Our picks
- IG — the UK's best-known spread betting provider, huge market range
- Pepperstone — spread betting on MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView
- CMC Markets — powerful Next Generation platform
- Spreadex — UK specialist with TradingView and the lowest loss ratio we list
Comparison
| Broker | FCA FRN | EUR/USD | Min. deposit | Platforms | Retail loss rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | 114059 (IG Index Ltd) | From 0.6 | £0 bank transfer | IG platform, MT4, ProRealTime | 70% |
| Pepperstone | 684312 | ~0.75 avg (Standard) | None | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView | 72.9% |
| CMC Markets | 173730 | ~0.6 avg | None | Next Generation, MT4 | 69% |
| Spreadex | 190941 | From 0.6 | None | Spreadex platform, TradingView | 61% |
Data checked October 2026. Loss rates refer to spread bets and CFDs with each provider.
How to choose
- Market range: IG and CMC Markets offer thousands of markets.
- Platform: want MetaTrader or cTrader? Pepperstone. Want TradingView? Pepperstone or Spreadex.
- Guaranteed stops: check availability and premiums per market.
- Minimum stake: matters for small accounts.
What about Hantec Markets?
Our overall top pick, Hantec Markets, focuses on CFD trading on MT4 with a raw-spread Pro ECN account. If you specifically want spread betting, check with the broker or choose from the providers above.
Tax reminder
Spread betting profits are generally free of Capital Gains Tax for UK residents, but losses can't be offset. Compare in spread betting vs CFDs.
Frequently asked questions
Which spread betting broker has the lowest spreads?
Among the brokers we list, EUR/USD starts from around 0.6 points at IG and Spreadex and averages about 0.6 at CMC Markets. Compare averages during the hours you trade.
Can I spread bet on MetaTrader?
Yes, at some brokers. Pepperstone offers spread betting on MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView; IG and CMC Markets offer MT4 alongside their own platforms.
What are the biggest spread betting companies in the UK?
IG and CMC Markets are among the largest and longest-established UK spread betting providers; Pepperstone and Spreadex are popular alternatives.
Does Interactive Brokers offer spread betting?
Check Interactive Brokers' UK product list directly; it isn't one of the spread betting providers we currently compare.
Which are the top 10 spread betting companies in the UK?
Rather than a long list, we compare the FCA-regulated providers we have checked in detail: IG, Pepperstone, CMC Markets and Spreadex. Always confirm FCA authorisation before opening an account.
CFDs and spread bets are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Most retail investor accounts lose money when trading these products. You should consider whether you understand how they work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.