Looking for your perfect copy trading platform?
I’ve tested, scored, and ranked the best copy trading platforms in the UK.
Whether you’re seeking security, user-friendliness, or extensive trading options, I’ve got you covered.
So, in a nutshell, what are the best copy trading platforms in the UK? The best copy trading platforms in the UK include eToro, AvaTrade, and IG. eToro is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive range of assets to copy. AvaTrade offers various automated trading solutions, while IG provides a professional-level platform with the option to follow experienced traders. These platforms are well-regulated and offer a range of features to accommodate both new and experienced traders.
30 million users globally trust eToro for their copy and social trading needs, benefiting from a vast array of stocks, funds, ETFs, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
- User-friendly platform for beginners
- Copy the moves of professional traders
- Social trading & educational features
- Withdrawal fees
Top Copy Trading Platforms UK Ranked
Here is a quick list of the best copy trading platforms to use in the UK based on my hands-on analysis:
- eToro – Overall best copy trading platform UK for beginners
- AvaTrade – Best copy trading app UK
- IG – Best low cost UK copy trading platform
- Pepperstone – Best copy trading platform for CFDs & trading options
- FXTM – Best copy trading platform for forex
Best Copy Trading Platforms Compared for UK Investors
Here I’ve compared the copy trading platforms based on five key factors you must consider and compare:
Rank | Trading platform | Minimum deposit | S&P 500 CFD spread (average) | Commission | Platform fee | Types of assets |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | eToro | $10 | 0.8 | 0% | £0 | Stocks, indices, ETFs, currencies, commodities, crypto |
2 | AvaTrade | £100 | 0.5 | 0% | £0 | Forex, stocks, commodities, indices |
3 | IG | £250 | 0.4 | Varies | £0 | Real stocks & ETFs, exchange-traded securities, CFDs (currency pairs, stock indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, crypto, bonds, and futures) |
4 | Pepperstone | £0 | 0.4 | 0.10% plus spread | £0 | Forex, commodities, indices, currency indices, crypto, stocks, ETFs |
5 | FXTM | $10 | 1.0 | The fees are built into the spread, 1 point is the average spread cost during peak trading hours | £0 | Forex, CFDs on stocks commodities, indices, crypto |
Best Copy Trading Platform UK Reviews
The popularity of copy trading is on the rise, with a staggering 80% of retail investors in the UK expressing their interest in copy trading platforms1.
Choosing the best copy trading platform is crucial for newcomers in the market.
Having worked in the retail investment sector in London over the last four years, I had the opportunity to experience the rise first-hand.
Additionally, in my role working for one of the UK’s leading financial companies, “a trustworthy and respected provider of news, education and market analysis for the everyday investor”, I was able to work with and test some of the biggest trading platforms on the market.
Using my experience in this field, I’ve compiled a list of the best copy trading platforms in the UK based on five key criteria:
- Minimum deposit
- S&P 500 CFD spread (average)
- Commission
- Platform fee
- Types of assets
Factors such as usability, trading platforms available, research tools, educational materials, and additional features were also considered.
All the copy trading apps and platforms I’ve reviewed below are regulated by the UK’s financial watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or similar.
1. eToro – Overall best copy trading platform UK for beginners

The overall winner on my list of the best copy trading platforms and what I recommend to beginners is eToro.
As someone who has used eToro extensively, I can confidently say that it is one of the most popular copy trading platforms in the UK.
One of the standout features of eToro is its pioneering copy trading functionality.
Being the first broker to introduce this feature, eToro has set a high standard in the industry, attracting over 30 million traders worldwide2.
Since its launch in 2007, eToro has continued to enhance its CopyTrader feature, which allows you to easily find expert traders who align with your trading preferences and replicate their trades.
The flexibility of CopyTrader ensures that you remain in control of your portfolio, allowing you to adjust and customise your copying strategy as needed. Best of all, the CopyTrader feature is free of charge.

