Top Spread Betting Brokers for 2024

We found 11 online brokers that are appropriate for Trading Spread Betting.

Best Spread Betting Brokers Guide

Analysis by Andrew Blumer, Updated Last updated - March 17, 2024

Best Spread Betting Brokers

Choosing the right spread betting broker is paramount, not just for maximizing your potential returns but for ensuring a smooth and secure trading experience. Now, having been in the financial trading game for a couple of decades, I've seen the landscape evolve tremendously. When you're looking to get started with spread betting, there are a few key factors you should consider.

Firstly, you want to look at the platform's reliability and user interface. You need a platform that's intuitive, easy to navigate, and, most importantly, stable. There's nothing more frustrating than a platform that crashes or lags during peak trading hours. I've been through the wringer with platforms that looked good on paper but couldn't handle the heat of the market.

Second, consider the spread and fees. Every broker has a different structure, and it's crucial to understand how these can eat into your profits. Look for competitive spreads, but be wary of rates that seem too good to be true. Sometimes, low spreads come at the cost of less reliable execution or hidden fees elsewhere.

Third, delve into the range of markets and instruments available. A good broker should offer a broad spectrum, giving you the flexibility to spread your bets across various sectors. Whether you're interested in indices, stocks, commodities, or forex, having a wide array of options is essential for diversifying your portfolio.

Fourth, check out the educational resources and support the broker offers. Especially if you're just starting, having access to high-quality educational material can make a significant difference in your trading journey. Additionally, a broker with responsive and knowledgeable customer support is invaluable. There will be times when you'll need assistance, and having a competent team at your disposal can save you a lot of headaches.

Lastly, don't overlook regulation and security. Ensure that the broker is regulated by a reputable authority. This provides a layer of protection and ensures that the broker adheres to specific standards and practices.

Over the years, I've had my fair share of experiences with different brokers. Some have been fantastic, offering seamless trading experiences, while others have been learning lessons. It's worth taking the time to research and even test out platforms through demo accounts before committing your capital. Remember, in spread betting, the broker is more than just a platform; it's your gateway to the markets, so choose wisely.

Top Spread Betting Brokers

IC Markets

IC Markets Screenshot

IC Markets is a favorite amongst experienced spread betting traders who value tight spreads (0.0 pip raw spread), Institutional Grade level fast execution (40ms estimated), reduced order slippage, good liquidity, over 29 billion USD in Forex trades processed daily. Not many other brokers are at that level. They provide access to a wide range of assets, including forex CFD, inices CFD, commodities CFD, Stock and shares CFD, Futures CFD and cryptocurrency.. Ideal for spread bettors and day traders who rely on quick order execution. IC Markets offer low latency collated VPS machines for serious traders who want faster order speeds. IC Markets order matching engine processed over 500,000 trades per day on average, (60% from automated systems). Regulated by ASIC (Australia) and CySEC (Cyprus), offering a strong regulatory environment.

RoboForex

Roboforex Screenshot

RoboForex is the go-to for spread betting traders who demand very tight spreads (from 0 points), micro trading accounts with 0.01 lot size, a robust MT4, MT5, web trading, desktop and mobile trading setup across devices. RoboForex is aimed at experienced traders who may require custom spread betting setups like EA script use, higher leverage on spread bets (higher risk of loss) and fast spread bet market execution. If you're into a variety of leveraged instruments like stocks, ETFs, metals, energies, futures, indices, currencies, and commodities. The platform's user-friendly nature and speedy spread betting execution make it a solid choice for those looking to act on their market insights quickly.

eToro

eToro Screenshot

eToro is a well established trading platform that does offer spread betting trading. eToro is a unique platform that combines social trading with traditional brokerage services. It's great for traders who want to follow and copy the trades of successful spread betting investors (CopyTrading). You can look at a eToro traders portfolio and see past spread betting results gains and losses. eToro has over 30 million users, which is far more than most brokers in Europe. Perfect for traders who appreciate a user-friendly interface and community-driven trading insights. Regulated by CySEC and the FCA (UK), ensuring a high level of safety for European traders.

XTB

XTB Screenshot

XTB is a top choice for traders not just spread betting traders seeking in-depth market analysis, research tools and superior execution speeds on web, desktop and XTB trading mobile app. XTB are one of the largest CFD brokers anywhere in the world. XTB offer a comprehensive education section for traders of all levels. Best suited for traders who value thorough market analysis and want to improve their trading skills. XTB also offer upto 4.9% interest on live trading accounts that comply and were available. Regulated by the FCA 522157, CySEC 169/12, FSCA, XTB AFRICA (PTY) LTD licensed to operate in South Africa, DFSA, DIFC, CNMV, KNF, and the IFSC, ensuring a safe trading environment in Europe and other supported countries.

XM

XM Screenshot

XM is an award winning spread betting broker for traders looking for a well-rounded platform with feature rich mobile trading apps, access to webinars, video tutorials and Forex trading signals and XM live help. AM provide a range of account types and various trading instruments like Forex Trading, Stocks, Commodities, Equity Indices, Precious Metals, Energies, Shares. Ideal for traders who want to have access to reliable customer support and a wide range of assets. Regulated by ASIC, CySEC, and the IFSC, offering a high degree of regulatory oversight.

