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The UK financial space is dominated by numerous trading apps, thus catering to traders of all levels. To trade securely while enjoying your experience, compare various options considering FCA regulatory status, reliability, support service, and more. Moreover, it is essential to understand the stock market and select a company share with which you are familiar. And to plan accordingly, learn more about the tax implications on stock trading in the region. At InvestingGuide, we leave no stone unturned to ensure you are fully prepared to make your first trade.
Stock trading in the UK is skyrocketing, with many individuals earning good profits daily. However, success in this space doesn’t come overnight. Without proper planning and strategy, you will be frustrated with multiple losses. One area you must focus on to maximise your potential trading stocks is constantly tracking your open positions. Plus, conduct a thorough market analysis to identify the best entry and exit points.
Stock trading apps have proven invaluable for streamlining online trading activities. With them, managing your positions, especially while on the move, is easy. Sadly, many UK traders do not know how to research the best apps for stock trading. That is why InvestingGuide experts did all the legwork and share the top options in the region below.
List of the Best Stock Trading Apps
- eToro – Overall Best Stock Trading App in the UK
- FP Markets – Best Stock Trading App With automated Features
- AvaTrade – Beginner-Friendly Stock Trading App in the UK
- Plus500*- Commission-Free Stock Trading App as CFDs in the UK
- Saxo – Best Stock App For UK Professional Traders
Note: 80% of CFD retail accounts lose money with this provider.
In This Guide
Stock Trading Apps UK: Comparison Table
Comparing stock trading apps in the UK was not easy. We spent hundreds of hours to get accurate and conclusive results. Our team of experts started by reviewing and testing as many apps for stock trading in the UK as possible. The tests include confirming their credibility, trading platform performance, customer service reliability, demo accounts, payment methods supported, and more.
When it comes to reviewing stock trading apps, we do so by reviewing user comments on Google Play, App Store, and Trustpilot. These platforms have many reviews and ratings, and we collect them all without any filter.
Once research and review procedures are complete, we combine results from the two to recommend the best stock trading apps for our readers. Take a look below at our comparison table to understand each app’s features for a suitable choice.
| Best Stock Trading App | Licence & Regulation | Support Service | Software | Payment Method | Demo Account | Money Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | FCA, CySEC, FSCA, ASIC, SFSA ADGM, MFSA, FSAS, GFSC, SEC | 24/5 | eToro investing platform and app, Multi-asset platform, Social Trading, Copy Trader, Smart Portfolios | Credit/debit cards, Bank transfer, Klarna, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller | Yes | Yes (up to $250,000) |
| FP Markets | FCA, FSCA, ASIC, CMA, CySEC, FSA | 24/7 | MT4, MT5, TradingView, cTrader, WebTrader, Mobile App, Copy Trading | Credit/debit cards, Neteller, Skrill, Bank transfer, Google Pay, Apple Pay | Yes | Yes (up to $500,000) |
| AvaTrade | FCA, FSCA, CBI, CySEC, PFSA, ASIC, B.V.I FSC, FSA, ADGM, ISA | 24/5 | WebTrader, AvaOptions, AvaTrade App, Mac Trading, MT4, MT5, Automated Trading | Credit/debit cards, Neteller, Skrill, Wire transfer, WebMoney | Yes | Yes (up to $1,000,000) |
| Plus500* 80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. | FCA (FRN 509909), CySEC (#250/14), ASIC, MAS, FSA | 24/7 | Plus500 Webtrader, Professional Trading | Bank Wire Transfer, Credit/debit cards, Paypal, Skrill | Yes | Yes (up to £85,000) |
| Saxo | FSA, FCA, MAS, SEBI | 24/5 | SaxoTraderGO, SaxoTraderPRO | Bank Wire Transfer, Debit cards | Yes | Yes (up to €100,000) |
Apps Short Overview
Stock traders in the UK should consider apps featuring elements perfect for their needs for an exciting experience. From our analysis, we discovered that most UK traders prioritise highly secured and regulated apps. They also choose those they can afford and host their preferred stocks.
