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IG

The global heavyweight of CFD trading

4.6
Written by
Daniel Whitmore
Trading Educator
Last updated 15 May 2026Independently fact-checked

Overview

Established in 1974, IG pioneered financial spread betting and has since grown into the world’s largest CFD provider, serving hundreds of thousands of clients globally. Its Australian arm is ASIC-regulated and offers access to a staggering 17,000+ markets. Traders benefit from a refined web and mobile platform, transparent pricing, deep liquidity and the reassurance of a publicly listed parent company. IG suits everyone from cautious beginners to seasoned professionals who want one account for global markets.

Pros

  • Over 17,000 markets — one of the widest ranges anywhere
  • 50+ years of operating history and strong regulation
  • Polished platform with reliable execution
  • Outstanding education hub (IG Academy)

Cons

  • Forex spreads are competitive but not the absolute lowest
  • Inactivity fee applies after extended dormancy

Trading platforms

IG PlatformMetaTrader 4ProRealTimeL2 Dealer
Fees: Standard forex pricing is spread-based; an inactivity fee may apply.

How we reviewed IG

This review was compiled by Daniel Whitmore, trading educator with 10+ years of experience, and its regulatory details were independently fact-checked against ASIC’s public registers. We rate brokers on regulation and safety, the true cost of trading, platform and execution quality, instrument range and customer support. Read our full review methodology to see exactly how scores are reached.