Pepperstone

Pepperstone Screenshot

Pepperstone is an excellent broker for spread betting traders looking for a well-rounded platform with a focus on fast order execution (99% fill rate on average), no dealing desk slowing orders and good Pepperstone customer support. They provide a range of account types and various trading instruments. Ideal for traders who want to have access to reliable customer support and a wide range of assets including major, minor and exotic currency pairs, . Regulated by the UK's FCA, ASIC, CySEC, BaFin, Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), CMA, which means Pepperstone is well regulated. Pepperstone offer access to spread betting trading through TradingView, MT5, MT4 and cTrader.

AvaTrade

AvaTrade Screenshot

AvaTrade, which has been around since 2006, stands out in the world of online trading, particularly for those looking to dive into CFDs and spread betting. They've made a name for themselves by eliminating commission fees on spread betting across a variety of markets, including Forex, US stocks, UK stocks, indices, cryptocurrency, ETFs, bonds and commodities. What's really appealing is the flexibility they offer with leverage and the option to short-sell across all their available markets. Avatrade fees are reasonable and they have a good selection of withdrawal options including Credit cards, PayPal, Neteller and more. Regulated by ASIC (406684), FSA, FSCA, FSB, JAPAN FSA, FFAJ, ADGM, FRSA, KNF, ISA, BVI (SIBA/L/13/1049), Central Bank of Ireland, offering a high degree of regulatory oversight. AvaTrade offer access to spread betting through web trading, AvaTradeGo mobile app, MT4 and MT5.

Spread Betting Brokers Explained

Spread betting brokers are companies that provide a platform for a unique type of financial trading. In spread betting, instead of buying or selling actual stocks or commodities, you bet on whether you think their price will go up or down.

The broker sets a 'spread' for each item, which is a range of values. Your bet involves predicting whether the price will be higher or lower than this spread. It's like a mix of investing and gambling, and it's tax-free in some regions.

This form of trading can be risky, so it's mostly used by experienced traders. Most spread betting brokers will also offer a free initial training session or demo account in which you can learn about the various strategies and methods used to generate profits.

However, do not rely solely on the free information these spread betting brokers offer. Instead, spend some time reviewing the books and information provided, becoming familiar with the software used by the broker, and consulting other traders to understand market trends better.

What Is Spread Betting?

Spread betting is a form of speculation that allows you to bet on the price movement of a wide range of financial markets, including stocks, indices, commodities, and currencies. Unlike traditional investing, where you buy and own the asset, spread betting involves betting on whether you think a financial instrument's price will rise or fall.

It is all about speculating based on the price of a market or financial product without owning it. How much you gain or lose is based on whether the underlying asset decreases or increases.

Think of it as speculating on a major financial instrument and predicting it will increase by a certain amount within a specific timeframe. You then open a position (spread betting) on that asset, and when it increases, congratulations. But when the price goes down, you can start counting your losses.

You do not only make money when the price increases. It is also possible that the price will decrease; when that happens, you make profits. If the price decides to go the other way, your losses will be staring you in the face.

Origins of Spread Betting

The origins of spread betting are indeed rooted in a concept similar to sports betting. Charles K. McNeil, a math teacher turned securities analyst and bookmaker in 1940s Chicago, is often credited with creating the basic idea of spread betting. McNeil applied his mathematical skills to set up spreads on sports events, allowing bettors to wager on the outcome relative to his set point spread.

However, it was not until the 1970s that this concept found its way into the financial industry. Across the Atlantic, in the City of London, Stuart Wheeler, an investment banker, recognized the potential of applying the spread betting model to financial markets.

In 1974, Wheeler founded IG Index, specifically offering spread betting on gold prices. At that time, investing in gold was largely inaccessible for the average person due to the high costs and complexity involved. Spread betting on gold presented a more approachable alternative, allowing individuals to speculate on gold prices without the need to physically purchase the commodity.

This innovation by Wheeler was a significant pivot, transforming spread betting from a form of sports betting into a financial tool. It opened up new opportunities for retail investors to engage with and speculate on financial markets, laying the groundwork for the spread betting industry as we know it today.

How Does Spread Betting Work?

In spread betting, the broker provides two prices for a financial instrument: the bid (sell) price and the ask (buy) price. The difference between these two prices is known as the 'spread'. If you think the price of the instrument will rise, you 'buy' at the ask price. If you think it will fall, you 'sell' at the bid price.

Spread betting is a leveraged product, which means you can place a bet while only putting up a fraction of the full value of the position. While this can magnify profits, it also increases the potential for losses, which can exceed your initial deposit.

As someone who's been in the trading world for a good while, I need to lay it out straight for you. When we talk about spread betting, it's like walking a tightrope. You're speculating on whether the market will swing one way or the other. Get it right, and you stand to make a decent sum, with your gains multiplying for each point the market moves as you called it. But! and this is a big but, if the market turns against you, your spread betting losses stack up just as fast, point by painful point.

Spread betting has its allure, especially for folks looking to make a quick play on market trends without actually holding the assets. Some even use it to try and balance out their portfolio, hoping to cushion any blows from other investments going south. But make no mistake, it's a risky business, and not something to dive into without understanding the full weight of what those risks entail.

Spread Betting Example

As a seasoned trader with decades of experience under my belt, I've navigated the choppy waters of various markets, honing strategies that balance risk with reward. Today, I'd like to demystify the concept of spread betting through a practical example, leveraging a $10,000 stake to illustrate.

Spread betting, for those unfamiliar, is a derivative strategy, allowing traders to speculate on the price movement of an asset without owning the underlying security. It's the precision of prediction and the leverage that make it a double-edged sword; rewarding when right, punitive when wrong.

