Best Investment Apps in the UK According to Money Saving Expert

Imagine this: it's a rainy Tuesday afternoon in London, and you're stuck in the usual 9-to-5 grind. You've been thinking a lot about your finances lately, and you realize that your money could be working harder for you. You need a solution that's straightforward, efficient, and ideally, comes recommended by someone you trust. This is where the Money Saving Expert (MSE) comes in.

Martin Lewis, the founder of Money Saving Expert, is a household name in the UK when it comes to personal finance advice. Over the years, MSE has built a reputation for providing reliable, unbiased information on everything from credit cards to mortgages, and yes, even investment apps. If you're looking for the best investment apps in the UK, endorsed by MSE, then you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!

Why Investment Apps?

Before we get to the apps themselves, let’s address why you might want to consider using an investment app in the first place. The digital revolution has democratized investing, putting the power of wealth-building into the hands of everyday people like you and me. With the right app, you can start investing with as little as £1, access a wide range of assets, and keep track of your portfolio from the palm of your hand.

Investment apps offer a user-friendly experience that simplifies the complexities of investing. They provide access to global markets, offer educational resources, and allow you to diversify your portfolio without needing a financial advisor. Plus, many of these apps come with low fees, making investing more accessible than ever.

Top Investment Apps Recommended by Money Saving Expert

1. Freetrade

MSE praises Freetrade for its simplicity and fee-free trading on UK and US stocks. It’s perfect for beginners who want a straightforward entry point into investing. With Freetrade, there are no commissions on trades, and the app offers a wide range of stocks and ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds). You can open an account with as little as £1 and start building your portfolio right away. Freetrade also offers an ISA (Individual Savings Account) option for tax-efficient investing.

Key Features:

• No commission fees on trades
• Low-cost stocks and ETFs
• Fractional shares available
• Free educational content to help beginners

2. eToro

Known for its social trading features, eToro is a favorite among both beginners and experienced investors. MSE highlights eToro's "CopyTrader" feature, which allows you to mimic the trades of successful investors. This feature is particularly useful if you’re not confident in making your own investment decisions or want to learn from the best. eToro offers access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, commodities, forex, and cryptocurrencies.

Key Features:

• Social trading and CopyTrader feature
• Access to a wide range of assets
• User-friendly interface
• Low fees and no commission on stock trades

3. Nutmeg

For those looking for a more hands-off approach, Nutmeg is an excellent option. Recommended by MSE for its ease of use and transparency, Nutmeg is a robo-advisor that offers fully managed and fixed allocation portfolios. You simply choose your risk level, and Nutmeg takes care of the rest. The app provides detailed insights into your portfolio’s performance, so you always know how your investments are doing.

Key Features:

• Robo-advisory service with managed portfolios
• Low minimum investment requirement (£500)
• Transparent fees
• Ethical and socially responsible investment options

4. Moneybox

Moneybox is ideal for those who want to invest their spare change. As recommended by MSE, Moneybox rounds up your everyday purchases to the nearest pound and invests the difference. It’s a great way to build an investment habit without feeling the pinch. Moneybox offers several types of investment accounts, including a Stocks & Shares ISA and a Lifetime ISA, which can help you save for a first home or retirement.

Key Features:

• Round-up feature to invest spare change
• Variety of investment accounts
• Low fees and transparent costs
• Beginner-friendly with a focus on long-term savings

5. Hargreaves Lansdown

While not the cheapest option, Hargreaves Lansdown is highly recommended by MSE for those who value customer service and a broad range of investment options. It’s particularly suited for more experienced investors who want access to a wide array of funds, shares, ETFs, and bonds. Hargreaves Lansdown provides a wealth of research tools and educational resources, making it a favorite among serious investors.

Key Features:

• Extensive range of investment options
• Excellent customer service
• Comprehensive research tools and resources
• Well-established and trusted brand

Choosing the Right App for You

So, which app is right for you? The answer depends on your investment goals, experience level, and how hands-on you want to be. If you’re a beginner looking for a low-cost way to dip your toes into the stock market, Freetrade or eToro might be ideal. If you prefer a hands-off approach, consider a robo-advisor like Nutmeg. For those looking to save over time without making a big initial investment, Moneybox is an excellent option. And if you’re a seasoned investor looking for a comprehensive platform, Hargreaves Lansdown could be the best fit.

The Role of Fees in Investment Apps

One of the key factors to consider when choosing an investment app is the fee structure. While many apps advertise themselves as “free,” it’s essential to read the fine print. Some may charge fees for certain types of transactions, account maintenance, or withdrawals. Over time, these fees can eat into your returns.

Here’s a quick comparison table of the typical fees associated with some of the top investment apps:

App	Trading Fees	Account Fees	Additional Costs
Freetrade	No commission on trades	£3/month for ISA	FX fee of 0.45% for foreign currency stocks
eToro	No commission on stocks	No account fees	Withdrawal fee of $5, FX fee varies
Nutmeg	0.75% for managed portfolios	£0 to open, £500 minimum	0.19% average fund cost
Moneybox	£1/month after the first 3 months	Platform fee of 0.45%	0.12%-0.30% fund provider fees
Hargreaves Lansdown	£11.95 per trade	No account fees for ISA/SIPP	Annual charge of 0.45% for funds up to £250,000

Key Takeaways from Money Saving Expert

1. Start Small: You don’t need a lot of money to start investing. Apps like Freetrade and Moneybox allow you to begin with just a few pounds.
2. Understand Fees: Always be aware of the fee structure associated with your chosen app, as fees can vary widely and impact your overall returns.
3. Diversify: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Diversifying across different asset classes and geographies can help mitigate risk.
4. Keep Learning: Investment apps like eToro and Hargreaves Lansdown offer educational resources and tools that can help you make more informed decisions.
5. Review Regularly: Keep an eye on your investments and adjust your strategy as needed. Market conditions and personal circumstances can change, and your investment approach should adapt accordingly.

The Future of Investing: A Digital-First Approach

Investment apps are reshaping the way we think about investing. With the rise of fintech, it’s never been easier to start investing, regardless of your financial background or expertise. The apps recommended by Money Saving Expert are among the best in the UK, offering a variety of features to cater to different types of investors.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to diversify your existing portfolio, these apps provide the tools and resources you need to make smarter financial decisions. So, why not take the plunge and start your investment journey today?

By leveraging the power of these apps, you can take control of your financial future with confidence, convenience, and ease.