My opinion on IG
IG is a globally recognized broker established in 1974, serving over 313,000 traders worldwide, and is regulated by top-tier authorities, including CIRO/CIPF in Canada, making it a highly reliable choice for Canadian clients.IG earns a strong rating for its extensive product range—over 17,000 instruments including Forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, bonds, options, and crypto CFDs—alongside advanced trading tools and platforms such as MT4, ProRealTime, and a proprietary web/mobile app.The broker’s spreads start from 0.6 pips for major FX pairs, and while not always the lowest, remain competitive considering the reliability and sheer breadth of markets offered.IG stands out versus offshore competitors due to robust regulation and investor protection, offering a seamless trading experience and strong support for both novice and veteran traders in Canada.Trustpilot rating: 4.0/5 based on 8,000+ reviews, reflecting overall client satisfaction with support and platform usability.Based on my experience, IG is best suited to the following types of traders:
➡️ Active traders and investors seeking a regulated, all-in-one platform with access to a wide range of global markets, including Forex, equities, indices, and crypto CFDs—all from a single interface.
➡️ Canadian residents prioritizing investor protection who want the confidence of CIRO/CIPF regulation, institutional-grade execution, and strong financial backing.
➡️ Advanced and technical traders looking for powerful charting tools (MT4, ProRealTime), API access, and professional analytics to build complex strategies and execute them with precision.
- ✅CIRO (formerly IIROC) regulation and CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Over 17,000 markets across Forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, bonds, options, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Competitive spreads on major instruments (e.g., 0.6 pips on EUR/USD), and no deposit/withdrawal fees
- ✅Best-in-class multi-platform support: proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer
- ✅User-friendly interface with advanced charting tools and a customizable workspace
- ✅Fast execution with a robust infrastructure and a reputation for low slippage
- ✅Comprehensive risk management: guaranteed stop, trailing stop, and conditional orders
- ✅Flexible demo accounts with unlimited duration and generous virtual balance
- ✅Responsive customer support via phone, email, and online chat, with local hours for Canada
- ✅Wide selection of trading order types supportive for different strategies
- ❌No direct spot crypto purchase—crypto is only tradable via CFDs; no crypto wallet or staking/earn features available to Canadians
- ❌Minimum withdrawal amount of $100 may be inconvenient for small accounts
- ❌Potential inactivity fee after 2 years without trading activity
- ❌No built-in copy trading or PAMM feature for Canadian clients
- ❌Spreads, while competitive, are not as tight as some specialized ECN or offshore brokers
- ❌Limited selection of less popular cryptocurrencies and no stablecoins
- ❌Leverage on many products (especially crypto, stocks) is lower than global maximums due to Canadian regulations
- ❌Some advanced features (such as ProRealTime or DMA access) may incur extra costs or require higher account balances
Score- ✅CIRO (formerly IIROC) regulation and CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Over 17,000 markets across Forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, bonds, options, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Competitive spreads on major instruments (e.g., 0.6 pips on EUR/USD), and no deposit/withdrawal fees
- ✅Best-in-class multi-platform support: proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer
- ✅User-friendly interface with advanced charting tools and a customizable workspace
- ✅Fast execution with a robust infrastructure and a reputation for low slippage
- ✅Comprehensive risk management: guaranteed stop, trailing stop, and conditional orders
- ✅Flexible demo accounts with unlimited duration and generous virtual balance
- ✅Responsive customer support via phone, email, and online chat, with local hours for Canada
- ✅Wide selection of trading order types supportive for different strategies
My opinion on IG
- ✅CIRO (formerly IIROC) regulation and CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Over 17,000 markets across Forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, bonds, options, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Competitive spreads on major instruments (e.g., 0.6 pips on EUR/USD), and no deposit/withdrawal fees
- ✅Best-in-class multi-platform support: proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer
- ✅User-friendly interface with advanced charting tools and a customizable workspace
- ✅Fast execution with a robust infrastructure and a reputation for low slippage
- ✅Comprehensive risk management: guaranteed stop, trailing stop, and conditional orders