Unfortunately, conducting market research to identify apps you can afford and hosting the right stocks can be daunting. In this regard, we did the research for you so you can save time. See below our sample tables highlighting the fees and assets provided by our recommended stock trading apps in the UK.
Fees
| Best Stock Trading App | Fees | Minimum Deposit Requirement | Transaction | Inactivity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | From 2 pips | £100 | £5 withdrawal | £10 monthly |
| FP Markets | From 0.0 pips | £100 | Free | None |
| AvaTrade | 0.03 pips | £100 | Free | £50 quarterly |
| Plus500* | From 0.0 pips | £100 | Free | £10 monthly |
| Saxo | From £0.01 commission | £0 | Free | None |
Note: 80% of CFD retail accounts lose money with this provider.
Assets
| Best Stock Trading App | Forex | Stocks | Commodities | ETFs | Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| FP Markets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| AvaTrade | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Plus500* (CFDs) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Saxo | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Note: 80% of CFD retail accounts lose money with this provider.
Our Expert’s Opinion about the Best Stock Trading Apps
We share below mini reviews of the best stock trading apps in the UK. The reviews are based on our hands-on experience. Simply put, our experts tested these apps and compared them against their peers before recommending them. Therefore, rest assured of accurate reviews that will help you make the best choice.
1. eToro – Overall Best Stock Trading App in the UK
We tested eToro’s trading app and were impressed by its user-friendliness and modern interface, which are accessible on both iOS and Android devices. Navigating through the app’s menu was straightforward, facilitating efficient trade execution and exits. With over 3,000 stocks from 17 exchanges and additional securities, including forex, commodities, ETFs, and more, eToro offers a diverse range of opportunities for all types of traders.
One standout feature we like about eToro is its social and copy trading platform, which allows users to socialise and effortlessly replicate the strategies of professional traders. The app also hosts quality trading tools for market analysis. Plus, its Investment Portfolios platform encourages long-term investments with asset allocation guidance from experts. We also note that stock trading at eToro is commission-free with a minimum deposit requirement of £50 for UK traders.
eToro
✔5000+ financial instruments
✔Cost-free deposits
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- User-friendly and intuitive design for stock trading
- Low minimum deposit requirement
- Copy trading platform supported by social trading features
- Abundance of learning and market analysis materials
Cons
- Withdrawal fees apply
- No third-party platforms like the MT4/5
If there’s anything that can eat away at your profit margins, it’s unnecessary costs. Thankfully, eToro fees UK are reasonable and pocket-friendly. We acquired a new account without paying a single cent, which was quite a relief. We also noticed that you can enjoy free deposits by using USD. That said, eToro supports many other currencies, including GBP, EUR, and RMB.
You will incur conversion fees if you use any currency other than USD. And if you use any currency that eToro doesn’t support, you must pay conversion fees to your payment provider. The exact conversion fees you may incur at any moment will depend on various factors, including your preferred currency and payment method.
Please note that eToro subjects each withdrawal request to a £5 fee. The platform uses this money to pay expenses arising from international money transfers. Most importantly, you can’t withdraw less than £30 from the eToro trading platform.
While depositing money into our account, we noticed that eToro has strict minimum deposit requirements. Britons using this platform have to deposit at least £100 the first time. Afterwards, you can fund your account with as little as £10, depending on your preferred payment method.
Commission-wise, eToro is very friendly to people who trade ETFs or invest in real stocks since the broker charges 0% for these assets. On the other hand, if you buy or sell crypto on this platform, expect to pay a 1% fee. CFD trading also attracts variable spreads depending on the involved instruments. For instance, the spreads for currencies and commodities start from 1 pip and 2 pips, respectively.
Not to forget, eToro charges a £10 monthly inactivity fee that kicks in after 12 months of dormancy.
