High-leverage forex brokers let traders control larger positions with smaller deposits, increasing both potential gains and losses.
In the UK, only FCA-regulated brokers can legally offer leverage up to 1:30 for retail traders and up to 1:500 for professional clients.
This guide compares the top FCA-approved platforms offering the highest leverage, competitive spreads, and advanced risk tools for active traders.
Quick answer: What are the best high-leverage forex brokers in the UK?
The best high-leverage forex brokers in the UK are eToro, XTB, IG, and AvaTrade. All are FCA-regulated, offer competitive spreads, and provide up to 1:30 leverage for retail traders and up to 1:400 for professionals. These brokers combine trusted regulation, strong platforms, and excellent trading tools.
Best forex brokers with high leverage ranked
Here’s a quick list of the top high-leverage forex brokers in the UK, selected through expert testing and analysis:
- eToro – Best overall
- XTB – Best for low trading fees
- IG – Best for advanced trading tools
- Plus500 – One of the best for user-friendly high-leverage trading
- Interactive Brokers – Best for advanced traders
UK high leverage forex brokers compared
This comparison ranks the leading forex brokers using four key criteria every trader should review before choosing a platform:
| Rank | Broker | Leverage available | Number of currency pairs | Average spread EUR/USD | Minimum deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | eToro | Up to 30:1 | 49 | 1.0 | $50 |
| 2 | XTB | Up to 500:1 | 57 | 1.0 | £250 |
| 3 | IG | Up to 222:1 | 80+ | 0.6 | £250 |
| 4 | Plus500 | Up to 30:1 | 70+ | 0.6 | £100 |
| 5 | Interactive Brokers | Up to 40:1 | 105 | 0.2 | $0 |
Highest leverage forex broker reviews
The UK dominates global forex trading, accounting for around 43% of total daily volume, making it the world’s largest forex hub1.
UK traders can access several FCA-regulated high-leverage brokers, each offering distinct advantages in spreads, tools, and platforms.
Based on expert testing and industry experience, this guide ranks the best high-leverage forex brokers in the UK using four key criteria:
- Leverage available
- Number of currency pairs
- Average EUR/USD spread
- Minimum deposit
Additional factors such as usability, trading tools, research, and education were also considered to ensure a complete and fair comparison.
You can also read about how we test platforms here.
This article was reviewed by Tobi Opeyemi Amure, a trading expert and writer at Investopedia, Investing.com, and Trading.biz.
1. eToro – Best overall
Is eToro a good high-leverage forex broker?
Yes. eToro is one of the best high-leverage forex brokers in the UK, combining FCA regulation with a powerful social trading network. Retail traders can access up to 1:30 leverage on major pairs, while professional clients may qualify for up to 1:400.
This structure suits both beginners learning through CopyTrader and professionals seeking larger exposure.
What makes eToro stand out for leveraged forex trading?
eToro’s biggest advantage is its social and copy trading ecosystem. Through CopyTrader and Smart Portfolios, users can automatically mirror the positions of verified traders with transparent performance stats. This helps newcomers manage risk while learning from experienced investors. The platform also offers 49 forex pairs, over 7,000 total assets, and a clean, intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate on web or mobile.
What leverage and spreads does eToro offer?
For UK retail clients, leverage is capped at 1:30, while qualified professionals can trade with up to 1:400.
Average spreads start from 1.0 pip on EUR/USD, and trading is commission-free. The minimum deposit is $50, and funding options include Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, and Skrill. However, a $5 withdrawal fee and an inactivity fee after 12 months apply.
Is eToro safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. eToro (UK) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under reference number 583263, ensuring client fund segregation and compliance with UK trading standards. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro remains one of the most trusted brokers for both retail and professional traders.
Read our eToro review.
| Key Rating Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Leverage available | Up to 1:30 (retail) / 1:400 (professional) |
| Number of currency pairs | 49 |
| Average spread (EUR/USD) | 1.0 pip |
| Minimum deposit | $50 |
| Regulation | FCA (UK) |
| Platforms available | eToro Web & Mobile App |
| Copy trading tools | CopyTrader, Smart Portfolios |
Pros
- FCA-regulated and beginner-friendly
- CopyTrader and Smart Portfolios for strategy automation
- 7,000+ instruments including forex, stocks, ETFs, and crypto
- Commission-free trading and low minimum deposit
Cons
- Spreads can be higher than raw-spread brokers
- $5 withdrawal and inactivity fees
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. {etoroCFDrisk}% 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.
2. XTB – Best for low trading fees
Is XTB a good high-leverage forex broker?
Yes. XTB is one of the best high-leverage forex brokers for UK traders, combining a strong global reputation with powerful trading tools and low fees. Retail clients under FCA regulation can access up to 1:30 leverage, while professional and offshore clients may qualify for up to 1:500, depending on eligibility and jurisdiction.
