IG vs XM Group
Can't decide between IG and XM Group? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Executive Summary
IG and XM Group are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IG scores 99/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of XM Group's 91/100.
On pricing, IG offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.7 pips vs 0.8 pips). IG supports IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer while XM Group offers MT4, MT5, XM App, giving IG an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, IG holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS while XM Group is regulated by CySEC, ASIC, DFSA, FSC. 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 XM Group (91/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IG offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.7 pips, beating the 0.8 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $5, XM Group is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IG | XM Group |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 99/100 | 91/100 |
| Spreads From | 0.6 pips | 0.6 pips |
| Avg EUR/USD Spread | 0.7 pips | 0.8 pips |
| Commission | $0 | $0 |
| Execution Speed | 22ms | 35ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:200 | 1:1000 |
| Minimum Deposit | $250 | $5 |
| Instruments | 17,000+ | 1,000+ |
| Account Types | CFD, Spread Betting, DMA | Micro, Standard, Ultra Low |
| Platforms | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer | MT4, MT5, XM App |
| Top Regulators | FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS | CySEC, ASIC, DFSA, FSC |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-3 business days | 1-3 business days |
| Inactivity Fee | $18 per month (after 24 months) | $5 per month (after 90 days of inactivity) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
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
XChoose XM Group if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You are a beginner and value education and simplicity
- ✓You value beginners and education
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
XM Group Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Industry-leading education with 50+ live webinars per week
- ✓ Extremely low $5 minimum deposit across all accounts
- ✓ Micro accounts allow trading with 10-cent risk
- ✓ Excellent localized payment methods for emerging markets
- ✓ 100% execution rate with no requotes or rejections
Cons
- × Spreads are wider than true ECN competitors (0.8 pip EUR/USD avg)
- × No cTrader or TradingView platforms
- × Inactivity fee of $5/month after 90 days of no trading
The Bottom Line: IG vs XM Group
- ✓ Instrument Variety
- ✓ Regulatory Trust
- ✓ Research
- ✓ UK Traders
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.7 pips)
- ✓ Beginners
- ✓ Education
- ✓ Low Minimum Deposit
- ✓ Micro Lot Trading
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($5)
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: IG or XM Group?
IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to XM Group (91/100), making it the safer choice.
Who has lower spreads: IG or XM Group?
IG offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.7 pips, beating the 0.8 pip average of its competitor.
Which has a lower minimum deposit: IG or XM Group?
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $5, XM Group is the more accessible option for new traders.
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