Best stock brokers in the UK

If you’re looking for the top stock brokers based in the UK, we’ve got you covered. Find out which stock brokers are linked to the London Stock Exchange (LSE), and everything you need to know about deciding on the best type of broker.

What is a stock broker?

In the UK, a stock broker is a regulated financial professional or firm that helps with the buying and selling of shares by matching buyers with sellers and vice versa. When partnering with the London Stock Exchange (LSE), stock brokers act as intermediaries, providing their clients access to markets like the main market and AIM (Alternative Investment Market).

UK brokers must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and usually offer a range of services, from executing trades (carrying out trades, no stocks were harmed in the making of this guide) to advice and portfolio management. Many LSE-partnered brokers also provide research, market insights, and trading platforms to help investors navigate the markets.

“Execution” vs “discretionary” vs “advisory” stock broking services

UK stock brokers typically offer one or more of these 3 services: execution, discretionary, and advisory. Here’s how they differ:

Execution

• You make all investment decisions yourself (like picking your own stocks or funds)
• The broker simply executes your trades (carries them out like a financial hitman) without question
• Suitable for experienced investors who want full control
• Typically the cheapest option, because there’s no advice or inputon the broker’s part the buck stops with you

Discretionary

• The stock broker manages your portfolio on your behalf, with a few basic guardrails (like a financial version of the ones you might use when bowling to keep things on track)
• Investment decisions are made by professionals based on your risk profile and objectives
• It’s a hands-off approach for investors who want to let the experts do their thing
• Higher fees due to the hands-on management service provided

Advisory

• The broker provides advice, but you make the final decisions
• Receive recommendations based on market analysis and your personal financial goals
• Good for those who want expert input, but still want to maintain a degree of control
• Fees vary depending on the level of advice given, it’s a spectrum

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Bottom line

Choosing the right UK stock broker can help you better access markets and exchanges like the London Stock Exchange (LSE). They can also help you manage your investments effectively, but they come in different shapes and sizes.

Whether you need an execution-only broker for DIY trading or a full-service broker for investment advice, ensure they are FCA-regulated for security and reliability. Always try to compare fees, trading platforms, and services to find the best broker for your investment goals.

Frequently asked questions

• What’s the difference between an investment banker and a stock broker

  In short, investment bankers deal with corporate finance and raising capital – like with an initial public offering (IPO), whereas stock brokers focus on trading and investing in financial markets, usually on behalf of clients.

  An investment banker helps businesses and institutions raise capital, manage mergers and acquisitions, and handle complex financial transactions. They focus on large-scale corporate finance rather than individual investors. In contrast, a stock broker facilitates the buying and selling of securities (like shares) for clients, providing market access, trade execution, and sometimes investment advice.

• What does a stock broker do?

  They act as a middleman between buyers and sellers of securities (investments like stocks, shares, bonds and more). Stock brokers provide access to markets like the London Stock Exchange (LSE) or international exchanges. They may also offer investment advice, research, and portfolio management services.

• How do I choose a stock broker in the UK?

  Look for brokers regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), with competitive fees, good customer support, and trading platforms that suit your needs. Consider whether you need execution-only services or additional services like investment advice.

• What’s the difference between a stock broker and a financial adviser?

  A stock broker executes trades and may offer market insights, while a financial adviser provides broader financial planning, including pensions, tax strategies, and investment portfolios. Some brokers also offer advisory services, so the lines can blur.

• Are UK stock brokers regulated?

  Yes, stock brokers in the UK must be FCA-authorised to ensure they operate fairly and protect investors. Always check a broker’s FCA registration before opening an account.

Written by

George Sweeney, DipFA

Deputy editor

George is a deputy editor at Finder. He has previously written for The Motley Fool UK, Nasdaq, Freetrade, Investing in the Web, MoneyMagpie, Online Mortgage Advisor, Wealth, and Compare Forex Brokers. He's focused on making personal finance and investing engaging for everyone. To do this he draws from previous work and his Level 4 Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA), sharing what he’s learnt. When he’s not geeking out about money, you’ll find him playing sports and staying active. See full bio

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