What leverage does XTB offer?
XTB offers leverage up to 1:500 on major forex pairs for eligible clients, 1:40 on exotic pairs, 1:500 on gold, and 1:67 on other commodities. For stock CFDs, leverage is typically 1:5. These flexible limits allow traders to choose leverage suited to their strategy and risk profile.
What trading platforms and tools does XTB provide?
XTB’s proprietary xStation 5 platform is one of the most advanced trading terminals on the market. It features real-time performance analytics, custom chart layouts, one-click trading, and dozens of technical indicators. Though it doesn’t support third-party platforms like MT4 or MT5, xStation 5 is available on web, desktop, and mobile, offering smooth cross-device functionality.
What are XTB’s spreads, fees, and deposits?
XTB provides commission-free trading across all instruments, with spreads from 0.8 pips on major forex pairs.
- Minimum deposit: None required (accessible for all levels)
- Deposit options: Bank transfer, debit/credit cards, Skrill (2% fee)
- Withdrawal fees: None for most methods
Its low-cost model makes it particularly attractive to active traders and scalpers.
Is XTB safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. XTB is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and operates under multiple licences worldwide, including in Poland, Spain, and Belize. It is also publicly listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, adding an extra layer of transparency.
| Key Rating Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Leverage available | Up to 1:30 (retail) / 1:500 (professional/offshore) |
| Number of currency pairs | 57 |
| Average spread (EUR/USD) | 0.8–1.0 pip |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Regulation | FCA (UK), KNF (Poland), CNMV (Spain), IFSC (Belize) |
| Platform available | xStation 5 (Web, Desktop, Mobile) |
| Education tools | Free courses, webinars, market analysis |
Pros
- Up to 1:500 leverage for eligible clients
- Commission-free trading with tight spreads
- No minimum deposit requirement
- FCA-regulated and publicly listed broker
- Excellent xStation 5 platform and educational resources
Cons
- Limited product range outside CFDs and forex
- Inactivity fee after prolonged account dormancy
- No MT4 or MT5 integration
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
3. IG – Best for advanced trading tools
Is IG a good high-leverage forex broker?
Yes. IG is one of the most trusted high-leverage forex brokers in the UK, combining decades of market experience with cutting-edge platforms and global regulation. Retail traders can access up to 1:30 leverage, while professional clients may qualify for up to 1:222. This makes IG ideal for both beginners learning the basics and professionals managing larger, leveraged positions.
What leverage does IG offer?
Retail traders are capped at 1:30 on major pairs, as required by the FCA, while professional clients can trade with up to 1:222.
This higher leverage allows for more substantial market exposure but also increases risk. To qualify, traders must meet IG’s professional criteria, which include experience, portfolio size, and trading frequency.
How many markets can you trade with IG?
IG offers access to over 17,000 global markets, one of the broadest selections in the industry. These include forex, indices, commodities, shares, ETFs, bonds, and cryptocurrencies. Its wide asset range makes IG a top choice for traders seeking diversification beyond forex.
What trading platforms does IG support?
IG provides a suite of professional-grade trading platforms:
- IG Trading Platform: Optimised for all devices with fast execution and risk tools like guaranteed stop-loss orders.
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4): Suitable for algorithmic trading and custom indicators.
- ProRealTime: Favoured by advanced traders for detailed technical analysis.
- L2 Dealer: Offers direct market access (DMA) for professionals.
All platforms include demo accounts, helping traders test strategies risk-free.
What are IG’s spreads, fees, and deposit options?
Spreads on major forex pairs start from 0.6 pips, with no commission on forex and CFD trades.
- Minimum deposit: £250
- Deposit options: Bank transfer, debit/credit card, and PayPal (1% Visa/PayPal fee, 0.5% for Mastercard credit)
- Inactivity fee: £12 per month after two years of no trading activity
Is IG safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. IG Markets Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and holds multiple global licences, including in Switzerland (as IG Bank), ensuring robust investor protection. Founded in 1974, IG is one of the longest-established brokers worldwide, serving more than 290,000 active traders.
Read our IG review.
| Key Rating Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Leverage available | Up to 1:30 (retail) / 1:222 (professional) |
| Number of currency pairs | 80+ |
| Average spread (EUR/USD) | 0.6–1.0 pip |
| Minimum deposit | £250 |
| Markets available | 17,000+ |
| Regulation | FCA (UK), FINMA (Switzerland), ASIC (Australia), MAS (Singapore) |
| Platforms available | IG Trading Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer |
Pros
- Access to 17,000+ markets with tight spreads
- FCA-regulated and globally licensed
- Multiple professional-grade platforms
- Excellent research tools and educational resources
- Demo account available for practice
Cons
- Higher minimum deposit than some brokers
- Platform complexity may challenge beginners
- £12 inactivity fee after two years
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% 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.
