Jasmine Birtles
Your money-making expert. Financial journalist, TV and radio personality.
Why I’m Switching to XTB in 2026
Ruby Layram
26th Jan 2026
I’ve written about investing for years, and one thing I’ve learned is this: where you invest matters almost as much as what you invest in.
Fees, flexibility and what happens to your cash while you’re waiting to invest can make a big difference to your wealth over time. That’s why, going into 2026, I’ve decided to XTB as a provider.
In this guide, I will explain why I made my decision and why XTB stood out as a provider.
OPEN A STOCKS AND SHARES ISA WITH XTB
I Didn’t Want My Cash Sitting There Doing Nothing…
One of my biggest frustrations with investing platforms has always been that uninvested cash usually earns next to nothing.
When markets feel volatile, or I’m waiting for the right moment to invest, my money often just sits there, losing value to inflation (might as well be in a savings account!).
That’s where XTB really caught my eye.
With XTB’s Stocks and Shares ISA, you can earn up to 4% interest on uninvested funds.
That means:
- Your cash can still work for you while you decide what to invest in
- You’re not forced to rush into investments just to avoid “dead money”
- You get a bit of breathing space, which, as an investor, I really value
For me, that alone makes this ISA feel much more flexible and realistic for how people actually invest in 2026.
Also read: How to target £500 per month passive income with an ISA
Low Fees Matter More Than Most People Realise
Fees are one of those things that don’t feel dramatic in the moment, but over time, they really add up.
What I like about XTB is how clear and competitive the pricing is.
With their Stocks and Shares ISA:
- You pay 0% commission on trades up to €100,000 per month
- That makes it especially appealing if you invest regularly or in smaller amounts
- There’s no feeling that fees are quietly eating away at your returns
For long-term investors, keeping costs low is one of the easiest ways to improve outcomes, and XTB does this well.
Also read: How to get into investing: A guide for beginners
Free Shares For New Investors!
Around the time I was comparing platforms, XTB announced something else that stood out.
From 26th January, new clients opening a General Investment account will be eligible to receive a free share as part of their free stock offer.
While a free share shouldn’t be the sole reason you choose an investment platform, I do think it’s a nice incentive, especially for newer investors getting started or anyone switching providers anyway.
If you’re already planning to start investing in 2026, it’s a welcome bonus that could seriously pay off long term!
Flexibility is Key
Another big reason I’m switching is flexibility.
Life changes. Plans change. And I don’t want my money locked away or penalised if I need access to it.
That flexibility makes investing feel less intimidating, especially if you’re newer to investing or juggling multiple financial goals.
It Feels Built for Modern Investors
What I also appreciate is that XTB doesn’t feel old-fashioned or clunky.
The platform is designed for people who:
- Want control, but not complexity
- Care about fees and transparency
- Like being able to invest, pause, or hold cash without friction
Whether you’re investing monthly, building a long-term portfolio, or just getting started, it feels like an ISA that fits how people actually invest today.
Why XTB Stands Out for 2026
To sum it up, here’s why I’m switching, and why I think XTB’s Stocks and Shares ISA is a strong option for 2026:
- Up to 4% interest on uninvested funds
- 0% commission on trades up to €100,000 per month
- Tax-free investing, as with all ISAs
- Withdraw your money at any time
- A modern, easy-to-use platform
For me, it’s the combination of earning on cash, low fees, and flexibility that really sets it apart.
Final Thoughts
There’s no such thing as a “perfect” provider for everyone, but there are platforms that make investing simpler, fairer and more flexible.
For 2026, XTB ticks the boxes that matter most to me. And if you’re looking for an ISA or a provider that lets your money work harder, even when it’s not fully invested, it’s well worth a look.
Disclaimer: MoneyMagpie is not a licensed financial advisor and therefore information found here including opinions, commentary, suggestions or strategies are for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only. This should not be considered as financial advice. Anyone thinking of investing should conduct their own due diligence. When investing your capital is at risk.
Capital at risk. Investment values can rise or fall. 0% commission up to €100k/month. Other fees may apply. XTB Ltd. is an investing platform. Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and ISA regulations which may change. Limited Availability. T&Cs apply
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