Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025
Explore our top ethical brokers, tested to help you align your portfolio with your values while finding socially responsible opportunities.
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1Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a top brokerage firm offering access to 150 markets in 33 countries and a range of investment services. With 40 years in the field, this company listed on Nasdaq strictly follows the rules set by authorities such as the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC. It's recognized as one of the most reliable brokers for global trading.
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Trust Platform Assets Fees Accounts Research Education Mobile Support 3.4 eToro is a platform for social investing that provides options for both short and long-term trading on stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto. The platform is recognized for its easy-to-use, community-oriented interface and reasonable fees. With oversight from FINRA and SIPC, and used by millions globally, eToro is a reputed name in the industry. Trading on eToro is facilitated by eToro USA Securities, Inc. -
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Trust Platform Assets Fees Accounts Research Education Mobile Support 4.8 Founded in 2002 in Poland, XTB now serves over 1 million clients. This forex and CFD broker offers a regulated trading environment with a wide range of assets and a commitment to trader satisfaction, featuring an intuitive in-house platform with excellent tools for aspiring traders. -
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Trust Platform Assets Fees Accounts Research Education Mobile Support 4.1 Plus500, founded in 2008 and based in Israel, is a leading brokerage with more than 25 million registered traders across 50+ countries. The company specializes in CFD trading, provides a user-friendly platform and mobile app, and offers competitive spreads. It does not impose commission, deposit, or withdrawal fees. Plus500 holds the trust of its traders by being licensed by well-known regulators such as FCA, ASIC, and CySEC. -
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Trust Platform Assets Fees Accounts Research Education Mobile Support 3.5 Spreadex is a broker regulated by the FCA which provides opportunities for spread betting on more than 10,000 CFD instruments. This includes 60 forex pairs. Traders can also take short-term positions on sports events. With over 20 years of experience, the brand has earned several awards.
Best Ethical Investing Brokers Comparison
Safety Comparison
Compare how safe the Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025 are.
Mobile Trading Comparison
Compare the mobile trading features of the Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025.
Comparison for Beginners
Compare how suitable the Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025 are for beginners.
Comparison for Advanced Traders
Compare how suitable the Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025 are for advanced or professional traders.
Accounts Comparison
Compare the trading accounts offered by Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025.
Detailed Rating Comparison
Compare how we rated the Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025 in key areas.
Fee and Cost Comparison
Compare the cost of trading with the Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025.
Broker Popularity
See how popular the Best Brokers For Ethical Investing 2025 are in terms of number of clients.
Broker | Popularity |
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Plus500 |
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Interactive Brokers |
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eToro USA |
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XTB |
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Spreadex |
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Why Trade With Interactive Brokers?
Interactive Brokers is ideal for seasoned traders due to its robust charting platforms, updated data, and adaptability, especially with the IBKR Desktop application. Its exceptional pricing and advanced order features appeal to traders, and its variety of stocks remains unmatched in the market.
Pros
- IBKR offers exceptional access to global stocks, with thousands of equities available from over 100 market centers in 24 countries, including the recent addition of the Saudi Stock Exchange.
- The TWS platform is designed for intermediate to advanced traders. It includes over 100 order types and a dependable real-time market data feed that rarely experiences downtime.
- The new IBKR Desktop platform combines the advantages of TWS and adds unique tools like Option Lattice and Screeners with MultiSort to make trading accessible and impressive for traders of all levels.
Cons
- Only one active session per account is allowed, which means you can't run the desktop version and mobile app at the same time. This can sometimes lead to a frustrating trading experience.
- TWS's platform may be difficult for beginners to grasp because of its complexity. Plus500's web platform, on the other hand, is more appropriate for those new to trading.
- Customer service may take time to respond, and there may be delays in fixing problems based on tests. It could be difficult to reach the customer service promptly.
Why Trade With eToro USA?
eToro is a top choice for traders due to its top-notch social investing and copy trading services. The broker caters well to new traders with its low deposit requirement, commission-free trading, and user-friendly platform.
Pros
- A free demo account enables new users and potential traders to test the broker without risk.
- The low minimum deposit and simple account setup allow beginners to start trading quickly.
- The online broker provides a user-friendly social investment network for easy crypto trading replication.
Cons
- Traders used to third-party charting tools won't find MetaTrader 4 platform integration.
- The exclusive terminal does not accommodate trading bots and lacks extra equity market analysis tools.
- Average fees can reduce the profits of traders.
Why Trade With XTB?