Let's dive into a hypothetical scenario using our $10,000. Imagine we're eyeing the S&P 500, currently standing at 3300 points. In spread betting, we deal in points, and the broker provides a bid (sell price) and an ask (buy price) with a slight spread between them. For simplicity, let's say the bid is 3299 and the ask is 3301.

Optimistic about the market's trajectory, we decide to 'buy' at the ask price of 3301, wagering $100 per point. Here's where the $10,000 comes into play – it serves as our margin, a security deposit of sorts, enabling us to open a leveraged position much larger than our initial stake.

Fast forward a week, and let's suppose the S&P 500 climbs to 3351. Our prediction was spot-on, and it's time to cash in. We 'sell' our position at the new bid price, ideally around 3350, netting us a 50-point gain. At $100 per point, that's a tidy $5,000 profit, a 50% return on our initial $10,000 in just a week – a testament to the power of leverage in spread betting.

However, it's crucial to acknowledge the flip side. Had the market moved against us, dropping 50 points instead, we'd be facing a $5,000 loss, eroding half of our stake. This potential for significant losses underscores the importance of risk management strategies, such as stop-loss orders, to protect against adverse market movements.

In this example, spread betting allowed us to capitalize on market movements with a relatively small initial investment, magnifying both potential gains and losses. It's a strategy that demands respect for market volatility and an unwavering discipline in risk management. For veterans and novices alike, it's a powerful tool when wielded with wisdom and caution.

Forex Spread Betting vs. Financial Spread Betting

Aspect Forex Spread Betting Financial Spread Betting
Market Focus Exclusively on currency pairs in the Forex market. Broader, including stocks, indices, commodities, and more alongside currencies.
Instruments Currency pairs (e.g., EUR/USD, GBP/USD). Various financial instruments such as shares, bonds, indices, commodities, and currency pairs.
Risk Level High due to the leverage and volatility of the Forex market. Varies by market and instrument but generally high due to leverage.
Leverage Typically high, allowing for significant exposure with a small capital outlay. Can be high, similar to Forex, but varies depending on the instrument and broker.
Regulatory Considerations Subject to financial regulations specific to derivatives and betting in various jurisdictions. Also regulated, but the range of instruments may subject it to additional or different regulations.
Tax Treatment Often tax-free in jurisdictions where betting gains are not taxed, but this can vary. Similar tax treatment to Forex spread betting, but specific instruments may have different implications.
Suitability Traders looking to speculate on currency movements without taking physical ownership of currencies. Traders seeking to speculate on a wider range of financial markets without taking physical ownership of the underlying asset.

Here is the overview of the key differences between Forex spread betting and financial spread betting.

Forex spread betting and financial spread betting are similar in many ways, but they do have key differences. Forex spread betting is specifically focused on the currency markets, where you're betting on the movement of currency pairs like EUR/USD or GBP/USD. Financial spread betting, on the other hand, covers a much broader range of markets, including stocks, indices, commodities, and bonds, in addition to currencies.

Another difference lies in the level of market specialization. Forex spread betting requires an understanding of the factors that influence currency movements, such as economic indicators, political events, and central bank decisions. Financial spread betting, while it also requires understanding market drivers, demands knowledge across a wider range of markets and sectors.

Liquidity and trading hours vary as well. The forex market is incredibly liquid and is open 24 hours a day during weekdays, providing more opportunities for forex spread betting. Financial spread betting markets, while also offering substantial liquidity, have more varied trading hours depending on the market and region.

Volatility is another differing factor. Currency markets can be very volatile, particularly around major economic announcements, which can lead to significant price movements. While financial markets also experience volatility, it can be more diversified across the different assets.

Finally, the strategies used can differ. Forex spread bettors often rely on strategies based on currency market analysis and global economic trends, whereas financial spread bettors might employ a wider range of strategies, including those based on company performance, industry trends, or geopolitical events.

What Is Margin When Spread Betting?

Spread betting is where you can place speculative bets on how the price of a financial instrument will move up or down. You are not buying or selling underlying financial assets when spread betting, your spread bet speculation is with your broker.

It allows you to place trades that will only pay off if the market moves in your favour. Start by educating yourself about the leveraged derivative products to best use your spread betting account. Spread betting operates very similarly to leveraged derivatives, where you are trading large amounts of money and only paying small margins for the trades.

Spread betting utilises leverage; therefore, you do not own any commodity or stock when spread betting. Instead, your initial deposit represents the amount you invested in your spread betting account. The more money that you are willing to lose, the larger your initial deposit.

With this said, it is important to remember that you will have to face some losses along the way. You are simply using leverage; therefore, your losses will decrease as you increase your leverage.

Generally, a margin requirement is an amount a broker is willing to allow you to borrow funds. You can find spread betting margin terms listed in the brokerage contract. There are diverse types of spreads; however, cash and equity spread betting are the most commonly used.

If you are interested in a particular type of spread, you must study your broker's requirements to meet their margin requirements. Diverse types of spreads require varying margins.

How Spread Betting Companies UK Earn Their Revenue

Spread betting has become a lucrative business for spread betting brokers, with many companies offering spread betting services. Being a service with unique benefits for traders in terms of lucrativeness, spread betting brokerages also have a handful of sources through which they earn their revenue.

