Cheapest investing platform

To pin down the cheapest investing platform, look beyond the headline price and weigh up every charge that applies to how you invest. The main ones are the platform or custody fee for holding your investments, dealing fees for buying and selling shares or funds, and any minimum deposit requirements.

Some platforms charge a flat monthly fee, which can work out cheaper for larger portfolios, while others take a percentage of what you hold, which often suits smaller balances. Watching for extras like foreign exchange charges or exit fees helps you find the genuinely cheapest option for your situation.

Not necessarily. The lowest fees are appealing, but the cheapest platform won't be the best choice if it lacks the accounts, investments or tools you actually need. A slightly higher charge can be worth paying for a wider fund range, a reliable app or stronger customer support.

It's also worth matching the fee structure to how you invest. A flat-fee platform may be cheapest for a large portfolio, while a percentage-based fee can be better value if you're just starting out with smaller amounts.