Independent reviews of UK brokers since 1996

Brokers with access to the Japan Exchange Group (JPX) facilitate trading on some of the largest stocks in Asia. This review ranks the best Japan Exchange Group brokers for UK traders, taking into account platforms and apps, fees and prices, charts, tools and trading hours. This guide to trading at JPX brokers also unpacks the largest indices and companies by market cap.

Best Japan Exchange Group Brokers In The UK

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Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 Pepperstone Top score: Platforms 4.8 Info Visit Pepperstone
  2. 2 XTB Top score: Trust 4.8 Info Visit XTB
  3. 3 Interactive Brokers Top score: Assets 4.3 Info Visit Interactive Brokers
  4. 4 IG Top score: Fees 4.5 Info Visit IG
  5. 5 Trade Nation Top score: Support 4.4 Info Visit Trade Nation
  6. 6 Eightcap Top score: Mobile 4.6 Info Visit Eightcap
  7. 7 eToro Top score: Trust 4.0 Info Visit eToro
  1. Our top pick

    1 Pepperstone logo

    Pepperstone

    FCA regulatedSpread bettingGBP account
    4.8/5

    Founded in Australia in 2010, Pepperstone is a leading forex and CFD broker serving over 830,000 clients globally. It provides access to 1,400+ instruments through MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView, with low, transparent pricing. Regulated by the FCA, ASIC and CySEC, Pepperstone offers a secure trading environment for all experience levels.

    Instruments
    CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto CFDs (only Pro clients), Spread Betting
    Regulator
    FCA, ASIC, CySEC, BaFin, DFSA, SCA, SCB, CMA-Kenya
    Platforms
    Pepperstone Trading Platform, MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView
    Min. Deposit
    $0
    Min. Trade
    0.01 Lots
    Leverage
    1:30 (Retail - UK, EU, Australia), 1:500 (Pro), 1:200 (Offshore), 1:400 (Kenya)
    Trust
    4.6
    Fees
    4.5
    Platforms
    4.8
    Support
    4.6
    Visit Pepperstone Read review

    CFDs and FX are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 73-89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs.

  2. 2 XTB logo

    XTB

    FCA regulatedISAGBP account
    4.8/5

    Established in Poland in 2002, XTB caters to over a million clients worldwide. This forex and CFD broker offers a robust regulatory framework, a diverse range of assets, and prioritises trader satisfaction. It provides an intuitive proprietary platform equipped with excellent tools to support aspiring traders.

    Instruments
    CFDs on shares, Indices, ETFs, Raw Materials, Forex currencies, cryptocurrencies, Real shares, Real ETFs
    Regulator
    FCA, CySEC, KNF, DFSA, FSC, SCA, CMF, Bappebti
    Platforms
    xStation
    Min. Deposit
    $0
    Min. Trade
    0.01 Lots
    Leverage
    1:30
    Trust
    4.6
    Fees
    3.9
    Platforms
    4.0
    Support
    4.3
    Visit XTB Read review

    CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 74% 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

  3. 3 Interactive Brokers logo

    Interactive Brokers

    FCA regulatedISAGBP account
    4.3/5

    Interactive Brokers (IBKR) stands as a leading brokerage, offering access to 170+ markets in 40 nations alongside extensive investment services. With 40+ years in finance, this Nasdaq-listed entity complies with regulations from the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC, ensuring global trustworthiness in trading.

    Instruments
    Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Cryptocurrencies, CFDs
    Regulator
    SEC, FINRA, CFTC, NFA, CIRO, FCA, CBI, ASIC, SFC, SEBI, JFSA, MAS
    Platforms
    Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, Quantower
    Min. Deposit
    $0
    Min. Trade
    $1
    Leverage
    1:30
    Trust
    4.5
    Fees
    4.3
    Platforms
    3.3
    Support
    3.0
    Visit Interactive Brokers Read review
  4. 4 IG logo

    IG

    FCA regulatedISASpread betting
    4.5/5

    Established in 1974, IG is a unit of IG Group Holdings Plc, listed on the LSE as IGG. It provides access to over 17,000 markets through intuitive platforms and apps. For half a century, IG has remained an industry leader, excelling in all vital aspects for traders.