Always Check The Spread

The most direct way UK spread betting brokers earn revenue is by considering a spread to the odds they quote to customers. If a spread betting broker quotes a market at 99-102, the 3 points in between make for the profit portion directly to the spread bet broker, with no additional transaction fees and commissions. That enables traders to compare the rate they are paying their broker to be able to trade on their offered platform.

Spread Betting Interest

Another way brokers earn their interest is by banking on the interest on trader deposits. The best spread betting brokers do not have to pay interest on customer funds and, resultantly, gain a lot of interest. When customer accounts bear significant interest levels, the increasing deposits can often grow into millions for brokers. Producing significant revenue from client interest payments.

Spread betting forex brokers have devised various strategies for earning revenue from their customers, some indirectly and some directly. All this revenue, when amassed, makes spread betting a profitable industry and a valuable market in which an infinite number of new companies attempt to break through.

Spread Betting Broker Alternate Positions

Another way spread betting firms earn money is by taking market positions in contrast to specific trades, including potential client trades.

Benefits Of Spread Betting Trading

One of the main benefits of spread betting is that investors can trade with leverage, trading at greater exposure than their deposited amount. Leverage in this context refers to the extra money an investor has access to when they execute a trade.

In most cases, this means that the trader will make more profits per share by using smaller amounts of money than they would if they were investing in the traditional share market. Using leverage, you can also decrease your risk of investing in shares on wild swings in the market. For example, if you find that a particular stock is experiencing a great rise, you can cut your exposure by trading the short price of the share.

Spread betting can best be used as part of a diversified portfolio, meaning an investor will gain a sizable number of returns from one or a few different investments. Unlike traditional investing, one or two specific investments are likely to provide the best binary options returns. Because of this, investors can use spreads to diversify their portfolios and lower their risk without reducing returns.

Modern Spread Betting Trading Platforms

Some of the best spread betting brokers in the industry are those who understand MT4, MT5 and cTrader trading tools and the financial markets better than most of the experts and experienced traders in the financial market. They can easily guide traders to take a risk, inform you perfectly about the major market moves and help spread betting tax.

How To Choose A Spread Betting Broker

The million-dollar question would arise, how to choose the best spread betting broker for you?

The first thing to note while selecting from the list of spread betting companies is to check whether your spread betting broker has regulated with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or another tier 1 financial regulatory authority. Regulation means your investment has a level of protection.

Choosing a spread betting broker requires careful consideration. It is very important to ensure the broker is fully regulated by relevant financial authorities, ensuring your funds' safety and fair trading practices.

Look for competitive spreads and low fees, as these directly impact your potential profits. The range of markets offered is crucial; a good broker should provide a wide array of options, including forex, stocks, and commodities.

Evaluate the trading platform for ease of use, reliability, and the availability of necessary tools and resources. Consider customer support quality, as prompt and knowledgeable assistance can be vital.

Lastly, check for educational resources and risk management tools, which are essential for informed trading, especially for beginners.

What Do Spread Betting Trading Platforms Looks Like?

The user interface and look of your spread betting broker will differ depending on wether they use the MT4, MT5, cTrader, NinjaTrader or bespoke trading platform software.

Below is an example screenshot of a spread betting trading platform.

Is Your Money Safe With Spread Betting?

The best Forex spread betting brokers will take extreme care to ensure your money is safe. Regulation protects clients' funds from the broker becoming insolvent. Spread-betting brokers must try to make trading safe for clients and dealers. Take note here that.

Top spread betting brokers will always act quickly and work with you to resolve any issues.

Spread Betting Brokers Regulation

While choosing the spread betting brokers, checking for the proper regulations is suggested. Check for strict local regulation or regulation in a major EU economy like the UK or Germany. The Financial Conduct Authority regulates spread betting brokers to protect clients' funds in the United Kingdom.

Regulated spread betting brokers must separate clients' funds from their own. Financial regulation prevents the spread of betting brokers from withdrawing traders' money or using it for the firm's operational expenses.

Spread betting brokers in the UK cannot offer traders financial advice. They can only advise on a suitable spread bet. So, they cannot recommend when to liquidate or reap a profit.

If spread betting brokers offer financial advice, they do not follow FCA guidelines.

How Are Spread Betting And CFDs Different?

Feature Spread Betting CFD Trading
Taxation No capital gains tax in the UK* Subject to capital gains tax
Market Access Forex, indices, shares, commodities, and more Forex, indices, shares, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and more
Profit and Loss Calculation Profit or loss determined by the extent to which the asset's price changes from the opening position, multiplied by the stake per point Profit or loss calculated based on the difference between the opening and closing prices of the position, multiplied by the number of CFD units
Trading on Margin Available, allows for high leverage Available, allows for high leverage but with different margin requirements
Ownership of Underlying Asset No ownership of the underlying asset No ownership of the underlying asset
Regulation Regulated by financial authorities, specific to regions where spread betting is permitted Regulated globally by financial authorities, availability and regulation may vary by region
Use Case Popular in the UK and Ireland, primarily for speculation and hedging Widely used globally for speculation, hedging, and investment purposes
Risks High risk due to leverage, potential for significant losses High risk due to leverage, potential for significant losses, plus counterparty risk
Suitability Suitable for short-term speculation in markets, particularly for those looking to benefit from tax advantages in certain jurisdictions Suitable for a wide range of trading strategies, including long-term investments and hedging, with a broader selection of markets
Platform Availability Offered by specific brokers, mainly in regions where it is regulated Widely available through various brokers globally

How Spread Betting Vs CFD Compare

let's break down CFDs and spread betting, shall we? Both let you play the market without actually owning the stuff you're betting on. But, they've got their own quirks.