- ✅Flexible demo accounts with unlimited duration and generous virtual balance
- ✅Responsive customer support via phone, email, and online chat, with local hours for Canada
- ✅Wide selection of trading order types supportive for different strategies
- ❌No direct spot crypto purchase—crypto is only tradable via CFDs; no crypto wallet or staking/earn features available to Canadians
- ❌Minimum withdrawal amount of $100 may be inconvenient for small accounts
- ❌Potential inactivity fee after 2 years without trading activity
- ❌No built-in copy trading or PAMM feature for Canadian clients
- ❌Spreads, while competitive, are not as tight as some specialized ECN or offshore brokers
- ❌Limited selection of less popular cryptocurrencies and no stablecoins
- ❌Leverage on many products (especially crypto, stocks) is lower than global maximums due to Canadian regulations
- ❌Some advanced features (such as ProRealTime or DMA access) may incur extra costs or require higher account balances
Score- ✅CIRO (formerly IIROC) regulation and CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Over 17,000 markets across Forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, bonds, options, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Competitive spreads on major instruments (e.g., 0.6 pips on EUR/USD), and no deposit/withdrawal fees
- ✅Best-in-class multi-platform support: proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer
- ✅User-friendly interface with advanced charting tools and a customizable workspace
- ✅Fast execution with a robust infrastructure and a reputation for low slippage
- ✅Comprehensive risk management: guaranteed stop, trailing stop, and conditional orders
- ✅Flexible demo accounts with unlimited duration and generous virtual balance
- ✅Responsive customer support via phone, email, and online chat, with local hours for Canada
- ✅Wide selection of trading order types supportive for different strategies
Why trust Hellosafe?
I spent significant time using IG as a Canadian trader, from creating an account and testing the onboarding process to placing trades across forex, stocks, indices, and crypto CFDs.
My main focus was on the platform’s usability, the true cost of trading—including spreads, commissions, and any hidden fees—as well as how quickly deposits and withdrawals actually process.
I checked out all available platforms: IG’s web interface, mobile app, and even MetaTrader 4.
I also reached out to their Canadian support team through phone and chat to assess responsiveness and clarity.
For me, IG’s main strength is its robust CIRO regulation, which inspires genuine confidence, plus the incredibly wide range of markets and solid platform reliability.
However, compared with global alternatives, I noticed IG doesn’t offer native copy trading and spreads can be slightly wider than some lower-cost offshore brokers.
But for both beginners and more advanced traders who want peace of mind, an extensive product selection, and professional-level tools, IG stands out—especially given the added protection of CIPF.
My perspective is grounded in hands-on use and comparison with other top brokers accessible from Canada.
IG at a glance
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| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Minimum deposit | $0 (bank transfer), $250 (credit/debit card, PayPal) |
| 🛡️ Regulation | CIRO (Canada), CIPF protection, also FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia) |
| 🪙 Crypto licence | Not available (crypto as CFDs only, no underlying crypto custody) |
| 📝 FSMA registration | Not registered |
| 📈 Assets available | 17,000+ (forex pairs, stocks, stock CFDs, ETFs, indices, commodities, crypto CFDs, options, bonds) |
| 📊 Trading platforms | IG Web, Mobile App (iOS/Android), MetaTrader 4 (MT4), ProRealTime, L2 Dealer |
| 🛠️ Trading tools | Advanced charting, news, risk management, automation, guaranteed stops, alerts |
| 🧪 Demo account | Yes, unlimited duration |
| ☪️ Islamic account | Available on request for Canadian clients |
| 📝 Key order types | Market, limit, stop, take profit, trailing stop, guaranteed stop, conditional orders |
| ⚡ Leverage | Up to 30:1 (forex), up to 20:1 (indices/commodities), up to 5:1 (stocks), up to 2:1 (crypto CFDs) |
| 💸 Fees | Spreads from 0.6 pips (EUR/USD), $0–$10 commission (stocks), no deposit/withdrawal fees, inactivity fee |
| 📞 Customer support | Phone, email, online chat; Mon–Fri, 7am–7pm CT (Canada), 24/5 global helpdesk |
| ⭐ Trustpilot reviews | 4.0/5 (8,010+ reviews, July 2025) |
Security and Regulation
IG consistently demonstrates high standards in security and reliability for Canadian users. Its regulatory status as a CIRO (formerly IIROC) member, coupled with CIPF protection, provides peace of mind for account holders, ensuring investor rights and a recognizable legal framework for dispute resolution. Outside Canada, IG’s regulation by FCA and ASIC solidifies its reputation as one of the most trustworthy global brokers.
