Top UK Brokers With The Most Clients 2025

Author - Michael MacKenzie
Author
Michael MacKenzie
Michael is a UK-based investment writer with over 10 years of experience in the journalism industry. Michael has critically evaluated many of the largest investment brokers in the UK.
Editor - James Barra
Editor
James Barra
James is a UK-based writer and investor with consultancy experience at some of Britain's largest financial organisations. James authors, edits and fact-checks content for a row of investing websites.
Fact Checker - Tobias Robinson
Fact Checker
Tobias Robinson
Tobias is a UK director and partner at Investing.co.uk. He provides commentary on the financial markets in the UK and supports the testing team with first-hand observations from over two decades of active trading.

Brokers with the most clients are generally considered the most reputable and reliable, as proven by their large, longstanding user base. We’ve rounded up the UK brokers with the most traders – all tested and rated by our experienced traders.

Top UK Brokers With The Most Traders

After investigating the number of clients on their books, these providers stand out as the largest, top-rated brokers in the UK. Note figures are subject to change.
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    eToro, a leading multi-asset platform, provides access to trading services across thousands of CFDs, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. Established in 2007, it boasts millions of active traders worldwide and is sanctioned by top-tier regulators such as the FCA and CySEC. It stands out for its extensive social trading feature. Crypto investments are unstable and carry risk. Tax implications might apply. Acknowledge the risks involved. 61% of retail CFD accounts incur losses.

    Number of clients: 38,000,000

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Smart Portfolios, Commodities, Futures, Crypto, NFTs FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSA, FSRA, MFSA, CNMV, AMF eToro Web, CopyTrader, TradingCentral
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $50 $10 1:30
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    Founded in 2008 and based in Israel, Plus500 is a leading brokerage with over 25 million registered traders across more than 50 countries. It focuses on CFD trading, offering a user-friendly proprietary platform and mobile app. The company provides competitive spreads and does not impose commissions or charges for deposits or withdrawals. Plus500 stands out as a highly trusted broker, licensed by respected authorities such as the FCA, ASIC, and CySEC.

    Number of clients: 26,000,000

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs on Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Options FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, MAS, FSA, FSCA, FMA, EFSA WebTrader, App
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $100 Variable 1:30
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    InstaTrade, operating from the British Virgin Islands, is an online brokerage that excels in fixed income structured products and active trading via CFDs. It offers zero-spread accounts, top-notch research through InstaTrade TV, and access to the widely-used MT4 platform, as well as its own InstaTrade Gear. These features make it a compelling choice for traders seeking short-term opportunities.

    Number of clients: 7,000,000

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    FISP, CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos, Futures BVI FSC InstaTrade Gear, MT4
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $1 0.01 1:1000
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    Pionex is a cryptocurrency trading platform that excels in automated trading. It provides traders with an array of pre-built bots and strategies, alongside AI tools for strategy customisation or creation. These tools are available for both spot and futures crypto markets.

    Number of clients: 5,000,000

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    Cryptos FinCEN Own
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $0 0.1 USDT
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    Established in 2009, Vantage provides trading on more than 1,000 short-term CFD products to over 900,000 clients. Forex CFDs are available from 0.0 pips on the RAW account via TradingView, MT4, or MT5. Regulated by ASIC, Vantage ensures that client funds are kept in separate accounts. Traders looking to copy strategies will benefit from a wide array of social trading tools.

    Number of clients: 5,000,000

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Spread betting FCA, ASIC, FSCA, VFSC ProTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $50 0.01 Lots 1:30
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    CloseOption, based in Georgia, has over ten years of experience in the trading sector. The firm provides high/low binary options on forex and cryptocurrency markets, offering competitive payouts. Clients benefit from welcome bonuses, round-the-clock customer support, and user-friendly trading platforms.

    Number of clients: 4,030,320

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    Binary Options on Forex & Cryptos National Bank of Georgia Own
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $5 $1
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    Interactive Brokers (IBKR), a leading brokerage, offers access to 150 markets across 33 countries and provides extensive investment services. With more than 40 years of experience, this Nasdaq-listed company complies with strict regulations from the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC. It is among the most reliable brokers worldwide for traders.

    Number of clients: 3,500,000

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFM Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, Quantower
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $0 $100 1:50

Safety Comparison

Compare how safe the Top UK Brokers With The Most Clients 2025 are and what features they offer to protect traders.