First up, taxes. Spread betting's often seen like a punt at the races, meaning no capital gains tax or stamp duty in many places. Handy, right? CFDs, though, they'll hit you with capital gains tax. But tax rules are a maze, always changing, so double-check with a local qualified tax pro.

Now, how you trade them. Spread betting's straightforward: you bet a set amount for every point the asset moves. CFDs? You're dealing in contracts that mirror the asset's price moves, paying based on the number of contracts you've got.

CFDs give you the nitty-gritty market prices, great for the serious traders wanting to hedge or who crave that transparency. Spread betting's more casual, tax-free, and you're just betting on point moves.

Both let you use leverage, which is like turbo-charging your trade with borrowed money. But watch out, leverage amplifies wins and losses. And remember, the costs, margins, and fees can differ big time between CFDs and spread betting.

Lastly, what you can trade varies too. Some brokers might offer a wider range for one over the other. So, think about what you're into, how you like to trade, and those pesky tax implications.

The Importance Of Tight Spreads In Spread Betting

The spread in spread betting is merely the contrast between an asset's buying and selling price. If a financial instrument's buying price is 134.6 while the selling price is 135.4, the 0.8 difference in the prices is known as the spread.

To profit while spread betting, the underlying amount must exceed the spread amount. The stock prices should move by a minimum of the same spread points for the trader to make a profit.

For example, to profit from a two-point spread, the asset point must move by at least two points when the trader closes their position.

Tight spreads are crucial during such small price and value movements. They help make profits from minute movements in the prices and values of an asset.

Avoiding Currency Risk When Liquidating

It is important for there to be no currency risk during a trader's positions when they are spread betting with securities dominated by foreign currencies. When the value of the USD goes up or down, the loss or profit obtained from that spread must seize the percentage loss or profit on the primary currency pair. It should also be in that percentage in US dollars.

For example, if a trader based in the US happens to speculate a £1 movement on a particular UK asset worth £10 for every share and they place a 0.05 USD per £1. If the securities market goes up to £15 during the closing, the profit must be 50% despite the exchange rate between pound and dollars.

Day Trading Through Spread Betting

Below are some guidelines to follow to benefit from day trading through spread betting:

Keep Following The Trends

You must follow the market trend for this strategy and then learn when to exit. For example, a chart going downwards will continue going down. This movement tends to last for some time before shifting again. At that moment, you can sell your assets.

Irregular-appearing charts, such as zig-zag-shaped ones, are tricky to predict, so you should wait until the chart becomes regular before going anything. Sticking closer to liquid assets like the major indices and FX pairs is the best way to profit.

Risk Management Via Limits And Stops

Spread betting calls for understanding what exactly good price movements are to create benchmarks determining when to enter or get out. Establish an amount you can afford to lose for every trade you conduct. Stick with your established limits and utilise stops to cut losing positions.

Opening Diverse Positions

Successful traders take their time to analyse and sample various trends and charts. Research help in determining some of the trends that exist during trading. It also offers a set of diverse open positions to work with, e.g., commodities, stocks, FX, and indices.

After you find good open positions to work with, finding out what transpires regarding losses and profits will become simpler. After that, you can learn when to close positions since that is the most crucial step. You can profit greatly by determining when to close the right position at the right time.

Does Spread Betting Count As Gambling

Whether spread betting counts as gambling or not is, to some extent, subjective. The trader risks money to gain money in spread betting. Even though the profits obtained via spread betting may be considered gambling winnings that are free of tax, the spread betting industry must adhere to rules set by regulators like the FCA, not the Gambling Commission.

Some argue that spread betting is a form of gambling because it involves placing bets on the direction of market prices without owning the underlying asset. The outcome is uncertain and based on speculation, much like gambling. However, it's also recognized as a financial strategy and is regulated as such in many jurisdictions.

The Financial Stability Of Spread Betting Brokers

A trader's spread betting broker must be financially sound. Before you create an account, be sure to do some thorough research into the company since there have been examples of spread betting firms becoming insolvent, with traders struggling to get their money back.

A straightforward way to keep track of a company's financial status is to choose brokers that have traded on the LSE (or the London Stock Exchange). Public companies are required to yield financial reports frequently. A company's market capitalisation and share price also help determine whether a company is going bankrupt.

If a broker is not on the Stock Exchange, check their accounts on government agencies like Companies House. If you are trading via a white label, you must check the balance sheet you are using, i.e., the underlying provider or the brand.

Also, ensure that your broker is regulated by the FCA and backed by the FSCS.

What You Should Consider Before Choosing A Spread Betting Broker

Trust

Not all brokers are to be trusted. Before placing any bet with any broker, ensure they are trustworthy. Do your due diligence to ensure the broker has no client trust issues. Regulation is extremely important because you do not lose large sums when trading.

Experience

Has the broker been operating for a while? Are they particularly experienced in the market on which you intend to speculate? It would be best to find answers to these and so many questions before placing a spread bet on live financial markets.

Spread Betting Costs

One way to influence your profits is by ensuring you do not pay prohibitive transaction costs. You need to know how much the broker may be charging a commission. You can start by considering the spread (the difference between bid & ask prices). Brokers normally charge when you place a bet and when you are closing a bet. The lowest spread brokers will help you in your quest for success.

