Freetrade Review
CONTENT
Freetrade is a trusted UK broker with a strong Trust Score of 85/100, regulated by a top-tier authority. Investors can choose from three account types: Stocks and Shares ISA, SIPP, and General Investment Account, making it a safe, reliable platform for long-term investing.
 | Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
| Broker | Freetrade |
| Minimum Deposit | None |
| Spreads | None |
| Leverage | Margin trading not provided |
| Trading Commissions | £0 (all stocks/ETFs are commission-free) |
| ⚖️ Regulation and Licenses | 🇬🇧 Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) |
| Open an Account |  |
Overview
Freetrade is a UK-based self-directed investment platform offering simple, low-fee investing across UK, US, and European stocks. Since 2018, it has pioneered commission-free trading and evolved into a comprehensive brokerage, supporting tax-wrapped accounts and empowering investors to efficiently reach their financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Freetrade charge fees?
Freetrade uses a simple subscription model with fixed monthly fees, ensuring costs do not increase as your portfolio grows. Commission-free trades are standard, and the only additional charge applies when converting pounds to another currency to place a trade.
Who can use Freetrade?
Freetrade is available to UK residents seeking tax-wrapped accounts like ISAs and SIPPs or access to global equities. The platform supports both new and experienced investors looking for low-cost, self-directed investing options.
Our Insights
Freetrade stands out as a flexible, low-cost investment platform ideal for UK investors. Its award-winning technology, commission-free trading, and scalable infrastructure make it a reliable choice for managing portfolios efficiently while keeping fees predictable.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Stocks and Shares ISA
Freetrade’s Stocks and Shares ISA allows UK investors to grow wealth tax efficiently. With access to over 6,200 global stocks, ETFs, REITs, and UK Treasury bills, the platform combines commission-free trades, low fixed costs, and flexible features, empowering users to invest strategically while minimizing fees.
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Monthly Fee | £4.99 (Standard Plan) |
| Investment Options | 6,200+ global stocks, ETFs, REITs, UK Treasury bills |
| Commission | Commission-free trades, FX fees apply |
| Tax Benefits | No capital gains, UK dividends, or interest tax |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Freetrade Stocks and Shares ISA?
Freetrade offers three plans: Basic at £0/month, Standard from £4.99/month (£59.88 annually), plus at £9.99/month (£119.88 annually). Fees remain fixed, and trades are commission-free, though FX fees apply when converting currency for non-GBP trades.
What investments can I hold in a Freetrade ISA?
Investors can access over 6,200 global stocks and ETFs, including US, UK, and European shares, REITs, investment trusts, and UK Treasury bills. The ISA is flexible, allowing withdrawals and replacements during the tax year without affecting the annual allowance.
Our Insights
Freetrade’s Stocks and Shares ISA is ideal for UK investors seeking low-cost, tax-efficient investing. Its wide range of global assets, automated trading options, and commission-free model make it a competitive choice for both beginners and experienced traders aiming to maximize portfolio growth efficiently.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Personal Pension
Freetrade’s Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) lets UK investors take control of their retirement pot with a low fixed fee and unlimited commission-free trades. Access thousands of global stocks, ETFs, REITs, and UK Treasury bills while enjoying tax relief on contributions and flexible investment management.
| Feature | Details |
| Monthly Fee | £11.99 (Plus Plan) |
| Investment Options | 6,200+ global stocks, ETFs, REITs, UK Treasury bills |
| Commission | Unlimited commission-free trades, FX fees apply |
| Tax Benefits | 20%-45% tax relief on contributions (UK 🇬🇧) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What investments can I hold in a Freetrade SIPP?
Freetrade SIPPs allow investments in over 6,200 global stocks, ETFs, investment trusts, REITs, and UK Treasury bills. Automated tools like recurring orders, limit orders, and stop losses help investors manage risk and plan retirement growth efficiently.
How much does it cost to open a Freetrade SIPP?
SIPP accounts are included in the Plus plan at £11.99 per month (£119.88 annually). This low, fixed fee ensures costs do not grow with your portfolio, while trades remain commission-free. FX fees apply for non-GBP transactions.
Our Insights
Freetrade’s SIPP is an excellent choice for UK investors seeking a flexible, low-cost, self-directed pension. Its extensive investment options, automated features, and commission-free trading make it ideal for both beginners and experienced investors aiming to grow a retirement pot efficiently while maintaining full control.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
General Investment Account (GIA)
Freetrade’s General Investment Account (GIA) allows UK investors to invest beyond tax-efficient wrappers like ISAs or SIPPs. With unlimited investing, automated tools, and commission-free trades, users can access thousands of global stocks, ETFs, investment trusts, REITs, and UK Treasury bills while managing their portfolio with ease.
| Feature | Details |
| Monthly Fee | £0 (Basic) £4.99 (Standard) £9.99 (Plus) |
| Investment Options | 6,200+ global stocks, ETFs, REITs, UK Treasury bills |
| Commission | Unlimited commission-free trades, FX fees apply |
| Tax Treatment | Capital gains and dividend tax above allowances (UK 🇬🇧) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a GIA differ from an ISA or SIPP?
Unlike ISAs or SIPPs, a GIA has no investment limits and does not provide tax relief. Capital gains and dividend taxes above allowances apply. It is ideal for investors who have already used their tax-efficient allowances or want more flexible access to their funds.
