Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025
Author
Christian Harris
Christian is a UK-based investment writer who's been actively trading an array of financial instruments for over 10 years. Having used most of the major brokers in the UK, Christian provides valuable insights on all things investing for British traders.
Looking to invest in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) but not sure which broker to trust with your money? With dozens of platforms available—each claiming low fees, wide ETF access, and slick apps—choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we cut through the noise and break down the best ETF brokers in the UK—so you can invest with confidence.
Best ETF Brokers UK
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When we evaluated Pepperstone's ETF options through MT5 and cTrader, execution speed was exceptional, with spreads typically ranging from 0.0 to 0.3 pips. More than 100 ETF CFDs were available, commission-free on standard accounts. As ASIC and FCA regulate it, the minimal $0 deposit requirement suits smaller ETF trades well.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto (only Pro clients), Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) -
When reviewing XTB's ETF offering on xStation 5, we explored over 300 ETFs in sectors such as technology, energy, real estate, and emerging markets. The platform boasts commission-free trading up to €100,000 monthly, with competitive spreads starting at 0.08%. Regulated by FCA and KNF with no minimum deposit, it suits cost-conscious traders perfectly.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs on shares, Indices, ETFs, Raw Materials, Forex currencies, cryptocurrencies, Real shares, Real ETFs FCA, CySEC, KNF, DFSA, FSC, SCA, Bappebti xStation Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
In our recent evaluations, IG provided 6,000+ ETFs spanning global sectors like biotech, renewables, finance, and commodities, surpassing nearly all competitors. Its advanced platform offers ETF CFD trading with spreads starting at 0.04%, and DMA is accessible for professionals. IG, highly regulated and requiring a low minimum, is ideal for serious ETF traders seeking depth, speed, and robust tools.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB, AFM Web, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentral, ProRealTime Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) -
In our practical tests, Vantage provided CFD access to around 55 global ETFs, spanning equity indices, commodities, bonds, real estate, and energy. Raw ECN accounts feature spreads from 0.0 pips, with commissions of USD 3.00 per lot (Pro accounts enjoy even lower commissions at USD 1.50 per lot).
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 -
In our comprehensive analysis, Plus500 provided ETF CFD access to international markets with leverage up to 1:5 in sectors such as equity indices, commodities, bonds, and energy. There are no commissions, but spreads vary (e.g., ETF spreads around 0.02%) and include overnight swaps and currency conversion fees up to 0.7%. It's suitable for casual leveraged ETF CFD traders.
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 -
Founded in 1983, City Index is a prestigious broker, now under the Nasdaq-listed StoneX Group. It excels in forex, CFDs, and spread betting. With access to over 13,500 instruments, City Index provides a dynamic Web Trader platform, exceptional educational materials, and round-the-clock support five days a week, ensuring a thorough trading experience.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Futures, Options, Bonds, Interest Rates,ETFs,Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, CySEC, MAS Web Trader, MT4, TradingView, TradingCentral Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
Founded in 2024 and based in the Seychelles, Bullwaves is a broker exclusively using MetaTrader. It provides access to over 250 assets, encompassing forex, metals, indices, stocks, and ETFs. Traders have a choice of three account types: Classic, VIP, and Elite, tailored to suit varying levels of experience and financial capacity.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, ETFs FSA MT5 Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $250 0.01 Lots 1:500
Pepperstone
XTB
IG
Vantage FX
Plus500
City Index
BullwavesSafety Comparison
Compare how safe the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 are and what features they offer to protect traders.
| Broker | Trust Rating | FCA Regulated | Negative Balance Protection | Guaranteed Stop Loss | Segregated Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| XTB | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| IG | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Vantage FX | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| Plus500 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| City Index | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Bullwaves | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
Payments Comparison
Compare which popular payment methods the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 support and whether they have trading accounts denominated in British Pounds (GBP).
| Broker | GBP Account | Debit Card | Credit Card | Neteller | Skrill | Apple Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| XTB | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IG | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Vantage FX | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Plus500 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| City Index | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Bullwaves | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
Mobile Trading Comparison
How good are the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 at mobile trading using apps or other mobile interfaces.
| Broker | Mobile Apps | iOS Rating | Android Rating | Smart Watch App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| XTB | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| IG | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| Vantage FX | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| Plus500 | iOS, Android & Windows | ✘ | ||
| City Index | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| Bullwaves | iOS & Android | ✘ |
Beginners Comparison
Are the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 good for beginner traders, that might want an affordable setup to get started, along with good support and educational resources?