Safety Comparison
Broker Trust Rating FCA Regulated Negative Balance Protection Guaranteed Stop Loss Segregated Accounts
eToro 4.5
Plus500 3.5
InstaTrade 2.5
Pionex 2.5
Vantage FX 4.6
CloseOption 2.8
Interactive Brokers 4.5

Payments Comparison

Compare which popular payment methods the Top UK Brokers With The Most Clients 2025 support and whether they have trading accounts denominated in British Pounds (GBP).

Payments Comparison
Broker GBP Account Debit Card Credit Card Neteller Skrill Apple Pay
eToro
Plus500
InstaTrade
Pionex
Vantage FX
CloseOption
Interactive Brokers

Mobile Trading Comparison

How good are the Top UK Brokers With The Most Clients 2025 at mobile trading using apps or other mobile interfaces.

Mobile Trading Comparison
Broker Mobile Apps iOS Rating Android Rating Smart Watch App
eToro iOS & Android 4 3.8
Plus500 iOS, Android & Windows 4.1 4.3
InstaTrade iOS & Android 4.8 4.4
Pionex iOS & Android 4.7 4.1
Vantage FX iOS & Android 3.6 3.9
CloseOption iOS & Android 3.7 3.5
Interactive Brokers iOS & Android 4.3 4.5

Beginners Comparison

Are the Top UK Brokers With The Most Clients 2025 good for beginner traders, that might want an affordable setup to get started, along with good support and educational resources?

Beginners Comparison
Broker Demo Account Minimum Deposit Minimum Trade Support Rating Education Rating
eToro $50 $10 2.5 4
Plus500 $100 Variable 4 3
InstaTrade $1 0.01 3.5 3.3
Pionex $0 0.1 USDT 3 3
Vantage FX $50 0.01 Lots 4.4 4
CloseOption $5 $1 3 2.5
Interactive Brokers $0 $100 3 4.3

Advanced Trading Comparison

Do the Top UK Brokers With The Most Clients 2025 offer features that allow for more advanced trading strategies?

Advanced Trading Comparison
Broker Automated Trading Pro Account Leverage VPS AI Low Latency Extended Hours
eToro Automate your trades via CopyTrader - follow profitable traders. Open and close trades automatically when they do. 1:30
Plus500 1:30
InstaTrade Experts Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader 1:1000
Pionex Crypto bots -
Vantage FX Myfxbook AutoTrade, Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader 1:30
CloseOption - -
Interactive Brokers Capitalise.ai, TWS API 1:50

Detailed Rating Comparison

Use this heatmap to compare our detailed ratings for all of the Top UK Brokers With The Most Clients 2025.

Detailed Rating Comparison
Broker Trust Platforms Mobile Assets Fees Accounts Support Research Education
eToro 4.5 2.8 3.9 3.8 3.4 4.1 2.5 4.3 4
Plus500 3.5 3.1 4.2 3.5 4 4.1 4 2 3
InstaTrade 2.5 3.5 4.6 3 3 3 3.5 3.5 3.3
Pionex 2.5 3 4.4 3 3 3 3 1.3 3
Vantage FX 4.6 4.3 3.8 4.5 4.4 4.5 4.4 4 4
CloseOption 2.8 3 3.6 2.5 3 2.5 3 1.3 2.5
Interactive Brokers 4.5 3.3 4.4 4.7 4.3 3.5 3 4.4 4.3

Our Take On eToro

"eToro's social trading platform excels with its outstanding user experience and lively community chat, aiding beginners in spotting opportunities. It offers competitive fees on numerous CFDs and real stocks, alongside exceptional rewards for seasoned strategists."

Pros

  • The trading app provides a top-tier social environment featuring an engaging feed and community chat, which we enjoy using.
  • In 2025, eToro altered its fee structure by separating crypto trading fees from the spread. A distinct commission is now listed separately, providing traders with increased transparency while maintaining consistent overall costs.
  • eToro secured second place in DayTrading.com's 'Best Crypto Broker' for 2025, offering a vast selection of tokens, dependable service, and competitive fees.

Cons

  • The absence of extra charting platforms such as MT4 may deter experienced traders who rely on external software.
  • There are no assured stop-loss orders, which could be a valuable risk management tool for novice traders.
  • The only significant contact option, besides the in-platform live chat, is limited.

Our Take On Plus500

"Plus500 provides a seamless experience for traders with its CFD platform, featuring a sleek design and interactive charting. However, its research tools are basic, fees are higher than the most economical brokers, and its educational resources could be improved."

