Franklin Silva
Asset 1Last Update: February 29, 2024

For those serious about investing, the range of global trading platforms can be both a benefit and a puzzle. One platform, TD Ameritrade, has become a big name in the U.S. and has caught the attention of UK investors. But the big question is: Is TD Ameritrade available in the UK?

Unfortunately, TD Ameritrade is not available in the UK.  Since 2018, the company is no longer accepting traders residing in the UK and other European countries, primarily due to changes in financial regulations in these countries.

However, we can offer a curated list of platforms that not only rival TD Ameritrade’s offerings but are also tailored for the UK market.

Platform Best For Minimum Deposit Products Fees
eToro Social Investing and ETF & Stock Trading $100 Real Stocks, ETFs, Forex and CFDs on Stocks, ETFs, Cryptos and Commodities 0% commissions on stocks and ETFs (spreads apply)
Interactive Brokers Intermediate & Day Traders €/$/£0 Stocks, ETFs, Bonds, Forex, Funds, Commodities, Options, Futures and CFDs Up to $0.0035 per stock (min: $0.35)
Bestinvest Advice Packages €/£50
Funds, Shares, ETFs, Investment trusts and VCTs
Free for US stocks and funds; £4.95 for UK stock
Hargreaves Lansdown Reliability and Security €/£0 Stocks, ETFs, investment trusts, funds, gilts and bonds From £5.95 per order for stocks, ETFs, investment trusts and gilts
InvestEngine ETFs €/£100 ETFs 0% commissions on stocks and ETFs (spreads apply)

So, whether you’re a day trader seeking the adrenaline of live markets or someone desiring the passive growth of ETFs, this guide promises clarity. We will embark on this comprehensive journey, evaluating each platform’s strengths, offerings, and distinct advantages for the UK investor. Dive in and discern the best platform to enhance your trading strategy.

Is TD Ameritrade Available in the UK?​

Unfortunately, TD Ameritrade is not available in the UK.  Since 2018, the company is no longer accepting traders residing in the UK and other European countries, primarily due to changes in financial regulations in these countries.

TD Ameritrade is presently operating mainly for US residents, and the company hasn’t publicly disclosed the complete list of accepted countries. Unfortunately, there are several US platforms that are not available in the UK, such as E*TRADE and Thinkorswim.

When Will TD Ameritrade be Available in the UK?

TD Ameritrade has not mentioned any plans of reaccepting British traders, so it is not likely that TD Ameritrade will be available for UK residents in the near future. Be that as it may, we are constantly updating this article, so you’ll find in MoneyGrower the most accurate and updated information about this topic.

TD Ameritrade UK Alternatives

In spite of the fact that TD Ameritrade is not available in the UK, there are multiple online brokers that are trustworthy and robust. To help you choose a TD Ameritrade UK alternative, we focused on low-cost brokers that can give you the best trading experience. Here are our suggestions:

eToro​ – Best for Social Investing and ETF & Stock Trading

Etoro
Visit eToro

76% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

eToro in a nutshell

0% Commissions (on stocks)
Minimum Deposit$100
ProductsReal Stocks, ETFs, Forex and CFDs on Stocks, ETFs, Cryptos and Commodities. Social Trading, Copy Portfolios.
Fees0% commissions on stocks and ETFs (spreads apply)
ISA
Mobile App

Founded in 2007 in Israel, eToro stands out as one of the foremost trading platforms globally. The platform permits users to transact a variety of assets including stocks, ETFs, and an extensive range of CFD products. In addition, eToro offers opportunities for trading in cryptocurrencies.

eToro

A distinguishing feature of eToro is its emphasis on Social Trading. This facilitates users to not only execute their individual trades but also to share their strategies and outcomes with the community. Consequently, novices and veterans alike can glean insights and even mimic strategies from seasoned traders. Testament to its global reach, eToro boasts a clientele of over 25 million across more than 140 nations.

Further demonstrating eToro’s commitment to expanding its offerings, the platform has teamed up with Moneyfarm to introduce a state-of-the-art ISA solution for its UK clientele. This collaboration extends the advantages of an award-winning stocks and shares ISA directly within eToro’s interface. Remarkably, balances within these ISAs contribute towards eToro’s Club membership tiers, potentially unlocking exclusive benefits.

From a user interface perspective, eToro’s platform exudes a harmonious blend of aesthetic appeal and functionality. Whether accessed via desktop or mobile, the platform offers a seamless experience with easy-to-navigate menus. While the data on companies and stocks is streamlined for user accessibility, some professional investors might desire a deeper level of detail.

For those new to trading or seeking to enhance their knowledge, eToro provides a comprehensive suite of educational resources. These span articles, videos, and structured courses.

In terms of cost structure, eToro offers a commission-free approach for stocks and ETFs. However, those venturing into the realm of cryptocurrency trading should be aware of eToro’s 1% fee in addition to the spread on crypto transactions. An inactivity fee is also levied: users who remain dormant for a year are charged $10 monthly.