Can I transfer an existing account to Freetrade’s GIA?
Yes, you can transfer investments or cash from another provider quickly and without fees. Freetrade GIAs support thousands of stocks, ETFs, REITs, and investment trusts, making it simple to consolidate your portfolio into one flexible investment account.
Our Insights
Freetrade’s GIA is a strong choice for UK investors seeking flexibility beyond tax-efficient accounts. It combines commission-free trading, automated tools, and access to a vast range of investments. While standard taxes apply, the platform’s ease of use and wide selection make it a compelling option for active or experienced investors.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Customer Support
Freetrade provides multiple ways for users to get support, from in-app chat to detailed resources. Whether you’re new to investing or managing multiple accounts, Freetrade’s support team and help hub are designed to give clear, practical guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I contact Freetrade if I have a question about my account?
You can contact Freetrade directly via in-app chat, email, or social media. The Help Hub also provides detailed guides and answers to common questions about trading, account setup, and transfers.
Does Freetrade provide support for beginners?
Yes. Freetrade’s resources, guides, and FAQs are designed to help beginners navigate the platform, understand account types like ISA, SIPP, or GIA, and get clear instructions for investing safely.
Our Insights
Freetrade combines a modern app interface with responsive support options. Whether using the Help Hub, chatting in-app, or emailing support, investors can get timely answers and guidance, making account management smoother and more efficient.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Insights from Real Traders
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’ve been using Freetrade for six months, and it has made investing incredibly easy. The app is intuitive, and I love that there are no commission fees on stocks and ETFs. I feel confident building my portfolio without worrying about hidden costs. –
Jeff
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Freetrade’s mobile app is brilliant. I can check my investments, buy and sell shares quickly, and the customer support team is always responsive when I have questions. Perfect for both beginners and experienced investors. –
Michael
⭐⭐⭐
As a first-time investor, Freetrade has made investing approachable and stress-free. I appreciate the Stocks and Shares ISA option and the clear pricing. It’s refreshing to use a platform that focuses on long-term growth without unnecessary fees. –
Sophie
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Customer Reviews and Trust Scores
A snapshot of how users perceive Freetrade – what they praise and what concerns they raise.
| Platform | Rating (5) | User Feedback |
| Trustpilot | 3.8 | Praised for app usability and low fees; criticism on FX charges and slow support response. |
| App Store | 4.3 | Intuitive interface, low costs; limited analytical features noted. |
| Google Play | 3.9 | Good value and app design; slower responses, ISA fee increases cited. |
| Smart Money People | 4.88 | Overwhelmingly positive; small number highlight poor free share policy and service issues. |
Freetrade generally earns solid user trust thanks to its clean interface and commission-free model, although some users flag support delays and feature limitations.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Discussions and Forums: What Real Users Say
A glance at Online Forums where users voice both endorsements and frustrations.
| Topic/Concern | User Quote |
| FX fees Limited variety | “High FX fees … a lot less equities and ETFs on offer.” |
| App limitations Slow service | “FX fee is 0.59%, ... can't buy stocks outside market hours... customer service is slow…” |
| Community toxicity concerns | “The Freetrade community … can be very toxic … limits it from being a true community.” |
Reddit conversations reflect a mixed picture: while some users value Freetrade’s simplicity, others criticize limited offerings, fees, app functionality, and even community dynamics.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Working for Freetrade: Employee Perspectives
An insider’s view into the culture and workplace experience at Freetrade – modern fintech, fast-paced, with complex employee sentiment.
| Theme/Topic | Insight |
| Culture/ workload | Described as “high‑performance... fast‑paced,” but also fraught with toxic leadership and lack of psychological safety. |
| Positive aspects | Talented, passionate colleagues; meaningful mission; flexible hybrid options; modern tech stack; agile environment. |
| Management/ progression | Reports of poor communication, arbitrary decision making, weak career development, and high turnover. |
| Mixed employer reviews | Some value the flexibility and brand mission; others cite burnout, inadequate pay, and chaotic processes. |
Employee reviews paint a picture of a mission-driven workplace with talented teams—but also challenges around leadership, stability, and internal support.
| Minimum Deposit: $0 Regulated by: FCA Crypto: No |
Pros and Cons
| ✓ Pros | ✕ Cons |
| Commission-free stock and ETF trading | High FX fees on non‑GBP trades |
| User-friendly, clean app interface | Limited analytical tools and delayed real-time pricing |
| Good mobile experience (iOS/Android) | Slow customer support during peak times |
| Strong mission and passionate team | Reports of toxic culture and poor management |
| Flexible hybrid/remote work options | Limited career progression and high turnover |
References:
Conclusion
Freetrade appears to operate primarily out of the United Kingdom, with its main office located in London. There’s no current evidence of active local offices or dedicated customer support hubs in other countries. The app and support services are centralized and delivered digitally – via in-app chat, email, and online resources.
Faq
Yes, you can quickly sell your shares using Freetrade’s mobile app.
Withdrawals from Freetrade normally take 2-3 working days to process but can sometimes take up to 5 days.
The platform generates money in various ways, including foreign currency (FX) fees on non-GBP transactions, monthly fees for its plans, interest on uninvested capital, and payment for order flow (compensation from market makers for routing trades).
They do not need a minimum investment, enabling investors to start trading with as little as they like.
Yes, Freetrade is a reputable broker registered by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