Pros

  • The customer support team consistently delivers reliable support around the clock through email, live chat, and WhatsApp.
  • In 2025, Plus500 expanded its range of share CFDs to include emerging sectors such as quantum computing and AI. This update opened up trading opportunities in stocks like IonQ, Rigetti, Duolingo, and Carvana.
  • Plus500 has expanded its range of short-term trading instruments by adding VIX options, which feature increased volatility. Additionally, it has extended trading hours for seven stock CFDs.

Cons

  • Algorithmic trading and scalping are not available, potentially deterring certain traders.
  • Compared to competitors like IG, Plus500 offers limited research and analysis tools.
  • Plus500's omission of MetaTrader and cTrader charting tools may deter seasoned traders seeking familiar platforms.

Our Take On InstaTrade

"InstaTrade delivers active trading through a robust platform and introduces the distinct Fixed Income Structured Product (FISP), offering passive investment potential with returns of up to 50% in 6 months, subject to conditions."
Christian Harris
Christian Harris
Reviewer

Pros

  • InstaTrade provides top-tier charting tools for traders, featuring over 250 indicators and 11 types of charts, all within an intuitive web platform.
  • InstaTrade TV features video interviews and essential market insights on stocks, cryptocurrencies, and more, equipping traders with the knowledge to seize opportunities and inform short-term trading decisions.
  • InstaTrade asserts its passive trading solution, FISP, offers "guaranteed" returns with applications processed in just 24 hours.

Cons

  • InstaTrade's website and client area are excessively cluttered, which might overwhelm new traders. In contrast, XTB offers a more intuitive trading experience with user-friendly resources.
  • The marketing of the FISP is concerning, particularly the language suggesting a "guarantee of profitability" and the "removal of trading risks in financial markets."
  • InstaTrade is based in the British Virgin Islands, an offshore location, which means retail investors have limited regulatory protection.

Our Take On Pionex

"Pionex is a superb choice for crypto traders keen on advanced AI technologies, such as ChatGPT, and automated trading."

Pros

  • US FinCEN requires a Money Services Business (MSB) license for traders.
  • Superior and innovative liquidity engines sourced from top exchanges like Binance and Huobi.
  • With trading fees as low as 0.05% for both makers and takers, this platform offers competitive rates compared to other leading exchanges.

Cons

  • Withdrawal fees and limits might be applicable.
  • Limited communication channels
  • Does not accept deposits in traditional currency.

Our Take On Vantage FX

"Vantage is an ideal choice for CFD traders looking for a well-regulated broker with access to the dependable MetaTrader platforms. With a swift sign-up process and a minimum deposit of $50, starting trading is simple and fast."

Pros

  • Opening a live account is both straightforward and swift, requiring under 5 minutes to complete.
  • The trading software suite is outstanding, featuring the acclaimed MT4 and MT5 platforms.
  • The broker recently expanded its range of CFDs, offering more trading opportunities.

Cons

  • It's unfortunate that some clients must register with the offshore firm, which provides reduced regulatory safeguards.
  • Based on tests, average execution speeds of 100ms to 250ms are slower compared to other options.
  • Regrettably, cryptocurrencies are accessible solely to clients in Australia.

Our Take On CloseOption

"CloseOption is an excellent choice for traders looking for an intuitive binary options platform offering substantial returns and sign-up incentives."

Pros

  • Free practice account
  • The intuitive platform works seamlessly with nearly all web browsers.
  • CloseOption hosts weekly trading competitions, awarding cash prizes to traders.

Cons

  • Binary options are exclusively offered for both traditional currencies and cryptocurrencies.
  • Clients must deposit over $50,000 to be eligible for the highest returns.
  • CloseOption lacks regulation by a reputable financial authority.

Our Take On Interactive Brokers

"Interactive Brokers ranks highly for seasoned traders due to its robust charting platforms, live data, and bespoke layouts via the new IBKR Desktop app. Its competitive pricing and sophisticated order choices appeal to traders, and its wide equity options are industry-leading."

Pros

  • While initially targeting seasoned traders, IBKR has recently widened its appeal by eliminating its $10,000 minimum deposit requirement.
  • Interactive Brokers has introduced ForecastTrader, an innovative product offering zero-commission trading with yes/no Forecast Contracts on political, economic, and climate events. It features fixed $1 contract payouts, 24/6 market access, and a 3.83% APY on positions held.
  • IBKR is a highly respected brokerage, regulated by top-tier authorities, ensuring the integrity and security of your trading account.

