Best UK CFD Brokers 2025: Reviews & Comparison
Best CFD brokers have become a favourite way for UK traders to access global markets without owning the underlying asset. With so many CFD brokers in the UK, finding the best one can be tough. This guide reviews the top 5 UK CFD brokers 2025, comparing features, fees and usability so you can make a decision.
Table of Contents
What is CFD Trading?
CFD trading is speculating on price movements of financial instruments like shares, forex, commodities and indices. With CFDs you can profit from rising and falling markets. But it comes with a high risk of losing money, especially for retail investor accounts as most traders don’t use effective risk management tools. A significant percentage of retail investor accounts lose money when engaging in these activities. Potential traders should carefully consider their understanding of these complex instruments and their ability to bear the associated risks of financial loss.
Definition of CFDs
A Contract for Difference (CFD) is a type of financial derivative that allows traders to speculate on the price movement of an underlying asset, such as stocks, commodities, or currencies, without actually owning the asset. CFDs are popular among traders due to their flexibility and ability to provide exposure to a wide range of markets. By trading CFDs, investors can take advantage of price movements in various financial instruments without the need to purchase the actual underlying asset.
How CFDs Work?
When a trader enters into a CFD trade, they are essentially agreeing to exchange the difference in the price of the underlying asset between the time the trade is opened and the time it is closed. If the price of the underlying asset moves in the direction the trader predicted, they will receive a profit. However, if the price moves against them, they will incur a loss. CFDs are typically traded on margin, meaning that traders only need to deposit a small percentage of the total trade value to open a position. This leverage can amplify both gains and losses, making it crucial for traders to use effective risk management tools.
Benefits of CFD Trading
CFD trading offers several benefits to traders, including:
- Flexibility: CFDs allow traders to speculate on a wide range of markets, including stocks, commodities, and currencies.
- Leverage: CFDs are traded on margin, which means that traders can control large positions with a relatively small amount of capital.
- Short selling: CFDs allow traders to sell an asset they do not own, which can be useful for hedging or speculating on price movements.
- No ownership: CFDs do not require traders to take ownership of the underlying asset, which can be beneficial for traders who do not want to hold physical assets.
These advantages make CFD trading an attractive option for many investors looking to diversify their portfolios and take advantage of market opportunities.
Top 6 UK CFD Brokers 2025
1. IG Markets
Summary
IG Markets is a household name in the UK’s trading scene, one of the best CFD trading platforms for beginners and advanced traders.
Features
- 17,000+ tradable instruments, including forex pairs, commodities, indices and shares.
- Industry leading charting tools.
- Spread betting alongside CFD trading (tax efficient in the UK, no capital gains tax).
- Competitive pricing with tight spreads on major instruments.
Pros
- Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Huge educational resources for new CFD traders.
- Seamless integration with multiple platforms, including MetaTrader 4 and ProRealTime.
Cons
- Higher withdrawal fees for smaller accounts.
2. CMC Markets
Summary
CMC Markets is a well known global broker with a powerful platform and competitive spreads, great for forex traders and CFD fans.
Features
- Advanced tools for experienced traders.
- CMC Markets offers cfd trades, which are transactions involving Contracts for Difference, allowing traders to speculate on price movements across various asset classes without owning the underlying assets.
- Direct access to global markets with 10,000+ instruments.
- Demo account to practice trading without risking real money.
Pros
- Good for forex and commodities.
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees.
- Award winning cfd trading platforms with user friendly interfaces.
Cons
- Not suitable for new CFD traders due to complexity of the platform.
3. eToro
Summary
Known for its social trading, eToro is recognized as one of the top CFD brokers and one of the most user-friendly CFD and forex trading platforms.
Features
- Social trading feature to copy trades from other traders.
- Multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrencies, shares and commodities.
- Simple and easy to use interface for new CFD traders.
Pros
- No commission on stock CFDs.
- Access to global markets with a small deposit requirement.
- FCA regulated, trading is safe.
Cons
- Higher spreads than other brokers.
- Limited tools for advanced traders.
4. Plus500
Summary
Plus500 is a CFD provider with a simple platform and competitive pricing.
Features
- 2,000+ tradable instruments, including forex pairs, shares and commodities.
- Risk management tools, including guaranteed stop loss. A significant percentage of retail CFD accounts lose money, highlighting the importance of understanding the complexities and risks involved in CFD trading.
- No commission on trades with competitive spreads.
Pros
- Simple platform for new CFD traders.
- Mobile app with full trading functionality.
- FCA regulated, compliant and safe.
Cons
- Limited charting tools compared to other brokers.
- No MetaTrader 4/5.
5. Saxo Markets
Summary
For advanced traders, Saxo Markets offers a premium experience with high value investments and direct market access.