eToro values the importance of social trading and has created a social news feed feature that keeps you updated on the latest trades and market insights from expert traders.
You can actively engage with the community, sharing your trading ideas, commenting on others’ posts, and learning valuable strategies to improve your trading skills.
When it comes to trust and security, eToro holds up to scrutiny, it is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
eToro maintains a minimum deposit requirement of approximately £10, making it accessible for investors with different budget sizes.
In my experience, eToro’s copy trading platform has revolutionised my trading journey by providing access to a vast community of successful traders and enabling me to leverage their expertise.
Whether you are a beginner seeking guidance or an experienced trader looking to diversify your portfolio, eToro offers a comprehensive and user-friendly platform that can help you achieve your investment goals.
For extra reassurance, they have an ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot (which is quite rare for a trading app), with over 18,000 reviews.

Key rating criteria:
Minimum deposit | S&P 500 CFD spread (average) | Commission | Platform fee | Types of assets |
$10 | 0.8 | 0% | £0 | Stocks, indices, ETFs, currencies, commodities, crypto |
Other fees: $5 withdrawal fee, $10 inactivity fee, currency conversion fees
Read my eToro review.
Pros:
- CopyTrader functionality enables seamless replication of experienced traders’ moves
- Incentive program benefits skilled traders when their strategies are mirrored by others
- Zero-commission stock transactions
- Multiple payment options such as wire transfers, card payments, and digital wallets are supported
Cons:
- Support services are not accessible over the weekend
2. AvaTrade – Best copy trading app UK

After using AvaTrade’s copy trading platform, I found it to be a powerful tool for connecting with traders worldwide and gaining access to their investment strategies through the “AvaSocial” app.
When considering AvaTrade, it’s important to note the minimum deposit requirement of $100 when opening an account.
While this initial deposit may appear relatively high, I discovered that it can sustain your trading activities for a considerable period before needing to make additional deposits.
It’s worth mentioning that AvaTrade is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, which is an aspect to consider when evaluating its regulatory framework. Instead, it’s regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Despite lacking FCA regulation, AvaTrade still adheres to a maximum leverage of 30:1, which aligns with the restrictions imposed on regulated brokers by the FCA.
It’s important to note that AvaTrade imposes an inactivity fee of $50 (USD), €50 (EUR), or £50 (GBP) for accounts that remain inactive for an extended period.
Additionally, there is an administration fee of $100 (USD), €100 (EUR), or £100 (GBP) for certain account types.
However, it’s worth highlighting that AvaTrade does not charge any deposit or withdrawal fees, making it convenient for traders to manage their funds without incurring additional costs.
Overall, my experience with AvaTrade’s copy trading platform has been positive, allowing me to connect with experienced traders and benefit from their investment insights.
While the absence of FCA regulation is a consideration, AvaTrade’s competitive spreads, reasonable trading fees, and access to a diverse community of traders make it a platform worth exploring for those seeking copy trading opportunities.
Read my AvaTrade review.
Pros:
- Simplifies the process of grasping trading fundamentals
- Revolutionary app for copy trading
- Facilitates global interaction among traders
- Enables round-the-clock trading across a diverse asset range
Cons:
- In its infancy, with room for enhancement in certain areas
Key rating criteria:
Minimum deposit | S&P 500 CFD spread (average) | Commission | Platform fee | Types of assets |
£100 | 0.5 | 0% | £0 | Forex, stocks, commodities, indices |
3. IG – Best low-cost UK copy trading platform

"68% 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."
IG holds the distinction of being the largest CFD broker in the world, with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1974.
I’ve found that it offers an impressive trading experience.
The standout feature is the IG Community trading platform, which provides free access to a vibrant online forum.
Interacting with global traders and sharing trading ideas has been invaluable in expanding my knowledge and improving my strategy.
Additionally, IG offers a range of robust trading platforms, including ProRealTime, MetaTrader 4, and L-2 Dealer, catering to traders of all levels.
