IG Review 2025 The Best Option for UK Traders?
Adam Woodhead
Co-Founder
Adam is a passionate investor who created The Investors Centre (TIC) to combine his professional skills with his love for investment. His goal is to offer a platform filled with valuable resources, practical advice, and effective strategies for anyone looking to make their mark in the investment world.
“Investment is about more than just numbers; it’s about strategy, research, and the willingness to adapt. At TIC, we’re here to provide the tools and knowledge you need to succeed on your investment journey.”
Dom Farnell
Co-Founder
Dom is an experienced retail investor, learning his craft in what he likes to call the “hard way”. Through many of these lesson’s he has crafted himself a sound investment strategy that has enabled him to make investing into a business not just a hobby. He wanted to create The Investors Centre to be able to use these lessons and help other people establish them selves in the world of investing.
“Financial clarity and integrity are the cornerstones of everything we do. We’re here to ensure that your investment journey is built on a solid financial understanding and a sound strategic foundation.”
Table of Contents
Disclaimer
How We Test
Quick Verdict: Would We Recommend IG?
With a 4.5/5 rating, IG is an excellent choice for UK traders, offering access to over 17,000 markets and being backed by FCA regulation. Its reliable platforms and extensive educational resources make it ideal for both beginners and experienced traders alike.
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Featured Broker – IG
IG is a globally recognized broker with a comprehensive trading platform trusted by traders around the world. Offering a powerful suite of tools for trading shares, indices, forex, and options, IG is known for its deep liquidity, robust educational resources, and advanced risk management features. Regulated by the FCA and boasting decades of experience, IG is ideal for both beginner and experienced traders seeking a reliable trading environment.
- Minimum Deposit: £0 (Bank Transfer) / £50 (Card, Apple Pay)
- Invest tax-free with a flexible Stocks and Shares ISA
- Options trading via CFDs and turbo warrants
- FCA regulated and globally recognized
- Award-winning web and mobile trading platforms
- Comprehensive educational resources for all experience levels
71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
Introduction
When I began looking for a platform that could handle more than just basic investing, IG was one of the first names that consistently appeared. Known for its professional-grade tools and market depth, IG has built a reputation that appeals especially to traders who want access to global markets without compromising on execution or security.
Unlike newer platforms that focus on zero-commission trading and flashy apps, IG offers a more traditional experience—rooted in decades of industry presence and regulatory strength. At first, I wasn’t sure if it was the right fit. The interface felt more complex than others I’d used, and the fee structure wasn’t as straightforward as commission-free platforms.
But once I took the time to explore its tools—like ProRealTime charts, fast execution, and flexible order types—I started to see why many seasoned traders choose IG. It’s not about gimmicks or shortcuts; it’s about control, precision, and access to one of the widest ranges of financial markets available from a single account.
In this review, I’ll walk you through my full experience with IG: from signing up and navigating the platform to understanding the fees, trading environment, and areas where it could be improved.
Final Rating: ⭐ 4.8/5 — Best suited for traders who value market coverage, platform stability, and regulatory trust over simple, low-cost trading.
Getting Started with IG: My First Impressions and Setup Experience
Opening an Account: A Frictionless Process or Bureaucratic Hassle?
The registration process with IG was smooth and efficient. I created my account using a valid email and password, followed by uploading a government-issued ID and proof of address. No paperwork or mailing documents—everything was handled online. My account was verified and approved in less than 24 hours.
Unlike more beginner-focused brokers, IG’s onboarding process feels professional and secure, but not difficult. It includes a short questionnaire about your trading experience and goals, which helps IG tailor the platform options and ensure compliance with FCA regulations.
Navigating IG’s Platforms: Confusing Maze or Organized Toolkit?
The first time logging into IG’s dashboard, I’ll admit—it felt a bit dense. The layout prioritizes function over form, which might not appeal to newer investors. But after a few sessions, the platform’s structure started to make sense. Tabs for markets, positions, watchlists, and orders are all logically placed and customizable.
