IG Trading Broker Review

Written by Christopher Lewis

Christopher Lewis

Christopher Lewis is a professional trader and author specialized in Forex and Crypto trading.

, | Updated: July 15, 2026

‹
• Go to:
• General Information
• Account Information
• Trading Information
• Spreads
• Leverage
• Deposit Methods
• Regulations and Security
• Account Types and Features
• Opening an Account
• Trading Platforms
• Trading Instruments
• Trading Conditions
• Deposits and Withdrawals
• Copy Trading and Additional Services
• Customer Support
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion
›

IG is a global forex broker with more than 50 years of industry experience, over 300,000 active retail customers and licences from prominent financial regulators such as the FCA, CFTC, JFSA and ASIC. The company’s reputation is further reinforced by its listing on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) and inclusion in the FTSE 250 index. IG provides access to more than 17,000 financial markets, ranging from forex, stocks and commodities to interest rates, IPOs and bonds. Spread betting is available to customers in select jurisdictions, including the UK and Ireland.

Christopher Lewis is a US based Forex trader and analyst who trades across all sessions and pairs. He contributes forecasts, videos, and signals to major platforms like DailyForex.com, FXEmpire.com and Investing.com

Expert opinion by Christopher Lewis:

IG Markets is one of the largest CFD brokers in the world, being FCA regulated in the United Kingdom and even listed on the FTSE 250. IG Markets offers L2 Dealer, TradingView, MetaTrader 4, and ProRealTime platforms. Spread betting, US options and futures, as well as CFD trading of thousands of markets are available through IG. Furthermore, algorithmic trading is made simple through this broker as well.

IG Contact Information

IG’s range of trading instruments caters to diverse investor needs, offering opportunities for speculation and hedging across global financial markets. The broker operates under stringent regulations in several countries, including the UK, Australia and the US, supporting transparency, investor protection and compliance with applicable financial standards.

IG provides access to several trading platforms, including the widely used MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and its proprietary IG Trading platform. The availability of these platforms, combined with educational resources, makes IG suitable for beginners and more experienced traders. With low spreads, competitive leverage options and comprehensive customer support, IG is a reliable choice for those looking to trade in global markets. Its user-friendly interface and educational tools also make the platform accessible to those beginning their trading journey.

General Information about IG

Account Information

Account Types	Demo Account, CFD Trading Account, Limited Risk Account, Options and Share Dealing Account, Spread Betting Account, Pro Account, Islamic Account
ECN Account
Pro Account
MAM Account

Trading Information

Markets	Bond Futures, Bond Options, Bond Spread Betting, Bonds CFDs, Commodity CFDs, Commodity Futures, Commodity Options, Commodity Spread Betting, Crypto CFDs, Crypto Options, Crypto Spread Betting, Currency Futures, Energy CFDs, Energy Futures, Energy Options, Energy Spread Betting, ETF CFDs, ETF Options, ETF Spread Betting, Forex CFDs, Forex Options, Forex Spread Betting, Index CFDs, Index Futures, Index Options, Index Spread Betting, Interest Rate Futures, Metal CFDs, Metal Futures, Metal Options, Metals Spread Betting, Share CFDs, Stock CFDs, Stock Options, Stock Spread Betting, US Stock CFDs, US Stock Options, US Stock Spread Betting
Max Contract Size	62 (62 lots)
Min Account Balance	USD0
Scalping Allowed
Hedging Allowed
PAMM Trading
Swap-free Trading

Spreads

Leverage

Deposit Methods

Visa Card
MasterCard
Paypal
Credit/Debit Card
Amex
Bank/Wire Transfer
Crypto
Bitcoin
Skrill
Neteller
Google Pay
Apple Pay
Payid
USDT
Tether
Astropay

Regulations and Security

IG Group operates in a highly regulated environment, helping to ensure that its operations are transparent, secure and trustworthy. The company is authorised and regulated by several top-tier financial authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the US. These regulators impose strict requirements on the company’s activities, providing clients with reassurance that their funds and personal information are safeguarded.

As an FCA-regulated entity, IG must adhere to high standards of operational integrity and client protection. One key aspect of this regulation is the segregation of client funds. IG maintains clients’ funds in accounts separate from its operational funds, ensuring that traders’ capital is not exposed to the company’s financial risks. Additionally, IG participates in the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) in the UK, which provides protection to eligible clients in the event of the company’s insolvency.

Security is a critical aspect of IG’s operations. The broker uses advanced encryption technology, including SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), to protect clients’ sensitive information from cyber threats. This commitment to security is further reinforced by two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds an extra layer of protection to user accounts. These measures allow IG’s clients to trade with greater confidence that their personal and financial data are secure.

Account Types and Features

IG offers a variety of account types designed to meet the needs of different traders, from beginners to experienced professionals. The primary account types available are the Spread Betting Account, CFD Trading Account and Stockbroking Account.