These platforms are user-friendly, customisable, and equipped with advanced charting tools for effective market analysis.
The Direct Market Access feature in L-2 Dealer allows direct dealing in the order books, enhancing trade execution.
With access to over 17,000 markets (largely through CFDs and spread bets), IG Markets provides ample opportunities for diversification.
The platform’s long-standing history since 1974 and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) instill confidence in the safety of my investment capital.
Although the trading charges are relatively higher, the wealth of research materials, including advanced charting packages and news feeds, greatly assist in making informed trading decisions.
Moreover, IG Markets offers a wealth of educational resources to support skill development and enhance trading proficiency.
Overall, I’d recommend IG for more experienced traders seeking a comprehensive and reliable trading experience.
Key rating criteria:
Minimum deposit | S&P 500 CFD spread (average) | Commission | Platform fee | Types of assets |
£250 | 0.4 | Varies | £0 | Real stocks & ETFs, exchange-traded securities, CFDs (currency pairs, stock indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, crypto, bonds, and futures) |
Read my IG review.
Pros:
- Sophisticated graphing tools for in-depth market scrutiny
- Multiple trading interfaces are available for selection
- Complimentary membership to IG Community for social trading
- Rapid and adaptable trade execution through the MT4 platform
Cons:
- Higher cost structure
4. Pepperstone – Best copy trading platform for CFDs & trading options

Pepperstone is a top choice for novice traders in the UK seeking an intuitive and user-friendly trading experience.
The platform’s seamless performance across all devices, coupled with the option to download the WebTrader app for easy access on a desktop, ensures convenience and flexibility.
What sets Pepperstone apart as one of the best copy trading brokers is its impressive range of third-party social trading platforms, including myfxbook, MetaTrader Signals, and DupliTrade.
Utilising these platforms, you can connect with fellow traders, share trading ideas, and even mirror the trades of expert traders.
This invaluable feature has not only helped automate my trading activities but also accelerated my learning process by studying successful trading strategies.
Beyond copy trading, Pepperstone offers a selection of renowned trading platforms such as TradingView, cTrader, MetaTrader 4, and MetaTrader 5.
These platforms are known for their user-friendly interfaces and extensive customisation options. Equipped with a wide range of built-in technical indicators, expert advisors, and charting tools, they empower traders to efficiently analyse the markets and stay informed about their trading activities.
Pepperstone provides a wealth of educational resources, including tutorial videos, webinars, and articles, to enhance traders’ knowledge and understanding of the market.
These resources are highly valuable, allowing you to quickly grasp key concepts and develop effective trading strategies.
Additionally, the availability of a risk-free demo trading account allows you to familiarise yourself with Pepperstone’s features and functionality before committing your capital.
Pepperstone is a top-rated choice for novice traders in the UK, offering an accessible and user-friendly trading platform, an array of social trading options, and a comprehensive suite of educational materials.
Key rating criteria:
Minimum deposit | S&P 500 CFD spread (average) | Commission | Platform fee | Types of assets |
£0 | 0.4 | 0.10% plus spread | £0 | Forex, commodities, indices, currency indices, crypto, stocks, ETFs |
Read my Pepperstone review.
Pros:
- A wide array of intuitive and customisable trading interfaces
- Includes a social trading option to mimic successful trades
- Abundant learning resources and research tools are available
Cons:
- The initial deposit requirement of £200, which is steeper than many competitors
- Overnight holding charges
5. FXTM – Best copy trading platform for forex

As a leading broker in the industry, FXTM has carved a reputable niche in the field of copy trading in the UK.
First established in 2011, FXTM has since built an impressive, award-winning portfolio offering CFD and forex trading services.
It’s authorised and regulated by the FCA and compliant with ESMA, instilling trust and reliability among its users.
In 2016, FXTM introduced “FXTM Invest”, a progressive feature designed for novice traders or those lacking the time to strictly monitor market movements.