While the FAQ section on eToro provides in-depth responses to a plethora of potential queries, the platform lags in traditional customer service offerings. Notably absent are a direct phone line and a live chat feature.

From a security standpoint, eToro’s operations in the UK are under the oversight of the respected Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Should the unforeseen event of bankruptcy occur, clients have a safety net in the form of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which guarantees compensation up to a cap of £85,000. The platform also reinforces user security through a two-step login procedure.

Initiating an account with eToro is streamlined and digital. Prospective traders can register using their email, which promptly grants access to a £100,000 demo account. Post-registration, to transition to live trading, users are required to furnish proof of identity and residency. Impressively, the entire onboarding process can be expedited within a single day.

CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 76% 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.

Interactive Brokers – Best for Intermediate & Day Traders

Interactive Brokers Alt

Interactive Brokers in a nutshell

0% Commissions
Minimum Deposit£0
ProductsStocks, ETFs, Bonds, Forex, Funds, Commodities, Options, Futures and CFDs
FeesUp to $0.0035 per stock (min: $0.35)
ISA
Mobile App

Founded by Chairman Thomas Peterffy in 1993, Interactive Brokers stands as a dominant force in the brokerage landscape, particularly tailored for intermediate and day traders. Its extensive product range, spanning from stocks and ETFs to specialized instruments like forex, positions it a notch above many, including TD Ameritrade, especially for those desiring access to global markets.

Interactive Brokers

Where TD Ameritrade’s strength lies in its user-friendly interface and educational resources, IB counters with its own comprehensive suite of research tools and calculators designed for in-depth analysis — a prerequisite for day traders and those with an intermediate trading background. The platform might not win beauty contests, but its utility and depth make it a powerhouse for informed decision-making.

In terms of cost-efficiency, IB emerges as a clear frontrunner. With a transparent pricing schedule that significantly undercuts industry averages, it’s an economically savvy choice. This is amplified by its minimal fees and notably competitive margin rates.

Safety and accessibility are at the forefront of IB’s offering. Regulated by top-tier entities, including the UK’s FCA and the US SEC, the platform exudes trustworthiness. Its 24/7 customer service availability further enhances its appeal. Moreover, its public financial statements and stock market listing (ticker: IBKR) underscore its reliability.

Bestinvest – Best for Advice Packages

Bestinvest Logo

Bestinvest in a nutshell

0% Commissions US shares
Minimum Deposit£50
ProductsFunds, Shares, ETFs, Investment trusts and VCTs.
FeesFree for US stocks and funds; £4.95 for UK stock
ISA
Mobile App

One of the UK’s leading wealth management companies, Bestinvest distinguishes itself through a holistic blend of execution-only services, financial coaching, and dedicated investment advice. With a robust cadre of over 300 financial planners, the firm adeptly serves a client base exceeding 100,000, underscoring its profound market presence.

Bestinvest site

Though its desktop interface may not be inundated with the plethora of articles, data, and charts characteristic of some competitors, Bestinvest compensates with a clean, elegant design that prioritizes user-friendliness. This refined simplicity amplifies its core strength: valuable, client-centric advice packages and planning tools.

In terms of cost, Bestinvest’s fee structure for its ready-made portfolios is transparent and competitive: 0.2% for investments up to £500,000, 0.1% for amounts between £500,000 to £1 million, and no charge for sums exceeding £1 million. While fund trading is free, there’s a modest £4.95 fee for share trading. With minimum investment thresholds set at £50 for most offerings and £100 for select funds, the platform remains accessible to a wide spectrum of investors.

Clients are treated to a comprehensive support system comprising phone, email, and online avenues. A standout feature is the callback option, a rarity among brokerage entities, enhancing the platform’s client engagement commitment. For those with security concerns, Bestinvest’s regulatory alignment with the FCA ensures a trusted trading environment.

Hargreaves Lansdown – Best for Reliability and Security

Hargreaves lansdown

Hargreaves Lansdown in a nutshell

0% Commissions
Minimum Deposit£0
ProductsStocks, ETFs, investment trusts, funds, gilts and bonds.
FeesFrom £5.95 per order for stocks, ETFs, investment trusts and gilts
ISA
Mobile App

In the vast expanse of UK’s brokerage landscape, Hargreaves Lansdown stands out, bearing a legacy that dates back to its inception in 1981 by founders Peter Hargreaves and Stephen Lansdown. With its command over an impressive £100 billion assets spread across diverse account types, it’s no surprise that HL is hailed as the UK’s premier stockbroker, offering a solid alternative to platforms like TD Ameritrade for those prioritizing security.