Customer Service

Working with a spread betting broker with a bad customer service reputation is similar to shooting yourself in the foot. You may need to contact your broker anytime during the day, so you must choose a broker that can deliver remarkably in this regard.

Tradable Assets

Find the number of markets the spread betting broker you intend to trade with offers. Find out if they offer both Forex and financial spread betting.

Spread Betting Regulation

Do not sign up with any spread betting broker that is not regulated. Doing that will be at your peril. Regulated spread betting brokers are the best choice over unregulated brokers. A spread betting broker's financial history should not be questionable as well.

Markets For Spread Betting

Comparing the UK financial spread betting brokers is crucial because some provide different markets. You might discover that your market choice is quite limited with some spread betting brokers. Although you will likely stick to a handful of markets, i.e., stocks, Forex, commodities, and indices. Those core markets will be the ones you can easily understand.

Nevertheless, it is always a better idea to have the extra option to broaden your horizons than to be restricted to a select number of markets. Hence, comparing the range and limits of choice on offer is important.

Is Spread Betting Worth It?

First of all, much like any other type of trading, UK spread betting has risks to a trader's funds. Only traders interested in spread betting can decide whether it is for them.

If you are considering spread betting, you can make substantial returns within a brief time, although the all-or-none characteristic of the trading style also means you could lose a lot of capital.

Many traders try to avoid this account type because it tends towards being risky and speculative. That is also usually why traders gravitate towards brokers who offer lower spreads.

Trading Multiple Accounts

Trading multiple retail investor accounts let you benefit from different spread betting brokerages and trading platforms. Managing multiple accounts can take some trial and error.

When traders trade multiple accounts, the managerial burden of dealing with the logistics can become significant, with a greater focus on records and monitoring open trading positions. Likewise, in spread betting platforms, the risk and avoiding general over-leveraging. 

Traders need to track all of their trades. They must also keep them all on rotation regularly to ensure they are on top of their portfolio. Although this requires significant effort, the benefits are substantial, allowing the trader to choose the best parts every spread betting broker offers.

Spread Betting Taxes

The tax treatment of spread betting varies depending on the country. In the UK, for example, spread betting is considered a form of gambling and is, therefore, exempt from both capital gains tax and stamp duty. This makes it an attractive option for traders looking to capitalize on market movements without the tax implications associated with traditional stock trading.

However, it's important to note that tax laws can change and differ in other countries. In some jurisdictions, profits from spread betting may be taxable. As always, it's advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific tax implications of spread betting in your country. Speak to a tax advisor regarding your spread betting tax position.

Spread Betting Brokers Verdict

Opinions on spread betting brokers vary widely. Advocates argue that they offer a cost-effective way to trade on financial markets without owning the underlying asset, with benefits like tax-free profits in some regions and the ability to bet on both rising and falling markets.

The leverage available can also magnify gains. However, critics point out that this same leverage can amplify losses, potentially exceeding initial investments. They also highlight the risks inherent in what is essentially a form of gambling on market movements.

This risk, combined with the complex nature of spread betting, makes it unsuitable for inexperienced traders. Hence, while some view spread betting brokers as a gateway to flexible and tax-efficient trading, others caution against the high risks and potential for significant financial loss.

We have conducted extensive research and analysis on over multiple data points on Spread Betting Brokers to present you with a comprehensive guide that can help you find the most suitable Spread Betting Brokers. Below we shortlist what we think are the best spread betting brokers after careful consideration and evaluation. We hope this list will assist you in making an informed decision when researching Spread Betting Brokers.

Reputable Spread Betting Brokers Checklist

Selecting a reliable and reputable online Spread Betting trading brokerage involves assessing their track record, regulatory status, customer support, processing times, international presence, and language capabilities. Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and trade Spread Betting more confidently.

Selecting the right online Spread Betting trading brokerage requires careful consideration of several critical factors. Here are some essential points to keep in mind:

Our team have listed brokers that match your criteria for you below. All brokerage data has been summarised into a comparison table. Scroll down.

Compare Key Features of Spread Betting Brokers in Our Brokerage Comparison Table

When choosing a broker for spread betting trading, it's essential to compare the different options available to you. Our spread betting brokerage comparison table below allows you to compare several important features side by side, making it easier to make an informed choice.

By comparing these essential features, you can choose a spread betting broker that best suits your needs and preferences for spread betting. Our spread betting broker comparison table simplifies the process, allowing you to make a more informed decision.

Top 15 Spread Betting Brokers of 2024 compared

Here are the top Spread Betting Brokers.

Compare spread betting brokers for min deposits, funding, used by, benefits, account types, platforms, and support levels. When searching for a spread betting broker, it's crucial to compare several factors to choose the right one for your spread betting needs. Our comparison tool allows you to compare the essential features side by side.

All brokers below are spread betting brokers. Learn more about what they offer below.

You can scroll left and right on the comparison table below to see more spread betting brokers that accept spread betting clients.