IG doesn’t skimp on platform options either. You can choose between the web-based IG trading interface, MetaTrader 4 (MT4), or ProRealTime. Each has a unique focus: MT4 for forex traders and automation, ProRealTime for advanced charting, and IG’s native platform for general trading and analysis.
The mobile app closely mirrors the desktop experience. You can place trades, monitor markets, use technical indicators, and set alerts—all without switching devices. It’s more advanced than what you’d find on entry-level platforms, yet still stable and responsive.
Funding Your Account: Deposit Options, Speed & Requirements
To start trading with IG, you’ll need a minimum deposit of £250. While that’s higher than platforms like Trading 212, it reflects IG’s positioning toward more serious traders.
Deposit methods include:
Debit/Credit cards (instant)
Bank transfers (1–3 business days)
PayPal (available for some regions)
All deposits are free of charge, and funds appear in your account promptly depending on the method used.
Withdrawing Your Funds: Fast Payouts or Red Tape?
IG handles withdrawals with the same efficiency as deposits. You can request withdrawals via the same methods used to fund your account. Most are processed within 1–2 business days.
There are no withdrawal fees for most standard methods, which is a nice touch compared to brokers that charge per transaction.
Quick Overview: IG’s Account Setup Highlights
| Feature | Available on IG? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Registration | ✔ | Fully digital; under 10 minutes to complete. |
| ID Verification | ✔ | Required for FCA compliance; approved in < 24 hours. |
| Deposit Options | ✔ | Supports cards, bank transfers, and PayPal. |
| Minimum Deposit | ✔ | £250 initial funding requirement. |
| Quick Withdrawals | ✔ | Processed within 1–2 days; no hidden fees. |
Learning with IG: Education Tools & Risk-Free Practice
Demo Trading: Testing the Waters Without Risk
IG offers a robust demo account with £10,000 in virtual funds, which is a key asset for beginners and experienced traders alike. I used the demo extensively before funding my live account. It provided a pressure-free environment to explore different trading instruments and get familiar with IG’s platform layout.
Unlike some brokers that impose a time limit, IG allows you to use the demo account for an indefinite period. This is especially helpful if you’re testing new strategies or simply brushing up on your trading skills. The demo replicates real market conditions and allows you to toggle between the various trading platforms (web, MT4, ProRealTime) with no cost or risk.
IG Academy: Education Designed for All Levels
IG’s educational resources are a standout feature. The IG Academy is structured into tiered courses, making it suitable for absolute beginners and more advanced traders.
It includes:
- Interactive lessons on trading psychology, technical analysis, and macroeconomic concepts
- Video tutorials and live sessions
- Quizzes and progress tracking to solidify learning
- In-depth guides covering forex, CFDs, and risk management
I found the content clear and well-paced. It’s particularly strong on foundational trading knowledge, and ideal for anyone who wants to move from demo to live trading with confidence.
Practical Takeaways from IG’s Education Suite
Applying what I learned from IG Academy to my trades was seamless. The platform encourages responsible trading, with built-in tools like stop-loss and take-profit settings. These features are easy to configure, even from the demo mode.
One of the biggest lessons? Understanding leverage. IG does a great job of explaining margin requirements and helping users visualize risk through its calculators and learning modules.
Summary Table: IG Education Features
| Feature | Available? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demo Account | ✔ | £10,000 in virtual funds; unlimited access. |
| Learning Academy | ✔ | Includes interactive courses, quizzes, and market explainers. |
| Live Webinars | ✔ | Weekly sessions hosted by IG analysts. |
| Market Analysis | ✔ | Daily insights, trade ideas, and technical analysis. |
Where IG Could Improve – Common Pain Points
Forex & CFD Costs: Room for More Competitive Spreads
While IG is strong in many areas, its forex and CFD trading costs could be more competitive for high-frequency traders. For instance, spreads on EUR/USD start from 0.6 pips—better than many casual platforms, but still higher than some ECN-style brokers like Pepperstone (as low as 0.1 pips on Razor accounts).
IG doesn’t charge commissions on most CFD trades, but for active forex traders, those slightly wider spreads can start to eat into profits over time. If you’re primarily trading currencies or indices on a regular basis, it’s worth calculating your average spread cost.