2. FP Markets – Best Stock Trading App With automated Features
We tested FP Markets and found it to be a reliable app, especially for traders who prefer automated trading. It is one of the top automated stock trading apps with straightforward account opening procedures. We got started with a minimum deposit of £100 and zero transaction charges — an element that makes us believe it is perfect for any stock trader in the UK. Note that AI trading is available on this app’s MT4 and MT5 platforms. You will enjoy autochartist and Autotrade features by Myfxbook.
When it comes to trading instruments, FP Markets lists over 10,000 global shares to trade as CFDs. The best part is that you get to trade shares on its Iress platform, known to host quality resources, including over 59 technical indicators, 50+ drawing tools, and more. We also noted low trading fees with spreads starting from 0.0 pips. Another feature to note at FP Markets is the DMA platform that enables users to connect directly with liquidity providers.
FP Markets
✔10,000+ tradeable financial instruments
✔Free deposits and withdrawals
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- Low minimum deposit requirement
- Multiple stock trading platforms, including MT4 and MT5
- Over 10,000 stock CFDs to choose from
- Quality learning and research materials offered
Cons
- The Iress trading platform has a high minimum deposit requirement of £1000
- Only CFD securities supported
Before going any further, note that the FP Markets minimum deposit is £100. You can’t fund your account with anything less than the mandated amount. Also, as a trader, expect to cover stipulated FP Markets fees and commissions. Let’s expound on that.
FP Markets has different trading and non-trading fees. However, the costs you will likely incur depend on where you are from. Take London as an example. If you’re from this city, you’ll incur a 0.10% commission per side while trading equity CFDs. You’ll also have to pay a £60 monthly fee if you use Iress Trader or ViewPoint.
But here’s the good news. You won’t incur additional costs while depositing or withdrawing money from your FP Markets trading account. Moreover, unlike many other brokers, this service provider doesn’t have inactivity fees for dormant accounts.
Please visit FP Market’s official site for a comprehensive overview of all fees and commissions.
3. AvaTrade – Beginner-Friendly Stock Trading App in the UK
We tested AvaTrade’s AvaTradeGO app and enjoyed a user-friendly interface for iOS and Android mobile devices. We find it the best stock trading app UK for beginners because of its quality learning materials and a virtually funded demo account. Plus, AvaTradeGO has an AvaSocial platform where newbies can connect with other global traders to learn tricks and tips for stock trading in the UK. Besides AvaSocial, you will enjoy the ZuluTrade and DupliTrade platforms’ copy trading features.
Stock trading at AvaTradeGO exposes you to over 1000 CFD options. These include popular company shares like Netflix, Microsoft, Google, and more. Since we prefer portfolio diversification, we also explored forex, commodities, cryptos, and more. Although the assets can only be traded as CFDs, expect to incur low share trading fees. We also like the app’s low minimum deposit requirement of £100. This allows newbies to start trading with small capital, thus avoiding risking a lot of money.
AvaTrade
✔Free deposits and withdrawals
✔Beginner-friendly user interface
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- A user-friendly and intuitive design platforms
- The app is among the most highly rated by users on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot
- Quality trading tools for new and professional traders
- Free deposits and withdrawals
- Low minimum deposit requirement of £100 for UK traders
Cons
- Limited financial instruments compared to its peers
- A high minimum deposit requirement of £2,000 to access the DupliTrade platform
Before going any further, note that there’s an AvaTrade minimum deposit requirement for UK traders. Fundamentally, this service provider requires Britons to fund their account with at least £100 while using supported payment methods like wire transfer, credit card, and e-payment. You should keep that in mind while funding your trading account.
That aside, while evaluating AvaTrade, we discovered that this broker has numerous fees and costs. For starters, it requires dormant account holders to pay a £50 inactivity fee. It kicks in after 3 successive months of dormancy, and the broker charges it after every 3 months.
