Sammie Ellard-King
I’m Sammie, a money expert and business owner passionate about helping you take control of your wallet. My mission with Up the Gains is to create a safe space to help improve your finances, cut your costs and make you feel good while doing it.
Day 6 of 28 Days Richer
One thing each day that puts money in your pocket and takes 5 minutes or less.
Investment platforms are giving away free shares to get you through the door.
We’re talking up to £1000 worth of stocks just for signing up and making a deposit.
If you’ve been curious about investing but never started, this is your excuse.
The Best Free Share Offers Right Now
IG – Open an account now and you’ll earn up to £1000 in bonus shares when you invest £300**
Open an account now and you’ll earn up to £1000 in bonus shares when you invest £300 with IG**
**Your capital is at risk. New customers only. Invest £300 in ISA, GIA, or SIPP account by 27/02/2026. Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers. T&Cs apply. Min. share bundle value £50.
(Capital at risk when you invest, T&Cs apply)
Trading212 – Up to £100 Free Fractional Shares
You’ll receive up to £100 free fractional shares if you invest a minimum of £1 with the code ‘GAINS’.
(Capital at risk when you invest, T&Cs apply)
Freetrade – Free share worth £10-£100 for depositing £50
Gives you a share worth £10-£100 for depositing £50.
(Capital at risk when you invest, T&Cs apply)
XTB – Free Rolls Royce Share
Get a free share of Rolls Royce when you sign up and make your first deposit.
(Capital at risk. Investment values can rise or fall. Limited Availability. T&Cs apply”)
Robinhood – Up to $175 in free US Shares
(Capital at risk when you invest, T&Cs apply)
The Catch (There Isn’t Really One)
These platforms make money when you trade or hold investments with them.
A free share is their marketing budget – they’d rather give you £20 worth of Apple stock than spend it on Instagram ads.
The smart move is to take the freebie, see if you like the platform, and either stay or cash out.
Most people get something at the lower end of the range (£5-£25), but occasionally someone lands the maximum – you can see the % rates for the bonuses on the relevant brand websites.
Just be sure you understand that you may need to contribute funds or make an investment.
You don’t lose that money but your capital is at risk once you invest it.
Today’s 5-Minute Action
Pick one platform and sign up using a referral link above or on this page.
Trading 212 has the lowest barrier at just £1 deposit.
Make sure you complete verification and add the minimum deposit to trigger your free share.
You’ve now got your first investment.
Didn’t hurt, did it?
(This is not financial or UK tax advice. Remember your capital is at risk when you invest. Always do your own research. T&Cs and ISA Rules apply)
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