    Instruments
    CFDs (not in US), Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting (UK only)
    Regulator
    CFTC, NFA, FCA, BaFin, ASIC, FINMA, MAS, JFSA, FMA, DFSA, BMA, CONSOB
    Platforms
    Web, L2 Dealer, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentral, ProRealTime
    Min. Deposit
    $0
    Min. Trade
    0.01 Lots
    Leverage
    1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro)
    Trust
    4.4
    Fees
    5.0
    Platforms
    4.8
    Support
    4.5
    Visit IG Read review

    Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 70% 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.

  5. 5 Trade Nation logo

    Trade Nation

    FCA regulatedSpread bettingGBP account
    4.4/5

    Trade Nation is a leading FX and CFD broker regulated in the UK and Australia, among other places. The company provides competitively priced fixed and variable spreads on over 1,000 assets. Traders benefit from advanced platforms and comprehensive training materials. Additionally, the Signal Centre offers valuable trade ideas.

    Instruments
    CFDs, Forex, Indices, Shares, Commodities, Futures, Bonds, Spread Betting (UK and Ireland only), Cryptos (Bahamas entity only)
    Regulator
    FCA, ASIC, CMVM , FSCA, SCB, FSA
    Platforms
    TN Trader, MT4, TradingView
    Min. Deposit
    $0
    Min. Trade
    0.1 Lots
    Leverage
    1:30
    Trust
    4.3
    Fees
    4.3
    Platforms
    3.9
    Support
    4.9
    Visit Trade Nation Read review

    67.3% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

  6. 6 Eightcap logo

    Eightcap

    FCA regulatedGBP accountTradingView
    4.6/5

    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
    CFDs in Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
    Regulator
    FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSC, SCB, FSA
    Platforms
    MT4, MT5, TradingView, TradeLocker
    Min. Deposit
    £100
    Min. Trade
    0.01 Lots
    Leverage
    1:30
    Trust
    4.3
    Fees
    3.8
    Platforms
    4.3
    Support
    4.0
    Visit Eightcap Read review

    Services are provided subject to applicable laws and regulations. Certain products, services, instruments, platforms or payment methods may not be available to residents of certain jurisdictions.

  7. 7 eToro logo

    eToro

    FCA regulatedGBP accountFree demo
    4.0/5

    eToro is a leading multi-asset platform providing trading services across numerous CFDs, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. Since its 2007 inception, it has attracted millions of traders worldwide. It operates with authorisation from top regulators such as the FCA and CySEC. Its social trading feature is especially well-regarded. Crypto investments are high-risk and possibly unsuitable for retail investors. There's a potential to lose all invested capital. Familiarise yourself with the risks. 61% of retail CFD accounts incur losses.

    Instruments
    CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Smart Portfolios, Commodities, Futures, Crypto, NFTs
    Regulator
    FCA, CySEC, MiCA, MFSA, FSRA, ASIC, FSAS, MAS, GFSC
    Platforms
    eToro Web, CopyTrader, TradingCentral
    Min. Deposit
    $50
    Min. Trade
    $10
    Leverage
    1:30
    Trust
    4.3
    Fees
    3.4
    Platforms
    2.8
    Support
    2.5
    Visit eToro Read review

    61% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading with this provider. eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk. Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Compare

Safety Comparison

Compare how safe the Japan Exchange Group are and what features they offer to protect traders.

Broker Trust Rating FCA Regulated Negative Balance Protection Guaranteed Stop Loss Segregated Accounts
4.6
4.6
4.5
4.4
4.3
4.3
4.3

Payments Comparison

Compare which popular payment methods the Japan Exchange Group support and whether they have trading accounts denominated in British Pounds (GBP).

