Compare stocks
Direct stock investment offers high potential rewards but requires careful research and risk management.
Compare stocks providersReady to compare stocks?
Run a full market comparison before you commit. It takes about five minutes and there's no obligation to apply.
Understanding stocks
Investing in individual companies allows you to own shares in specific UK or international businesses.
Success depends on your research and market understanding.
Factors influencing stocks performance
- Brokerage commissions
- Platform management fees
- Currency conversion charges
- Market spread
Why compare stocks with us
High growth potential
Individual stocks can significantly outperform the broader market.
Direct control
You choose exactly which companies you own.
Typical stock platform fees
Indicative costs for a £10k portfolio.
| Platform | Trade fee | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|
| Hargreaves | £11.95 | 0.45% |
| Interactive | Flat fee | Fixed |
| Trading212 | Free | 0% |
Portfolio management
Comparing active vs passive strategies.
| Strategy | Effort | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Active stocks | High | High |
| Passive ETFs | Low | Low |
Expert advice
Our team tracks UK investment platforms, fees and performance data to help you make informed decisions.
“Picking winners is hard. Most retail investors are better off with broad market ETFs.”
stocks: pros and cons
Pros
- Potential for high returns
- Direct ownership
Cons
- High risk
- Requires time
How to choose stocks
Key considerations before you invest your capital.
- 1
Research frequency
Can you keep up with company news?
- 2
Risk appetite
How much loss can you stomach?
Compare stocks
See what's available for your business today. It takes just minutes.
How to start stocks
Taking the first steps into investing doesn't have to be complex.
1. Define your goals
Decide whether you are saving for a house, retirement or general wealth building.
2. Choose the right wrapper
Utilise ISAs or Pensions to shelter your investment from UK capital gains and income tax.
3. Select your platform
Compare platform fees, fund range and ease of use before opening an account.
4. Monitor and rebalance
Review your portfolio periodically to ensure it still aligns with your risk tolerance.
Essential investment cautions
Your capital is at risk. You may get back less than you put in.
Stocks can be volatile.
Our stocks service
We compare stocks options from regulated UK providers, helping you see fees, account types and support levels side by side.
Investing involves capital at risk. Ensure you understand the potential for loss before you start.
Getting started
1
Check your allowance
You have a £20,000 annual ISA allowance and a £60,000 annual pension allowance.
2
Assess your risk
Only invest money you won't need for at least five years to ride out market volatility.
3
Verify regulation
Check the provider is FCA authorised and covered by the £85k FSCS protection.
Why choose Grow Your Business?
Wide choice of providers
We compare a broad range of UK providers so you can find the option that actually fits how your business operates.
Exclusive offers
We work hard to bring you exclusive deals, switching incentives and cashback where they're available.
Simple and fast
It takes just a few minutes to compare with us — and the deal you find could be well below what you pay today.
Common types of stocks
Depending on your goals, different investment vehicles may suit your needs.
Growth stocks
Companies expected to grow faster than average.
Dividend stocks
Companies that pay regular cash dividends.
Providers we compare
Logos shown for ID only. We are not affiliated with these providers.
Hargreaves Lansdown
Trading 212Comparing with us is a no-brainer
“I feel more involved in my investments.”
James, London
stocks guides
Guide
Understanding risk and volatility
How to manage market fluctuations over the long term.
Read guidestocks FAQs
What is the risk?
Total loss of investment is possible.
Do I need a lot of money?
Some brokers allow tiny trades.
What about tax?
Use an ISA to avoid tax.
How to start?
Open a brokerage account.
Are they safe?
If regulated, they are reputable.
Written by the Grow Your Business editorial team · Updated 26 July 2026