IG is one of the most trusted forex and CFD brokers worldwide, offering access to 17,000+ markets, low spreads, fast execution, and multiple advanced trading platforms.
In this guide, we’ll quickly walk you through IG market forex review fees, pros and cons, platforms, regulations, account types, and deposit/withdrawal process so you can decide if IG is the right broker for you.
Pros and cons of the IG broker
The pros and cons of the IG forex broker review are given below.
| Pros of IG broker | Cons of IG broker |
|---|---|
| Highly regulated globally | High share of CFD commissions compared to competitors |
| 17,000+ markets across multiple asset classes | Some tools/platforms have subscription fees (ProRealTime, DMA) |
| Excellent proprietary & third-party platforms | 2.3% card deposit fee |
| $0 minimum deposit | High minimum withdrawal via card |
| Supports MT4, MT5, TradingView | Crypto leverage limited to 1:2 |
| Demo account with $20,000 virtual funds | No DMA access on MT4/MT5 |
Broker summary
- Regulations: FCA, NFA, CFTC, and more
- Founded year: 1974
- Financial assets: Forex, Indices, Commodities, Shares, Crypto, ETFs, Options, Bonds
- Maximum leverage: 1:200
- Minimum deposit: $0
- Trading platforms: Proprietary Web, MT4, MT5, TradingView
- Account types: Leveraged and non-leveraged account.
- Demo account: Yes $20,000 virtual funds
- Headquarters: London, UK
IG broker overview
Is IG a good forex broker? Yes, IG is a globally trusted forex and CFD broker, offering access to 17,000+ markets across forex, indices, shares, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs. Founded in 1974 and listed on the FTSE 250, IG has over 50 years of experience and operates from 18 offices worldwide.
IG provides traders with low spreads, fast execution, and advanced trading platforms, including IG web, mobile app, MetaTrader 4 & 5, TradingView, ProRealTime, and L2 Dealer. It caters to both beginners and professionals.
traders, offering a range of account types including spread betting, CFD, share dealing, stocks & shares ISA, smart portfolio, and smart ISA.
Is IG Broker regulated and trustworthy?
Is my money safe with IG? Yes, IG is considered a highly regulated and trustworthy broker, licensed by multiple top-tier financial authorities worldwide. Here are the regulations listed below:
- FCA – Financial Conduct Authority (United Kingdom)
- BaFin – Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (European Union / Germany)
- FINMA – Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (Switzerland)
- DFSA – Dubai Financial Services Authority (Dubai / UAE)
- MAS – Monetary Authority of Singapore (Singapore)
- JFSA – Japanese Financial Services Agency (Japan)
- ASIC – Australian Securities & Investments Commission (Australia)
- FMA – Financial Markets Authority (New Zealand)
- CFTC – Commodity Futures Trading Commission (United States)
- NFA – National Futures Association (United States)
IG security measures
- IG provides robust security measures for its clients. It offers negative balance protection, ensuring that retail clients cannot lose more than the funds available in their accounts.
- Client funds are held in segregated accounts, separate from IG’s operational funds, safeguarding them in case of company insolvency.
- Additionally, IG supports two-factor authentication (2FA) via email, SMS, or authentication apps to enhance account security and protect against unauthorized access.
Assets available on IG
IG offers access to a wide range of global markets, including over 17,000 markets:
- Forex
- Indices
- Shares
- Commodities
- Cryptocurrencies
- Thematic and Basket trading
Other markets include:
- ETF CFDs
- Options
- Bonds
- Sectors
- Interest-rate markets
- Knock-out limited-risk products
Can you trade cryptocurrencies on IG? Yes, IG allows trading crypto through CFDs.
Additional trading features
IG also provides several advanced trading options and features:
- Out-of-hours trading
- Weekend trading
- Volatility trading
- Futures trading
- Spot trading
- Market data tools
- Interest-rate trading
- Options trading
- Knock-outs trading
IG account types
IG offers a range of accounts to suit different trading and investing goals, from short-term leveraged trading to long-term passive investing.