Broker GBP Account Debit Card Credit Card Neteller Skrill Apple Pay

Mobile Trading Comparison

How good are the Japan Exchange Group at mobile trading using apps or other mobile interfaces.

Broker Mobile Apps iOS Rating Android Rating Smart Watch App
iOS & Android 4.4 4.1
iOS & Android 4.7 4.1
iOS & Android 4.3 4.5
iOS & Android 4.6 4.0
iOS & Android 4.5 4.5
iOS & Android 4.8 4.4
iOS & Android 4.0 3.8

Beginners Comparison

Are the Japan Exchange Group 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
$0 0.01 Lots 4.6 4.0
$0 0.01 Lots 4.3 3.8
$0 $1 3.0 4.3
$0 0.01 Lots 4.5 4.8
$0 0.1 Lots 4.9 4.2
£100 0.01 Lots 4.0 3.5
$50 $10 2.5 4.0

Advanced Trading Comparison

Do the Japan Exchange Group offer features that allow for more advanced trading strategies?

Broker Automated Trading Pro Account Leverage VPS AI Low Latency Extended Hours
Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cBots on cTrader 1:30 (Retail - UK, EU, Australia), 1:500 (Pro), 1:200 (Offshore), 1:400 (Kenya)
- 1:30
TWS API 1:30
Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, build your own on ProRealTime 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro)
Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader 1:30
TradingView Bots 1:30
Automate your trades via CopyTrader - follow profitable traders. Open and close trades automatically when they do. 1:30

Detailed Rating Comparison

Use this heatmap to compare our detailed ratings for all of the Japan Exchange Group.

Broker Trust Platforms Mobile Assets Fees Accounts Support Research Education
4.6 4.8 4.3 4.6 4.5 4.0 4.6 4.3 4.0
4.6 4.0 4.4 4.6 3.9 4.0 4.3 4.1 3.8
4.5 3.3 4.4 4.7 4.3 3.5 3.0 4.4 4.3
4.4 4.8 4.3 4.5 5.0 4.0 4.5 4.9 4.8
4.3 3.9 4.5 3.7 4.3 4.2 4.9 3.9 4.2
4.3 4.3 4.6 3.6 3.8 4.0 4.0 3.5 3.5
4.3 2.8 3.9 3.8 3.4 4.1 2.5 4.3 4.0

Our Take On Pepperstone

Pepperstone excels in trading with tight spreads, swift execution, and advanced charting for seasoned traders. Beginners enjoy zero minimum deposit, comprehensive educational materials, and outstanding 24/5 support, including 18-hour weekend assistance.

Tobias Robinson Reviewer

Pros

  • Support for top-tier charting platforms such as MT4, MT5, TradingView, and cTrader. These tools accommodate different short-term trading methods, including algorithmic trading.
  • Pepperstone offers pre-IPO perpetual futures, adding Anthropic in October 2026, enabling 24/7 speculation on expected share prices through cash-settled CFDs.
  • 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.

Cons

  • Overnight holding fees exceed those of some Market Maker brokers (typically Benchmark + 2.5%). Pepperstone suits traders and forex scalpers well but is less ideal for swing traders who keep positions open overnight.
  • Execution might not appear as dependable in rapid markets as headline speeds imply. Our tests showed swift execution at targeted prices. However, community feedback highlights concerns over slippage, stop-loss fills, and order triggers sensitive to spreads amid volatility.
  • Although the market range has expanded, crypto CFD options remain somewhat restricted, especially when compared to specialised brokers like Eightcap. Additionally, there is no facility to invest in actual cryptocurrencies.

73-89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs

Our Take On XTB

XTB excels for novice traders with its superb xStation platform, minimal trading costs, no required deposit, and outstanding educational resources, many of which are fully integrated into the platform.

