I was tempted by this provider due to a £3.50 dealing charges, and no standing charges for the first year. Their FinecoX dealing platform also provides free Level 2 data. But the admin website is poor, indeed it's the worst I've experienced. I really would question who built this.
There is cash account history so that it's impossible to know what cash has been transferred in without keeping an offline record of the "Available balance." Dividends are credited under "Profit&Loss". Cash appeared in the account within 24hrs after transfer from HL. But the shares 'disappeared' for three weeks causing no end of worry. There is a telephone contact number, but that inspired little confidence since I always spoke to the same woman, who was WFH. It was impossible to speak to her manager or the dealing desk. I don't know how you'd do any real time telephone dealing.
Caveat:
" The nature and extent of consumer protections may differ from those for firms based in the UK. "
It operates under the Temporary Permissions Regime, which allows EEA-based firms to operate in the UK for a limited period while seeking full authorisation.
Reviewed on: 19th July 2023
Been with Barclays since I was a kid. Always had helfpul support from their staff, my most recent was regarding USD. I complained that they don't pay credit interest, and the women looked on line then suggested that I try a different one of the Big 4. I did and now am moving my USD a/c to Lloyds!
The Premier a/c used to give free coffees at Cafe Nero. Last year my wife received a lovely tea set - tea pot, cups and a variety of teas. Their black debit card can be exchanged for one with a photo of your choice on it. Otherwise I see little value - even the cash point withdrawals are lmited by the machines rather than the card.
Reviewed on: 18th July 2023
The Barclays stockbroking product "Barclays Smart Investor" has existed since about 2017. It's not a patch on its predecessor. Web interface is poor. All the research information has been dumbed down. It used to be free of any standing charges if you were a Premier customer, but now it's a 0.1% of all assets held within ones portfolio, or 0.2% for OEICs. Subject to a maximum £125/month.
It's a shame; Barclays staff have provided me with excellent service over many decades. Brokers are still in Glasgow.
Reviewed on: 18th July 2023
Web interface isn't the nicest, although nothing bad about it.
Staff on the telephone are British and efficient at answering queries.
Top marks to HL for welcome payments for transferring in Dealing accounts and SIPPs. £3500 received, so we'll happily stay with you for a while despite the £11.95 dealing fee and £200/yr standing charge. Note that the Fund and Share Account hs no standing charge for holding shares/IT/ETF/Bonds.
Reviewed on: 18th July 2023
