IG Markets is the UK's largest and most established CFD and spread betting provider, with over 50 years of history and more than 310,000 clients worldwide. But does its reputation still hold up in 2026? In this review we cover everything UK traders need to know — spreads, platforms, fees, regulation, and who IG is best suited for.
Bottom line up front: IG Markets remains one of the safest and most reliable brokers available to UK traders. Its sheer range of markets, rock-solid FCA regulation, and unique spread betting offering make it a standout choice — particularly for experienced traders who want access to a premium, established platform.
IG Markets at a Glance
| Regulation | FCA (UK) — since 1974 |
| Minimum Deposit | £1 |
| Spreads From | 0.6 pips (EUR/USD) |
| Commission | None on standard accounts |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView, IG platform |
| Max Leverage | 1:30 (FCA retail) |
| Spread Betting | Yes — tax-free for UK traders |
| Markets Available | 17,000+ |
| Founded | 1974 |
Is IG Markets Regulated in the UK?
Yes — IG Markets has been FCA regulated since 1974, making it one of the longest-standing regulated brokers in the UK. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: IGG) and is subject to the highest level of regulatory scrutiny available to a UK financial services firm.
As an FCA-regulated broker, IG Markets must hold client funds in segregated accounts, provide negative balance protection for retail clients, and give you access to the Financial Ombudsman Service in the event of a dispute. Your deposits are also protected up to £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
IG Markets Account Types
CFD Account
IG's standard CFD account gives you access to over 17,000 markets including forex, indices, commodities, shares, and cryptocurrencies. Spreads start from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD with no commission on most instruments. This is the most flexible account type, suitable for most trading strategies.
Spread Betting Account
IG's spread betting account is one of its standout features for UK traders. Spread betting profits are completely free from Capital Gains Tax and Stamp Duty in the UK — making it one of the most tax-efficient ways to trade financial markets. The mechanics are identical to CFD trading but any profits you make are yours to keep in full.
Share Dealing Account
IG also offers a share dealing account for investors who want to buy and hold actual shares rather than trade on margin. This is separate from the trading accounts and more suited to long-term investors.
Limited Risk Account
IG offers a limited risk account where every position has a guaranteed stop loss, ensuring you can never lose more than your set risk on any trade. Spreads are slightly wider on this account type in exchange for the guaranteed protection.
IG Markets Spreads and Fees
| Instrument | Typical Spread |
|---|---|
| EUR/USD | From 0.6 pips |
| GBP/USD | From 0.9 pips |
| USD/JPY | From 0.7 pips |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | From 0.3 pips |
| UK 100 (FTSE) | From 1 point |
IG charges no commission on forex and most CFD instruments — the cost is entirely in the spread. There is an inactivity fee of £12 per month after 2 years of no trading activity. Overnight financing charges apply to positions held past the daily cut-off, as is standard across the industry.
IG Markets Platforms
- IG's own platform — A powerful, feature-rich proprietary platform with advanced charting, ProRealTime charts, and a clean interface. Available on desktop, web, and mobile.
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4) — Available for forex and CFD trading, supporting Expert Advisors and automated strategies.
- MetaTrader 5 (MT5) — The upgraded MT experience with more order types and timeframes.
- TradingView — Fully integrated with IG's execution, allowing you to trade directly from TradingView charts.
IG Markets — Spread Betting Explained
Spread betting is one of the most tax-efficient ways to trade in the UK and IG is the market leader for it. Here's how it works:
- Instead of buying a contract, you bet a certain amount per point of movement — for example £5 per pip on EUR/USD
- If the market moves 20 pips in your favour, you make £100 (20 × £5)
- All profits from spread betting are free from Capital Gains Tax in the UK
- Losses cannot be offset against other capital gains for tax purposes
- The mechanics, risk management, and leverage are identical to CFD trading
For UK traders in a higher tax bracket, the CGT saving from spread betting can be significant over time.
Who Is IG Markets Best Suited For?
- Experienced UK traders — who want the security of a 50-year-old FCA-regulated broker with institutional-grade infrastructure
- Tax-conscious traders — who want to take advantage of spread betting's CGT-free status
- Multi-market traders — who want access to forex, indices, shares, commodities, and crypto all in one place
- MT4/TradingView users — who want a reliable broker supporting their preferred platform
- Risk-averse traders — who value FSCS protection and the strongest possible regulatory framework
IG Markets Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| FCA regulated since 1974 | Spreads slightly wider than ECN brokers |
| FSCS protected up to £85,000 | No raw/ECN account option |
| Tax-free spread betting | Inactivity fee after 2 years |
| 17,000+ markets available | Not ideal for scalpers |
| MT4, MT5 and TradingView supported | Platform can feel complex for beginners |
| Listed on London Stock Exchange |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IG Markets safe for UK traders?
Yes — IG Markets is one of the safest brokers available to UK traders. It has been FCA regulated since 1974, is listed on the London Stock Exchange, and client funds are protected up to £85,000 by the FSCS. It is widely regarded as the gold standard for regulatory security in the UK retail trading industry.
What is the minimum deposit for IG Markets?
IG Markets has a minimum deposit of just £1, making it accessible to traders of all capital levels.
Is spread betting tax-free in the UK?
Yes — profits from spread betting are currently exempt from Capital Gains Tax and Stamp Duty in the UK. This makes IG's spread betting account one of the most tax-efficient trading options available to UK residents. Always consult a tax adviser for your personal circumstances.
Does IG Markets allow scalping?
IG permits scalping but it is not their primary strength — spreads starting from 0.6 pips are wider than ECN brokers like Pepperstone or BlackBull. For dedicated scalpers, a raw spread ECN broker will generally be more cost-effective.
How does IG compare to Pepperstone?
IG offers wider market coverage, FSCS protection, and tax-free spread betting — making it better for multi-market traders and those prioritising regulatory security. Pepperstone offers tighter spreads and faster execution — making it better for active forex traders and scalpers. Both are FCA regulated and excellent brokers in their respective areas.
IG Markets Review Verdict
IG Markets is the most established and trusted broker available to UK retail traders. Its 50-year track record, FSCS protection, tax-free spread betting, and access to over 17,000 markets make it a compelling choice for experienced traders who prioritise security and market breadth over the tightest possible spreads.
If you are a UK trader who values safety above all else, or wants to trade tax-efficiently via spread betting, IG Markets is hard to beat. For pure forex trading with the lowest possible costs, Pepperstone or BlackBull Markets may offer better value.
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