Features
- 10,000+ tradable instruments across global markets, including bonds and ETFs.
- Advanced trading tools and APIs for custom trading solutions. A well-defined trading strategy is essential to effectively utilize these advanced tools and enhance profitability.
- Transparent pricing with competitive spreads.
Pros
- A tailored experience for active traders.
- Industry leading platforms with advanced analytics.
- Personalised customer service and account managers.
Cons
- High minimum deposit.
- Best for professional traders, not newbies.
6. ForTrade
Summary
ForTrade is a UK based broker that has gained popularity for its simplicity and CFD focus. The platform is good for both new CFD traders and experienced users, with access to global markets.
Features
- 300+ instruments, including forex pairs, indices, shares and commodities.
- Simple platform and mobile app.
- Educational resources, including webinars, market analysis and tutorials. Trading spread bets are also covered, emphasizing the high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage.
- Advanced risk management tools, including negative balance protection.
Pros
- FCA regulated.
- Demo account for new traders to try out trading strategies.
- Tight spreads and competitive pricing on major instruments.
- Full support, including personal account managers for new traders.
Cons
- Limited charting tools compared to IG or CMC Markets.
- Not suitable for high frequency traders who need direct market access or custom solutions.
Why ForTrade?
ForTrade is good for new traders starting with CFD trading. Its simplicity, combined with a secure environment and full support makes it perfect for retail traders.
Top 6 UK CFD Brokers 2025
- IG Markets – Best for features and education
- CMC Markets – Best for advanced traders and spreads
- eToro – Best for social trading and newbies
- Plus500 – Best for simple platform
- Saxo Markets – Best for advanced tools and high value accounts
- ForTrade – Best for new traders with full support and simplicity
Why ForTrade?
ForTrade stands out as a UK CFD broker due to its simplicity, regulation and support for new traders. Its educational resources and platform are strong for anyone new to CFD trading in 2025.
Now you have more brokers to choose from based on your needs, whether you’re a new CFD trader or an experienced pro looking for advanced tools.
What to Look For in a CFD Broker
Regulation and Security
Make sure your broker is regulated by a top tier authority like the FCA to protect your money and a secure trading environment.
Trading Costs
Compare costs, including spreads, commission, and withdrawal fees as these can eat into your profits.
Platform
Choose a broker with a simple platform and advanced trading tools and customisation options.
Instruments
Look for brokers that offer access to multiple asset classes, including forex pairs, indices, commodities, and underlying assets to diversify your portfolio.
Tutorials
For new CFD traders, tutorials, webinars and demo accounts can speed up learning and results.
CFD Trading Platforms
What are the best CFD trading platforms for trading CFDs?
The best CFD trading platforms for trading CFDs are those that offer a range of features and tools to help traders make informed decisions and manage their risk. Some of the key features to look for in a CFD trading platform include:
- Advanced charting tools: These allow traders to analyze price movements and identify trends.
- Risk management tools: These help traders to manage their risk and limit their potential losses.
- Trading strategies: These can be used to automate trading decisions and help traders to stay disciplined.
- Advanced trading tools: These can include features such as stop-loss orders and take-profit orders, which can help traders to manage their risk and lock in profits.
Some of the top CFD trading platforms include:
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
- MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
- cTrader
- TradingView
These platforms offer a range of features and tools to help traders make informed decisions and manage their risk. They also offer advanced charting tools, risk management tools, and trading strategies to help traders stay disciplined and manage their risk.
It’s important to note that the best CFD trading platform for a trader will depend on their individual needs and preferences. Traders should do their own research and compare different platforms before making a decision.
FAQs
What is the best CFD platform in the UK?
IG Markets is the best CFD platform in the UK for its wide range of instruments, competitive pricing and advanced features.
Who is best for CFDs?
CMC Markets and Plus500 are top for CFDs, competitive spreads, secure platform and multiple instruments.
Can I trade CFDs in the UK?
Yes you can trade CFDs in the UK as long as your broker is FCA regulated.
Who is the best broker?
The best broker depends on your trading style. For advanced tools Saxo Markets is top, for newbies eToro is great due to social trading.
CFD Trading Tips
- Start with a Demo Account: Try out trading strategies before risking real money.
- Use Risk Management: Use stop-loss orders to limit losses.
- Diversify: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
- Stay informed: Monitor volatility and stay up to date with global news.
- Realistic goals: Don’t chase unrealistic profits and focus on long term.
Summary
UK CFD brokers for 2025 cater for all trading styles and experience levels. From IG Markets’ full range to eToro’s social trading, each broker has its strengths. By considering your trading needs and looking at fees, platform, instruments and more you can choose the right broker for you and achieve success in the global markets.
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