4. AvaTrade
Is AvaTrade a good high-leverage forex broker?
Yes. AvaTrade is one of the best high-leverage forex brokers for day traders, offering fixed spreads, a wide range of platforms, and excellent risk management tools. Retail traders under FCA regulation can access up to 1:30 leverage, while professional and offshore clients can trade with up to 1:400.
Its focus on safety, education, and stability makes AvaTrade ideal for beginners and intermediate traders looking to scale their strategies.
What leverage does AvaTrade offer?
AvaTrade provides up to 1:400 leverage for eligible professional or offshore clients. Retail traders in the UK and EU are capped at 1:30 on major pairs and 1:20 on minor pairs, in line with regulatory rules.
The broker also extends leverage of 1:400 on gold, 1:100 on commodities, and 1:5 on stock CFDs. This flexibility makes AvaTrade a competitive option for day traders seeking higher exposure.
What trading products and platforms does AvaTrade offer?
AvaTrade supports trading across 55 forex pairs, 59 ETFs, 33 indices, 27 commodities, and 16 cryptocurrencies (via offshore entities). The broker’s platform range is among the best in the industry, including MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), AvaTradeGO, and AvaOptions for forex options. Social traders can use AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, or DupliTrade for automated copy trading.
A standout feature is AvaProtect, a unique insurance tool that covers 100% of losses on selected trades for a set period (for a fee), available through AvaTradeGO and AvaOptions.
What are AvaTrade’s spreads, fees, and deposits?
AvaTrade offers fixed spreads starting from 0.8 pips on EUR/USD and charges no trading commissions.
- Minimum deposit: $100
- Deposit options: Bank transfer, credit/debit card, e-wallets (including Skrill, Neteller)
- Inactivity fee: Applies after 12 months of no activity
The fixed spread model provides cost predictability, especially valuable for day traders who want to avoid variable spread fluctuations.
Is AvaTrade safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. AvaTrade is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and holds additional Tier-1 licences from ASIC (Australia), FSCA (South Africa), and BVI FSC. Founded in 2006, it has built a global reputation for reliability, strong compliance, and secure trading conditions.
Read our AvaTrade review.
| Key Rating Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Leverage available | Up to 1:30 (retail) / 1:400 (professional/offshore) |
| Number of currency pairs | 55 |
| Average spread (EUR/USD) | 0.8–0.9 pip (fixed) |
| Minimum deposit | $100 |
| Regulation | FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), FSCA (South Africa), BVI FSC (offshore) |
| Platforms available | MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaSocial |
| Unique features | AvaProtect risk tool, social trading integrations |
Pros
- Fixed spreads for predictable trading costs
- Up to 1:400 leverage for professional traders
- Wide range of trading platforms and tools
- Strong global regulation and investor protection
- AvaProtect offers advanced risk management
Cons
- No raw spread or ECN pricing
- Inactivity fees after prolonged dormancy
- AvaProtect not available on MT4
How to choose the best high-leverage forex broker in the UK
Selecting the right high-leverage forex broker is vital for maximising returns while managing risk. Leverage can multiply both profits and losses, so it’s important to trade only with FCA-regulated brokers that meet strict standards for safety and transparency.
Check FCA regulation and FSCS protection
Always verify that the broker is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures compliance with UK laws and strong client protection. Look for FSCS coverage, which secures eligible funds up to £85,000 in case of broker insolvency.
Understand the leverage limits
Retail traders in the UK are limited to 1:30 leverage on major forex pairs, while professional clients can access up to 1:500 depending on eligibility. Higher leverage offers greater potential returns but also raises risk exposure, so use it cautiously.
Review trading platforms and tools
Check if the broker supports platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, or cTrader. Evaluate usability, charting tools, indicators, and stability. A good platform should match your trading style, whether you are a scalper, day trader, or swing trader.
Compare spreads, commissions, and fees
Review average spreads, commission rates, and any hidden costs like withdrawal or inactivity fees. Some brokers offer zero-commission accounts but may widen spreads to compensate. Transparent pricing is key for long-term profitability.
Look for market variety and account options
Choose brokers that offer a broad range of instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, and crypto CFDs. Multiple account types, such as standard, professional, or Islamic, can help you trade in a structure that fits your needs.
Evaluate education and research support
Top brokers provide free educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and in-platform analysis tools. This helps new traders build confidence and understand market movements before increasing leverage.
Test deposits, withdrawals, and customer service
Ensure fast, fee-free deposits and withdrawals through trusted payment methods like bank transfer, PayPal, or debit card. Responsive, 24/5 customer support is essential for resolving issues quickly.
Use demo accounts before committing
A demo account lets you test a broker’s platform, pricing, and support risk-free before depositing real funds. It’s the safest way to evaluate performance and user experience.
