CFDs are part of the 'derivative' range of investments, so called because their value is 'derived' from an underlying investment. They are an agreement between you and the Provider to exchange the difference between the opening and closing value of the trade. With a CFD, you receive many of the benefits of share ownership (such as dividends and price performance) but you don't actually own the shares.

• Trade on the price movements of individual shares, major stock market indices and sectors as well as commodities and foreign exchange.
• Go 'long' or 'short' to give yourself the potential to make profits (or losses) in both bull and bear markets when you correctly predict the price movement.
• No stamp duty on UK Shares.
• A way to protect your equity investments against adverse price movements.
• Choose the trading account that best suits your attitude to risk.
• A range of limit types to help manage your exposure.
• Competitive trading and financing rates.
• Available to UK residents aged 18 and over.

It's important to remember that these are 'Margin' trading services: you can, in effect, trade without having to pay the full price of the investment, as you would if trading in the underlying equities themselves. Because you only need to deposit a percentage of the value of your trade (typically 10%) you can buy more than you otherwise would, but, conversely your risk is higher. As your return is determined by the price movement on the total trade value, profits and losses can quickly exceed the initial deposit and you may need to make further deposits at short notice. Because you are effectively 'borrowing' to cover most of the cost of your trade, you'll also have a financing cost to cover.

CFD and Spread Bet trading are not suitable for everyone: please ensure you understand the risks. We will ask you to complete an appropriateness assessment as part of the account application.

• Limit and stops
  You can place limit and stop orders on your trades and bets at no extra charge.
• Guaranteed Stop Losses
  To limit your potential loss. Available on the most popular markets, there is a premium added onto your trade or bet for this service.

The Selftrade CFDs and Spread Betting Trading Academy is a comprehensive education package ideal for those just getting started. As a member of the Trading Academy you can trade

• Equity CFDs from a minimum of just £5 commission
• Index spread bets from just 50p a point.

You have full access to our trading platform, giving you the opportunity to develop experience and confidence with these investments and in using the Selftrade CFD and Spread Betting trading platform. If you are new to CFDs and spread betting this is the ideal way to test your skills. You can apply for access to the Trading Academy within the online application form.

• Your CFD/Spread Betting account is maintained by our partners, City Index and is separate from your other Selftrade accounts.
• Use VISA/Delta or Switch/Maestro card to credit your Selftrade CFDs and Spread Betting accounts.
• Interest paid to you on short positions.

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Visit our Learning Zone to find out more about CFDs and Spread Betting. What are they? How do they work? And how do they compare?

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Please remember: As 'margined' products, which afford substantial leverage, CFD trading and spread betting involve above average risk to your capital. It is possible to quickly lose more money than your initial deposit and you may be required to make further deposits at short notice. CFD trading and spread betting are not for everyone. You must ensure you understand the risks before opening an account and trading with Selftrade CFDs and Spread Betting by reading their General Terms and Risk Warning Notices. To determine which type of CFD or Spread betting account is appropriate for you, you will be required to complete an appropriateness assessment as part of the application process.