XTB is a leading choice for new traders due to its exceptional xStation platform, no commission costs, no mandatory deposit, and high-quality educational resources, most of which are smoothly incorporated into the platform.
Pros
- Great customer support 24/5, including a live chat service. During tests, responses were typically provided in less than two minutes.
- XTB increased its interest rate on uninvested funds and introduced zero-fee ISAs for UK clients, offering 3,000 stocks and 700 ETFs for varied trading options.
- Signing up for an XTB account is simple and entirely digital, taking only a short while. This enables a seamless transition into trading for new traders.
Cons
- XTB does not provide a raw spread account. This is often given by competitors such as Pepperstone. This can be of disadvantage to traders searching for the narrowest spreads.
- The demo account ends in four weeks. This is a limit for traders wanting to fully explore the xStation platform and try out strategies before using actual money.
- XTB has stopped supporting MT4, making traders use its own platform, xStation. This could discourage advanced traders who are accustomed to the MetaTrader suite.
Why Trade With Plus500?
Plus500 provides a streamlined experience for traders through a modern and dynamic CFD trading platform. However, its research tools are limited, it charges higher fees compared to some brokers, and its educational resources can be improved.
Pros
- In 2025, Plus500 introduced new share CFDs in emerging sectors such as quantum computing and AI, providing opportunities in stocks like IonQ, Rigetti, Duolingo, and Carvana.
- Plus500 recently expanded its trading products. This includes offering VIX options with increased volatility and extended trading hours for 7 stock CFDs.
- You can use leverage in both long and short positions to create more strategic trading opportunities.
Cons
- Algorithmic trading and scalping are not permitted, potentially discouraging some traders.
- The lack of educational resources adds a challenge for new traders, unlike top-tier brokers like eToro that offer extensive learning materials.
- The absence of MetaTrader or cTrader charting tools in Plus500 might deter experienced traders who value familiarity.
Why Trade With Spreadex?
Spreadex is fitting for UK traders intrigued by spread betting on financial markets and placing conventional sports bets. Charges are minimal for short trades and gains from spread bets are tax-exempt. There's an effective proprietary charting platform available, and no deposit is needed to begin.
Pros
- A unique brokerage that offers trading opportunities in lower market capitalization stocks listed on the AIM.
- Spreadex allows US traders to earn tax-free earnings from spread betting.
- There's a great variety of tools and methods available for short-term traders.
Cons
- The proprietary terminal doesn't have the extensive charting features found in platforms such as MT4 and MT5.
- The platform does not support advanced advisors or other trading software.
- Limited customer service can cause delays in problem-solving.
Filters
How We Choose the Best Ethical Trading Brokers
To identify the top brokers for ethical investing, we ranked providers by an overall rating assigned after conducting a thorough evaluation, including key factors that matter to socially responsible traders.
We assessed each broker’s ethical investment options, including access to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) assets and green portfolios.
Beyond asset selection, we examined platform features, fees, and overall usability to ensure investors have the tools to align their financial goals with their values.
What to Look for in a Broker for Ethical Investing
Not all brokers are equipped to support your values or provide the tools you need to make informed decisions.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to look for when selecting a broker for ethical investing:
ESG Investment Options
A good ethical investing broker should offer a wide range of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investment options. These could include:
- ESG Funds: Mutual funds or ETFs focusing on companies with strong ESG practices.
- Green Bonds: Fixed-income investments that fund environmentally friendly projects.
- Sustainable ETFs: Exchange-traded funds that track indices focused on sustainability or ethical practices.
- Impact Investments: Opportunities to invest directly in projects or companies creating measurable social or environmental benefits.
Expert take: I’ve discovered that the more options a broker provides, the easier it is to build a diversified portfolio that aligns with my values.
eToro is a terrific option in this department, offering a wide range of ESG-focused ETFs and stocks. Its world-class social trading feature also lets you follow and copy other ethical investors, which is perfect for beginners.
Transparency
Transparency is key when it comes to ethical investing. Look for brokers who:
- Clearly explain how they define and select “ethical” or “sustainable” investments.
- Provide detailed information about the ESG criteria used for their funds or portfolios.
- Disclose any potential conflicts of interest (e.g., if they earn commissions from promoting certain funds).
Expert take: Transparency ensures I don’t fall for “greenwashing,” where companies or funds claim to be ethical without backing this up with real action.
Interactive Brokers shone during testing with its user-friendly but advanced research tools, including ESG ratings and impact metrics. It provides an extensive selection of ESG funds, green bonds, and sustainable ETFs.