The platform allows you to follow and automatically emulate the trading patterns of professional traders. This feature allows you to access trading opportunities without having extensive technical knowledge, thereby revolutionising the concept of social trading.
FXTM Invest encompasses two kinds of users – Investors and Strategy Managers.
Post registration, investors can sift through a list of successful traders, scrutinise their profiles, and choose the ones whose trading patterns they wish to copy.
The selection of strategy managers hinges on their risk-reward profiles aligning with the investor’s objectives and needs.
A minimum deposit of USD 100, EUR 100, or GBP 100 is required to begin.
On the flip side, strategy managers can set their preferred fee for the strategies they provide.
They have the liberty to manage their risk-reward parameters without paying a commission to FXTM.
A dedicated page can be created for their account, facilitating connection with potential investors.
FXTM’s fee structure is notable, however. For CFDs, a holding fee of $29.50 is levied for a $2,000-long position on Apple, a factor that should be borne in mind. Forex fees are competitive at $7.80 for a $20,000 long position on the GBP/USD pair for a week.
Other non-trading fees include a $5 monthly charge after six months of inactivity, a $3 withdrawal fee, and a minimum initial deposit of $50.
Despite the relatively high CFD fees, the real-time notifications, easy fund access, and the potential to profit from the trades of experienced traders make FXTM Invest an attractive option.
The support from a dedicated management team further adds value.
To sum up, FXTM is a robust platform for those interested in diversifying their trading experience.
With its user-friendly interface, responsive customer services, and innovative features like FXTM Invest, it has rightfully secured its spot as one of the best social trading platforms in the UK.
Pros:
- Outstanding client support services
- Top-notch analytical instruments for market research
- Swift and streamlined account onboarding process
Cons:
- Mediocre fees for trading CFDs
- Charges for account inactivity and fund withdrawals
- Lacking educational resources and training
Key rating criteria:
Minimum deposit | S&P 500 CFD spread (average) | Commission | Platform fee | Types of assets |
$10 | 1.0 | The fees are built into the spread, 1 point is the average spread cost during peak trading hours | £0 | Forex, CFDs on stocks commodities, indices, crypto |
How to Choose the Best Copy Trading Platform in the UK
Choosing the best copy trading platform in the UK requires careful consideration of several key factors.
Along with the key rating criteria I used to rank the platforms, here’s what to look for:
- Regulation & Security: Ensure that the copy trading platform you choose is regulated by a reputable financial authority in the UK, such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Regulation provides an added layer of protection for your investments and helps ensure the platform adheres to certain standards and practices.
- Copy Trading Options: Assess the copy trading features offered by the platform. Look for platforms that allow you to easily find and filter expert traders based on their performance, risk levels, and trading strategies. The platform should provide comprehensive data on each trader’s past performance, including metrics like return on investment, win ratio, and drawdown. This information will help you make informed decisions when selecting traders to copy.
- Platform Tools & Resources: Consider the platform’s additional tools and resources for market analysis and research. Look for platforms that offer advanced charting packages, technical indicators, economic calendars, and news feeds. These tools can assist you in assessing market conditions and making better-informed investment decisions.
- Transparency & Social Interaction: Evaluate the platform’s transparency and social interaction features. A good copy trading platform should provide transparent statistics and performance metrics for each expert trader, enabling you to assess their track record and risk profile. Additionally, look for platforms that foster social interaction among users, such as forums or chat functionalities, allowing you to connect with other traders, share insights, and learn from their experiences.
- Risk Management Tools: Consider the risk management tools offered by the platform. Look for features like stop-loss orders, risk allocation settings, and the ability to set investment limits. These tools help you manage and control the level of risk associated with copying trades.
- Fees & Costs: Compare the fee structures of different copy trading platforms. Take into account any commission charges, spread markups, subscription fees, or performance fees that may apply. Ensure that the platform’s fee structure aligns with your investment budget and trading frequency.
