Finspreads

Excellent customer service and execution

I like these guys. Always very polite and quick to respond. Their execution is well up there with the other top brokers like IG.

Very good service

I would have given this a max rating 10 score because the customer services are excellent, the platform is easy to use, stops and limits are automatically closed when the underlying trade is closed so no nasty surprises, and the limits and minimum price per pont make the service very affordable.

My only criticism is that there are often data feed issues causing graphs to lag current prices but these tend to occur when trading switches over to Australia post 10pm GMT.

Good for me

Although sometimes in extremely volitile periods the platform can freeze or slowup due to increased heavy trading. Guaranteed stops will help to prevent this or use the phone which may take a few crucial seconds to get through. The phone manner is very abrupt but efficient, quick and easy. If your not used to talking to a sharp broker and making quick decisions then these may not be for you. Your not the only person they speak with. The mobile platform on my PDA is also extremely useful for when outside or away. Active with them for 4 years.

Finspreads

Helpful, fast at dealing with queries and good execution. Admitedly their platform is looking a little outdated but it still works for me. I think if you look at the previous reviews they have improved greatly over the last couple of years, especially the relaunch of their Trading Academy (which they gladly give me a copy of!).

I'm sticking with them as I hear good things about the future...

FinSpreads

I have not had any problems with finspreads. They provide a good range at good spreads. For me, they provide OCO and contingent orders which is great. The one time I had a problem due to a protracted power failure, they provided excellent phone service. Full marks.

finspreads.com

As my first spread betting provider, my experiences were virtually the same as ORCHARD.
The only other significant points I would make are :-

1. They run a unique TRADING ACADEMY for first timers. This runs for 8 weeks during which you get to trade for 1p stakes on anything. Plus you get a weekly pamphlet explaining each trading section, golden rules, etc. At the end of the 8-week period, your minimum online stake ups to 50p [phone trades are higher].
However, the pamphlets are only a guide to using the site. You'll still have to gain market knowledge elsewhere.

2. They offer the lowest stakes I can find [50p/point on internet positions]. The 1p 'academy' stake was great as an introduction to actual trading.

3. The site gives quick/easy access to prices without having to log in. I find this is good while at work, as actual gambling is prohibited.

4. Online order placing and stop-loss access is a big improvement, but is currently only active when markets are open. I believe they plan to allow access outside market hours in the future.

Whilst maybe not the cheapest spreads around, but I'd say one of the best for new traders.