| Broker | Demo Account | Minimum Deposit | Minimum Trade | Support Rating | Education Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| XTB | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| IG | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Vantage FX | ✔ | $50 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Plus500 | ✔ | $100 | Variable | ||
| City Index | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Bullwaves | ✔ | $250 | 0.01 Lots |
Advanced Trading Comparison
Do the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 offer features that allow for more advanced trading strategies?
| Broker | Automated Trading | Pro Account | Leverage | VPS | AI | Low Latency | Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| XTB | Open API | ✔ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IG | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, build your own on ProRealTime | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Vantage FX | Myfxbook AutoTrade, Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✘ | 1:30 | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Plus500 | ✘ | ✘ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| City Index | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✔ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bullwaves | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✘ | 1:500 | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
Detailed Rating Comparison
Use this heatmap to compare our detailed ratings for all of the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025.
| Broker | Trust | Platforms | Mobile | Assets | Fees | Accounts | Support | Research | Education |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | |||||||||
| XTB | |||||||||
| IG | |||||||||
| Vantage FX | |||||||||
| Plus500 | |||||||||
| City Index | |||||||||
| Bullwaves |
Our Take On Pepperstone
"Pepperstone is a premier trading platform, providing tight spreads, swift execution, and sophisticated charting tools for seasoned traders. Beginners benefit from no minimum deposit, comprehensive learning materials, and outstanding 24/7 support."
Tobias Robinson
Reviewer
Pros
- In recent years, Pepperstone has significantly enhanced the deposit and withdrawal process. By 2025, clients can use Apple Pay and Google Pay, while 2024 saw the introduction of PIX and SPEI for customers in Brazil and Mexico.
- The award-winning customer support can be accessed through phone, email, or live chat. During tests, response times have consistently been under 5 minutes.
- Pepperstone now offers spread betting via TradingView, delivering a streamlined and tax-efficient trading experience with sophisticated analytical tools.
Cons
- Pepperstone doesn't offer cTrader Copy, a favoured feature for copying trades found in the cTrader platform, which is available on other platforms such as IC Markets. However, Pepperstone has launched its own user-friendly copy trading app.
- Although its market range has improved, its crypto offerings remain limited compared to brokers specialising in this sector, lacking real coin investment options.
- Pepperstone's demo accounts expire after 30 days, which may not provide sufficient time to explore various platforms and evaluate trading strategies.
Our Take On XTB
"XTB emerges as an ideal option for novice traders, offering the impressive xStation platform, zero commission pricing, no required minimum deposit, and outstanding educational resources, many of which are conveniently integrated into the platform."
Pros
- XTB has raised its interest rate on uninvested funds and introduced zero-fee ISAs for UK clients, offering access to 3,000 stocks and 700 ETFs for diverse investment opportunities.
- XTB offers a diverse range of over 7,000 instruments, including CFDs on shares, indices, ETFs, commodities, forex, and cryptocurrencies. The platform also provides real shares, real ETFs, share dealing, and the latest addition, Investment Plans, serving both traders seeking short-term gains and investors focused on long-term growth.
- Setting up an XTB account is straightforward and fully online, requiring only a few minutes. This simplicity eases new traders into the world of trading.
Cons
- XTB has stopped supporting MT4, restricting traders to its own platform, xStation. This decision may discourage experienced traders accustomed to using the MetaTrader suite.
- It is frustrating that XTB products do not allow traders to modify the default leverage level. Manually adjusting leverage can greatly reduce risk in forex and CFD trading.
- The demo account lasts only four weeks, posing a challenge for traders wanting to fully explore the xStation platform and refine short-term strategies before investing actual money.
Our Take On IG
"IG offers a complete package with an intuitive online platform, top-tier beginner education, advanced charting tools through its TradingView integration, real-time data, and swift execution for seasoned traders."
Pros
- IG provides a wide range of professional and engaging educational materials, such as webinars, articles, and analyses, tailored for traders.
- The IG app provides an excellent mobile trading experience with an intuitive design, earning it the Runner Up position in our 'Best Trading App' award.
- As a seasoned broker, IG adheres to stringent regulatory standards across various regions, ensuring significant trust.
Cons
- IG imposes a monthly inactivity fee of $12 after two years, discouraging occasional traders.
- Based on tests, stock and CFD spreads remain less competitive than the lowest-cost brokers, such as CMC Markets.
- Beginners may find IG's fees complicated, as they vary depending on the trades or services. This could cause confusion and unexpected costs.
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
- With a minimal deposit requirement of just $50 and no funding fees, this broker stands out as an excellent option for novice traders.
- Hedging and scalping strategies are fully permitted without any short-term restrictions.
- 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.
- To access optimal trading conditions, a substantial deposit of $10,000 is required. This includes a commission of $1.50 per transaction per side.