- Customer Support: Evaluate the quality and availability of customer support provided by the platform. Look for platforms that offer responsive customer service through multiple channels, such as live chat, email, or phone support. Prompt and reliable customer support can be valuable when you have questions or encounter issues while using the platform.
What Is Copy Trading?
Copy trading is a popular investment strategy that allows individuals to automatically replicate the trades of experienced and successful traders.
It is a form of social trading that enables less experienced traders, or those who lack the time or expertise to actively trade, to benefit from the skills and strategies of more seasoned investors3.
In copy trading, you have the opportunity to browse and select from a pool of expert traders who have a proven track record of success.
Once you find a trader whose performance and trading style align with your investment goals, you can choose to automatically replicate their trades in your trading account.
This means that whenever the expert trader opens or closes a position, the same trade is executed in your account at the same time and with proportional amounts.
Copy trading platforms typically provide detailed statistics, performance metrics, and risk profiles of expert traders, allowing you to evaluate their past performance and make informed decisions.
This transparency enables you to select traders whose strategies align with your risk tolerance and investment objectives4.
One of the key benefits of copy trading is its accessibility.
It allows individuals with limited knowledge or experience in trading to participate in the financial markets and potentially generate returns by leveraging the expertise of more successful traders.
It also offers a learning opportunity, as you can observe and analyse the trading decisions made by experts, gaining insights into their strategies and approaches.
While copy trading can be a valuable tool for investors, it is important to remember that it is not a guaranteed path to profitability.
The financial markets are inherently unpredictable, and past performance is not indicative of future results.
It is crucial to conduct thorough research, diversify your copied trades, and actively monitor your investments to mitigate risks and ensure that they align with your own financial goals and risk tolerance.
Here’s a good video that further explains what copy trading is:
What Securities Can You Copy Trade?
Copy trading platforms typically offer a wide range of securities that you can copy trade.
The specific securities available for copy trading may vary depending on the platform and the brokers associated with it.
Here are some common securities that you can typically copy trade:
Forex (Foreign Exchange): Copy trading platforms often provide access to a variety of currency pairs, allowing you to copy the trades of expert forex traders. Use my guide to learn how to trade forex in the UK.
Stocks: Many social trading platforms include stocks from various global exchanges. You can copy the positions and trades of successful stock traders.
Indices: Copy trading platforms may offer popular stock market indices such as the S&P 500, FTSE 100, or Nikkei 225. You can copy the trades based on the performance of these indices.
Commodities: Some copy trading platforms allow you to copy trades related to commodities like gold, oil, natural gas, or agricultural products.
Cryptocurrencies: With the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies, several platforms offer the ability to copy trade popular digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple.
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): Copy trading platforms may include a selection of ETFs, which are investment funds that trade on stock exchanges. You can copy the trading activities of ETF traders.
CFDs (Contracts for Difference): Copy trading platforms often provide access to CFDs, which allow you to speculate on the price movements of various financial instruments without owning the underlying assets. This includes CFDs on stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Use my guide to learn how to trade CFDs in the UK.
Pros & Cons of Copy Trading
Copy trading, which allows traders to automatically copy the trades of other experienced investors, has both pros and cons:
Pros of Copy Trading:
- Ease for Beginners: For novice traders, copy trading provides an excellent opportunity to enter the market. It allows them to learn from experienced traders without needing extensive prior knowledge.
- Time-saving: It requires less time commitment as trades are copied automatically, freeing up time for other activities. It is ideal for individuals who are interested in trading but don’t have the time to monitor the markets continuously.
- Diversification: Copy trading allows you to diversify your portfolio by copying trades across various markets and trading styles. Diversification can spread risk and potentially increase profitability.
- Access to Experienced Traders: Copy trading provides access to experienced traders’ strategies that would be difficult for a novice trader to develop independently. This could result in better investment outcomes5.
