Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5.0)

IG is one of the most reputable and well-established brokers in the world, founded in 1974 and headquartered in London. It is publicly listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: IGG) and regulated by top-tier financial authorities, including the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), CFTC (US), and MAS (Singapore). IG offers access to a vast range of financial instruments including forex, indices, commodities, shares, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies via powerful platforms such as IG WebTrader, MetaTrader 4, and ProRealTime.

This IG review explores why it remains a top choice for retail and professional traders seeking security, advanced tools, and global market access.

Key Features

IG delivers a comprehensive multi-asset trading experience with premium tools and professional-grade infrastructure.

• Trading Platforms:
  • IG Web Platform (proprietary)
  • MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
  • ProRealTime (for advanced charting and automation)
  • Mobile apps for iOS and Android
• Markets Offered:
  • Forex, shares, indices, ETFs, commodities, cryptocurrencies, bonds, interest rates, and options
  • Over 17,000 global instruments
• Account Types:
  • Spread betting (UK only), CFD trading, share dealing, and professional accounts
• Leverage:
  • Up to 1:30 for retail clients in Europe
  • Up to 1:200 for professional clients and offshore users
• Minimum Deposit:
  • No minimum for bank transfers
  • £250 for card and PayPal deposits

Regulation and Security

IG is among the most heavily regulated and secure brokers globally, with multiple regional entities.

• FCA (UK) – FRN 195355
• ASIC (Australia) – AFSL 220440
• CFTC and NFA (US) – Fully registered
• MAS (Singapore) – Licence CMS100006
• BaFin (Germany), FSCA (South Africa), JFSA (Japan), and others
• Client funds held in segregated accounts
• Negative balance protection for retail traders
• Publicly listed and transparent financial reporting

Pricing and Costs

IG is known for tight spreads, transparent commissions, and competitive fees across asset classes.

• Spreads:
  • From 0.6 pips on EUR/USD
  • Shares: Variable spreads or fixed commissions depending on region
• Commissions:
  • Forex and indices are spread-only
  • Shares: From £3 per trade (UK)
• Inactivity Fee:
  • £12/month after 2 years of inactivity
• Deposit/Withdrawal Fees:
  • No deposit fees
  • Withdrawals typically free

Educational Resources and Customer Support

IG offers award-winning education, tools, and client support across all levels.

• Education:
  • IG Academy with structured courses, videos, and quizzes
  • Webinars, trading strategies, and platform tutorials
• Market Research:
  • Real-time analysis, daily videos, and IG TV
  • Economic calendar, signals, and client sentiment tools
• Customer Support:
  • 24/5 via live chat, phone, and email
  • Dedicated relationship managers for active traders

Risk Management Tools

IG provides professional-grade risk control tools, including advanced order types and integrated risk calculators.

• Stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop orders
• Guaranteed stop-loss orders (GSLOs) available
• Risk/reward calculators and margin alerts
• Custom alerts via platform or mobile app
• Negative balance protection for retail clients

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Top-tier regulation in multiple jurisdictions
• Access to 17,000+ instruments globally
• Award-winning platforms including ProRealTime and MT4
• Excellent education and market analysis tools
• Publicly listed with strong financial transparency

Cons

• Higher minimums for non-bank deposits
• Limited leverage for retail EU clients (ESMA rules)
• Advanced platforms may overwhelm beginners
• No copy trading or social trading features

Conclusion: Is IG the Right Choice?

Yes — IG is one of the most reliable and feature-rich brokers in the industry. It’s ideal for traders who value regulatory protection, broad market access, and advanced analytical tools. With over 17,000 instruments, professional platforms, and strong financial backing, IG is suited to both long-term investors and active traders.

However, beginners seeking a simple, social-style experience may find AvaTrade or Vantage more accessible.