• Spread Betting Account

  This account is intended for traders based in the UK or Ireland. It allows users to speculate on price movements in various markets, including stocks, indices and forex. A key feature of this account is that profits are typically exempt from Capital Gains Tax in these regions. This account type also offers leverage, enabling traders to open larger positions with a smaller deposit.

• CFD Trading Account

  A Contract for Difference (CFD) account allows traders to speculate on price movements across a wide range of instruments, including stocks, commodities and indices, without owning the underlying assets. This account is available to traders in multiple regions, including the UK, Australia and the EU. It offers the flexibility of margin trading, giving traders access to leverage that can amplify potential returns and losses.

• Stockbroking Account

  For those wishing to invest directly in shares, IG provides a stockbroking account. This account allows clients to buy and sell shares in individual companies listed on major stock exchanges. It also offers features such as dividend payments and the ability to hold physical share positions.

Opening an Account

Opening an IG account is a straightforward process involving a few steps:

1. Sign-up: Visit the IG website and complete the online registration form. Provide basic information, including your name, email address and telephone number.
2. Identity Verification: You will need to upload proof of identity, such as a passport or driving licence, and proof of address, such as a utility bill, to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations.
3. Account Selection: Choose the account type that best suits your trading preferences.
4. Deposit Funds: Once your account has been verified, you can fund it using various deposit methods, such as bank transfers or credit/debit cards.
5. Start Trading: After depositing funds, you can begin trading on your chosen platform.

Each account type has features tailored to different trading needs, while IG’s user-friendly platform helps make the experience straightforward from registration through to trading.

Trading Platforms

IG offers a range of trading platforms designed to suit different needs, from those of beginners to those of professional traders. The main platforms include IG’s proprietary trading platform, MetaTrader 4 (MT4), ProRealTime, L2 Dealer and TradingView.

• IG Trading Platform: This user-friendly platform is available as both a web-based application and a mobile app, providing quick access to various instruments. It includes tools for technical and fundamental analysis, as well as risk-management features such as stop-loss and take-profit orders. It is suitable for both novice and experienced traders.
• MetaTrader 4 (MT4): Known for its advanced charting and technical analysis tools, MT4 is favoured by traders who use technical indicators and automated strategies. IG offers MT4 as an alternative to its proprietary platform, catering to traders who are familiar with its capabilities.
• ProRealTime: This platform is suitable for traders who require advanced charting and market analysis tools. It includes backtesting features, making it a popular choice among technical and algorithmic traders.
• L2 Dealer: Designed for high-volume and professional traders, L2 Dealer provides direct market access (DMA), fast execution speeds, a customisable interface and Level 2 market data.
• TradingView: Known for its user-friendly interface and collaborative features, TradingView is popular among traders who value social and community-based tools. It offers real-time market data, technical indicators and customisable charts.

Each platform supports specific trading styles, providing flexibility for traders at different experience levels.

Trading Instruments

IG offers a wide selection of trading instruments for both beginner and experienced traders. Below is an overview of the available instruments:

• Forex (Currency Pairs)

  IG provides access to major, minor and exotic currency pairs, including EUR/USD and GBP/USD. Traders can use leverage to control larger positions with a smaller amount of capital. Leverage varies by pair, while spreads on major pairs start from 0.6 pips.

• Stocks

  Traders can access global stocks from major exchanges such as the NYSE and NASDAQ. IG also offers fractional-share trading, allowing traders to invest smaller amounts. Competitive spreads and low commissions are available on certain stock trades.

• Commodities

  IG provides access to both hard commodities, such as gold and oil, and soft commodities, such as coffee and wheat. Leverage is available, with tighter spreads on popular commodities such as gold. Spreads may widen during volatile periods or major global events.

• Indices

  IG offers global indices such as the S&P 500, FTSE 100 and DAX 30. These instruments allow traders to speculate on broader market trends without buying individual stocks. Leverage is available, and IG provides tight spreads on major indices.

• Cryptocurrencies

  IG provides access to cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, with leverage capped at 1:2 for retail clients. Spreads may widen during periods of high market volatility.

• ETFs

  IG offers a variety of ETFs across different sectors. Leverage is available, and competitive spreads can help traders diversify their portfolios.

Trading Conditions

IG offers competitive trading conditions for traders with different levels of experience, providing flexible access to global markets. Key aspects of IG’s trading conditions include leverage, spreads, execution speeds and minimum deposit requirements.

• Leverage

  Leverage allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller capital outlay. IG offers varying levels of leverage depending on the asset class and jurisdiction. For example, forex traders can access leverage of up to 30:1 on major pairs under EU regulations, with higher leverage available to professional traders. Leverage for commodities and indices typically ranges from 5:1 to 20:1.

• Spreads

  IG offers tight spreads, particularly in the forex and indices markets. Spreads for major currency pairs such as EUR/USD start from 0.6 pips, helping to reduce trading costs. For commodities and stocks, spreads are generally competitive, although they may vary depending on market conditions and liquidity.

