Spread betting
Spread betting is a straightforward and tax-efficient way of leveraging the financial markets.
Spread betting is a straightforward and tax-efficient way of leveraging the financial markets.
The spread-betting company predicts where a price or score of anything from a share to a commodity to a cricket game will stand at a specified time in the future. The prediction takes the form of a spread – the range between the low and high estimates. You then bet on those prices, 'buying' at the high price if you think the price will rise from current levels and 'selling' at the low price if you believe it will fall.
Spread-betting profits count as gambling wins, so they aren't liable for capital gains tax. However, spread-betting losses – which can be high – cannot be set against other gains to reduce tax.
MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
Two thirds of easy access savings accounts come with restrictions – can you access your savings in an emergency?
Out of the top 30 easy access savings on the market, 22 come with some sort of restriction on how fast you can access your money, according to new research.
-
Most popular London boroughs: Full list of in-demand places to move to
A deluge of people move to or within Britain’s capital each year – but which area is the most popular? We look at the most in-demand London boroughs in 2025.