Forex Broker UK

Q: What is the maximum leverage for UK forex brokers?

Retail clients can access up to 1:30 leverage on major pairs. Higher leverage is available for professional clients.

Choosing a forex broker UK means trading with a platform that is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) — one of the strictest financial watchdogs globally. FCA-authorised brokers must uphold high standards of client fund protection, transparency, and financial stability. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, a UK-regulated forex broker provides a trusted environment for trading major currency pairs and CFDs.

This guide highlights the best FCA-regulated forex brokers in 2025, the benefits of trading under UK regulation, and the key factors to compare.

Why Trade With an FCA-Regulated Broker?

Core Benefits

Segregated client funds: Your money is held in Tier-1 banks separate from the broker’s own capital
Negative balance protection: You cannot lose more than your account balance
FSCS coverage: Up to £85,000 protection per client in case of broker insolvency
Strict conduct rules: Transparent pricing, fair execution, and compliant marketing

Retail Leverage Limits (UK)

1:30 on major currency pairs
1:20 on minors and gold
1:2 on cryptocurrencies

Best Forex Brokers in the UK (2025)

1. Intertrader – FCA Regulated UK Broker

Regulator: FCA (FRN: 597312)
Platform: MT4, WebTrader
Spread: From 0.6 pips (fixed)
Leverage: Up to 1:30 (retail)
Best For: Spread betting and tax-efficient forex trading for UK residents

2. Pepperstone UK

Regulator: FCA (FRN: 684312)
Platform: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView
Spread: From 0.0 pips (Razor account)
Leverage: Up to 1:30 (retail), 1:500 (pro)
Best For: Scalpers, algorithmic traders, and advanced platforms

3. IG Markets

Regulator: FCA (FRN: 195355)
Platform: IG proprietary, MT4
Spread: From 0.6 pips (EUR/USD)
Leverage: Up to 1:30 (retail)
Best For: Professional research tools and execution

4. Markets.com UK

Regulator: FCA (FRN: 509562)
Platform: Marketsx, MT4, MT5
Spread: From 0.6 pips
Leverage: Up to 1:30 (retail)
Best For: Multi-asset trading and UK-based traders seeking tight spreads

5. XTB UK

Regulator: FCA (FRN: 522157)
Platform: xStation 5
Spread: From 0.1 pips
Leverage: Up to 1:30 (retail)
Best For: Strong educational tools and commission-free FX trading

Key Features to Compare in UK Forex Brokers

1. Regulation and Licensing

Verify broker status on the FCA Register using their FRN (Firm Reference Number).

2. Platform Options

Top brokers in the UK offer:

MetaTrader 4 & 5
cTrader
Proprietary web and mobile platforms
TradingView integration

3. Spread and Account Type

ECN/Razor/Pro accounts: From 0.0 pips + commission
Standard accounts: Spread-only, from 0.6–1.0 pips

4. Leverage and Professional Account Options

Professional clients may apply for higher leverage (up to 1:500) after passing eligibility assessments.

5. Deposits and Withdrawals

UK brokers support:

GBP funding
Faster Payments and BACS
Credit/debit cards
Skrill, Neteller, PayPal

6. Tax Considerations

UK residents can opt for spread betting accounts, which are tax-free under current HMRC guidelines.

Key Takeaways

UK forex brokers regulated by the FCA provide unmatched fund protection, platform integrity, and legal recourse.
Intertrader and Markets.com are top choices for UK-based traders focused on spreads, safety, and platform quality.
Pepperstone and IG Markets offer deep liquidity and institutional-grade tools for active traders.
FSCS protection and segregated funds offer peace of mind when trading with FCA-regulated firms.
Check your eligibility for professional account status if you require higher leverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is forex trading legal in the UK?

Yes, forex trading is fully legal and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

What is the maximum leverage for UK forex brokers?

Retail clients can access up to 1:30 leverage on major pairs. Higher leverage is available for professional clients.

Which forex broker is best for UK residents?

Intertrader, Pepperstone, and Markets.com are leading UK brokers, offering FCA protection and competitive trading conditions.

Are UK forex brokers safe?

Yes. FCA-regulated brokers must follow strict rules on fund segregation, financial reporting, and client protection.

Can I open a spread betting account with a UK forex broker?

Yes. UK residents can open tax-free spread betting accounts with brokers like Intertrader and IG Markets.

Forex Broker UK