Additionally, dormant AvaTrade accounts incur a £100 annual administration fee that takes effect after 12 months of inactivity. Not to forget, while trading with AvaTrade, you’ll have to cover an overnight premium whenever you keep a position open after the stipulated overnight funding time, which is 22:00 GMT.
Regarding spreads and commissions, AvaTrade is one of the most affordable brokers in the UK. With this platform, you will enjoy reasonable spreads starting from 0.13% while trading popular instruments like Tesla and Amazon shares are involved. AvaTrade doesn’t require traders to cover any commissions. The broker uses the Bid-Ask spread to compensate itself.
4. Plus500 – Commission-Free Stock Trading App as CFDs in the UK
Plus500 is one of the cheapest stock trading apps for UK traders based on our experience and broker analysis. We discovered that there are no commissions for share trading or any other asset it features. And although you will incur spreads, rest assured they are among the industry lowest from 0.0 pips. Plus500 also doesn’t charge fees for transactions. However, expect to incur a £10 monthly inactivity fee should you not log into your account for a period exceeding three months.
Another feature we like about the Plus500 app is its Professional Trading platform. It is specifically tailored for professional traders since we discovered advanced trading tools. Leverage limits are also high, up to 1:5 for stock trading. When it comes to Plus500 customer service, rest assured you are in excellent hands. The support service is entirely dedicated 24 hours a day to making sure you get the best solutions to any trading problems you may encounter. Plus500UK Ltd authorized & regulated by the FCA (#509909).
Note: 80% of CFD retail accounts lose money with this provider.
Plus500
✔User-friendly interface
✔Zero deposit and withdrawal fees
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- No commission for stock trading
- Quality learning materials and a demo account for newbies
- 24/7 customer service
- A user-friendly and intuitive design app
Cons
- You can only trade stocks as CFD
- Inactivity fee applies after three months of no activity
Brokers need to generate revenue and cover operating costs. That’s why many have fees and commissions. Sadly, high charges can undermine your profitability in the long run. That’s why looking for an affordable service provider is necessary.
With that in mind, we evaluated Plus500 fees UK. The process was easy since this broker values transparency. Our team was impressed by the fact that the trading platform doesn’t charge a dime for most services. First, opening an account is free. Deposits and withdrawals also attract zero charges. Furthermore, the broker offers free live CFD prices and dynamic charts. But note that the Plus500 minimum deposit UK is £100.
Plus500 primary source of compensation is the spread. While trading with this platform, you’ll have to cover the spread whenever you open a position. Your costs will depend on various factors, including your preferred instrument and current market conditions.
This broker also charges overnight funding and currency conversion fees. The former fee kicks in whenever you keep a position open overnight. On the other hand, you have to cover currency conversion fees whenever you interact with any currency besides your account’s base currency. Lastly, dormant Plus500 accounts attract a £10 monthly inactivity fee.
5. Saxo – Best Stock App For UK Professional Traders
Through our testing and comprehensive analysis, Saxo (SaxoTraderGO) emerged as the go-to stock trading app for professional traders. Its remarkably user-friendly platform hosts an extensive array of options, offering access to 23,500+ stocks across 50+ global markets with commissions as low as £0.01 per share. This cost-effectiveness empowers adequate portfolio diversification, which is crucial for mitigating investment risks.
The SaxoTraderGO app stands out for its dedication to third-party research resources and expert portfolio management services, enriching the trading experience. We also like that the app has no minimum deposit requirement, thus making it accessible to low-budget and active traders in the UK. On top of that, Saxo impresses with access to over 50,000 additional assets such as forex, commodities, indices, ETFs, and more. Overall, the SaxoTraderGO app has versatile trading options we found compatible with Android and iOS mobile devices.
