Profile
Spreadex is a UK-based financial trading provider offering both financial spread betting and CFD trading across a wide range of asset classes. Founded in 1999 and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Spreadex is known for its dual capability in sports betting and financial trading. This Spreadex review examines its regulation, execution model, platforms, asset coverage, and protections for UK and international clients as of 2025.
Regulation and Security
Spreadex Limited is authorised and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under FRN 190941. As an FCA-regulated firm, Spreadex must adhere to strict conduct rules, client fund segregation requirements, and capital adequacy obligations.
Retail clients benefit from negative balance protection, segregated accounts with tier-1 UK banks, and eligibility for the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)</strong) up to £85,000 in the event of company insolvency.
Execution Model
Spreadex operates primarily as a market maker, internalising trades rather than routing them to external liquidity providers. The firm discloses its principal status, meaning it acts as the counterparty to client trades.
While this model can offer stable pricing and tight spreads, it may create conflicts of interest. However, as an FCA-authorised firm, Spreadex must manage and disclose these conflicts transparently. There is no ECN or STP execution offered.
Trading Platforms
Spreadex offers two main platforms:
- Web Trading Platform: Proprietary browser-based platform with customisable charts, one-click dealing, and watchlists
- Mobile Apps: Native iOS and Android apps with full trading and account management capabilities
Unlike many CFD brokers, Spreadex does not support MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), or third-party terminals. The in-house platform is designed for simplicity and user-friendliness, especially for spread betting clients.
Supported Markets
Spreadex provides access to over 10,000 global markets via spread betting and CFDs, including:
- Forex: 60+ pairs including majors, minors, and exotics
- Indices: UK 100, US 500, DAX, CAC, Nikkei and others
- Equities: UK, US, European, and Asian shares
- Commodities: Gold, oil, natural gas, softs
- Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, LTC, XRP (CFDs only)
- Bonds & Rates: Gilts, Bunds, T-Notes
All assets are offered as leveraged derivatives — either via CFD or spread betting — with no physical delivery.
Account Types and Trading Conditions
Spreadex operates a single account structure that supports both spread betting and CFDs. Key terms include:
- Minimum Deposit: No mandatory minimum
- Leverage: Up to 1:30 for retail clients (per FCA rules)
- Spreads: From 0.6 pips on EUR/USD, 1pt on UK 100
- Commission: Zero on most markets (spreads only)
- Base Currencies: GBP, EUR, USD
Professional accounts are available on application, offering higher leverage but without FSCS coverage or negative balance protection.
Retail and Institutional Features
Spreadex is a retail-focused broker with some premium services for high-net-worth clients. Features include:
- Telephone dealing desk and personal service for large clients
- Tailored margin rates on request
- Sports spread betting and fixed-odds betting integrated into the same account
No institutional trading tools such as FIX API, MAM/PAMM, or liquidity aggregation are offered.
Client Protection and Transparency
As an FCA-licensed firm, Spreadex provides robust protections:
- Client funds held in segregated accounts at UK banks
- FSCS protection up to £85,000
- Negative balance protection for retail traders
- Conflict of interest management disclosures
The broker publishes execution and complaints data in line with UK regulatory rules.
Base Currencies, Order Types, and API Access
Supported base currencies include GBP, USD, and EUR. Order types include:
- Market and limit orders
- Stop orders (standard and guaranteed)
- Trailing stops
No public API or algo trading environment is available. All trading must be done via the web or mobile interface.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- FCA-regulated with FSCS protection
- Integrated spread betting and CFD trading
- Commission-free model and low minimum deposit
- Robust proprietary platform
- Cons:
- No MT4/MT5 or third-party platforms
- Limited to UK and EU clients
- Market-maker model may deter scalpers
- No advanced institutional features
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spreadex a regulated broker?
Yes. Spreadex is regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 190941.
Can I trade with Spreadex outside the UK?
Spreadex primarily targets UK residents. Some EU clients may be accepted, but international access is limited.
Does Spreadex offer MetaTrader?
No. Spreadex uses a proprietary web and mobile platform. MT4 and MT5 are not supported.
What’s the minimum deposit to open an account?
There is no minimum deposit requirement, but clients must fund their account before placing trades.
Is spread betting with Spreadex tax-free?
Yes, in the UK, spread betting profits are exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT), but this may change depending on tax rules.
