerance. The platform then executes the trades and provides portfolio tracking and management tools.
Which platform is best for long-term investment in the UK?
Most platforms offer long-term investment portfolios in the UK. However, AJ Bell has a reputation for long-term investment strategies.
What is the best investment platform for beginners (UK)?
The best investment platform for beginners is dependent on goals and budget. However, some of the top-rated are eToro, AJ Bell, InvestEngine, Bestinvest, FinecoBank, MoneyBox, Hargreaves Lansdown, Saxo Markets, Freetrade, Moneyfarm, Wealthify, Plum, Netwealth and Vanguard.
What is the cheapest investment platform (UK)?
The investment platforms with the lowest fees in the UK include Vanguard, eToro, Bestinvest and Freetrade.
Are investment platforms regulated in the UK?
All reputable investment platforms are regulated in the UK by the FCA and/or the FSCS.
What is the safest investing platform in the UK?
All investing and trading come with risk and there is no guarantee of safety. The most reliable investing platforms in the UK will be FCA and FSCS regulated.
What is the minimum deposit for investment platforms in the UK?
The minimum deposit for an investment platform in the UK depends on the platform. Some, like Bestinvest, Wealthify and Freetrade, only require £1 or £2. Others, such as AJ Bell and Hargreaves Lansdown require a minimum of £100.
Final Thoughts
Deciding on the best UK investment platforms for beginners takes time.
Before committing:
Explore different options
Read reviews
Test out the platform's features through a demo account if available
Remember that trading involves risks. It is essential you start with a clear understanding of your investment goals and risk tolerance before parting with your money.