Broker IC Markets Roboforex Pepperstone AvaTrade SpreadEx FXPro ThinkMarkets IG binance ETX Capital Core Spreads
Rating
Regulation Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Financial Services Authority (FSA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) RoboForex Ltd is regulated by the FSC, license 000138/437, reg. number 128.572. RoboForex Ltd, which is an (A category) member of The Financial Commission, also is a participant of its Compensation Fund Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Capital Markets Authority of Kenya (CMA), Pepperstone Markets Limited is incorporated in The Bahamas (number 177174 B), Licensed by the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB) number SIA-F217 Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), ASIC (406684), Financial Services Authority (FSA), South African Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), Financial Stability Board (FSB), The Financial Services Agency (JAPAN FSA), Financial Futures Association of Japan (FFAJ), Abu Dhabi Global Markets (ADGM), Financial Regulatory Services Authority (FRSA), Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), Israel Securities Association (ISA), British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVI), BVI (SIBA/L/13/1049), Central Bank of Ireland Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB) Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), Financial Services Authority Seychelles (FSA), TF Global Markets (UK) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 629628, TF Global Markets (AUST) Limited is the holder of Australian Financial Services License number 424700, TF Global Markets (South Africa)(Pty) Ltd is an Authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP No 49835),TF Global Markets Int Limited Is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority Firm Reference Number SD060, The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySec) Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Unregulated Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
Min Deposit 200 10 200 100 1 100 No minimum deposit No minimum deposit 100 100 1
Funding
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
  • Bank transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Paypal
Used By 180,000+ 1,000,000+ 400,000+ 300,000+ 10,000+ 1,866,000+ 500,000+ 239,000+ 10,000+ 10,000+ 10,000+
Benefits
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Low min deposit
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Offers STP
  • Low min deposit
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Offers STP
  • Low min deposit
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Low min deposit
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Low min deposit
  • Guaranteed stop loss
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Low min deposit
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Low min deposit
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Allows scalping
  • Allows hedging
  • Offers STP
  • Low min deposit
  • Guaranteed stop loss
  • Offers Negative Balance Protection
  • Low min deposit
  • Allows hedging
  • Low min deposit
  • Guaranteed stop loss
  • Allows scalping
  • Low min deposit
  • Guaranteed stop loss
Accounts
  • Demo account
  • Mini account
  • Standard account
  • Zero spread account
  • Raw Spread account
  • Islamic account
  • Demo account
  • Micro account
  • Mini account
  • Standard account
  • Zero spread account
  • ECN account
  • Islamic account
  • Demo account
  • Standard account
  • Zero spread account
  • ECN account
  • Islamic account
  • Demo account
  • Micro account
  • Mini account
  • Standard account
  • Managed account
  • Islamic account
  • Demo account
  • Standard account
  • Demo account
  • Mini account
  • Islamic account
  • Demo account
  • Standard account
  • Islamic account
  • Demo account
  • Mini account
  • Standard account
  • Standard account
  • Managed account
  • Demo account
  • Micro account
  • Mini account
  • Standard account
  • Demo account
  • Micro account
  • Standard account
Platforms MT4, MT5, Mirror Trader, Web Trader, cTrader, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android MT4, MT5, Mac, Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade, myFXbook, Mac, Web Trader, cTrader, Tablet & Mobile apps Web Trader, MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGo, AvaOptions, DupliTrade, ZuluTrade, Mobile Apps, ZuluTrade, DupliTrade, MQL5 Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps MT4, MT5, cTrader, Tablet & Mobile apps ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5, Mac, Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps MT4, Mac, Web Trader, L2 Dealer, Tablet & Mobile apps Desktop,Android,iPhone/iPad,Mac MT4, Mac, Mirror Trader, Binary, Tablet & Mobile apps MT4, Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps
Support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
  • Live chat
  • Phone support
  • Email support
Learn More Sign Up with
icmarkets
Sign Up with
roboforex
Sign Up with
pepperstone
Sign Up with
avatrade
Sign Up with
spreadex
Sign Up with
fxpro
Sign Up with
thinkmarkets
Sign Up with
ig
Sign Up with
binance
Sign Up with
etxcapital
Sign Up with
corespreads
Risk Warning Losses can exceed deposits Losses can exceed deposits 74-89 % of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs 71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider Losses can exceed deposits 75.78% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs and Spread Betting with this provider CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 71.89% 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 Spread bets and 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 spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Your capital is at risk Losses can exceed deposits Losses can exceed deposits
Demo IC Markets
Demo
Roboforex
Demo
Pepperstone
Demo
AvaTrade
Demo
SpreadEx
Demo
FxPro
Demo
ThinkMarkets
Demo
IG
Demo
Binance
Demo
ETX Capital
Demo
Core Spreads
Demo
Excluded Countries US, IR, CA, NZ, JP AU, BE, BQ, BR, CA, CW, CZ, DE, ES, EE, EU, FM, FR, FI, GW, ID, IR, JP, LR, MP, NL, PF, PL, RU, SE, SJ, SS, SL, SI, TL, TR, DO, US, IT, AT, PT, BG, HR, CY, DK, FL, GR, IE, LV, LT, MT, RO, SK, CH AF, AS, AQ, AR, AM, AZ, BY, BE, BZ, BT, BA, BI, CM, CA, CF, TD, CG, CI, ER, GF, PF, GP, GU, GN, GW, GY, HT, VA, IR, IQ, JP, KZ, LB, LR, LY, ML, MQ, YT, MZ, MM, NZ, NI, KP, PS, PR, RE, KN, LC, VC, WS, SO, GS, KR, SS, SD, SR, SY, TJ, TN, TM, TC, US, UY, VU, VG, EH, ES, YE, ZW, ET BE, BR, KP, NZ, TR, US, CA, SG US, TR US, CA, IR RU, AF, Yugoslavia, AO, GM, NG, AW, GH, KR, BY, GN, BO, GN, PK, BW, HT, PG, IR, PN Island, Burma MM, IQ, RW, KH, , SN, CF, JP, Sierra, Leone, TD, KG, SO, CI , LB, SZ, CU, LS, SY, of CG, LR, TJ, DJ, LY, Tanzania, EC, Laos, TG, ER, ML, TM, ET, MN, UG, Falkland Islands, NA, US of America, FJ, NI, YE, ZW US, BE, FR, IN, IL, PL, ZW RU US, BE, CA , SG, BE US, PL, BE


All Spread betting brokers in more detail

You can compare Spread Betting Brokers ratings, min deposits what the the broker offers, funding methods, platforms, spread types, customer support options, regulation and account types side by side.