All client funds are held in segregated accounts, meeting strict Canadian and international requirements. For CFD and Forex trading, this means protection from broker insolvency risks, and for stock investing, CIPF coverage (up to $1 million) further bolsters asset security. Crypto trading at IG is offered only as CFDs, so crypto-specific custody or proof-of-reserves do not apply, but operational controls remain robust.
IG’s risk management tools are extensive: negative balance protection, advanced stop-loss options, two-factor authentication, and guaranteed stop-loss orders are all integrated into the platform suite. This is a noteworthy advantage over less regulated competitors, and positions IG as an excellent choice for both intermediate and professional traders who need advanced safeguards.
The broker enjoys a strong industry reputation, with a decades-long operational history and consistently positive user feedback. Its Trustpilot rating is around 4.0/5, and customer testimonials often highlight platform reliability, transparent processes, and responsive support.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | CIRO (Canada), FCA, ASIC: top-tier, local and global oversight | 5/5 |
| Fund security | Full client fund segregation, CIPF insurance, highly transparent handling for all asset classes | 5/5 |
| Risk management tools | Negative balance protection, advanced orders, guaranteed stops, 2FA | 5/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Leading broker globally, CIRO reputation, strong user reviews, Trustpilot ~4.0/5 | 4.5/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
IG stands out for offering a comprehensive and well-structured fee model tailored for both retail and advanced traders. Spreads on major forex pairs such as EUR/USD begin from 0.6 pips, which is competitive for commission-free accounts, though not as tight as those found with niche ECN brokers. For commodities and indices, minimum spreads are clearly published—such as 0.3 points for gold and 0.4 points for the S&P 500—placing IG close to the market average among top-tier, CIRO-regulated brokers in Canada.
Stock and ETF trading fees are transparent: US stocks are often commission-free, while Canadian stocks typically carry a flat $10 commission. For stocks and ETF CFDs, the pricing is primarily spread-based, but can include a commission depending on the market. IG does not widen spreads artificially; pricing is market-driven and liquidity-dependent, and overnight fees apply for leveraged or margin positions, as with most multi-asset platforms.
I appreciate the absence of account opening, deposit, and internal withdrawal fees, which makes account maintenance nearly frictionless for most clients. Currency conversion fees are levied at a 0.5% rate, which is in line with or more favorable than the industry norm. Inactivity fees are only charged after two years without account use, making IG a strong candidate for both active and occasional traders. Note that data feed and premium platform fees (such as ProRealTime or advanced real-time market data) may apply, but these are always optional and disclosed during registration or trading.
For crypto traders, IG’s offer is available only through CFDs, with minimum spreads from 0.2% of the position size. No custody or transfer fees are charged—this is standard among regulated CFD brokers providing crypto access as synthetic, not physical, exposure. Like with other CFD products, overnight funding is a key cost to monitor when holding leveraged crypto positions beyond one session.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at IG | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0–$100 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$20/month |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 (bank/card/PayPal; $100 minimum withdrawal) | $0–$25 |
| Inactivity fee | $0 (charged after 24 months of inactivity) | $0–$25/month |
| Currency conversion fee | 0.5% per transaction | 0.3%–2% |
Expert advice: Trader Tip
Trip: Use the free withdrawal options and monitor your trading activity to avoid inactivity fees.
If you regularly deal in non-USD assets, consider maintaining multi-currency balances to minimize recurrent conversion costs.
For advanced trading platforms or live data, opt in only when your strategy justifies the additional expense.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
IG provides competitive stock and ETF trading for Canadian clients. Stocks listed in the US are often commission-free; Canadian shares incur a fixed $10 commission per trade. With IG, there are no custody or UK stamp duty fees for Canadian shares, and overnight charges only apply if stocks are traded on margin or as CFDs.
| Fee Type | Conditions at IG | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $0 (US stocks), $10 (Canadian stocks) | $4–$10 (US); $7–$10 (CA) |
| Spread fee | Market-based, no markup for real shares | Market or internal markup |
| Overnight fee | Yes, on margin or leveraged positions | Yes (on margin) |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0–$25/year |
| UK stamp duty tax | $0 (for North American assets) | 0% (CA/US stocks); 0.5% (UK) |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
IG charges no direct commission for crypto CFD trades; all transaction costs are fully embedded in the spread, starting from 0.2% of the notional value. There are no custody or transfer fees, but as with all leveraged products, overnight funding charges apply if crypto CFD positions are held beyond a session.
| Fee Type | Conditions at IG | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | $0 (cost in spread) | 0%–0.5% (spot/trading fee) |
| Spread fees | From 0.2% (variable by coin) | 0.2%–2% |
| Overnight fees | Yes, for leveraged/CFD crypto trades | Yes |
| Custody fees | $0 (CFD only, no wallet services) | $0 |
| Transfer fees | $0 (no crypto withdrawal functionality) | $0–$10 |
What are the fees on CFDs?
