Spread Betting

Maybe it is best to start with the Wikipedia definition of spread betting:

"Spread betting is any of various types of wagering on the outcome of an event, where the pay-off is based on the accuracy of the wager, rather than a simple "win or lose" outcome, which is known as fixed-odds or money-line betting. A spread is a range of outcomes, and the bet is whether the outcome will be above or below the spread. Spread betting has been a major growth market in the UK in recent years, with the number of gamblers heading towards one million. Spread betting carries a high level of risk, with potential losses or gains far in excess of the original money wagered. In the UK, spread betting is regulated by the Financial Services Authority rather than the Gambling Commission."

In other words, not for the amateur , the faint hearted or widows and orphans. But it appeals to a growing number of traders and those who like to back their judgement with a bet, both in the financial and the sporting scene.
If you would like to start to get a feel for the market for financial spread betting, take a look at   http://www.traderhideout.com