IC Markets vs IG
Can't decide between IC Markets and IG? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Executive Summary
IC Markets and IG are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IC Markets scores 97/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, while IG leads with 99/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 0.7 pips). IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, cTrader while IG offers IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, giving IG more platform options.
For regulation, IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA while IG is regulated by FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS. Both brokers offer segregated client funds and are considered safe for retail trading.
The Verdicts
Most Trusted
IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to IC Markets (97/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.7 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $200, IC Markets is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IC Markets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 97/100 | 99/100 |
| Spreads From | 0.0 pips | 0.6 pips |
| Avg EUR/USD Spread | 0.02 pips | 0.7 pips |
| Commission | $7.00/lot | $0 |
| Execution Speed | 18ms | 22ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:200 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $250 |
| Instruments | 2,250+ | 17,000+ |
| Account Types | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw | CFD, Spread Betting, DMA |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer |
| Top Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-2 business days | 1-3 business days |
| Inactivity Fee | $0 (No inactivity fee) | $18 per month (after 24 months) |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
IChoose IC Markets if...
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You prefer cTrader's advanced order management
- ✓You are a scalper or algorithmic trader
IChoose 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
IC Markets Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ True 0.0 pip spreads during London and NY sessions
- ✓ Industry-leading 18ms execution speed
- ✓ Free Equinix NY4 VPS for active traders
- ✓ No trading restrictions (perfect for EAs)
- ✓ Transparent $6/lot commission on cTrader
Cons
- × No proprietary trading platform or TradingView integration
- × Education section is basic compared to competitors
- × No deposit bonus or welcome offers
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: IC Markets vs IG
- ✓ Scalping
- ✓ Algorithmic Trading
- ✓ Low Spreads
- ✓ ECN Trading
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips)
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($200)
- ✓ Instrument Variety
- ✓ Regulatory Trust
- ✓ Research
- ✓ UK Traders
Both brokers are featured in our top broker rankings. Your choice should depend on your specific trading style, preferred platform, and geographical location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is safer: IC Markets or IG?
IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to IC Markets (97/100), making it the safer choice.
Who has lower spreads: IC Markets or IG?
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.7 pip average of its competitor.
Which has a lower minimum deposit: IC Markets or IG?
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $200, IC Markets is the more accessible option for new traders.
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