William Berg Reviewer

Pros

  • In 2026, XTB expanded its asset offerings and markets. It introduced options trading in Spain and Germany, launched spot cryptocurrencies in select regions, and unveiled Investment Plans 2.0. These enhanced plans now feature more pre-built options, including sectors like Defence, a user-friendly interface, and increased flexibility to mix stocks and ETFs within individual plans.
  • The xStation platform stands out with its user-friendly design and intuitive tools, such as adaptable news feeds, sentiment heatmaps, and a trader calculator. These features streamline the learning process for new traders.
  • XTB offers a superb array of educational resources, such as training videos and articles, embedded within the platform to assist traders of all experience levels.

Cons

  • XTB lacks a raw spread account, a feature increasingly offered by competitors such as Pepperstone. This omission might not satisfy traders seeking the most competitive spreads.
  • 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.
  • XTB has stopped supporting MT4, restricting traders to its own platform, xStation. This decision may discourage experienced traders accustomed to using the MetaTrader suite.

74% of accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

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.

Tobias Robinson Reviewer

Pros

  • IBKR is a highly respected brokerage, regulated by top-tier authorities, ensuring the integrity and security of your trading account.
  • Interactive Brokers has introduced a single platform linking prediction markets on Kalshi, CME Group, and ForecastEx. Users can trade yes/no contracts on political, economic, and climate events, with fixed $1 payouts. Enjoy 24/6 market access and earn interest on eligible positions.
  • The TWS platform is tailored for intermediate and advanced traders, featuring over 100 order types and a dependable real-time market data feed with exceptional uptime.

Cons

  • TWS has a steep learning curve, making it difficult for newcomers to navigate and grasp its features.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Our Take On IG

IG offers a complete package: an easy-to-use web platform, top-tier beginner education, enhanced charting via TradingView, up-to-date data, and strong trade execution for seasoned traders.

Tobias Robinson Reviewer

Pros

  • IG excels with its diverse instruments, offering stocks, forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Additionally, it provides US-listed futures, options, and an AI Index, ensuring varied diversification opportunities.
  • IG secured a crypto asset license from the FCA, enabling its return to the UK market. It now offers buying, selling, and storage services for over 55 digital tokens with fees starting at 1.49%, all under FCA regulation.
  • The web-based platform supports traders at every level, offering advanced charting tools and real-time market data vital for trading. Additionally, IG now includes TradingView integration.

Cons

  • Beginners may find IG's fees complicated, as they vary depending on the trades or services. This could cause confusion and unexpected costs.
  • IG has ended its swap-free account, diminishing its attractiveness to Islamic traders.
  • IG imposes a monthly inactivity fee of $12 to $18 after two years, discouraging occasional investors.

70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Our Take On Trade Nation

Trade Nation caters to discretionary traders aiming to speculate on major indices like the US 500 or liquid FX pairs, with the certainty of fixed spreads. Our tests revealed the TN Trader's fixed spreads to be advantageous, especially during economic announcements, thanks to its dependable charting and capped spreads.

Tobias Robinson Reviewer

Pros

  • Trade Nation's 2026 alliance with Volt has streamlined payments for Australian traders, enabling instant deposits and withdrawals via PayID. Faster payout features are also anticipated for UK and EU clients.
  • The broker expanded into Europe by launching regulated online trading services, after securing authorization from Portugal's CVMV, enhancing safety measures for European residents.
  • During tests of the TN Trader account in standard market conditions, fixed spreads remained stable. Major forex pairs experienced prompt order fills, albeit with slight entry level drift as prices fluctuated between click and execution.

Cons

  • Offshore SCB and FSA firms offer retail investors leverage up to 1:200 and 1:500. In contrast, regions like the UK, Europe, and Australia cap leverage at 1:30. Thus, an FSA client can access 16 times more exposure than a UK retail client on identical trades. However, this comes with reduced oversight and no compensation schemes.
  • The FCA, CMVM, and ASIC clients are ineligible for the 2–20% rebate scheme. Consequently, active traders in these areas cannot receive transaction rebates.
  • There is no raw or ECN pricing tier, often favoured by traders. Regardless of your deposit or trading volume, you receive the same fixed (or variable on MT4) pricing as novices, rendering it particularly unsuitable for scalpers.