Charting & Research: Power for Pros, but Complexity for Others
IG offers advanced charting through ProRealTime and MT4, which is a plus for experienced traders. However, the learning curve can be steep. Compared to platforms like TradingView, IG’s interface isn’t as intuitive and may feel overwhelming at first.
While there are many built-in tools, some features—like multi-timeframe syncing or custom script-based indicators—require time and technical confidence to master. If you’re a beginner or intermediate user looking for simplicity, IG might feel more like a professional terminal than a casual app.
Customer Support: Not 24/7, But Reliable
IG’s support is accessible through live chat, email, and phone. While the quality is solid and responses are generally helpful, the support isn’t available 24/7. During UK business hours, it’s quick and reliable, but weekend support is limited.
For traders active outside standard trading hours—especially in forex or crypto—this can be a limitation compared to brokers with round-the-clock support.
Summary Table: Potential Drawbacks of Using IG
| Aspect | Pros (✔) | Cons (✘) |
|---|---|---|
| Forex Spreads | ✔ No extra commission | ✘ Higher than ECN brokers for frequent traders |
| Charting Tools | ✔ Access to ProRealTime & MT4 | ✘ Steep learning curve; not ideal for casual users |
| Market Research | ✔ Comprehensive news & insights | ✘ Not as beginner-friendly or integrated as other platforms |
| Support | ✔ Multi-channel during UK hours | ✘ No 24/7 support for off-hour traders |
Is IG Safe & Regulated?
Regulatory Oversight & Investor Protection
When it comes to online trading, trust and regulation are non-negotiable. IG is one of the most established brokers in the world, operating under licenses from multiple top-tier financial regulators:
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – United Kingdom
- Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) – Australia
- Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) – Germany
- Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) – Singapore
In addition to strict regulatory compliance, IG clients in the UK benefit from FSCS protection (up to £85,000), which ensures that customer funds are safeguarded even in the unlikely event of company insolvency.
Security Features & Fund Safety
IG implements a robust set of security protocols to protect user data and funds. These include:
✔ Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds a secure second step for login and withdrawals
✔ SSL Encryption: Ensures that all user data and transaction activity are encrypted
✔ Segregated Client Funds: Trader funds are stored separately from IG’s corporate accounts
Throughout my time using IG, I’ve never encountered any issues with platform security, unauthorized access, or suspicious activity. Deposits and withdrawals were seamless, with detailed email confirmations for every transaction.
My Experience: Confidence in Every Transaction
After several months of using IG, my confidence in its security infrastructure has only grown. All withdrawals were processed within 1–2 business days, and I consistently received real-time alerts for login activity and fund movements.
If you plan to store significant capital in your trading account, enabling 2FA is a must. It’s quick to set up and provides peace of mind that your assets are protected.
Security Checklist for IG
| Security Feature | Available? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regulated by FCA, ASIC, BaFin, MAS | ✔ | Global oversight with strong investor protection mechanisms |
| SSL Encryption | ✔ | Protects sensitive user data and all transactional communications |
| Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | ✔ | Adds an extra layer of account security |
| Fund Segregation | ✔ | Client funds stored independently from company operating accounts |
| Investor Protection (e.g. FSCS) | ✔ | UK clients protected up to £85,000 under FSCS |
IG vs the Competition: How It Stacks Up
Where IG Takes the Lead
Having used a variety of trading platforms over the years, I’ve found IG excels in several key areas:
- Advanced charting and analysis tools – IG’s access to ProRealTime and MetaTrader 4 makes it ideal for traders who rely on deep technical insights.
- Extensive asset coverage – With over 17,000 instruments, including shares, indices, forex, and commodities, IG offers one of the broadest selections in the industry.
- Regulatory trust – IG is licensed by some of the strictest financial authorities worldwide, offering peace of mind for long-term investors.
- Educational depth – The IG Academy is far more comprehensive than what most brokers offer, with interactive courses and webinars.
If you’re a serious trader or want room to grow into more complex strategies, IG gives you the infrastructure to support that evolution.
