What it is
Interactive Brokers gives access to stocks, ETFs, options, futures, bonds and FX across many exchanges at low commissions, with a professional-grade platform and a simpler mobile app.
Who it suits
Active and international investors who want breadth and low costs.
Regulation and protection
Regulated brokers in each region, including the SEC/FINRA (US) and FCA (UK).
How it charges
Two pricing plans in the US (Lite with commission-free US stocks, Pro with per-share commissions); low fixed or tiered commissions elsewhere. Margin rates are among the lowest; some market data carries a monthly fee.
Getting started
Application is thorough: identity, financial background and investment experience. Once approved you fund by bank transfer and choose the simplified or full platform.
At a glance
- Stock commission
- Low (Lite plan free in US)
- ISA / tax wrapper
- Yes (UK ISA, others)
- Fractional shares
- Yes
- Crypto
- Limited
- Headquarters
- Greenwich, Connecticut
- Founded
- 1978
Strengths
- Very broad market access
- Low commissions and margin rates
- Strong regulation and long record
Watch for
- Platform is complex for beginners
- Inactivity and data fees in some cases
Readers ask2 questions answered
Is Interactive Brokers good for beginners?
The simplified mobile app helps, but the platform is built for active investors. Beginners who want simplicity may prefer an app-first broker.
Does IBKR offer a UK ISA?
Yes, a stocks and shares ISA is available to UK residents alongside a general account.
How it comparesIts standing in 1 comparison
Best for global markets and low costs
- Stock commission
- Low (Lite plan free in US) 1 provider in this comparison
- ISA / tax wrapper
- Yes (UK ISA, others) 1 provider in this comparison
- Fractional shares
- Yes 3 of them share this
- Crypto
- Limited 1 provider in this comparison
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