Which is the best low-cost stocks and shares ISA to start investing?

"The number of people investing in the UK has risen from one in four adults to one in three, according to Boring Money's Online Investing Report. As the number of people investing grows, the way they invest is changing."

"While some first-timers are still drawn to large, trusted brands with ready-made portfolios, DIY investing is a more popular option than ever, and 55 per cent of investors say that what matters most is low annual costs."

"Most big-name or legacy investing platforms charge an annual fee of around 0.25-0.45 per cent - plus a commission each time you buy or sell an investment. A 0.45 per cent annual fee would cost you nearly 30,000 over 20 years."

"A new wave of low-cost platforms has largely eliminated both these fees. They operate on much tighter margins, sometimes profiting from uninvested cash held on the platform and small fees on certain transaction types."

Since 2020, UK investors have grown from one in four to one in three adults. DIY investing is increasingly popular, with 55% prioritizing low annual costs. Traditional platforms charge annual fees of 0.25-0.45%, which can accumulate significantly over time. New low-cost platforms have emerged, eliminating many fees and operating on tighter margins. Factors like ease of use and unique features are important when choosing a platform. All recommended platforms offer tax-free stocks and shares ISAs, catering to different investor needs.

Read at www.independent.co.uk