- Learning Opportunity: It provides an opportunity to learn from experienced traders. By observing their trades, you can understand their strategies and decision-making processes.
Cons of Copy Trading:
- Risk of Losses: The fact that you’re copying someone else’s trades doesn’t eliminate the inherent risks of trading. If the trader you’re copying makes a bad decision, you’ll also bear the losses.
- Lack of Control: When you’re copy trading, you give up some control over your investments. You’re relying heavily on the decisions of the trader you’re copying.
- Overdependence: There’s a risk of becoming too dependent on the trader you’re copying, which could inhibit the development of your trading knowledge and skills.
- Potential for Misaligned Strategies: The trader you’re copying may have a risk tolerance or investment strategy that differs from yours. Their trades might not always align with your financial goals or risk tolerance6.
- Costs & Fees: Some platforms charge additional fees for copy trading services, which could eat into your profits. Always make sure you’re aware of all costs involved.
Copy trading can be an effective way for novice traders to enter the market.
However, it should be done with an understanding of the associated risks and with a continual focus on learning and improving your trading skills.
It’s also essential to do thorough research on the trader you plan to copy, examining their track record, trading style, risk level, and other important factors.
How to Open a Copy Trading Account
Opening a copy trading account is a straightforward process that involves a few key steps.
Here’s a guide to help you open a copy trading account:
- Research & Choose a Copy Trading Platform: Start by researching and selecting a copy trading platform that meets your requirements. Consider factors such as platform reputation, regulation, available markets, fees, and copy trading features. Ensure the platform is suitable for your trading goals and preferences.
- Sign up for an Account: Visit the chosen copy trading platform’s website and look for a “Sign Up” or “Register” button. Click on it to begin the account creation process. You may be required to provide personal information such as your name, email address, and contact details.
- Complete the Registration: Follow the instructions provided to complete the registration process. You may need to verify your email address or provide additional information, depending on the platform’s requirements. Be sure to read and understand the platform’s terms and conditions.
- Verify Your Identity: To comply with regulatory standards, copy trading platforms often require users to verify their identity. This typically involves submitting identification documents such as a valid passport, driver’s license, or national ID card. Follow the platform’s instructions on how to upload and verify your identity documents.
- Fund Your Account: Once your account is created and verified, you’ll need to deposit funds to start copy trading. Copy trading platforms usually offer various payment methods, such as bank transfers, credit/debit cards, or electronic wallets. Choose the payment method that is most convenient for you and follow the instructions to deposit funds into your account.
- Familiarise Yourself with the Platform: Take some time to explore and familiarise yourself with the copy trading platform’s features and functionalities. Understand how to navigate the platform, search for expert traders, analyse their performance metrics, and set up copy trading preferences.
- Select Expert Traders to Copy: Use the platform’s search and filter tools to find expert traders whose trading style and performance align with your investment goals. Evaluate their historical performance, risk levels, and trading strategies. Once you find traders you want to copy, follow the platform’s instructions on how to initiate the copying process.
- Set Risk Management Parameters: Determine your risk management preferences by setting parameters such as maximum trade size, stop-loss levels, or allocation limits. These settings help manage your risk exposure and ensure your copied trades align with your risk tolerance.
- Monitor & Review: Regularly monitor your copied trades and review the performance of the expert traders you are following. Stay informed about market conditions and any changes in the strategies of the traders you are copying. Adjust your copy trading preferences or stop copying certain traders if needed.
How to Manage Risk When Copy Trading
Risk management is crucial in all forms of trading, including copy trading.
Here are several strategies for managing risk while copy trading:
- Diversification: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Copy trades from multiple traders with different strategies and markets to spread your risk. Some traders may be more successful in certain market conditions than others.
- Set Maximum Loss Limits: Most copy trading platforms allow you to set a maximum loss limit for each trade. This can protect you from major losses if a trade goes wrong.
- Understand the Trader’s Strategy: Before you start copying a trader, make sure you understand their trading strategy. Make sure it aligns with your investment goals and risk tolerance.