Low Fees
Ethical investing shouldn’t come with sky-high costs. Compare brokers based on the following:
- Trading Fees: How much do they charge per trade for stocks, ETFs, or funds?
- Account Fees: Monthly or annual maintenance fees for keeping your account open.
- Fund Expense Ratios: The annual fees charged by ESG funds or ETFs.
Expert take: High fees can reduce returns over time, so I suggest finding a cost-effective broker as essential.
Interactive Investor is a compelling option with its flat-fee pricing model that makes it cost-effective for larger portfolios. It offers a curated list of ethical funds and sustainable investment options, alongside intuitive tools for portfolio management and ESG research.
User-Friendly Platform
Especially for beginners, a broker’s platform should be intuitive and easy to navigate. Look for:
- A clean, straightforward interface.
- Mobile apps for trading and investing on the go.
- Educational resources to help you understand ethical investing.
Expert take: A user-friendly platform makes it easier to manage my investments and stay informed about my portfolio.
Plus500 sports one of the most user-friendly platforms based on our tests, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. It offers CFDs (Contracts for Difference) on ESG-focused stocks and ETFs.
Research Tools and Resources
To make informed decisions, you’ll need access to robust research tools. A good ethical investing broker should offer the following:
- ESG Ratings: Scores or ratings that evaluate companies based on environmental, social, and governance practices.
- Company Reports: Detailed insights into a company’s sustainability initiatives and ethical track record.
- Impact Metrics: Data on your investments’ real-world impact (e.g., reduced carbon emissions or jobs created).
Expert take: These tools help ensure my investments align with my values and financial goals.
Uphold is a unique platform for trading ESG-compliant cryptocurrencies and assets. It provides transparency with real-time asset tracking and impact reporting with an easy-to-use interface and a focus on sustainability.
Regulation and Security
Always choose a broker that’s regulated by reputable financial authorities. This could include:
- SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) in the US.
- FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) in the UK.
- BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority) in Germany.
- ASIC (Australian Securities & Investments Commission) in Australia.
Additionally, check for security features like two-factor authentication and encryption to protect your account.
Expert take: Regulation and security ensure my money is safe and that the broker operates ethically and transparently.
IG can’t be beaten in the trust department in our view. Authorization from over 10 trusted regulators and an extensive track record spanning decades helped it earn the confidence of our experts.
Customer Support
Good customer support can make a big difference, especially if you’re new to ethical investing. Look for brokers that offer:
- Multiple ways to get in touch (e.g., phone, email, live chat).
- Responsive and knowledgeable support teams.
- Resources like FAQs, tutorials, or webinars.
City Index proved dependable in the support department after rigorous testing, especially for its prompt responses on live chat.
Educational Resources
For new and intermediate investors, educational resources are invaluable. A great broker should provide:
- Guides on ethical investing basics.
- Webinars or videos on ESG topics.
- Tools to help you understand your portfolio’s impact.
XTB impressed during testing with its growing database of rich learning materials, ideal for beginners. Its ‘Green Investment – How to invest in a greener future?‘ is a great read for newer ethically conscious traders.
Flexibility and Customization
Your ethical investing goals are unique, so your brokerage should offer flexibility. Look for:
- The ability to create custom portfolios based on your specific values.
- Options to exclude certain industries (e.g., fossil fuels, tobacco).
- Access to both passive (e.g., ETFs) and active (e.g., managed funds) investment strategies.
Expert take: Customization ensures my portfolio truly reflects my priorities.
eToro provides brilliant tools so you can see how your portfolio is weighted various across sectors, exchanges, and instruments, plus you get insights on how to diversify your portfolio.
How to Trade with Ethical Investing Brokers
Trading and investing with ethical investing brokers isn’t much different from traditional trading, but there are a few key steps and tips to ensure you’re making the most of your investments:
Step 1: Open an Account
Sign Up: Visit the broker’s website, download their app, and follow the registration process.
- Verify Your Identity: Most brokers we use require ID verification to comply with regulations.
- Choose Your Account Type: Depending on your goals, you can choose between a standard brokerage account or a retirement account.
- Deposit Funds: Transfer money into your account to start investing. Many brokers have low minimum deposit requirements, making it easy to begin.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to trading, take advantage of demo accounts offered by most brokers we’ve tested. These allow you to practice ethical trading strategies with virtual money before risking your own.