How to start trading with a high-leverage forex broker
Starting with a high-leverage broker in the UK is simple, but each step must be completed carefully to stay compliant with FCA rules and protect your funds.
Here’s how to begin:
1. Visit the broker’s official website
Go directly to the broker’s official FCA-verified site. Avoid third-party or affiliate links. Check that the URL uses HTTPS and matches the address listed on the FCA Financial Services Register for safety.
2. Create your trading account
Click “Sign Up” or “Create Account” and fill in your personal details accurately. Your name, address, and date of birth must match your ID to ensure smooth verification and prevent delays.
3. Verify your identity
Upload a photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) and proof of address (utility bill or bank statement). FCA-regulated brokers require full KYC verification before deposits or live trading can begin. This usually takes a few hours to one business day.
4. Fund your account securely
Deposit funds via bank transfer, debit/credit card, PayPal, or Skrill. Minimum deposits typically range from £50 to £250. Always use the same method for withdrawals to comply with anti–money laundering rules.
5. Start trading
Access the broker’s trading platform, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, or a proprietary system, and begin trading. Start with a demo account to test leverage and spreads safely. When trading live, use stop-loss orders and small position sizes to manage risk, especially when using leverage above 1:100.
Pros and cons of trading with high leverage
Trading with high leverage offers greater profit potential but also significantly increases risk. It can be a powerful tool when used responsibly, but inexperienced traders should proceed with caution.
Advantages of high leverage
- Amplified returns – Small market movements can generate large profits with minimal capital.
- Capital efficiency – Control bigger positions without committing full capital.
- Diversification – Free up funds to trade across multiple markets or asset classes.
- Global access – Professional traders can capture minor price movements with greater precision.
Disadvantages of high leverage
- Higher risk exposure – Losses increase in proportion to leverage and can quickly erase account balances.
- Margin calls – Brokers may close positions automatically if your margin falls below required levels.
- Emotional strain – Larger positions heighten stress and can lead to impulsive trading.
- Regulatory limits – UK retail traders are capped at 1:30 leverage under FCA rules; only verified professionals can access higher levels.
Proper use of leverage requires discipline, risk management, and trading experience. It should never replace a sound strategy or adequate capital.
FCA leverage limits in the UK
Under FCA regulation, maximum leverage for UK retail traders is:
- 30:1 on major currency pairs
- 20:1 on minor pairs, gold, and major indices
- 10:1 on commodities (excluding gold)
- 5:1 on shares and non-major indices
Professional traders may qualify for leverage up to 1:400, depending on broker and account type.
Final thoughts
High leverage can unlock greater trading potential, but it also multiplies risk. The key is choosing a trusted, FCA-regulated broker that balances competitive leverage with strong risk controls, transparent fees, and reliable platforms.
For UK traders, top picks include:
- eToro – Best for social and copy trading with FCA oversight.
- XTB – Best for tight spreads and advanced tools on xStation 5.
- IG – Best all-round broker with deep liquidity and multiple platforms.
- AvaTrade – Best for fixed spreads and built-in risk protection with AvaProtect.
Always start with a demo account, understand margin requirements, and never risk more than you can afford to lose.
FAQs
What is the highest leverage in the UK?
The highest leverage in the UK offered to retail traders by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is 30:1 for major currency pairs and 20:1 for minor pairs.
Can I lose more than my initial deposit in high-leverage trading?
Under FCA regulation, UK retail traders are protected by negative balance protection, ensuring you cannot lose more than your initial deposit. However, professional clients using higher leverage (1:200 or above) may not have this safeguard, making it possible to incur losses beyond deposited funds in extreme volatility.
Which broker has 1:3000 leverage?
Brokers offering 1:3000 leverage operate under offshore jurisdictions (e.g., Seychelles, Vanuatu, or Belize). These are not permitted under UK law, and FCA-regulated brokers cannot legally offer such high leverage to retail clients. Traders seeking extreme leverage must qualify as professional clients or trade with non-UK entities, which carry higher risk and fewer protections.
Which broker has 1:500 leverage?
XTB, AvaTrade, and Pepperstone offer leverage up to 1:500 for professional traders who meet FCA criteria (financial portfolio over €500,000, verified trading experience, and active trade history). Retail clients remain capped at 30:1 on major forex pairs.
What broker has 1:2000 leverage?
Some offshore brokers, such as Exness and InstaForex, advertise up to 1:2000 leverage. These brokers are not FCA-regulated and therefore do not provide UK investor protections, including negative balance protection and FSCS coverage. UK traders should proceed cautiously and avoid using unregulated entities for high-leverage trading.
How much is $100 with 10x leverage?
With 10x leverage, a $100 deposit gives exposure to a $1,000 trading position. Each 1% price move equates to a 10% account change. If the position moves 1% against you, your $100 balance would drop by $10. The same leverage that magnifies profits also multiplies losses, so risk control is critical.
You may also like:
Sources:
