Social Trading Platforms in the UK 2025

Social trading has become one of the most popular trading methods among beginners, as it allows them to see and copy the actions of more experienced traders.  Social trading, stated simply, is the use of large groups of people to understand markets and make decisions about them. Brokers with social features enable traders to see pertinent data about what other traders, both as individuals and as a group, are doing.

This gives traders valuable insight into market perceptions. In addition, data about individual traders are generally displayed, which can help those who use social trading platforms to identify the most successful traders to emulate and copy.

UK Social Trading Brokers

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    Founded in 1989, CMC Markets is a reputable broker publicly listed on the London Stock Exchange. It holds authorisation from top-tier regulators such as the FCA, ASIC, and CIRO. The brokerage, which has received multiple awards, boasts a global membership exceeding one million traders.

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Treasuries, Custom Indices, Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, MAS, CIRO, BaFin, FMA, DFSA Web, MT4, TradingView
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
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    IC Markets is an internationally acclaimed forex and CFD broker, admired for its competitive pricing, diverse trading instruments, and superior technology. Established in 2007 and based in Australia, the firm is under the regulation of ASIC, CySEC, and FSA. It has successfully drawn over 180,000 clients from more than 200 nations.

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, Futures, Crypto ASIC, CySEC, FSA, CMA MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade, Quantower
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $200 0.01 Lots 1:30 (ASIC & CySEC), 1:500 (FSA), 1:1000 (Global)
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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.

    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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    Eightcap, an acclaimed broker regulated by the FCA, offers exceptionally low trading costs. Recognised as the top-rated brand by TradingView's vast user base of 100 million, traders can directly access the platform. UK traders can open a live account with a minimum deposit of just £100.

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities ASIC, FCA, CySEC, SCB MT4, MT5, TradingView
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    £100 0.01 Lots 1:30
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    Fusion Markets, an online broker since 2017, operates under the regulation of ASIC, VFSC, and FSA. Renowned for offering cost-effective forex and CFD trading, it provides various account options and copy trading solutions to suit diverse trading needs. New clients can begin trading with a simple three-step registration process.

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto ASIC, VFSC, FSA MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, DupliTrade
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $0 0.01 Lots 1:500
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    BlackBull, a New Zealand-based CFD broker, offers a wide range of trading options across more than 26,000 instruments. Following a 2023 rebrand, it boasts a contemporary design and provides advanced trading tools along with ultra-fast execution speeds, averaging 20ms.

    Instruments Regulator Platforms
    CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Crypto FMA, FSA BlackBull Invest, BlackBull CopyTrader, MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist
    Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage
    $0 0.01 Lots 1:500
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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.

    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

Safety Comparison

Compare how safe the Social Trading Platforms in the UK 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
CMC Markets 4.8
IC Markets 4.6
eToro 4.5
Eightcap 4.3
Fusion Markets 3.5
BlackBull Markets 3.8
Vantage FX 4.6

Payments Comparison

Compare which popular payment methods the Social Trading Platforms in the UK 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
CMC Markets
IC Markets
eToro
Eightcap
Fusion Markets
BlackBull Markets
Vantage FX

Mobile Trading Comparison

How good are the Social Trading Platforms in the UK 2025 at mobile trading using apps or other mobile interfaces.

Mobile Trading Comparison
Broker Mobile Apps iOS Rating Android Rating Smart Watch App
CMC Markets iOS & Android 4.1 3.7
IC Markets iOS & Android 3.1 4.2
eToro iOS & Android 4 3.8
Eightcap iOS & Android 4.8 4.4
Fusion Markets iOS & Android 4.8 4.4
BlackBull Markets iOS & Android 3.7 3.7
Vantage FX iOS & Android 3.6 3.9