Before opening a CFD or spread betting account, make sure you understand how each works and which one is more suitable for your trading style. Read our guide CFD vs Spread Betting Understanding the key differences for UK traders.
Leveraged accounts (for active traders)
- Spread betting account: Trade market price movements (up/down) using leverage; no capital gains tax in the UK.
- CFD account: Trade price differences with leverage without owning the assets; profits/losses treated like normal trading.
Non-leveraged investment accounts (for long-term investors)
- Share dealing account: Buy real shares, ETFs, and trusts for long-term investing.
- Stocks & shares ISA account: Tax-free investing (UK) in shares, ETFs, and trusts up to annual allowance.
- IG smart portfolio account: Fully managed investment portfolio built by experts based on your risk level.
- IG smart ISA portfolio account: Managed Smart Portfolio combined with ISA tax-free benefits (UK).
Is IG suitable for long-term investors? Yes, IG is suitable for long-term investors through share dealing, ISA, and smart portfolio accounts.
Does IG provide a demo account for beginners? Yes, IG offers a demo account with $20,000 virtual funds to practice trading, explore thousands of markets, access IG Academy, and test strategies on mobile apps.
IG trading platform
IG provides user-friendly web, mobile, and third-party platforms like MT4, MT5, and TradingView for all types of traders.
| Platform | Type | Best for | Key features | Markets available | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG Web Platform | Proprietary (Web-based) | Beginners to advanced traders | Pro charting, fast execution, alerts, integrated news | Forex, indices, shares, commodities, crypto, options | Global |
| IG Mobile App (Android/iOS) | Proprietary | Mobile-first traders | Full trading, alerts, watchlists, indicators | All major CFD markets | Global |
| IG Progressive Web App (PWA) | Browser-based Mobile App | iOS users without App Store access, users with installation restrictions | No download needed, install to home screen, fast mobile trading, charts, alerts | Forex, indices, commodities, shares, crypto | Available on all mobile browsers (esp. iOS) |
| TradingView (via IG) | Third-party platform | Advanced chartists & social traders | 400+ indicators, smart drawing tools, strategy tester, social ideas | Forex, indices, crypto CFDs, commodities | Global (region dependent) |
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | Third-party | Forex scalpers, EA/Algo traders | Expert Advisors, custom indicators, automation | Forex, indices, commodities | Limited regions |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | Third-party | Multi-asset & algo traders needing more depth | DOM, faster backtesting, more timeframes | Forex, indices, commodities | Limited regions |
| ProRealTime (PRT) | Advanced charting | Professional technical analysts | Auto trading, advanced backtesting, premium charts | Forex, shares, ETFs, indices, commodities | Global (subscription required) |
| L2 Dealer | DMA platform | Professional DMA traders | Level 2 order book, direct market access, auctions | Shares DMA, forex DMA | Select regions (experienced traders only) |
| Tastytrade / Tastyfx (IG Group) | Options, futures & FX | US options & futures traders | Options chains, futures ladder, FX trading | US options, futures, forex | US only |
| API Trading (REST / FIX) | Developer / Algo | Institutions & coders | Custom automation, direct pricing, connectivity | Forex, indices, commodities | Global |
IG fees and commissions
What are IG Broker’s trading fees in 2026? Here is a quick overview of IG fees are listed below:
| Fee category | How IG charges you |
|---|---|
| Spread | Forex from 0.6 pips, indices from 0.8, commodities from 0.1, Bitcoin around 36 |
| Share CFD commission | US: 2 cents/share ($15 min), UK: 0.10% (£10 min), Australia: 0.08% (A$7 min) |
| Overnight funding (swap) | Daily interest applied only when trades stay open past 10 PM UK time |
| Guaranteed stop charge | EUR/USD: 1.2, Gold: 0.5, Apple: 0.3% |
| Currency conversion fee | 0.8% per conversion |
| Card processing fee | 2.3% of the deposit (bank may add more) |
| Documentation fee (US stocks) | $50 |
| DMA access charges | Forex Direct-free, Share DMA may require exchange subscription |
| Account opening fee | $0 |
Leverage
What leverage does IG offer in 2026? Here are the leverage limits offered by IG in 2026?
