Overview
AJ Bell is one of the UK’s largest and most established DIY investment platforms, founded in 1995 and listed on the FTSE 250. The company operates as a leading online investment platform providing comprehensive investment and pension services to individuals and financial advisers across the United Kingdom.
The platform serves retail investors, pension savers, ISA holders, and financial advisers seeking cost-effective investment solutions with extensive asset choices. AJ Bell targets both experienced investors wanting comprehensive investment options and beginners through their simplified Dodl app. Users can access stocks, shares, funds, ETFs, investment trusts, and bonds across multiple account types including ISAs, SIPPs (Self-Invested Personal Pensions), Junior ISAs, and General Investment Accounts. The platform is ideal for long-term investors, pension planning, and those seeking professional-grade investment tools with competitive pricing.
Key Features
Multi-AccountTypes
ISAs, SIPPs, Junior ISAs, and General Investment Accounts
Extensive Investment Range
3,000+ funds, UK/international stocks, ETFs, and bonds
Professional Research
In-depth market analysis, company reports, and investment insights
Portfolio Management Tools
Advanced charts, performance tracking, and rebalancing features
SIPP Functionality
Comprehensive pension planning with drawdown and annuity options
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Excellent customer service (4.9/5 rating)
- Comprehensive investment options (3,000+ funds)
- Competitive annual fees (0.15% - 0.25%)
- Strong SIPP and pension offerings
- Award-winning research and tools
Limitations
- Higher fees for smaller portfolios
- Complex interface for beginners
- Limited international stock selection
- No fractional share investing
- Minimum £500 for some account types
Security Features
FCA Regulation: Fully authorized and regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA Reference: 122595)
FSCS Protection: Client assets protected up to £85,000 per person under Financial Services Compensation Scheme
Segregated Assets: Client investments held separately from company assets with major custodians
Two-Factor Authentication: Multi-factor authentication for account access and trading authorization
256-bit SSL Encryption: Bank-grade encryption for all data transmission and storage
Pricing & Fees
| Service | Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Platform Fee | 0.15% - 0.25% | Tiered pricing based on portfolio value |
| Share Dealing | £1.50 | Per UK share transaction (minimum) |
| Funds Transaction | £1.50 | Purchase/sale of investment funds |
| ISA Annual Charge | £1.50 | Stocks & Shares ISA management fee |
| SIPP Annual Charge | 0.15% - 0.25% | Self-Invested Personal Pension fee |
Getting Started
Detailed Ratings
Final Verdict
AJ Bell stands out as the UK’s premier DIY investment platform with exceptional customer service (4.9/5 Trustpilot rating) and comprehensive investment options. The competitive fee structure and professional-grade tools make it ideal for serious investors. While the interface may overwhelm beginners, the extensive research resources and award-winning support justify the higher fees for smaller portfolios. Excellent choice for long-term investing and pension planning.