67.3% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

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.

William Berg Reviewer

Pros

  • 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.
  • In 2026, Eightcap integrated TradeLocker in select areas, establishing itself as the premier regulated broker for this platform. It continues to offer ultra-fast execution and competitive fees for active traders using the charting software.
  • Eightcap has launched GOLD247, offering 24/7 gold/USD CFD trading with up to 1:20 leverage, 0.01-lot minimums and zero commission for weekend gold traders.

Cons

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

71.28% of retail traders lose money when trading CFDs

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.

Tobias Robinson Reviewer

Pros

  • In July 2026, eToro Edge introduced significant enhancements, including a charting package tailored for active traders and AI trading via Tori.
  • The trading app provides a top-tier social environment featuring an engaging feed and community chat, which we enjoy using.
  • The entry requirements for eToro Club have been reduced. For $4.99 monthly, members enjoy 18 benefits, including a debit card that converts purchases into stocks with a 4% share return.

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 minimum withdrawal is set at $30, accompanied by a $5 fee. This may impact traders with limited funds, particularly those just starting out.

61% of retail CFD accounts lose money. eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.

Choosing Japan Exchange Group Brokers

The Japan Exchange Group owns some of the largest exchanges in Asia and the world, including the Tokyo Stock Exchange. As such, JPX brokers are plentiful. However, this can make choosing a firm difficult. Below we outline the key areas to compare when choosing brokers with access to the Japan Exchange Group.

Instruments & Markets

The Japan Exchange Group is made up of multiple exchanges. Therefore, you will need to find a broker that gives you access to the exchange and listed securities that you want to trade.

For example, if you are looking to spot trade, you will want to find a Japan Exchange Group broker that provides access to the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Derivatives trading, however, predominantly takes place on the Osaka Exchange. Commodities are tradable on the Tokyo Commodity Exchange.

Note that JPX brokers outside of Japan, including the UK, are most likely to provide traders with access to the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Trading Platforms

JPX brokers may offer different trading platforms. These can range from popular platforms like MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 or TradingView, to beginner-friendly bespoke solutions.

You will want to choose a Japan Exchange Group broker that offers a platform that suits your trading style and investment strategy. Are you looking for a feature-rich platform that allows programmable trading bots? Do you want a platform with an intuitive, easy-to-use web design?

The top Japan Exchange Group brokers will also offer demo accounts. These allow you to try a broker’s platform with a virtual bankroll. You can trial live charts and graphs, indicators and drawing tools, plus get familiar with navigation and key functionality.

Costs & Fees

How Japan Exchange Group brokers charge traders can differ. Some charge a commission per trade, while others have variable spreads. Subscription models also exist, offering traders more features or fewer restrictions for a monthly fee. Swap fees and deposit and withdrawal charges are other ways brokers make money from traders.

It is important to find a fee structure that suits your JPX strategy to minimise costs. Admiral Markets, for example, charges a 0.15% commission on popular Japanese stocks.

Japanese Stocks at Admiral Markets
Japanese Stocks at Admiral Markets

Customer Service

Active traders will want reliable customer support during the times they are speculating on Japanese Exchange-listed securities, which open at 9am JST (GMT+9). Look for 24/5 support via live chat, telephone, email and social media.

The best JPX brokers can help with order queries, market data, plus technical issues with platforms and apps.

Regulation

The best UK brokers with access to the Japan Exchange Group are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Licensing conditions ensure that firms offer suitable safety measures, including negative balance protection, a cap on retail leverage, plus access to compensation schemes in the event the broker becomes insolvent.

Research & Education

The Japan stock exchange covers a range of companies, assets and commodities in Japan. Therefore, reliable market data will be required to effectively trade. The top Japan Exchange Group brokers offer multiple forms of research and analysis to help traders make informed investment decisions.