Step 2: Define Your Ethical Investing Goals
Take a moment to clarify what “ethical” means to you. Ask yourself:
- What causes matter most to me? (e.g., climate change, social justice, animal welfare)
- Are there specific industries I want to avoid? (e.g., fossil fuels, tobacco, weapons)
- Do I want to focus on environmental, social, or governance factors, or a combination?
Step 3: Research Ethical Investments
Once your account is set up, it’s time to explore the ethical investment options your broker offers. Here’s how to do it:
- Use ESG Filters: Many brokers offer filters that allow you to search for ESG-compliant stocks, ETFs, or funds.
- Check ESG Ratings: Look for investments with high ESG ratings, which indicate strong environmental, social, and governance practices.
- Read Fund Descriptions: Examine the fund’s objectives, holdings, and impact metrics to ensure they align with your values.
- Explore Impact Reports: Some brokers provide detailed reports on their funds’ real-world impact (e.g., reduced carbon emissions and jobs created).
Pro Tip: Don’t rely on the broker’s recommendations; do your own research to ensure the investments align with your values.
Step 4: Build a Diversified Portfolio
Diversification is key to reducing risk and maximizing returns. Here’s how to build a balanced, ethical portfolio:
- Mix Asset Types: Include a combination of stocks, ETFs, and bonds to spread your risk.
- Spread Across Sectors: Invest in different industries (e.g., renewable energy, healthcare, technology) to avoid overexposure to one area.
- Consider Geographic Diversity: Look for investments in different regions to mitigate country-specific risks.
Example Portfolio:
- 40% in ESG-focused ETFs (e.g., clean energy, gender diversity).
- 30% in green bonds or sustainable fixed-income funds.
- 20% in individual ESG-rated stocks.
- 10% in impact investments (e.g., community development projects).
Step 5: Start Trading
Once you’ve identified your investments, it’s time to start trading. Here’s how:
- Place Orders: Use your broker’s platform to buy stocks, ETFs, or funds. You can choose between market orders (buy at current price) or limit orders (set a specific price).
- Set Up Automatic Investments: Some brokers allow you to automate recurring investments, making it easy to build your portfolio over time.
- Monitor Your Trades: Keep an eye on your investments to ensure they’re performing as expected.
Pro Tip: Start small and gradually increase your investments as you gain confidence and experience.
Step 6: Monitor and Adjust Your Portfolio
Ethical investing isn’t a “set it and forget it” strategy. Regularly review your portfolio to:
- Ensure your investments still align with your values.
- Rebalance your portfolio to maintain diversification.
- Take advantage of new opportunities or trends in ethical investing.
How Often to Review:
- Quarterly: Check your portfolio’s performance and make adjustments as needed.
- Annually: Reassess your goals and ensure your investments still reflect your priorities.
Step 7: Stay Informed and Engaged
Ethical investing is a dynamic field, and staying informed can help you make better decisions. Here’s how:
- Follow ESG News: Keep up with sustainability, corporate governance, and social responsibility developments.
- Join Communities: Engage with other ethical investors through forums, social media groups, or local meetups.
- Use Broker Resources: Use webinars, tutorials, and research tools your broker provides.
FAQ
What is Ethical Investing?
Ethical investing is all about putting your money where your values are. It’s a way to potentially grow your wealth while supporting companies and projects that align with your beliefs.
Ethical investing focuses on three main pillars, often referred to as ESG criteria:
- Environmental: Investing in companies that prioritise sustainability, reduce carbon footprints, or develop clean energy solutions. Examples: Renewable energy firms, electric vehicle manufacturers, or businesses with zero-waste policies.
- Social: Supporting companies that promote fair labour practices, diversity, and community development. Examples: Businesses with strong human rights records, fair trade organisations, or those investing in underserved communities.
- Governance: Backing companies with transparent leadership, ethical business practices, and strong anti-corruption policies. Examples: Firms with diverse boards, clear executive compensation structures, and robust shareholder rights.
Note that trades in ethical investments still put your capital at risk. You could lose any money you invest.
How Can I Make Ethical Investments?
There are several ways to approach ethical investing, depending on your goals:
- Negative Screening: Avoiding industries or companies that don’t align with your values (e.g., fossil fuels, tobacco, or weapons).
- Positive Screening: Actively choosing companies that contribute to positive social or environmental outcomes.
- Impact Investing: Directly investing in projects or businesses that generate measurable social or environmental benefits (e.g., affordable housing or clean water initiatives).
- ESG Integration: Considering ESG factors alongside traditional financial metrics when making investment decisions.