IC Markets vs IG Group
Two brokers compared on spreads, platforms, regulation, and execution.
Last updated: March 21, 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
Customer Support & Reputation
Both brokers are closely matched on support quality and reputation. Traders should read recent user reviews to determine which aligns best with their customer service expectations.
Leverage & Instruments
IC Markets winsIC Markets offers greater trading power with maximum leverage of 1:500 offshore / 1:30 EU & AU. 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.
Deposit & Withdrawal
IG Group winsIC Markets supports a wider range of deposit and withdrawal options. It accepts Bank Transfer, Visa/Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, Crypto, including cryptocurrency, giving traders more flexibility. IG Group offers Bank Transfer, Visa/Mastercard, PayPal, Wire Transfer, which may not suit all traders.
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. IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, which covers the essentials but falls short on variety.
Regulation & 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 IC Markets operates under ASIC AFSL 335692, CySEC 362/18, FSA Seychelles SD018. For traders who prioritise safety and fund protection, IG Group is the stronger choice in this category.
Trading Costs
IG 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 IC Markets, which charges spreads of 0.0 pips (Raw) / 0.6 pips (Standard) with commission-free commission. Cost-conscious traders will find IG Group more attractive.
Account Types & Min Deposit
IG Group winsIC Markets is the more accessible choice for traders getting started. With a minimum deposit of $200, 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 IC Markets the winner in this category.
Ready to Choose?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IC Markets better than IG Group?
IC Markets and IG Group are closely matched overall, with neither broker winning outright. The better choice depends on which features matter most to you.
Which has lower spreads, IC Markets or IG Group?
IG Group offers lower trading costs. IC Markets spreads start from 0.0 pips (Raw) / 0.6 pips (Standard) while IG Group starts from 0.6 pips (Standard) / DMA pricing available.
Is IC Markets safer than IG Group?
IG Group is regulated by a higher-tier authority. IC Markets is regulated by ASIC AFSL 335692, CySEC 362/18, FSA Seychelles SD018, while IG Group is regulated by FCA 195355, ASIC 220440, BaFin, FINMA, MAS, FSCA, FMA, CFTC/NFA (US).
Can I use MT5 with both IC Markets and IG Group?
IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, cTrader 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, IC Markets or IG Group?
IC Markets has the lower minimum deposit requirement. IC Markets requires $200 while IG Group requires $0 (no minimum for card/PayPal, $300 for bank transfer).
Is IC Markets regulated?
Yes, IC Markets is regulated by ASIC AFSL 335692, CySEC 362/18, FSA Seychelles SD018. Regulation provides traders with a level of protection including segregated funds and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Which broker is better for beginners, IC Markets or IG Group?
Both brokers offer beginner-friendly features. We recommend comparing their educational resources and account types to find the best fit.