Hargreaves Lansdown

While TD Ameritrade often captivates with its expansive tools, HL has etched its distinct mark, particularly with offerings like “Portfolio+”; a suite of meticulously curated portfolios managed by HL’s adept fund managers. Catering to varying risk profiles, these six portfolios provide investors with tailored financial solutions. Though HL may not directly cater to crypto enthusiasts, it’s worth noting the array of alternative platforms that offer cryptocurrency trading.

Navigating through HL’s online platform reveals an interface that’s straightforward and less intricate compared to its mobile counterpart. Yet, it compensates with an enriched array of educational content, insightful tools, and versatile product offerings. Alert configurations for UK stocks add a touch of personalization, though potential users might find the absence of a two-step login slightly off-putting.

While HL’s fee structure might lean towards the steeper side, especially for products like ETFs and stocks, it’s balanced by the platform’s robust support framework. The swift ticket response, comprehensive FAQs, and phone support underscore its commitment to client assistance. However, the absence of 24/7 support or an online chat is noticeable. Emphasizing its security credentials, HL’s long-standing market presence, its FCA regulation, and stock exchange listing amplify its trustworthiness.

Initiating an account with HL is a breeze for UK residents, requiring a mere 10 minutes. A symbolic £1 deposit for verification purposes precedes the standard identity and address validation procedures. For investors scouting a TD Ameritrade alternative in 2024 with an uncompromising emphasis on reliability and security, Hargreaves Lansdown emerges as an unyielding contender in the UK sector.

InvestEngine – Best for ETFs

investengine logo1
Visit InvestEngine

When investing your capital is at risk.

InvestEngine in a nutshell

0% Commissions
Minimum Deposit£100
ProductsETFs
Fees0% commissions on ETFs (spreads apply)
ISA
Mobile App

If one seeks an equivalent to TD Ameritrade in the ETF space for the UK market, InvestEngine rises as an authoritative voice. Its offering of over 500 ETFs spanning an extensive array of asset classes and sectors establishes it as an ETF haven, providing investors a comprehensive palette of investment choices. Not just content with its extensive ETF selection, InvestEngine recently incorporated a portfolio-sharing feature, allowing traders an invaluable peek into the strategies of their peers.

InvestEngine

Where TD Ameritrade might be overwhelmed with data, InvestEngine strikes with its minimalist, intuitive design. Fluid navigation combined with an elegant interface ensures that users can seamlessly engage with their investments, from making instant trades and withdrawals to checking investment projections and monitoring their portfolio performance.

The platform’s fee structure sets it apart from its competitors. A complete absence of FX, ISA, or trading fees, juxtaposed with a modest platform fee of 0.25% annually, makes it particularly attractive. Average total fees for its distinctive Growth and Income Portfolios underscore the platform’s transparency and commitment to competitive pricing.

InvestEngine further bolsters its client-centric approach with extended support hours, covering both weekdays and weekends. That its operations are under the regulatory purview of the FCA and its investments up to £85,000 are shielded by the FSCS reinforces its reliability.

Opening an account with InvestEngine is a streamlined experience. Prospective users begin by deciding between business or individual accounts, followed by the choice of self-managed or professionally managed portfolios, and culminating in the option of an ISA or general investment account. As we gaze upon 2024, for investors keen on a TD Ameritrade alternative with a pronounced emphasis on ETFs, InvestEngine emerges as an indomitable force in the UK landscape.

Final Thoughts

In the ever-evolving landscape of global finance, the accessibility and robustness of a trading platform can be the make-or-break factor for many investors. While TD Ameritrade remains unavailable for UK residents due to regulatory constraints, the good news is that the UK market isn’t short on formidable alternatives.

Platform Best For Minimum Deposit Products Fees
eToro Social Investing and ETF & Stock Trading $50 Real Stocks, ETFs, Forex and CFDs on Stocks, ETFs, Cryptos and Commodities 0% commissions on stocks and ETFs (spreads apply)
Interactive Brokers Intermediate & Day Traders €/$/£0 Stocks, ETFs, Bonds, Forex, Funds, Commodities, Options, Futures and CFDs Up to $0.0035 per stock (min: $0.35)
Bestinvest Advice Packages €/£50
Funds, Shares, ETFs, Investment trusts and VCTs
Free for US stocks and funds; £4.95 for UK stock
Hargreaves Lansdown Reliability and Security €/£0 Stocks, ETFs, investment trusts, funds, gilts and bonds From £5.95 per order for stocks, ETFs, investment trusts and gilts
InvestEngine ETFs €/£100 ETFs 0% commissions on stocks and ETFs (spreads apply)

The bottom line is that even in the absence of platforms like TD Ameritrade, the UK’s brokerage horizon is expansive and multifaceted. With a little research and insight, UK traders can not only find a platform that rivals TD Ameritrade’s offerings but potentially surpasses it in aligning with their unique trading aspirations. Remember, in the realm of investments, the journey is as critical as the destination. So, embark on yours with informed clarity and confidence.