- Monitor Your Investments: Even though copy trading is largely automatic, it’s still important to monitor your investments regularly. This way, you can quickly react if a trader you are copying starts to consistently make losing trades.
- Risk Capital Only: Only use money you can afford to lose. Trading always carries risk, and copy trading is no exception. Never risk money that you need for essential expenses.
- Start Small: Especially if you’re new to copy trading, start with a small amount of money. This can limit your losses as you learn the ropes.
- Use Stop Loss Orders: A stop loss order closes a trade when the price of the asset falls to a certain level. This can prevent large losses if a trade goes badly wrong.
- Continuous Learning: Although copy trading can shortcut some of the learning processes, understanding trading fundamentals can help you make more informed decisions about which traders to copy and when to stop.
While copy trading can be an effective strategy for leveraging the skills of experienced traders, it’s not foolproof.
Always approach trading with a clear understanding of the potential risks and rewards.
Social Trading vs Copy Trading
Social trading and copy trading are two distinct but interconnected forms of trading.
While both involve learning from other traders, the mechanisms by which this happens are different.
Social Trading:
Social trading involves the use of social network platforms to gather and share trading information and strategies.
Traders can communicate with each other, share ideas, discuss market trends, and observe the trading behaviour of their peers or expert traders.
However, executing a trade still requires manual action, and the decision-making process rests entirely with the individual trader.
Pros:
- Traders can interact and learn from each other
- Provides a community environment which can be helpful for beginners
- Traders maintain full control over their trades
Cons:
- Requires active participation and continuous monitoring of market trends
- Decision-making and trade execution can be challenging for novice traders
Copy Trading:
Copy trading, on the other hand, is a subset of social trading where traders directly copy the trades executed by another trader.
Once a trader (typically a more experienced one) is chosen to copy from, all their trades are automatically replicated in the copier’s account.
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners or those who lack time to follow market trends closely
- Trades are copied automatically, saving time
- Access to the strategies of experienced traders
Cons:
- Risk of loss if the copied trader makes poor decisions
- Limited control over individual trades
While social trading offers a platform for interaction and exchange of ideas, copy trading provides an opportunity for traders, especially beginners, to replicate the actions of experienced traders.
Both have their unique pros and cons and can be useful depending on a trader’s experience, risk tolerance, and time commitment.
Final Thoughts
The best copy trading platforms in the UK enhance your trading journey by mirroring expert moves.
My guide helps you select a platform that aligns with your goals, offering convenience and confidence in your investment choices.
But, for beginners, I’d recommend eToro as the best copy trading platform in the UK.
30 million users globally trust eToro for their copy and social trading needs, benefiting from a vast array of stocks, funds, ETFs, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
- User-friendly platform for beginners
- Copy the moves of professional traders
- Social trading & educational features
- Withdrawal fees
FAQs
Is copy trading legal in the UK?
Yes, copy trading is legal in the United Kingdom. It’s a practice well-regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the regulatory body responsible for overseeing financial markets in the UK. Platforms that offer copy trading services in the UK must be authorised and compliant with the rules and regulations laid out by the FCA. This includes rules on transparency, customer communication, and the handling of client funds.
Can you make a living from copy trading?
Yes, it’s possible to earn from copy trading, but it’s not guaranteed or consistently reliable as a primary income source. Profits depend on various factors including the copied trader’s performance and market conditions. It’s vital to only invest what you can afford to lose, understand the risks, and view copy trading as part of a diversified investment strategy. Always consider seeking financial advice before starting.
Is copy trading taxable in the UK?
Yes, profits from copy trading in the UK are generally subject to tax. They can be treated as capital gains and therefore may be liable to Capital Gains Tax. It’s crucial to maintain accurate records of your trading activities and consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance with all relevant tax regulations.
What’s the best copy trading app?