Cons

  • Support can be sluggish and frustrating. Tests reveal that you may face challenges reaching customer service quickly, which could result in delays in issue resolution.
  • IBKR offers a variety of research tools, but their inconsistent placement across trading platforms and the 'Account Management' webpage creates a confusing experience for users.
  • The learning curve for TWS is quite steep, making it tough for novice traders to navigate and grasp all its features. In contrast, Plus500's web platform is far more accessible for those new to trading.

How Investing.co.uk Chose The Brokers With The Most Clients

We research and frequently monitor the client numbers of important brokers in the UK to maintain an up-to-date list of the most popular firms.

To ensure our data is fresh and accurate, our experts:

  1. Investigate and review the number of clients of each broker where possible as part of our review process
  2. Check publicly available data
  3. Contact brokerage firms directly to verify figures

Investing.co.uk broker testing methodology

Why Size Isn’t Everything

The brokers on our list serve huge numbers of clients, but that’s an effect rather than the cause of their success. These firms do so well because they get these fundamental factors right:

Regulation

Most investors prefer to work with a broker that’s overseen by a strong regulatory body like the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and we suggest you to do the same.

The FCA imposes strict conditions on firms to obtain a license, and they require frequent financial submissions to ensure continued compliance.

Clients of FCA-regulated firms can be assured that their funds will be held separately from business accounts and that they will not lose more than their account balance in bad trades, among other protections.

Up to £85,000 of their funds will also be insured against business insolvency in the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.

Track Record

Trading with a broker that has a long and clean track record in the industry provides assurance that your funds are in safe hands.

Another benefit is that established firms have experience in the industry and need to know what traders want in order to stay competitive, so they often provide a more enjoyable trading experience with competitive pricing and attractive features.

Stock Exchange Listing

Choose a broker that’s listed on a major stock exchange and you’ll have the added assurance that this firm runs its business transparently with frequent financial reports.

For example, companies that are listed on the London Stock Exchange must first meet the exchange’s stringent inclusion criteria and then must comply with regulatory rules and undergo monitoring.

Tools & Features

Brokers that serve large customer bases usually have the resources to provide extra tools and features, so you should be able to find a broker that caters to your own investing style.

Some of our favourites include integrated research tools, auto-trading, social trading and sentiment analysis.

I’ve come to appreciate social trading as a very useful feature, especially for newer traders. Apart from the popularity of copy trading, social investing also allows you to read experienced traders’ ideas and to engage in discussions.

While it’s important to do your own research and not to blindly trust other people’s analysis, this can be a really useful way to learn about markets and to find out what is trending.

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Michael MacKenzie
Author
eToro's leaderboard of most copied traders

eToro’s copy trading platform

Pros Of Trading With Large Brokers

  • Reputation – If someone does a job well, you are more likely to recommend them to a friend. The same goes for trading brokers. Often, a firm’s client base has, to some extent, been built by happy customers recommending the broker to their peers.
  • Regulation – Normally, the UK brokers with the most clients are regulated by the FCA from our research. We recommend opting for a regulated brokerage where possible as they generally provide clients with a greater degree of protection than their unregulated counterparts.
  • Professionalism – Larger trading brokers tend to have more established processes and ways of interacting with clients. They are more likely to have a reliable customer support team, a complaints management process and experienced staff. All of these are factors that contribute to a more professional client experience.
  • Flexibility – We have seen some of the most flexible accounts, fee structures and payment methods offered by some of the largest brokers. These firms have the resources and know-how to integrate additional flexibility into their platforms and apps, catering to a wide range of trading styles and needs.

Bottom Line

UK investors have several good options when looking at brokers with a large client base. Our team have found that some of the biggest brokers offer a premium, reliable and secure trading experience, while being able to cater to a range of trading strategies, interests and experience levels.

It is worth noting, however, that the size of a broker’s client base is not the only factor to consider when choosing a brand. Platforms, tools, instruments, fee structure, regulation and security should not be overlooked. Ultimately though, size can often be a good indication of reputation.

To get started, jump to our list of the biggest trading brokers.

FAQ

Are Brokers With More Clients Better?

Brokers with the most clients are not necessarily better than those with fewer active users. However, a large client base tends to be an indication that a broker is trustworthy.

There are, of course, other factors to consider when choosing a brokerage, including UK regulations, platforms, tools and pricing.