We also have an indepth Top Spread Betting Brokers for 2024 article further below. You can see it now by clicking here

We have listed top Spread betting brokers below.

Spread Betting Brokers List

IC Markets
(4/5)
Min deposit : 200
IC Markets was established in 2007 and is used by over 180000+ traders. Losses can exceed deposits IC Markets offers Forex, CFDs, Spread Betting, Share dealing, Cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency availability with IC Markets is subject to regulation.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

MT4, MT5, Mirror Trader, Web Trader, cTrader, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Financial Services Authority (FSA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC)
Roboforex
(4/5)
Min deposit : 10
Roboforex was established in 2009 and is used by over 1000000+ traders. Losses can exceed deposits Roboforex offers Forex, CFDs.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

MT4, MT5, Mac, Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by RoboForex Ltd is regulated by the FSC, license 000138/437, reg. number 128.572. RoboForex Ltd, which is an (A category) member of The Financial Commission, also is a participant of its Compensation Fund
Pepperstone
(4/5)
Min deposit : 200
Pepperstone was established in 2010 and is used by over 400000+ traders. 74-89 % of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs Pepperstone offers Forex, CFDs, Social Trading.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade, myFXbook, Mac, Web Trader, cTrader, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account Pro Account VIP account
Regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Capital Markets Authority of Kenya (CMA), Pepperstone Markets Limited is incorporated in The Bahamas (number 177174 B), Licensed by the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB) number SIA-F217
AvaTrade
(4/5)
Min deposit : 100
AvaTrade was established in 2006 and is used by over 300000+ traders. 71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider AvaTrade offers Forex, Cryptocurrencies, Commodities, Indices, Stocks, Bonds, Vanilla Options, ETFs, CFDs, Spread Betting, Social Trading . Cryptocurrency availability with AvaTrade is subject to regulation.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

Web Trader, MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGo, AvaOptions, DupliTrade, ZuluTrade, Mobile Apps, ZuluTrade, DupliTrade, MQL5

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), ASIC (406684), Financial Services Authority (FSA), South African Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), Financial Stability Board (FSB), The Financial Services Agency (JAPAN FSA), Financial Futures Association of Japan (FFAJ), Abu Dhabi Global Markets (ADGM), Financial Regulatory Services Authority (FRSA), Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF), Israel Securities Association (ISA), British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVI), BVI (SIBA/L/13/1049), Central Bank of Ireland
SpreadEx
(4/5)
Min deposit : 1
SpreadEx was established in 1999 and is used by over 10000+ traders. Losses can exceed deposits SpreadEx offers Forex, CFDs, and spread betting.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
FXPro
(4/5)
Min deposit : 100
FxPro was established in 2006 and is used by over 1866000+ traders. 75.78% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs and Spread Betting with this provider FxPro offers Forex trading, Share Dealing, Spot Indices, Futures, Spot Metals and Spot Energies.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

MT4, MT5, cTrader, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB)
ThinkMarkets
(3/5)
Min deposit : 0
ThinkMarkets was established in 2010 and is used by over 500000+ traders. CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 71.89% 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 ThinkMarkets offers Forex, CFDs.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5, Mac, Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), Financial Services Authority Seychelles (FSA), TF Global Markets (UK) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 629628, TF Global Markets (AUST) Limited is the holder of Australian Financial Services License number 424700, TF Global Markets (South Africa)(Pty) Ltd is an Authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP No 49835),TF Global Markets Int Limited Is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority Firm Reference Number SD060, The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySec)
IG
(2/5)
Min deposit : 0
IG was established in 1974 and is used by over 239000+ traders. Spread bets and 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 spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. IG offers Forex, CFDs, Spread Betting, Share dealing.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

MT4, Mac, Web Trader, L2 Dealer, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
binance
(3/5)
Min deposit : 100
Binance was established in 2011 and is used by over 10000+ traders. Your capital is at risk Binance offers Forex trading, Spread Betting, Social trading, .

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

Desktop,Android,iPhone/iPad,Mac

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
ETX Capital
(3/5)
Min deposit : 100
ETX Capital was established in 2002 and is used by over 10000+ traders. Losses can exceed deposits ETX Capital offers Forex, CFDs, Spread Betting.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

MT4, Mac, Mirror Trader, Binary, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
Core Spreads
(3/5)
Min deposit : 1
Core Spreads was established in 2014 and is used by over 10000+ traders. Losses can exceed deposits Core Spreads offers Forex, CFDs, Spread Betting.

Funding methods

Bank transfer Credit Card Paypal

Platforms

MT4, Web Trader, Tablet & Mobile apps

Customer support

Live chat Phone support Email support

Account Types

Micro account Standard account ECN account
Islamic account VIP account
Regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)

Learn more Learn more about IC Markets.
Losses can exceed deposits
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Losses can exceed deposits