IG is known for competitive CFD pricing across FX, indices, commodities, and crypto. Spreads start from 0.6 pips on major FX pairs and are clearly disclosed for all key asset classes; overnight financing charges are standard for leveraged trades, and commission on equity CFDs is benchmarked to major global brokers.
| Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at IG | Overnight Fee | Market Average (CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFD Stocks | 5:1 | $0.02–$0.10/share + commission | Yes (+/- swap) | $0.02–$0.10/share + comm.; yes |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 20:1 | from $0.30 | Yes (+/- swap) | from $0.30; yes |
| Silver (XAG/USD) | 20:1 | from $0.03 | Yes (+/- swap) | from $0.03; yes |
| Oil (WTI) | 20:1 | from $0.04 | Yes (+/- swap) | from $0.04; yes |
| EUR/USD | 30:1 | from 0.6 pips | Yes (+/- swap) | from 0.2–1.0 pips; yes |
| EUR/GBP | 20:1 | from 0.9 pips | Yes (+/- swap) | from 0.5–1.8 pips; yes |
| USD/JPY | 30:1 | from 0.7 pips | Yes (+/- swap) | from 0.5–1.5 pips; yes |
| GBP/USD | 30:1 | from 0.9 pips | Yes (+/- swap) | from 0.8–1.5 pips; yes |
| BEL 20 (BEL20) | 10:1 | from $1.10 | Yes (+/- swap) | from $1.00; yes |
| BTC/USD (crypto CFD) | 2:1 | from 0.2% (variable) | Yes (+ overnight) | 0.2%–1.5%; yes |
Assets & Markets
IG’s depth of markets stands out immediately—the platform grants access to more than 17,000 financial instruments globally, including a huge range of stocks, indices, forex pairs, commodities, ETFs, and major cryptocurrencies as CFDs. This level of product variety enables me to approach global markets from virtually any angle, supporting diverse strategies from spot equity trading to advanced CFD speculation. The inclusion of Direct Market Access (DMA) for equities and L2 Dealer provides a unique advantage for professional or algorithmic traders needing institutional-grade order routing and market depth.
The breadth and liquidity of IG’s CFD offering puts it among the top brokers for active traders in Canada, with hundreds of US, Canadian, and global stocks, as well as sector, thematic, and leveraged ETFs. I particularly value the coverage of global indices and commodities futures, which allows broad macro trading and hedging without needing multiple brokerage accounts. For currency traders, the platform covers over 80 forex pairs, offering tight spreads and reliable execution across major and exotic markets.
Crypto access is currently limited to CFDs on leading coins—including Bitcoin and Ethereum—which suit tactical short-term exposure, but not long-term spot investment. Likewise, while the overall asset coverage is remarkable, there is no provision for direct stablecoin holdings, staking, or DeFi participation. Spot stock, ETF, and bonds trading is available for some markets, but certain local limitations exist, most notably for US resident and crypto spot buyers. Bonds and interest rate instruments round out the suite, supporting portfolio diversification, yet the bond offering is less comprehensive compared to top-tier global investment platforms.
