Frequently asked questions
Spread Betting and CFD trading carry a high level of risk to your capital; you should ensure you understand the risks involved. Please read the full risk warning.
Please use the drop-down list to choose a question. Where applicable, more detailed answers to these questions - including examples - are given within the main pages of the site.
What is a CFD?
CFDs are a financial derivative product, which allow you to deal in the price movements of a wide range of instruments, without actually owning the underlying asset. Like share dealing, the aim for investors is to profit from the price moving in their favour, but CFDs give you the potential to profit in any market condition - provided you trade the right way of course. Because you can make money in a falling market it is also possible to lose money in a rising market if you trade the wrong way.
Back to topWhat products can I trade CFDs on?
You can trade on a vast range of indices, UK, US, European, Australian and Asian shares, currencies, commodities and metals, sectors and i-shares. The currencies, some of the indices, and the gold contract can even be traded 24 hours a day.
Back to topWhat is trading on 'margin'?
When a trade is opened you are only required to pay part of the full value of the deal up front, and in effect you borrow the rest from the provider. The initial amount you pay is known as the deposit or Margin Requirement, and for equities is usually 10%. Dealing on margin can significantly increase your profits, but it can also significantly increase your losses in the same way.
Back to topWhere can I find details of margin requirements?
You can find details of the margin requirements of each of the instruments on the trading platform.
Back to topWhat charges are involved with trading CFDs?
The majority of instruments on which you can trade CFDs are commission-free, with you only paying the bid offer spread. The exception to this is equity CFDs, where commission is charged. An overnight financing charge will also apply. Read more.
Back to topWhat is a 'stop' order?
Stop orders are used to buy or sell at a price worse (i.e. higher or lower, respectively) than the current market price, in order trade with the momentum.
Back to topWhat is a 'limit' order?
Limit orders are used to buy or sell at a price better (i.e. lower or higher, respectively) than the current market price.
Back to topDo you offer Guaranteed Stop Losses?
Yes, Guaranteed Stop Losses are available on a range of CFDs. A stop loss is an order which closes out your position at a certain price if the market starts moving against you. An ordinary stop loss will be triggered when the market price touches the level you set, and executed at the next available price. A Guaranteed Stop Loss gives you complete assurance that the position will be closed out at your stop loss level, regardless of whether the price is worse when the order is executed.
Back to topWhat are the risks with trading CFDs?
CFD trading typically requires the deposit of a small percentage of the total trade value upfront, and therefore profits and losses can quickly exceed the initial deposit, requiring you to make further payments. Ensure you understand the risks, and do not risk more than you can afford to lose. These products are not suitable for everyone; if you are in doubt please seek independent advice. Read more.
Back to topHow can I place a trade?
The quickest and easiest way to place trades and orders is to log-in and trade online. Of course you may not always have access to a computer, in which case you can also trade over the telephone. The dealers can be reached on 0207 573 0051; please ensure you have your account number to hand when you call.
Back to topWhat times can I trade?
Please refer to trading platform or read the contract details here.
Back to topWhat are the minimum and maximum trade sizes?
You can find details of the minimum and maximum trade sizes for each of the instruments on the trading platform.
Back to topHow do I pay money into my account?
You can make payments into your account using a debit card, via a BACS or a CHAPS transfer, or by cheque.
Back to topHow do I withdraw money from my account?
To withdraw money from your account, and have it paid either directly into your bank account please call 0207 573 0052. If you wish to transfer money either to or from a Hargreaves Lansdown Bank of Scotland or Vantage account please call 0117 988 9915.
Back to topHow do I open a CFD account with Hargreaves Lansdown?
If you understand the risks involved with trading CFDs, you can apply online now.
Back to topHow can I contact you?
You can contact us by telephone, email or post. In order that your query or transaction is dealt with quickly, please ensure that you call the most relevant number.
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