Education is another thing to think about, especially if you are new to trading. Top Japan Exchange Group brokers, such as IG, offer training guides, video tutorials and webinars to teach beginner investors how to trade. Content may cover a range of topics, such as general information like glossaries and platform guidance. More complex guides on JPX strategies or specific asset classes may also be provided.

IG Japan Stock Market Insights
IG Index Insights

Japan Exchange Group Basics

The Japan Exchange Group, also known as Nippon Torihikijo and abbreviated to JPX, is a Tokyo-based Japanese exchange holding company.

It is regulated by the local Financial Services Agency (FSA) and owns three licensed exchanges. These are the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TYO/TSE), Osaka Exchange (OSE), and Tokyo Commodity Exchange (TOCOM).

History

The Japan Exchange Group was established on 1 January 2013, when the TYO and OSE merged. The TYO became the sole securities exchange of the JPX and the OSE became the largest derivatives exchange of the JPX.

In 2019, the Japan Exchange Group acquired TOCOM to grow into the commodity market. The group also has a central clearing counterparty, the Japan Securities Clearing Corporation, an IT services and research arm, JPX Market Innovation & Research, and a self-regulatory body, Japan Exchange Regulation.

While the JPX is still relatively young, its subsidiaries have been around for longer. Both the TYO and OSE were formed in 1878, with the former opening for trading on 1 June and the latter established in the same month. However, the TYO and OSE as we know them today were founded on 1 April 1949.

The TOCOM was founded in 1951 as the Tokyo Textile Exchange. It later merged with the Tokyo Gold Exchange and Tokyo Rubber Exchange in 1984 to form the TOCOM we know today.

Subsidiaries

The Japan Exchange Group is formed of three main exchanges: TYO, OSE and TOCOM.

Tokyo Stock Exchange

The TYO is a stock exchange located in Tokyo, Japan. By market capitalisation, it is the largest exchange in Asia and the third largest in the world. The exchange has over 2,290 listed companies with a combined market share of over £4.7 trillion.

The three main indices tracking the stock market are the Nikkei 225, J30 and TOPIX. 94 domestic and 10 foreign securities companies trade on the TYO, including Daiwa Securities Group, Tokai Tokyo Securities, and Interactive Brokers Securities Japan.

The Tokyo Stock Exchange is the most popular exchange to trade on, and the exchange most JPX brokers provide access to. It predominantly deals in spot trading, allowing traders to buy and sell shares. However, it also supports some derivative like futures.

The exchange is broken up into three major sections: Prime, Standard and Growth.

  • The Prime section lists companies that are centred on constructive dialogue with global investors.
  • The Standard section lists companies with sufficient liquidity and governance levels to be investment instruments.
  • The Growth section lists companies with high growth potential.

Osaka Exchange

The OSE is a derivatives exchange based in Osaka, Japan. However, contrary to its name, trading on the Osaka Stock Exchange takes place in Tokyo. In terms of the amount of business handled, it is the largest in the country.

The OSE focuses on derivatives trading like options and futures contracts. In recent years, the OSE handled almost 100% of options market trading in Japan and almost 60% of the stock price index futures market.

Tokyo Commodity Exchange

The TOCOM is one of Asia’s most popular commodity futures exchanges and the largest in Japan. With 88 listings, the exchange trades precious metals, rubber, aluminium, oil, agricultural products, and sugar.

Indices

TOPIX

The Tokyo Stock Price Index, TOPIX, is the main index of the Japan Exchange Group and the Tokyo Stock Exchange. This is a free-floating index tracking all domestic companies in the TYO’s Prime section. The largest sector weightings are held by the transportation equipment market (12%), the electric appliances market (12%), and banks (10%).

JPX brokers typically offer trading on this live index through futures contracts on the Osaka Exchange.