- Based on tests, average execution speeds of 100ms to 250ms are slower compared to other options.
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
- 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.
- The broker provides commission-free trading across a variety of markets, reducing extra charges and attracting experienced traders.
- The customer support team consistently delivers reliable support around the clock through email, live chat, and WhatsApp.
Cons
- Plus500's omission of MetaTrader and cTrader charting tools may deter seasoned traders seeking familiar platforms.
- Compared to competitors like IG, Plus500 offers limited research and analysis tools.
- Algorithmic trading and scalping are not available, potentially deterring certain traders.
Our Take On City Index
"City Index suits active traders perfectly, offering rapid execution speeds averaging 20ms and a customisable web platform with over 90 technical indicators. Its educational resources are exceptional. For UK traders interested in spread betting on 8,500+ instruments tax-free, City Index is an excellent option."
Pros
- City Index has significantly improved the trading experience. In 2024, they introduced Performance Analytics, providing insights into trades and discipline. The revamped mobile app now includes integrated market research and swipe-access news.
- City Index offers access to over 13,500 markets, including forex, indices, shares, commodities, bonds, ETFs, and interest rates. The platform's inclusion of niche markets such as interest rates provides traders with unique opportunities not commonly available on other platforms.
- City Index is under the regulation of leading authorities, such as the FCA in the UK, ASIC in Australia, and MAS in Singapore. Its parent company, StoneX Group Inc., is publicly listed, which enhances its credibility.
Cons
- City Index does not offer an Islamic account with swap-free conditions, making it less attractive to Muslim traders than brokers such as Eightcap and Pepperstone.
- Although many brokers, such as eToro, have broadened their crypto offerings, City Index restricts its clients to crypto CFDs. This limited selection may not meet the needs of traders seeking a wider variety of altcoins.
- Unlike brokers like AvaTrade and BlackBull, City Index lacks options for passive trading, such as social copy trading or real ownership of stocks and ETFs. This limitation may reduce its appeal to traders seeking a more hands-off approach.
Our Take On Bullwaves
"Bullwaves might attract traders interested in MetaTrader's charting tools and commission-free deals. Yet, the unprofessionally organised site is riddled with inaccuracies and broken links. Its short history and lacklustre regulatory status also cast doubt on its dependability."Christian Harris
Reviewer
Pros
- USDT transactions are supported alongside standard bank cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets.
- Registering on the Bullwaves website and creating an account is straightforward and quick, typically completed in just a few minutes according to trials.
- MT5 is now supported as MT4 is no longer available, offering traders a top-notch charting platform with superb backtesting features.
Cons
- Despite being a recent entry, the Bullwaves website features numerous non-functional links and placeholder text, undermining trust.
- A zero-spread trading account is unavailable, which may hinder experienced traders seeking to profit from minor price fluctuations.
- Bullwaves operates outside of regulation in key markets. It holds a licence with the FSA, a 'red tier' regulator, indicating a lack of oversight from respected authorities to enforce robust financial standards.
How To Choose An ETF Broker
- The range of available ETFs at a broker determines how effectively you can build a diversified, goal-specific portfolio. Access to a broad selection—including UK, US, global, sector-specific, thematic, and ESG ETFs—allows you to align investments with your risk tolerance and interests, whether you’re targeting long-term global growth or niche areas like clean energy or robotics. Brokers that support fractional ETF shares let you invest in high-priced ETFs—such as US-listed funds—without needing significant upfront capital, making it easier for beginners to get started with proper asset allocation.
- Ease of use and platform experience directly affect how confidently and efficiently you can manage your ETF portfolio. A clear, intuitive interface—whether on mobile or desktop—makes it easier to place trades, track performance, and understand key metrics like ETF expense ratios or dividend yields. Platforms with built-in educational tools, ETF screeners, and tutorials can help beginners learn as they go, reducing the risk of costly mistakes. Some brokers also offer demo accounts, allowing you to practice trading with virtual funds before committing real money—an invaluable feature for building confidence and testing strategies without financial risk.
- Reliable customer support is especially important for beginner investors who may need guidance when placing trades, verifying account details, or resolving technical issues. Fast access to live chat, phone, or email support can make a big difference if you’re dealing with a login problem or a time-sensitive trade. Brokers with UK-based support teams may better understand local regulations, providing more relevant assistance than outsourced teams. Real-world issues—like delayed deposits, identity verification, or incorrect ETF order execution—can be stressful, so choosing a broker known for responsive, knowledgeable support helps ensure smoother investing and peace of mind.