Considered one of the pioneers in social trading, eToro is often regarded as the best app for copy trading. Its user-friendly platform makes it easy for users to copy trades of successful investors. Additionally, eToro provides a wide array of financial instruments to trade and is regulated by reputable authorities, ensuring a safe trading environment.
Is copy trading profitable?
Copy trading can be profitable, especially when copying successful traders. However, it’s not guaranteed as the profitability depends on various factors including the performance of the copied trader and market conditions. It’s important to understand the risks involved and consider copy trading as part of a broader, diversified investment strategy.
Is copy trading safe?
Copy trading can be considered safe if done through a regulated and reputable platform. However, like all forms of trading, it carries inherent financial risks. The success of copy trading depends on the performance of the trader being copied. Therefore, due diligence in choosing a trader to copy and understanding the risks involved is crucial. Remember, it’s important to only invest what you can afford to lose.
What’s the best security to copy trade?
There isn’t a definitive “best” security to copy trade as it largely depends on your individual investment goals, risk tolerance, and the performance of the trader you’re copying. Copy trading can involve a range of securities including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. It’s advisable to diversify your portfolio and consider copying traders who trade in different markets.
How much do I need to start copy trading?
The minimum amount needed to start copy trading can vary greatly depending on the platform. Some platforms allow you to start with as little as £10, while others might require a larger initial investment. Always check the specific requirements of the platform you choose. But remember, it’s important to only invest what you can afford to lose, and starting small can be a wise strategy if you’re new to copy trading.
How do I copy a trade in the UK?
To copy trade in the UK, you’ll first need to sign up with a trading platform that offers social or copy trading features, such as eToro or AvaTrade. Once registered, navigate to the section where you can view expert traders, select the one whose strategy you’d like to emulate, and choose the “Copy Trade” option to automatically replicate their trades in your account. Always remember to conduct your due diligence and understand the risks involved.
Can you be successful with copy trading?
Yes, copy trading can be successful if approached with caution and due diligence. It allows you to mirror the trades of experienced investors, potentially benefiting from their expertise. Success depends on choosing the right traders to copy, understanding the risks involved, and ensuring that the trading style aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. It’s important to remember that past performance is not indicative of future results, so continual monitoring and adjustment of whom you copy is essential.
Can I make money from copy trading?
Yes, you can make money from copy trading, but it’s not guaranteed. Copy trading allows you to replicate the positions of experienced traders, potentially profiting from their knowledge and strategies. However, like all forms of investing, it comes with risks and the possibility of losses, especially if the traders you’re copying have a bad streak. Success in copy trading requires selecting skilled traders to follow, diversifying the traders you copy to avoid concentration risk, and keeping an eye on performance to make adjustments as necessary. It’s also critical to invest only what you can afford to lose and to do thorough research before committing your capital.
Can you lose in copy trading?
In copy trading, losses are as real a possibility as gains. The traders you emulate may face downturns or make unfavorable decisions, affecting your capital. Market volatility can also amplify risks, especially if copied strategies involve high leverage. Moreover, a lack of adequate diversification—if copying only a few traders with similar methods—can increase the potential for loss.
You may also like:
- Best trading platform UK
- Best stock trading apps UK
- Best investment apps UK
- Best investment platforms UK
- Best forex trading apps UK
Sources:
- https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a82c44fe5274a2e8ab593ed/Full_Report_Growing_a_Culture_of_Social_Impact_Investing_in_the_UK.pdf ↩︎
- https://www.statista.com/statistics/1262787/etoro-registered-users/ ↩︎
- https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/businessreview/2017/03/09/the-side-effect-of-scrutinising-traders-in-social-trading-platforms/ ↩︎
- https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:0d5ada4 ↩︎
- https://eprints.lincoln.ac.uk/id/eprint/50644/7/1-s2.0-S016726812200316X-main.pdf ↩︎
- https://www.eftconference.business-school.ed.ac.uk/sites/eft_conference/files/2022-06/Schneider-slides.pdf ↩︎