Nikkei 225

The Nikkei Stock Average, Nikkei 225, is a stock market index for the TYO. It is a price-weighted index measuring the performance of 225 large companies in Japan. The index is updated every 15 seconds during sessions, with futures tradable on the Osaka Exchange.

Many major Japanese companies are represented, including Panasonic, Fujitsu, Nissan, Asahi and Yamaha.

Regulation

The Japan Exchange Group is regulated under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act enforced by the Financial Services Agency of Japan. This is a Japanese government agency designed to regulate the financial services sector, and thus ensure the exchange is efficient and safe.

Furthermore, the self-regulatory body, Japan Exchange Regulation, works to investigate compliance with the laws and regulations of listed companies, investors, and companies seeking listing, etc.

Japan Exchange Group brokers will not necessarily be regulated by the same financial bodies. As outlined above, UK traders are best off choosing a brokerage regulated by the FCA.

JPX Trading Hours

The trading hours for the various exchanges and instruments differ:

  • The Tokyo Stock Exchange is open for 5 hours Monday to Friday. Opening hours are between 00:00 am to 02:30 am, and 03:30 am to 06:00 am GMT.
  • Equity Index Futures are available between 23:45 pm to 06:15 am, and 07:30 am to 21:00 pm GMT, Sunday night to Friday.
  • Equity Index Options are available between 23:45 pm to 06:15 am, and 07:30 am to 21:00 pm GMT, Sunday night to Friday.
  • Commodity Futures (Excluding Rubber and Electricity) are available between 23:45 pm to 06:15 am, and 07:30 am to 21:00 pm GMT, Sunday night to Friday.
  • Commodity Options are available between 23:45 pm to 06:15 am, and 07:30 am to 21:00 pm GMT, Sunday Night to Friday.

Other specific trading hours are detailed on the JPX website.

JPX Trading Calendar

The Japan Exchange Group follows a total of 14 market holidays. In 2023, observed holidays are:

  • New Year’s Day – January 2nd
  • Market Holiday – January 3rd
  • Old Age Day – January 9th
  • Emperor’s Birthday – February 23rd
  • Vernal Equinox – March 21st
  • Constitution Day – May 3rd
  • Greenery Day – May 4th
  • Children’s Day – May 5th
  • Marine Day – July 17th
  • Mountain Day – August 11th
  • Old Age Day – September 18th
  • Sports Day – October 9th
  • Culture Day – November 3rd
  • Workers’ Day – November 23rd

Bottom Line On Japan Exchange Group Brokers

Japan Exchange Group brokers give traders access to major Asian exchanges, creating opportunities for UK traders looking to speculate further afield. The best brokers with access to the JPX offer low fees, reliable platforms, FCA oversight, and customer support during standard market operating hours.

Sign up with one of the best Japan Exchange Group brokers to get started.

FAQs

Can UK Traders Invest In The Japan Stock Market?

Yes, UK investors can trade JPX-listed companies from the UK. You will need to find a Japan Exchange Group broker that offers the instruments you want to trade. For example, Pepperstone is an FCA-regulated CFD broker that offers trading on the Nikkei 225 index.

What Time Can UK Investors Trade On The Japan Exchange Group?

Times for different assets vary. However, the Tokyo Stock Exchange is only open for 5 hours a day. These are between 00:00 am to 02:30 am, and 03:30 am to 06:00 am GMT, Monday to Friday.

Are Japan Exchange Group Brokers Regulated?

While the JPX itself is regulated by Japan’s financial regulatory body, there is no guarantee that every Japan Exchange Group broker is overseen by a reputable agency. Online brokers will have different licenses depending on where they are based and the traders they market services to. Importantly, UK traders should favour FCA-regulated brokers with access to the Japan Exchange Group.

Which Is The Best UK Broker With Access To The Japan Exchange Group?

The best JPX broker will depend on your investment objectives, trading style and personal preference. With that said, XTB offers competitive conditions on stocks listed by the Japanese Exchange Group. Alternatively, see our full list of brokers with access to JPX equities.