Where Other Brokers Outperform
While IG is powerful, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s where some competitors have an edge:
Commission-free stock trading – Platforms like Trading 212 and eToro offer truly zero-commission stock trading, while IG still charges on certain markets.
Social and copy trading – eToro is unmatched in this area. IG lacks community features or copy trading capabilities.
Simplified mobile interfaces – If you value a minimal, beginner-friendly app, Trading 212 might feel less intimidating than IG’s professional tools.
Lower forex spreads – Pepperstone and CMC Markets offer more competitive spreads for high-frequency forex traders.
Why I Chose IG for My Portfolio
Despite some areas where others excel, IG remains my platform of choice because of its stability, market coverage, and professional-grade toolset. It may not be the cheapest or the flashiest, but it delivers unmatched consistency and reliability for long-term traders.
I’ve used IG to trade everything from UK shares to major forex pairs and index CFDs—and it continues to perform without surprises. For me, that predictability and depth make all the difference.
Comparison Table: IG vs Key Competitors
| Feature | IG Markets | Trading 212 | eToro | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Fees | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | IG charges for some markets; others offer commission-free |
| Forex Spreads | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | IG has competitive but not lowest spreads |
| Mobile Experience | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Trading 212 has a more beginner-friendly mobile app |
| Research Tools | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | IG leads in technical and fundamental insights |
| Customer Support | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | IG and eToro offer live chat; Trading 212 does not |
Final Verdict: Is IG the Right Broker for You?
Overall Rating
After several months of live trading, platform testing, and customer support interactions, I’d confidently rate IG 4.6 out of 5. The platform stands out for its market depth, regulatory safety, and robust trading tools. However, it does have some drawbacks—namely the commission structure on certain assets and a steeper learning curve for beginners.
Who IG is Best Suited For
- Traders who want access to a massive range of instruments (17,000+ markets)
- Those looking for professional-grade charting and analysis tools
- Investors who value regulatory trust and security of funds
- Intermediate to advanced traders needing depth over simplicity
Who Might Prefer Other Platforms
- Beginners looking for a low-barrier entry with commission-free trading
- Forex traders who want ultra-low spreads like those from ECN brokers
- Social traders or those interested in copy trading functionality
- Users who want highly simplified mobile-first interfaces
Final Thought
IG isn’t trying to be the flashiest or the cheapest—it’s aiming to be the most reliable and comprehensive. And for the right trader, that can make all the difference. If you’re serious about building your trading career or diversifying into global markets with confidence, IG is one of the strongest platforms out there.
Would I recommend IG? Absolutely—especially to traders who are ready to go beyond the basics and demand more from their broker.
Featured Broker
- Advanced charting tools
- Wide asset selection
- Trusted FCA regulation
71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
FAQs
Is Trading 212 really commission-free?
Yes, Trading 212 offers commission-free stock and ETF trading with no hidden execution fees. However, there is a 0.15% currency conversion fee if you trade stocks in a different currency. Unlike some brokers, Trading 212 doesn’t charge deposit or withdrawal fees.
How does Trading 212 compare to eToro?
Both platforms offer commission-free stock trading, but eToro provides social trading and copy trading features, while Trading 212 has a stronger focus on simplicity and fractional shares. eToro has higher forex spreads but better research tools compared to Trading 212.
Can I trade forex and CFDs on Trading 212?
Yes, Trading 212 offers forex and CFD trading, but its forex spreads (starting at 1.2 pips on EUR/USD) are higher than dedicated forex brokers like IG and Pepperstone. If forex trading is your main focus, there are better alternatives.
How long do withdrawals take on Trading 212?
Withdrawals are processed within 24-48 hours, depending on the payment method. Unlike many brokers, Trading 212 does not charge withdrawal fees, which is a big advantage over competitors like eToro that charge a $5 withdrawal fee.
Is Trading 212 safe and regulated?
Yes, Trading 212 is regulated by the FCA (UK), CySEC (EU), and FSC (Bulgaria). Client funds are kept in segregated accounts, and UK/EU investors are protected under the FSCS (£85,000) and ICF (€20,000) compensation schemes in case of broker insolvency.
