CMC Markets vs IG

Can't decide between CMC Markets and IG? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.

Last updated: May 27, 2026

Executive Summary

CMC Markets and IG are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. CMC Markets scores 94/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, while IG leads with 99/100.

On pricing, both brokers offer competitive 0.7-pip EUR/USD spreads. CMC Markets supports Next Generation, MT4 while IG offers IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, giving IG more platform options.

For regulation, CMC Markets holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, BaFin, MAS while IG is regulated by FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS. Both brokers offer segregated client funds and are considered safe for retail trading.

CMC Markets

Trust Score: 94

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IG

Trust Score: 99

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The Verdicts

Most Trusted

IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to CMC Markets (94/100), making it the safer choice.

Lowest Spreads

It's a Tie

Both brokers offer extremely competitive pricing, tying with a 0.7 pip average on EUR/USD.

Best for Beginners

CMC Markets

With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, CMC Markets is the more accessible option for new traders.

Detailed Comparison

Feature	CMC Markets	IG
Trust Score	94/100	99/100
Spreads From	0.7 pips	0.6 pips
Avg EUR/USD Spread	0.7 pips	0.7 pips
Commission	$0 (spread only)	$0
Execution Speed	< 15ms	22ms
Max Leverage	1:500	1:200
Minimum Deposit	$0	$250
Instruments	12,000+	17,000+
Account Types	CFD Account, Spread Betting Account	CFD, Spread Betting, DMA
Platforms	Next Generation, MT4	IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer
Top Regulators	FCA, ASIC, BaFin, MAS	FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS
Withdrawal Speed	1-3 business days	1-3 business days
Inactivity Fee	$10/month after 12 months	$18 per month (after 24 months)
Customer Support	24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone	24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone

Which Broker Should You Choose?

Choose CMC Markets if...

✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority

Choose IG if...

✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
✓You are a beginner and value education and simplicity
✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority

CMC Markets Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Proprietary Next Generation platform with 115+ technical indicators and pattern recognition
✓ 12,000+ instruments including niche indices and treasuries
✓ Tax-free spread betting available for UK/Ireland clients
✓ Listed on London Stock Exchange (CMCX) — full transparency
✓ No minimum deposit requirement

Cons

× Spreads are wider than raw/ECN competitors on forex
× No cTrader or MT5 support
× Limited educational content compared to XM or eToro
× No copy/social trading features

IG Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Unmatched regulatory trust with 6+ Tier-1 licenses
✓ Massive selection of 17,000+ tradable instruments
✓ World-class educational resources (IG Academy)
✓ Premium proprietary trading platform with guaranteed stops

Cons

× No MT5 platform available
× Spreads can be wider than raw ECN competitors
× High minimum deposit for bank transfers

The Bottom Line: CMC Markets vs IG

Choose CMC Markets if you want:

✓ Advanced Charting
✓ Spread Betting (UK)
✓ Pattern Recognition
✓ UK & European Traders
✓ Technical Analysis
✓ Equally competitive EUR/USD spreads (0.7 pips)
✓ No minimum deposit

Choose IG if you want:

✓ Instrument Variety
✓ Regulatory Trust
✓ Research
✓ UK Traders
✓ Equally competitive EUR/USD spreads (0.7 pips)

Both brokers are featured in our top broker rankings. Your choice should depend on your specific trading style, preferred platform, and geographical location.

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