Best CFD Brokers in the UK
Trade with confidence using FCA-regulated CFD brokers. Compare top UK brokers offering competitive spreads and professional trading platforms.
FCA Regulation in the UK
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is the UK's financial regulatory body responsible for overseeing CFD brokers and ensuring they meet strict standards for client protection and market integrity. All brokers listed above hold valid FCA authorization and are subject to comprehensive regulatory oversight.
FCA-regulated brokers must segregate client funds, maintain adequate capital reserves, and provide compensation through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). This provides protection of up to £85,000 per person per firm in the unlikely event of broker failure.
The FCA has implemented strict leverage limits for retail clients (maximum 1:30 for major currency pairs) and requires prominent risk warnings. These measures are designed to protect retail traders from excessive losses while maintaining access to CFD trading opportunities.
UK CFD Trading Landscape
Regulatory Protection
- • FCA authorization required
- • Client money segregation
- • FSCS compensation up to £85,000
- • Leverage limits (1:30 max)
- • Negative balance protection
- • Regular regulatory reporting
UK Market Access
- • FTSE 100, 250, and AIM CFDs
- • London Stock Exchange access
- • UK sector-specific ETFs
- • British pound base currency
- • UK market hours trading
- • Local customer support
Choosing the Right UK CFD Broker
Regulatory Status: Always verify that your chosen broker holds current FCA authorization. You can check this on the FCA register using the firm reference number (FRN) provided in our listings.
Platform and Tools: UK traders often prefer platforms with direct access to London markets, advanced charting tools, and real-time news feeds focused on British economic developments and market movements.
Local Support: Consider brokers with UK-based customer support teams who understand local market conditions, tax implications, and can provide assistance during London trading hours.
Tax Considerations: Some UK brokers offer spread betting alongside CFD trading. Spread betting profits may be exempt from capital gains tax for UK residents, though this depends on individual circumstances and tax laws may change.