IG is one of the most established and reputable forex brokers in the world, known for its FCA regulation, institutional-grade infrastructure, and wide product offering. Founded in 1974 and headquartered in London, IG provides retail and professional traders with access to over 17,000 global markets, including forex, indices, commodities, and shares.
This guide explains IG’s forex offering, platforms, regulation, spreads, and why it remains a top choice for UK and global traders in 2025.
Overview of IG Forex Broker
Key Facts
- Founded: 1974
- Headquarters: London, UK
- Listed: London Stock Exchange (LSE: IGG)
- Regulation: FCA, ASIC, FINMA, CFTC, MAS, JFSA
- Client Funds: Held in segregated Tier-1 UK banks
- Protection: FSCS up to £85,000 (UK)
IG Forex Trading Features
1. Platforms
- IG Web Platform: Fast, intuitive interface
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4): Full support for EAs, custom indicators
- ProRealTime: Advanced charting for technical analysis
- Mobile App: iOS and Android support with full order management
2. Forex Instruments
- Over 80+ currency pairs
- Major, minor, and exotic FX pairs
- Available as CFDs or spread betting (UK only)
3. Execution
- DMA (Direct Market Access) available for pro clients
- Institutional liquidity from top-tier banks
- No dealing desk intervention
- Guaranteed stop-loss orders (GSLO) available
IG Forex Account Types
| Account Type | Best For | Commission | Spread (EUR/USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard CFD | Retail traders (UK/global) | No | From 0.6 pips |
| Spread Betting | UK tax-free forex trading | No | From 0.6 pips |
| Professional | High-volume, qualified traders | Optional | From 0.1 pips (DMA) |
Professional Client Eligibility
- £500,000+ portfolio
- At least 10 trades per quarter
- 1+ year of financial experience
Regulation and Safety
| Region | Regulator | Licence Number |
|---|---|---|
| UK | FCA (UK) | FRN 195355 |
| Australia | ASIC | AFSL 220440 |
| USA | CFTC/NFA | 0509630 |
| Singapore | MAS | CMS100007 |
| Switzerland | FINMA | Registered Entity |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Strong global regulation
- Listed UK company (publicly traded)
- Advanced platforms and order types
- Tax-free spread betting for UK residents
- Wide asset offering beyond forex
Cons
- MT5 not supported
- Minimum spread slightly higher than ECN brokers
- Pro account required for raw pricing or DMA
IG Trading Costs
- Spread-based pricing (from 0.6 pips EUR/USD)
- No deposit or withdrawal fees (via card or bank transfer)
- No commissions on standard accounts
- Inactivity fee: £12/month after 24 months of no login
Who Should Use IG?
- UK retail traders who want tax-free spread betting
- Institutional-style traders who require DMA execution
- Beginner traders who prefer simple, regulated access
- Traders outside the UK seeking a reputable global broker
Key Takeaways
- IG is a globally regulated broker offering forex, indices, shares, and more via MT4 and its proprietary platforms.
- FCA-regulated and listed on the London Stock Exchange, IG is one of the safest choices for UK forex traders.
- IG supports spread betting and CFDs, with DMA access and GSLOs for more advanced risk control.
- While spreads aren’t as tight as ECN brokers, the execution quality and trust factor are unmatched.
- Ideal for professional clients, UK tax-savvy traders, and beginners needing a robust learning environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IG a regulated forex broker?
Yes. IG is regulated by the FCA (UK) and several other top-tier global regulators including ASIC, FINMA, and CFTC.
What is the minimum deposit at IG?
There is no official minimum, but £250 is recommended for margin coverage.
Does IG offer MetaTrader?
Yes. IG supports MetaTrader 4 (MT4), though not MT5.
Can I use IG for spread betting?
Yes. UK residents can access tax-free spread betting through IG.
Is IG good for beginners?
Yes. IG offers a user-friendly web platform, educational resources, and regulated protection — ideal for new traders.
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