Beginners Comparison

Are the Social Trading Platforms in the UK 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
CMC Markets $0 0.01 Lots 4.5 4.3
IC Markets $200 0.01 Lots 4.5 3.5
eToro $50 $10 2.5 4
Eightcap £100 0.01 Lots 4 3.5
Fusion Markets $0 0.01 Lots 4.5 1.3
BlackBull Markets $0 0.01 Lots 4 4.3
Vantage FX $50 0.01 Lots 4.4 4

Advanced Trading Comparison

Do the Social Trading Platforms in the UK 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
CMC Markets Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)
IC Markets Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cBots on cTrader, Myfxbook AutoTrade 1:30 (ASIC & CySEC), 1:500 (FSA), 1:1000 (Global)
eToro Automate your trades via CopyTrader - follow profitable traders. Open and close trades automatically when they do. 1:30
Eightcap TradingView Bots 1:30
Fusion Markets Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cBots on cTrader 1:500
BlackBull Markets Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cTrader Automate 1:500
Vantage FX Myfxbook AutoTrade, Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader 1:30

Detailed Rating Comparison

Use this heatmap to compare our detailed ratings for all of the Social Trading Platforms in the UK 2025.

Detailed Rating Comparison
Broker Trust Platforms Mobile Assets Fees Accounts Support Research Education
CMC Markets 4.8 4.3 3.9 4.6 4.3 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.3
IC Markets 4.6 4 3.7 3.5 4.6 4 4.5 4 3.5
eToro 4.5 2.8 3.9 3.8 3.3 4 2.5 4.3 4
Eightcap 4.3 4.3 4.6 3.6 3.8 4 4 3.5 3.5
Fusion Markets 3.5 4 4.6 3.3 4.4 4 4.5 3.5 1.3
BlackBull Markets 3.8 4.5 3.7 4 3.8 4.3 4 4 4.3
Vantage FX 4.6 4.3 3.8 4.5 4.4 4.5 4.4 4 4

Our Take On CMC Markets

"Equipped with advanced charts and a broad array of tradable CFDs, including an unmatched selection of currencies and bespoke indices, CMC Markets offers an excellent online platform for traders at any level."

Pros

  • CMC Markets is well-regulated by respected financial authorities, ensuring a secure and reliable trading environment. It upholds a strong reputation, providing traders with confidence.
  • We've upgraded the 'Assets & Markets' rating due to frequent product enhancements in early 2025. These include extended trading hours for US stocks and the introduction of new share CFDs.
  • CMC provides competitive pricing with narrow spreads and low trading fees, except for stock CFDs. The Alpha and Price+ programmes offer additional benefits for active traders, including discounts on spreads of up to 40%.

Cons

  • The CMC Markets app provides a comprehensive trading package; however, its design and user experience lag behind market leaders such as eToro.
  • Although there have been improvements, the online platform still needs further refinement to match the user-friendly trading experience offered by competitors such as IG.
  • A monthly inactivity charge of $10 is imposed after a year's inactivity, potentially discouraging occasional traders.

Our Take On IC Markets

"IC Markets provides excellent pricing, swift execution, and easy deposits. With cutting-edge charting tools like TradingView and the Raw Trader Plus account, it continues to be a preferred option for intermediate and advanced traders."

Pros

  • Access over 2,250 CFDs across diverse markets like forex, commodities, indices, shares, bonds, and cryptocurrencies. This variety enables traders to employ diversified strategies.
  • IC Markets provides reliable 24/5 support, especially for account and funding queries, drawing from direct experience.
  • As a well-regulated and reputable broker, IC Markets focuses on client safety and transparency to provide a dependable global trading experience.

Cons

  • IC Markets provides metals and cryptocurrencies for trading through CFDs, though the selection is narrower compared to brokers such as eToro. This limits opportunities for traders focused on these asset classes.
  • Although there are four top-tier third-party platforms available, the absence of in-house software or a trading app tailored for novice traders is notable.
  • Certain withdrawal methods incur fees, including a $20 charge for wire transfers. These costs can reduce profits, particularly with frequent withdrawals.

