Is IG Good for Spread Betting in 2025?
Quick Answer: Is IG Worth Using for Spread Betting?
Yes — IG is one of the strongest choices for spread betting in the UK. It combines FCA regulation, tax-free profits, and access to over 17,000 markets in a single platform. The trading experience feels polished and reliable, with enough depth for experienced traders without overwhelming newcomers. If you want a trusted, well-established broker for spread betting, IG delivers.
IG Spread Betting – Quick Overview
| Feature | Details | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA-regulated | ✓ |
| Tax Status | Tax-free profits* | ✓ |
| Markets Available | 17000+ | ✓ |
| Minimum Stake | From £0.30/point | ✓ |
| Platform Options | Web App MT4 | ✓ |
| Demo Account | Yes unlimited | ✓ |
*Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change.
What Makes IG Stand Out for Spread Betting?
IG has built a reputation that few UK brokers can match. It pioneered spread betting in the 1970s and has spent decades refining its platform. That experience shows in the reliability and breadth of what’s on offer.
How Long Has IG Been Offering Spread Betting?
IG launched the world’s first spread betting service back in 1974. That 50-year track record matters. It means the platform has weathered every market condition imaginable and continues to adapt. For traders who value stability, that history provides genuine reassurance.
What Range of Markets Does IG Cover?
You can spread bet on forex, indices, shares, commodities, and more — over 17,000 markets in total. Whether you want to trade the FTSE 100, individual UK stocks, or gold, IG has it covered. The variety means you’re unlikely to outgrow the platform as your trading evolves.
How Do IG's Spread Betting Costs Compare?
IG operates on a spread-only model for most markets, meaning you won’t pay separate commissions on spread bets. Costs are built into the spread itself, which keeps pricing simple and transparent.
What Are IG's Typical Spreads?
On popular markets, IG’s spreads are competitive. The FTSE 100 comes in at around 1 point, EUR/USD at 0.6 pips, and UK shares at 0.1%. These aren’t the absolute lowest in the industry, but they’re fair — especially considering the platform quality and execution speed you get in return.
Are There Any Hidden Fees to Watch For?
Overnight funding applies if you hold positions past market close, which is standard across spread betting providers. IG also charges a £12 monthly inactivity fee, but only after 24 months of no trading. For active traders, this won’t be a concern.
IG Spread Betting Costs vs Competitors
| Broker | FTSE 100 Spread | EUR/USD Spread | UK Share Spread | Commission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | 1 pt | 0.6 pips | 0.1% | None |
| CMC Markets | 1 pt | 0.7 pips | 0.1% | None |
| City Index | 1 pt | 0.5 pips | 0.1% | None |
| Spreadex | 1 pt | 0.6 pips | 0.15% | None |
Is IG's Platform Easy to Use for Spread Betting?
IG offers multiple ways to trade — a web platform, mobile app, and MT4 integration. Each option feels well-designed, though the web platform remains the most feature-rich. Overall, the experience is smooth without being oversimplified.
How Does the Web Platform Perform?
The web platform strikes a good balance between power and usability. Charting tools are comprehensive, order execution is fast, and navigation feels intuitive once you’ve spent a few sessions with it. Advanced traders will appreciate the depth, while newer traders can ease in gradually.
Is the Mobile App Good Enough for Active Trading?
Yes. The IG mobile app mirrors most of the web platform’s functionality. You can place trades, set alerts, and manage positions on the move without feeling limited. It’s responsive and well-optimised — perfectly capable for active spread betting.
Does IG Offer the Right Tools for Managing Risk?
Risk management is essential in spread betting, and IG provides the tools you need to stay in control. From flexible stop-losses to built-in protections, the platform takes this seriously.
What Stop-Loss Options Are Available?
IG offers standard stop-losses at no extra cost, plus guaranteed stop-losses for a small premium. Guaranteed stops ensure your position closes at your chosen level, even during volatile market gaps. It’s a useful option when trading around major news events.
How Does Negative Balance Protection Work?
As an FCA-regulated broker, IG provides negative balance protection for retail clients. This means you can’t lose more than you deposit. Combined with clearly displayed margin requirements, it adds a layer of security for less experienced traders.
Who Is IG's Spread Betting Best Suited For?
IG works well for UK traders who want a reliable, full-featured spread betting platform. It suits those who value regulation, platform stability, and market variety over chasing the lowest possible spreads. If you’re serious about spread betting and want a broker you can trust long-term, IG fits the bill. It’s less ideal for traders focused purely on cost or those looking to spread bet on cryptocurrencies.
Where Does IG Fall Short for Spread Betting?
No broker is perfect, and IG has a few areas where competitors edge ahead. These aren’t dealbreakers, but they’re worth knowing before you commit.
Are the Spreads Competitive Enough?
IG’s spreads are fair but not market-leading. Brokers like City Index occasionally offer tighter pricing on specific markets. If minimising trading costs is your top priority, it’s worth comparing. That said, IG’s execution quality and platform reliability often justify the small difference.
Is the Platform Too Complex for Beginners?
There’s a learning curve. IG’s platform offers a lot, and new traders might feel overwhelmed at first. The demo account helps here — you can explore every feature without risking real money until you’re comfortable.
Final Verdict – Should You Use IG for Spread Betting?
IG remains one of the best spread betting brokers in the UK for 2025. It combines decades of experience, strong FCA regulation, and a platform that genuinely works. Spreads are competitive, the market range is extensive, and the overall experience feels professional without being complicated.
If you’re after rock-bottom costs, you might find slightly cheaper options elsewhere. But for a balance of trust, tools, and long-term reliability, IG is hard to beat.
17,000+ Mkts
One account. Global access.
- 0.6 pts spreads on FX pairs
- £0 comm on US shares
- FCA Regulated (FTSE 250)
- New crypto offering
67% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
FAQs
Is spread betting with IG tax-free?
Yes. Spread betting profits are currently free from capital gains tax and stamp duty for UK residents. However, tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and could change in the future.
What's the minimum stake for spread betting on IG?
IG allows stakes as low as £0.30 per point on certain markets. This makes it accessible for beginners who want to start small while learning the ropes.
Can beginners use IG for spread betting?
Yes, though expect a short learning curve. The platform is feature-rich, which can feel overwhelming initially. IG’s demo account and educational resources help bridge the gap.
Does IG offer a demo account for spread betting?
Yes. IG provides a free, unlimited demo account with virtual funds. It mirrors the live platform, so you can practise strategies and get comfortable before trading with real money.
References
- Financial Conduct Authority – FCA Register: IG Index Ltd
- IG Group Holdings plc – Annual Report 2024
- HMRC – Spread Betting Tax Treatment Guidance
- Financial Services Compensation Scheme – FSCS Protection Limits
- IG – Spread Betting Costs and Charges