- Minimum deposit requirements can affect how quickly you’re able to start investing and whether a broker suits your budget. Some platforms require a minimum deposit to open an account—often £100 or more—while others let you start with as little as £1, making them more accessible for beginners. It’s also important to check the minimum trade size for ETFs, as certain brokers may require full shares or fixed increments, limiting your ability to build a diversified portfolio with smaller amounts. If you’re starting with limited capital, choosing a broker that allows low or no minimums and supports fractional ETF investing can make it easier to invest regularly without needing to save significant sums first.
- Fees and costs have a direct impact on your investment returns, especially over the long term. Brokers may charge trading commissions for buying or selling ETFs, as well as platform or account fees—either fixed monthly charges or percentage-based. If you’re investing in non-GBP ETFs, foreign exchange fees can apply when converting currency, often ranging from 0.25% to over 1%. Some brokers also charge inactivity fees if you don’t trade regularly. It’s important to distinguish between ETF fund fees (charged by the ETF provider and built into the fund’s performance) and broker fees (charged by the platform for services)—both affect your returns. Still, only broker fees are visible in your account statements. Comparing total costs across brokers helps you avoid hidden charges and maximise long-term growth.
- Regulation and safety ensure your money and investments are protected. Brokers regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) must meet strict standards around transparency, client fund segregation, and financial stability. Most FCA-regulated brokers also offer protection under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which covers up to £85,000 if the broker fails. Checking a broker’s track record, years in operation, and reputation for handling client issues can provide additional peace of mind.
When I first started investing in ETFs, I quickly realised that the best broker for me was the one that didn’t just offer low fees, but made it simple to navigate, learn, and stay consistent. Having a platform that feels intuitive and supportive turned investing from a chore into something I looked forward to.
What Is An ETF Broker?
An ETF broker is a regulated platform that lets you buy and sell ETFs—bundles of assets like stocks or bonds that trade on stock exchanges like regular shares.
Brokers such as IG, eToro, and Plus500 provide access to a wide range of ETFs through user-friendly apps.
While a fund provider manages the ETF itself, the broker handles your orders, stores your investments, and may offer tools to automate or analyse your portfolio.
Choosing the right ETF broker affects your fees, ETF access, leverage, and ease of use, especially if you’re just starting.
With over 300 ETFs, eToro puts a diversified range of investments at your fingertips
Pros Of Trading ETFs
- Diversification across asset classes: ETFs are structured to track a specific index or sector (e.g. the S&P 500, gold, or Bitcoin), allowing you to gain exposure to a broad basket of securities through a single trade. This reduces unsystematic risk and provides asset-class diversification—even across global equities, currencies, bonds, or commodities.
- Cost efficiency & low total expense ratios (TERs): Most ETFs are passively managed, meaning they replicate an index rather than rely on active stock picking. As a result, they typically have very low annual fees—often below 0.2%—making them a cost-effective way to build a portfolio, especially over the long term.
- Liquidity & intraday trading flexibility: ETFs trade on stock exchanges throughout the day, just like individual stocks. This gives you access to real-time pricing, the ability to use limit or stop orders, and transparency on bid-ask spreads—advantages that aren’t available with traditional mutual funds, which only price once daily.
Cons Of Trading ETFs
- Trading costs & bid-ask spreads: Although many ETFs have low management fees, frequent trading can still rack up costs. Bid-ask spreads—the difference between the price you buy and sell—can be wider for less liquid or niche ETFs, quietly eating into returns. Additionally, platform fees and foreign exchange charges (for non-GBP ETFs) can add up, especially with international exposure.
- Market risk & intraday volatility: Because ETFs trade like stocks, their prices fluctuate throughout the trading day based on supply, demand, and underlying asset movements. This intraday pricing means you are exposed to short-term volatility and potential overtrading, especially without a long-term strategy.
- Tracking error & synthetic structures: Some ETFs—particularly those using synthetic replication or derivatives—may not perfectly mirror the performance of the index they aim to track. Factors like tracking error, currency fluctuations, or counterparty risk can cause discrepancies between the ETF’s return and the index benchmark, especially in complex or leveraged products.
Early on, I underestimated how crucial strong regulation was until I faced a glitch with my account. Knowing my broker was FCA-regulated and covered by FSCS gave me real peace of mind—because in investing, trust isn’t just nice to have, it’s essential.
Bottom Line
Choosing the best ETF broker in the UK depends on your personal goals, budget, and how hands-on you want to be with your investments.
Key factors like fees, ETF availability, platform usability, account types, and regulation all play a role in shaping your long-term returns and overall experience.
Starting with a broker that offers low costs, clear tools, and strong support can make the process far more accessible.