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

  • eToro has enhanced its investment portfolio by frequently introducing new crypto assets. It currently offers a selection of over 100 digital currencies.
  • The broker offers excellent services for beginners, featuring commission-free stock trading, a low minimum deposit, and an unlimited demo account.
  • The web platform and mobile app receive higher user reviews and app rankings compared to leading competitors like AvaTrade.

Cons

  • The minimum withdrawal is set at $30, accompanied by a $5 fee. This may impact traders with limited funds, particularly those just starting out.
  • The only significant contact option, besides the in-platform live chat, is limited.
  • There are no assured stop-loss orders, which could be a valuable risk management tool for novice traders.

Our Take On Eightcap

"Eightcap excels for traders, offering diverse charting platforms, educational Labs, and AI tools. With over 120 crypto CFDs, it stands out in crypto trading and has won our 'Best Crypto Broker' award twice consecutively."

Pros

  • With spreads starting at 0 pips, minimal commission charges, and leverage up to 1:500 for select clients, Eightcap delivers affordable and flexible trading opportunities. These conditions suit various strategies, such as trading and scalping.
  • Eightcap excels with a suite of advanced trading tools, such as MT4 and MT5, and has recently joined the 100-million-user social trading network, TradingView.
  • Eightcap has excelled in all essential trading areas, surpassing all rivals to clinch our 'Best Overall Broker' award for 2024. It also earned the titles of 'Best Crypto Broker' and 'Best TradingView Broker' for 2025.

Cons

  • The demo account is available for 30 days, after which it requires a request for extension. This is less convenient than XM's offering, which provides an unlimited demo mode.
  • Eightcap must enhance its range of over 800 instruments to rival top competitors like Blackbull Markets, which offers 26,000+ assets, especially improving its limited commodities selection.
  • Despite the growing range of tools available, Eightcap lacks popular industry resources such as Autochartist and Trading Central. These provide advanced charting analytics, live news, and essential market insights for traders focused on short-term strategies.

Our Take On Fusion Markets

"Fusion Markets offers forex traders competitive pricing with minimal spreads, low commissions, and new TradingView integration. It is an excellent choice, especially for Australian traders, given its base and regulation by ASIC."

Pros

  • With an average execution speed of approximately 37 milliseconds, traders can secure optimal prices more effectively, outpacing many competitors in rapidly changing markets.
  • The market analysis tools, Market Buzz and Analyst Views, are excellent for identifying opportunities and are seamlessly incorporated into the client dashboard.
  • The selection of charting platforms and social trading features is outstanding. Options like MT4, MT5, cTrader, and the newer TradingView meet diverse trader preferences.

Cons

  • The demo account, lasting only 30 days, is limited in its effectiveness as a trading tool when used with a live account.
  • The broker stands out with its extensive selection of currency pairs, surpassing most competitors. However, its alternative investment options are merely average, lacking stock CFDs outside the US.
  • Unlike AvaTrade, there is no specialised trading platform or app tailored for beginners, which is a significant disadvantage.

Our Take On BlackBull Markets

"Following the upgrade to Equinix servers in New York, London, and Tokyo, BlackBull has reduced latency, making it a clear choice for stock CFD trading using ECN pricing."

Pros

  • BlackBull provides three ECN-powered accounts—Standard, Prime, and Institutional—to cater to traders of all experience levels, from novices to seasoned professionals. The variety of account types allows for flexible options tailored to individual trading needs and available capital.
  • After collaborating with ZuluTrade and Myfxbook and refining its CopyTrader, BlackBull now provides an exceptionally comprehensive trading experience.
  • BlackBulls's research excels, particularly in the daily 'Trading Opportunities' articles. These publications simplify complex market dynamics into clear insights, enabling traders to effectively capitalise on emerging trends.