Saxo
✔No minimum deposit requirement
✔Low commissions for all asset classes
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- Plenty of research resources
- Numerous penny stocks to explore
- A user-friendly and customisable trading platform
- Low commission
Cons
- Support service response rate can be improved
- Does not support the MetaTrader platforms
Saxo is one of the brokers in the UK with transparent fee structures. While analysing its trading and no-trading charges, we noted that the broker has no hidden charges. This makes it easier for users to plan and budget for their activities without worrying about extra charges once fully invested.
Additionally, we find Saxo affordable since it charges low commissions, starting at $1 on US stocks, ETFs, and futures. For traders interested in options and government bonds, Saxo charges low fees, starting at $0.75 and $0.05%, respectively.
When it comes to Saxo’s minimum deposit requirement, the broker has none. This means that any trader, whether new or budget-conscious, can create a trading account with the broker and start exploring the financial space. However, expect to incur a currency conversion fee, especially when you trade using a different currency from your account’s base denomination. The good news is this fee doesn’t apply to marginal collateral and can never exceed +/- 0.25%.
Financing charges for positions left overnight are also applicable at Saxo. For investors, expect to incur annual custody fees if your account holds stock, bond, or ETF/ETC positions. The exact fee will vary depending on your account. Our analysis showed that you will pay up to 0.15% for the classic account, 0.12% for the platinum account, and 0.09% for VIP accounts.
Lastly, Saxo charges fees for additional services besides those mentioned above. For instance, it imposes a $50 fee for online report requests. Plus, transactions are free, and there is no inactivity fee should your account stay idle for some time.
Stock Trading in the UK
Stock trading in the UK is legal, and any trader over 18 can engage in the activity. This activity has come a long way from traditional trading to online trading. Technological advancement has played a significant role in this evolution. Traders no longer need to visit physical locations to trade stocks. Instead, they can do so from the comfort of their homes using internet-enabled mobile or desktop devices.
There are various publicly listed stocks you can trade in the UK, including popular options like NVIDIA, Microsoft, Netflix, Google, Starbucks, and more. However, you need a credible brokerage firm with access to the exchanges listing them for efficient trading. And if you do not want to buy a company’s shares and take full ownership, brokerage firms should allow you to trade the asset as derivatives (CFDs or indices).
It is worth noting that stock trading in the UK is considered a business venture. This means that all profits earned from the activity are subject to capital gains tax. As a trader, ensure you stay abreast of tax regulations and any potential exemptions, like the annual tax-free allowance.
Remember, the stock market carries risks that, if not effectively managed, can leave you with massive losses. Therefore, have a plan, remain disciplined, and be open to learning from your losses to increase your success chances.
Read about the Analysis of Stock Market Trends in the UK in our other guide.
What is a Stock App?
A stock trading app is an online software application or tool that allows you to trade stocks using your mobile device. In most cases, these apps are offered by brokerage firms and are accessible through websites. The best app should be hosted by a broker licensed and regulated by top-tier authorities like the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Confirming regulatory status guarantees your funds and personal data safety. This is because the apps’ providers adhere to stringent regulations set by the authorities.
Stock trading apps have simplified the way users trade or invest in stocks. You do not need to stick to your trading station and manage your activities. These apps, installed on your mobile device, allow you to trade while on the move. As a result, you can easily identify potentially profitable opportunities and utilise them while they last.
How to Choose the Best Stock Trading App UK
Choosing the best stock trading app UK is crucial for maximum experience and potential. If you are new to online stock trading and investment, consider the tips below to make a suitable choice.
Security/Regulations
Fees
Platform Performance
Asset Offerings
Support Service
User Recommendations
The best stock trading app UK should be hosted by a provider licensed and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Confirming an app’s regulatory status ensures you trade in a secure environment and you do not fall victim to scammers. Plus, the app should be highly encrypted and support additional security features like two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorised access to your account.
Settle with a stock trading app you can afford to avoid spending more than you are comfortable losing. You see, the UK’s trading apps have varying fees, from minimum deposit requirements and transaction charges to spreads and commissions. Therefore, compare various apps’ fee structures and make a choice you are confident will fit your budget.
