CMC Markets vs IG Group
Two brokers compared on spreads, platforms, regulation, and execution.
Last updated: March 21, 2026
Quick Verdict
IG Group wins this comparison — 4 out of 5 categories.
Our analysts reviewed both options across pricing, reputation, and trading conditions. IG Group came out ahead based on our scoring criteria. Read each category below for the full breakdown.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Customer Support & Reputation
IG Group winsIG Group has a slight edge in customer support and overall reputation. It holds an EntryLab rating of 4.70/10. CMC Markets scores 4.50/10 on our platform, which is respectable but trails behind.
CMC Markets4.50
IG Group4.70Leverage & Instruments
CMC Markets winsCMC Markets offers greater trading power with maximum leverage of 1:500 professional / 1:30 EU & AU retail. This gives active traders more flexibility to size positions. IG Group caps leverage at 1:222 professional / 1:30 EU retail, which may limit scalability for experienced traders looking for higher exposure.
CMC Markets1:500 professional / 1:30 EU & AU retailIG Group1:222 professional / 1:30 EU retailDeposit & Withdrawal
Both brokers offer comparable deposit and withdrawal options. Neither has a significant advantage in this category.
CMC Markets$0 (no minimum)IG Group$0 (no minimum for card/PayPal, $300 for bank transfer)Platforms & Tools
IG Group winsIG Group provides a broader range of trading platforms. It supports IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, giving traders more flexibility in how they access the markets. CMC Markets offers Next Generation, MT4, which covers the essentials but falls short on variety.
CMC MarketsIG GroupRegulation & Safety
IG Group winsWhen it comes to regulation, IG Group holds the edge. IG Group is regulated by FCA 195355, ASIC 220440, BaFin, FINMA, MAS, FSCA, FMA, CFTC/NFA (US), a top-tier authority, while CMC Markets operates under FCA 173730, ASIC 238054, BaFin, MAS. For traders who prioritise safety and fund protection, IG Group is the stronger choice in this category.
CMC MarketsIG GroupTrading Costs
IG Group winsIG Group offers more competitive trading costs overall. With EUR/USD spreads from 0.6 pips (Standard) / DMA pricing available and commissions of commission-free, it undercuts CMC Markets, which charges spreads of 0.7 pips (Standard) with No commission (Standard), $2.50 per $100k notional (FX Active) commission. Cost-conscious traders will find IG Group more attractive.
CMC Markets0.7 pips (Standard)IG Group0.6 pips (Standard) / DMA pricing availableAccount Types & Min Deposit
CMC Markets is the more accessible choice for traders getting started. With a minimum deposit of $0 (no minimum), it requires less capital to open an account than IG Group, which requires $0 (no minimum for card/PayPal, $300 for bank transfer). Lower barriers to entry make CMC Markets the winner in this category.
CMC Markets$0 (no minimum)IG Group$0 (no minimum for card/PayPal, $300 for bank transfer)Our Pick
IG Group Wins This Round
Based on our side-by-side analysis, IG Group edges ahead in this matchup. Get started today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is CMC Markets better than IG Group?
Based on our analysis across 7 key categories, IG Group wins with a score of 4–2. However, the best broker for you depends on your specific trading style and priorities.
Which has lower spreads, CMC Markets or IG Group?
IG Group offers lower trading costs. CMC Markets spreads start from 0.7 pips (Standard) while IG Group starts from 0.6 pips (Standard) / DMA pricing available.
Is CMC Markets safer than IG Group?
IG Group is regulated by a higher-tier authority. CMC Markets is regulated by FCA 173730, ASIC 238054, BaFin, MAS, while IG Group is regulated by FCA 195355, ASIC 220440, BaFin, FINMA, MAS, FSCA, FMA, CFTC/NFA (US).
Can I use MT5 with both CMC Markets and IG Group?
CMC Markets supports Next Generation, MT4 and IG Group supports IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer. Check each broker's platform page for the latest availability.
Which has a lower minimum deposit, CMC Markets or IG Group?
CMC Markets has the lower minimum deposit requirement. CMC Markets requires $0 (no minimum) while IG Group requires $0 (no minimum for card/PayPal, $300 for bank transfer).
Is CMC Markets regulated?
Yes, CMC Markets is regulated by FCA 173730, ASIC 238054, BaFin, MAS. Regulation provides traders with a level of protection including segregated funds and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Which broker is better for beginners, CMC Markets or IG Group?
For beginners, IG Group is generally the stronger choice due to its lower minimum deposit and broader educational resources. However, both brokers offer standard tools suitable for newer traders.