All the information you need to start spread betting
Opening a spread betting account is a straightforward process with CMC Markets. Remember, if you’re new to spread betting and want to test the water before you get started, there are a number of things you can do to check if spread betting is right for you.
Apply for a spread betting demo account
Our spread betting demo account gives you a chance to test out our trading platform and trade with £10,000 of virtual money. You can use it to get a feel for how the markets are moving, how our online platform works or even use it to test out trading strategies. Our demo account only takes about 60 seconds to sign up for and there is no download involved. You can also access your demo account via our iPhone, iPad and Android applications too.
Watch the videos
Take a short video tour of our online spread betting platform. Our videos will show you how to search for prices, place an order and a stop loss, use a chart and monitor your account value, to name just a few topics.
Applying for a live spread betting account
Once you’re ready to start spread betting with your own capital you’ll need to apply for a live account. You can also apply for a live account directly on your iPhone.
We’ve tried to make the process of opening an account with us as seamless as possible so you can get started using our trading platform as quickly and easily as possible. That’s why our application form has been designed to request only the most relevant information.
It’s important that you understand why we ask the questions that we do when opening a live account. We have an obligation under FSA regulations to know who our clients are and to treat our clients fairly. We have to ensure that you are appropriate for the type of financial products that we offer. In addition, we need to ensure that our clients’ trading activity is not fraudulent and that our platform is not being used for criminal purposes. Confirming your identity is part of the application process.
What will I receive once my account is opened?
Account details
You will receive a welcome email which will contain all of your account details. This email will also provide you with useful information on how to access our trading platforms, as well as any links that may help you get started more easily. The one set of login details that you receive will give you access to our platforms on both the Web and iPhone, iPad and Android device.
Username: This will be the email address you provided on sign–up
Password: This will be the password you provided in the application form
If you can’t remember your password, use the ‘Forgot password?’ link on the login page, or contact a member of our client management team for assistance.
Account manager
Once your live trading account has been successfully opened an account manager will be assigned to you for your first few weeks of trading. They will ensure that any questions or problems you have are properly resolved. Please note that this service does not include the provision of trading tips or investment advice.
Ongoing support from the client management team
Contact the client management team via:
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7170 8200
Live chat: Through the ’Live Help’ icon on our trading platforms
Email: clientmanagement@cmcmarkets.co.uk
Funding your account
There’s no minimum deposit required to activate a live account, but you won't be able to start trading until you’ve deposited funds. Although there is no minimum, we recommend that you deposit around £1000 to get started.
You can fund your account either via the platform 'Transfer' icon or you can call our client management team on +44 (0)20 7170 8200, who will transfer you to our secure telephone system which will take your payment for you. If you are funding via the platform you will find the 'Transfers' icon in the lower left navigation pane. Click on the icon to transfer funds in and out of your account. You will need to 'Allow pop-ups’ so your browser lets the payments window open up. Click on the ‘Payments’ tab.
Withdrawing funds from your account
To withdraw funds from your live account just click on the ‘Transfers’ icon and click the ‘Withdrawals’ tab. Enter the amount you wish to withdraw, then click on ‘Withdraw funds’. The system will then process the withdrawal for you. Please note that withdrawals typically take 3-5 working days to process.
You can also contact the client management team on +44 (0)20 3003 8588, as they can process the withdrawal for you too.
If you are using a UK debit card there are no charges for funding your account or withdrawing funds. Other methods of payment may have a fee associated with them. Visit our page on funding your account for more details.
Spread betting costs
There are no distinctly separate commissions or transaction fees associated with spread betting. We have removed these individual charges and have built the cost of trading into the prices that are quoted on your screen, providing greater transparency so you always know what you’re paying for.
However, remember that when you spread bet on margin and you hold your position open overnight, you will incur some financing fees. Click here for a breakdown of how these costs are calculated.
What security do I have, and who is CMC Markets regulated by?
When clients’ funds are deposited they are segregated from any other CMC Markets funds. We will hold an amount equivalent to your account value in this segregated account.
This means that even if we become insolvent, your money is protected. In addition, if the bank at which we hold your money becomes insolvent, you may be entitled to compensation from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. CMC Markets is well-established, reputable and has a long history of success.
CMC Spreadbet plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA), so you can be sure that all of our business activities are grounded on the principles and ethics championed by the FSA. We take our responsibilities very seriously.