• Execution Speeds

  IG uses low-latency technology to process orders promptly. Fast execution is particularly important for strategies that require quick entry and exit points, including those based on real-time market movements or automated systems.

• Minimum Deposit

  The minimum deposit required to open an account with IG starts at approximately $250, making it accessible to traders with smaller budgets. This allows traders to access a wide range of instruments without committing a large amount of capital upfront.

Deposits and Withdrawals

IG offers several methods for deposits and withdrawals, allowing clients to fund their accounts and withdraw their money efficiently. The broker supports multiple payment options for traders worldwide, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards and e-wallets. Below is an overview of the deposit and withdrawal process:

Deposit Methods

IG provides several secure and convenient deposit methods, including:

• Bank Transfers: Bank transfers are a reliable option for larger deposits. They are typically free of charge, although processing may take one to three business days, depending on the country.
• Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted for instant deposits. This is one of the fastest methods, with funds generally appearing in the account almost immediately.
• E-wallets: Popular e-wallet services such as PayPal and Skrill are available for fast and convenient deposits. E-wallet deposits are typically processed instantly, making them suitable for traders who want to begin trading quickly.

IG does not charge fees for most deposit methods, but clients should check the specific terms that apply to their payment provider and country of residence.

Withdrawal Methods

Withdrawals from IG are straightforward, with several methods available:

• Bank Transfers: Withdrawals to bank accounts are processed securely and typically take one to three business days.
• Credit/Debit Cards & E-wallets: Withdrawals can also be processed to credit/debit cards or e-wallets, with processing times ranging from one hour to 24 hours, depending on the method.

Fees and Processing Time

IG generally does not charge withdrawal fees. However, some payment providers may apply their own charges. Withdrawal processing times vary based on the chosen method but are typically between one and three business days. For e-wallet withdrawals, funds are usually available within 24 hours.

Copy Trading and Additional Services

IG offers a user-friendly copy trading feature for beginners and those who prefer to replicate the strategies of more experienced traders. This service allows users to follow selected traders and automatically copy their trades in real time, providing a way to participate in the markets without actively managing every trade.

Copy Trading

• How It Works: Users can select traders based on performance metrics such as profitability, risk level and trading style. Once a trader has been selected, funds are allocated to mirror that trader’s positions.
• Benefits: Copy trading may suit those who are new to trading or want to diversify their portfolios. It allows users to observe the strategies of other traders while maintaining control over their risk tolerance and capital allocation.

Additional Services

In addition to copy trading, IG offers various tools and services designed to support the trading experience:

• Educational Resources: IG provides educational materials, including webinars, guides and tutorials, to help traders develop their knowledge and skills.
• Research and Market Insights: Traders can access real-time market news, technical analysis and trading signals to support informed decision-making.

These additional services, combined with copy trading, make IG a versatile platform for novice and experienced traders.

Customer Support

IG offers several customer support options to assist traders with account and platform-related issues. Through a range of contact channels, IG aims to provide a straightforward support experience for its clients.

Support Channels

• Live Chat: IG provides a live chat feature through its website and trading platforms, enabling traders to receive quick responses to urgent enquiries.
• Phone Support: Customers can contact IG’s support team by phone for more detailed assistance, with dedicated phone lines available for different regions.
• Email: For less urgent issues, traders can email IG’s support team. Response times may vary depending on the complexity of the issue.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

IG is a well-established trading platform offering a wide range of instruments and advanced tools for novice and experienced traders. Its competitive spreads, customer support options and educational resources make it a solid choice for those seeking access to global markets. With platforms such as MetaTrader 4 and ProRealTime, traders can also use advanced charting and execution tools.

IG’s leverage for retail clients may be limited by regulatory requirements, but the broker still provides competitive trading conditions, including tight spreads and accessible minimum deposit requirements. Its range of platforms, instruments, educational materials and support options allows it to serve traders with a variety of needs and experience levels.

Why You Should Trust RationalFX

When it comes to making informed decisions about forex brokers, it's essential to rely on trustworthy sources. RationalFX, a company with over 20 years of experience since its founding in 2005, has established itself as a credible authority in the industry. With an impressive collection of over 2500 reviews on Trustpilot, boasting a score of 4.2, it's clear that Rational FX has built a reputation for providing reliable and unbiased information.

What sets Rational FX apart is its rigorous evaluation process, which considers over 30 different criteria when selecting forex brokers. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of a broker's service is taken in consideration, including regulation, forex spreads, trading platforms, deposit methods, and reputation. With its wealth of experience, transparent review process, and outstanding customer feedback, Rational FX is a trusted source for anyone seeking reliable information on forex brokers. You can reach us via e-mail at feedback@rationalfx.com or contact us through our social media accounts here: Facebook, YouTube, or leave a feedback here.