A stock trading app should be reliable. This means it should be user-friendly and easily navigable so you can easily access trading tools for an exciting experience. Moreover, consider one with a fast trade execution speed, especially if you are looking to open multiple positions within a day. The best app must also support you with quality research, learning materials, and a demo account.
Obviously, you want a stock trading app listing a variety of company stocks to choose from. With top apps like the ones we recommend above, you can trade global shares like Microsoft, Netflix, NVIDIA, Google, Meta, and more. An app with additional assets is worth committing to. With it, you can easily diversify your portfolio across multiple asset classes and mitigate the risks that come with putting up your money in a single asset.
The best app for stock trading in the UK should be backed up by a reliable and responsive support service. This will help you get quality assistance whenever you encounter trading challenges or have concerns you need clarification on. Ensure the app’s support team is available via convenient channels, whether by phone, email, or live chat. Note that trading apps’ support service availability varies. While some operate 24/7, others are only available five days a week. So, ensure you choose one that aligns with your trading schedule.
Always check user comments and ratings on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. You want to fully understand an app’s strengths and weaknesses from a user’s perspective before deciding on whether to commit.
How to Sign up for an Account with a Stock App
Starting your trading journey with stock trading apps UK can be exciting and lucrative. However, you must be strategic and have a solid plan to increase your chances of success. Start by learning the asset you want to trade. Understand what drives its price fluctuations and the best time to open a position. Then, follow the steps below to set up a trading account to kickstart your ventures.
Step 1: Download your prefered app
Step 2: Create a trading account
Step 3: Verify your account
Step 4: Fund your account
Step 5: Begin trading
Download your preferred app on your Android or iOS mobile device. If you can access its website via desktop, do so to sign up for a trading account. However, if you prefer registering your mobile device, the procedure is the same. Before proceeding, ensure you understand the app’s terms and service to ensure you never encounter any challenges once you are fully invested.
Click the “Join Now” “Sign Up” or “Register” button at your app’s website to create a trading account. For most FCA-regulated stock trading apps, you will use your personal details in this process. These include your official name, email, phone number, address, preferred currency, and more. Do not forget to set up a unique username and strong password to fully secure your trading app from unauthorised access.
Before your account is fully activated, your app’s provider must verify your identity and location. This is a standard procedure set by the FCA to ensure the online trading environment is safe from imposters. You will be required to share copies of your original ID card, passport, or driver’s license as proof of identity. To verify your location, you must share a copy of a recent utility bill or bank statement.
Deposit funds into your trading account through the app. Verify the available deposit methods and fund your account according to your initial investment plan. Apps like the ones we recommend above support multiple payment methods, thus making it easier for you to transact with what’s convenient for you.
Your app’s provider will confirm your deposit and redirect you to its listed securities to trade. Ensure you decide how you want to explore the assets, whether by buying and taking full ownership or trading them as CFDs or indices. Then, select your trade size and apply risk management controls like stop-loss or take profit orders before opening a position.
For beginners, consider starting with a demo offered by the app. This allows you to trade with virtual funds, test strategies, and familiarise yourself with the app’s functions without risking real money. Once comfortable, transition to live trading using your funded account. Execute trades based on your analysis and strategies. Constantly monitor your portfolio and make adjustments as necessary.
Conclusion
Trading can be challenging, especially if you do not have the means to monitor your activities once you open a position. With the best stock trading apps in the UK above, you can easily track your open positions and make quick moves before its too late.
Note that these apps have been tested and approved by our professionals. They are also licensed and regulated by multiple tier-one authorities, thus guaranteeing your safety. All you have to do is follow our guidelines above to make a suitable choice. Plus, choose a familiar trading security and be disciplined if you want to increase your chances of succeeding and becoming independent in the financial space.
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