Cons

  • Despite enhancements such as webinars and tutorials in the Education Hub, our review indicates that the courses still require greater emphasis on elucidating broader economic factors affecting prices.
  • Unlike many leading brokers, BlackBull imposes a bothersome $5 fee for withdrawals. This charge can reduce the overall cost-effectiveness, particularly for traders who regularly transfer funds.
  • BlackBull does not offer its own trading platform, instead utilising MetaTrader, cTrader, and TradingView. Although these platforms are highly regarded, some brokers, such as eToro, provide proprietary platforms with distinct features that cater well to novice traders.

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

  • Vantage has enhanced its trading tools for experienced traders, introducing AutoFibo EA to pinpoint potential market reversals.
  • Opening a live account is both straightforward and swift, requiring under 5 minutes to complete.
  • The broker recently expanded its range of CFDs, offering more trading opportunities.

Cons

  • Regrettably, cryptocurrencies are accessible solely to clients in Australia.
  • Based on tests, average execution speeds of 100ms to 250ms are slower compared to other options.
  • To access optimal trading conditions, a substantial deposit of $10,000 is required. This includes a commission of $1.50 per transaction per side.

Copy Trading

Many social trading platforms also offer an automatic copy trading option.

This is a method that can be implemented once an experienced trader has been identified as having a good track record of profitable trading. Users can set their accounts to automatically copy the actions of their favourite traders.

This essentially relieves newer traders of the burden of making constant decisions, instead allowing other more experienced traders to make the choices of what assets should be bought or sold.

Advantages

Even at a cursory glance, it is obvious that social trading has some large advantages over more traditional methods. The ability to use the knowledge and experience of others to trade is an obvious edge over the traditional method of learning through trial, error and extensive market research.

The ability to use this expertise also leads to less anxiety when it comes to executing trades. New traders are often prone to panic when a market temporarily fluctuates against their position, leading to many trades being cancelled too soon.

With one or more experienced traders guiding your trading decisions, it is easier to confidently hold a position through temporary reversals and fluctuations.

This also makes trading, on the whole, more enjoyable, as the decision making process is less stressful in the beginning than more traditional trading methods. An enjoyment of trading is one of the largest keys to becoming better at it.

How to Best Use Social Trading

As was mentioned earlier, it is possible to simply set a social trading account to copy the movements of reliable traders. However, there are much, much better ways to make use of this powerful tool.

The most obvious of these is as an educational opportunity. There is almost no other venue in which new traders can see their already successful counterparts executing trades in real time at no cost.

A careful study of the methods used by seasoned traders can greatly cut the learning curve for those new to trading. In Forex markets, in particular, social trading is a useful learning tool because it can help new traders to understand the long term trends that experienced traders analyze and make use of in their trading decisions.

With this said, the goal of a new trader who is using a social trading platform should always be to become one of the traders that others are copying because of consistent success.

There are two major reasons for this. The first, and more important, is that developing one’s trading skills to this point will result in the ability to transfer them to any other trading platform successfully and trade for profit in the long term.

The other is that almost all social trading platforms reward traders that others are copying with a small share of the profits that are made by those who are copying them. This means that trades can become more profitable without a higher capital investment.

Conclusion

Clearly, social trading is one of the most exciting innovations in the worlds of Forex and CFD trading at the moment. It not only provides an excellent educational resource for new traders, but also enables them to profit much more easily as they learn to trade successfully.

Of course, work and research are still components of success in the world of social trading. A trader who does not learn from what others are doing to profit but instead only copies them will only go so far. However, for those who truly want to develop themselves into seasoned, professional traders, social trading is one of the best and easiest ways to do so.

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eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs.

Please note that CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 68% 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.

Past performance is not an indication of future results. Trading history presented is less than 5 complete years and may not suffice as basis for investment decision.

Copy trading is a portfolio management service, provided by eToro (Europe) Ltd., which is authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission.

Cryptoasset investing is unregulated in some EU countries and the UK. No consumer protection. Your capital is at risk.

eToro USA LLC does not offer CFDs and makes no representation and assumes no liability as to the accuracy or completeness of the content of this publication, which has been prepared by our partner utilizing publicly available non-entity specific information about eToro.