Spread betting vs CFDs in the UK: what is the difference?
How this answer was verified
- Cross-checked against broker-published fact sheets, regulator licensing databases, and ESMA product intervention notices.
- Reviewed by the FX-Brokers Asia editorial desk (Markets, Platforms, Regulation). Desk structure disclosed at /about/editorial-desks.
- Refreshed quarterly. The most recent verification date is shown above. Read our methodology.
Related
Is spread betting tax-free in the UK?
For most UK retail traders, spread betting profits are free of Capital Gains Tax, Income Tax and Stamp Duty, because HMRC classifies spread bets as gambling wagers rather than investments (manual CG56105). The trade-off is that losses are not tax-deductible. Spread betting is a UK and Ireland product, offered only by FCA-regulated firms. This is general information, not tax advice.
How is forex trading taxed in the UK?
In the UK, forex CFD profits are taxed as Capital Gains Tax (CGT) at 18% (basic-rate band) or 24% (higher/additional bands) above the £3,000 annual allowance, following the rate rise on 30 October 2024. Spread betting is tax-free for UK residents. Profits must be declared on a self-assessment tax return.
What are the FCA leverage limits for UK retail traders?
The FCA caps leverage for UK retail CFD and spread-betting accounts between 30:1 and 2:1 by asset volatility: 30:1 on major currency pairs, 20:1 on minor pairs and gold, 5:1 on individual shares and 2:1 on cryptocurrencies. In force since August 2019, the rules also require a 50% margin close-out and negative balance protection for retail clients.