| Asset class | Maximum leverage |
|---|---|
| Forex | Up to 1:200 |
| Indices | Up to 1:200 |
| Commodities | Up to 1:20 |
| Shares (CFD) | Up to 1:20 |
| Cryptocurrencies | Up to 1:2 |
If you already know about IG Broker and only want to explore fees, spreads, and additional charges in detail, we have a dedicated guide for you. Check our IG forex broker: Fees, spreads and commission & more
Ig deposit and withdrawal methods
Here are IG’s deposit and withdrawal options for quick and secure transactions.
Deposit methods
- Card: Immediate, no min/max (must register card).
- Bank transfer: Up to 3 days, no min/max.
- HK FPS (HKD only): 1 business day.
- Wise: Varies, check fees.
How much is the IG minimum deposit? In many regions, IG has no fixed minimum deposit, so you can fund with what you are comfortable with.
Withdrawal methods
- Card: 2 to 5 days, min $150, max $25,000/day.
- Bank transfer: 1 to 3 days, no limit.
- Currency-specific limits: GBP 100 to 20,000, EUR 150 to 25,000, USD 150 to 25,000, AUD 200 to 35,000, SGD 200 to 35,000, HKD 1,250 to n/a.
How fast are IG withdrawals processed? Withdrawals are usually processed within 1 to 5 business days.
IG customer service
Phone Support
- Main support number (international / UK): +44 (20) 7633 5431
- Available 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday
Email Support
- General support: [email protected]
- Complaints escalation: [email protected]
Online / chat support
- Web chat available from the IG trading platform (fastest if you have an account)
- WhatsApp support via the official IG WhatsApp channel
- Timing: 8 am to 5 pm (GMT+8), Monday to Friday
Customer service is available in 4 languages: English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Spanish.
Disclaimer: CFDs are complex instruments. 71% of retail client accounts lose money when trading CFDs, with this investment provider. You can lose your money rapidly due to leverage. Please ensure you understand how this product works and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing money.
Conclusion
Can beginners safely trade with IG Broker? Yes, IG is a trusted and well-regulated broker offering 17,000+ markets, low spreads, fast execution, and advanced trading platforms. Beginners can start safely by using the demo account, trading small amounts, and avoiding high leverage, while experienced traders can take advantage of IG’s multiple account types and advanced tools for more complex strategies.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader in the UK, scam brokers can target anyone. To stay safe, learn how to check FCA registration and avoid scams in our full guide How safe is your broker? UK scam checks & FCA rules 2026.
Pro Tip
Pick the IG account that suits your style long-term investing or short-term trading and explore assets and tools safely. Find the best Forex brokers with our broker finder tool and stay informed on the latest in stocks, CFDs, and crypto. Make smarter trading choices and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who owns IG markets?
IG Markets Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of its parent company, IG Group Holdings plc listed on the LSE in the United Kingdom. IG Group Holdings plc and all its subsidiaries are referred to as the Group.
2. What are the risks of delayed withdrawals on IG?
Delayed withdrawals can affect cash flow, especially if you need funds urgently for bills or trading.
3. How does using high leverage affect IG traders?
High leverage can increase profits, but it can also increase losses very quickly, making it very risky.
4. What happens if you trade without verifying your IG account?
You can open the account, but you cannot trade or withdraw real money until verification is completed.
5. Can I buy shares with IG?
Yes, IG clients have access to real stocks, which means they can buy and sell shares from this online broker.
6. How do I buy on IG trading?
- Create an account or log in.
- Choose what you want to trade spread bets or CFDs.
- Pick a company from within our trading platform.
- Calculate whether you want to go long or short and take steps to manage your risk.
- Open and monitor your position.
7. Can Americans use IG trading?
IG accepts US clients for forex, and it is registered with the CFTC (US), NFA (US), and FCA (UK)