IG’s edge for Canadian users lies in combining robust global access and strong CIRO/CIPF regulatory protection, even if there are still some restrictions around product coverage in certain jurisdictions, and no access to NFTs or specialized DeFi and staking features. As an all-in-one, multi-asset brokerage for active strategy and hedging, the overall balance is among the best I have found for Canadian clients prioritizing both safety and choice.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at IG | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Spot & CFD | 12,000+ | 3,000–6,000+ | Apple (AAPL), Shopify (SHOP), RBC (RY) |
| ETFs | Spot & CFD | 5,000+ | 500–1,000+ | SPDR S&P 500 ETF, iShares MSCI EAFE |
| Cryptocurrencies | CFD | 10+ | 5–30+ | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC) |
| Currencies (Forex) | Spot & CFD | 80+ | 40–100+ | EUR/USD, USD/CAD, GBP/JPY |
| Commodities | Spot & CFD | 35+ | 10–25+ | Gold, Oil (WTI/Brent), Copper |
| Indices | Spot & CFD | 30+ | 10–25+ | S&P 500, FTSE 100, Nikkei 225 |
| Bonds | Spot & CFD | 10+ | 5–20+ | US 10Y Treasury, UK Gilt, Bund |
| Stablecoins | N/A | 0 | 2–10 | — |
| NFTs | N/A | 0 | 1–5 | — |
| Other derivatives | Options, Interest rates | 50+ | 10–50+ | S&P 500 Options, EURIBOR, US T-Note opt |
Trading Tools & Apps
IG’s proprietary web platform sets a high standard for trading ergonomics, blending a clean and logical layout with quick access to advanced charting and a broad range of order types. Navigation is intuitive for both beginners and advanced users, with tools for watchlist customization and fast asset search. Execution is consistently responsive, and risk management features such as guaranteed stop-loss are a notable advantage.
The MetaTrader 4 (MT4) integration satisfies algorithmic and automated trading needs, offering Expert Advisor support, custom scripting, and access to the large MT4 indicator ecosystem. Technical analysis capabilities are comprehensive across both the proprietary and MT4 platforms, featuring multiple timeframes, technical indicators, drawing tools, and the ability to set multiple alerts. Advanced chartists can also use the ProRealTime platform for professional-grade charting and automation, opening doors to custom scripts and highly detailed technical studies.
Mobile trading with IG is a highlight—native iOS and Android apps deliver nearly the full scope of web functionality, including multi-layered charting, live news, and responsive trade management. Both mobile and desktop versions sync seamlessly, making on-the-go trading efficient. However, choice of auto-trading and third-party platform integration is narrower than some brokers: there’s no built-in copy trading and crypto access is limited to CFDs, with no wallet or staking for Canadians.
Order diversity is strong; all standard types, including OCO (one cancels other), trailing stops, and guaranteed stops, are available. Negative balance protection is provided for CFD accounts, increasing client security. L2 Dealer is available for those who require direct market access (DMA), appealing mainly to advanced and institutional-style traders, with full depth-of-book visibility.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | IG proprietary app (iOS/Android); MetaTrader 4 mobile app; no crypto wallet |
| Usability | Fluid, highly intuitive web and mobile interface; customizable layouts; suits all experience levels |
| Compatible software | IG proprietary Web/Desktop/Mobile, MetaTrader 4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer (DMA); no TradingView or MT5 |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, guaranteed stop, trailing stop, OCO, conditional orders |
| Charting and technical analysis | Advanced charting (web/ProRealTime/MT4); dozens of built-in indicators, drawing tools, multi-alerts |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | MT4 supports Expert Advisors (EAs); ProRealTime for automation; no copy/social trading for CA users |
| Algorithmic trading | Custom scripting via ProRealTime and MT4; advanced automation possible; L2 Dealer for DMA strategies |
| Negative balance protection | Yes, for CFD/Forex accounts |
| Trading signals | Price alerts, custom notifications; in-platform news and analytics; no TradingView signal support |
| Asset search and filters | Rapid search bar, sortable watchlists, sector and market filters across 17,000+ instruments |
| Spot stock purchase | Yes, direct equities and ETF investing (plus CFDs) |
| Staking and earn | Not supported (crypto only via CFDs for CA clients) |
Expert advice
Trip: For maximum efficiency, tailor your IG workspace by pinning your most-traded instruments and presetting default order types. Test strategies in the demo mode before going live, and always activate two-factor authentication to enhance the security of your account.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
Opening an account with IG is a streamlined, fully online experience. Start by filling in the registration form on the IG website, providing personal, contact, and financial details. During the process, you will be asked to complete a regulatory questionnaire—this helps IG assess your trading experience and suitability. To comply with KYC regulations, upload a government-issued ID (such as a passport or driver’s license) and a recent proof of address. Once you submit your application and documents, IG’s compliance team will review them. Most accounts are validated within 1–3 business days, and you’ll receive a confirmation email as soon as your account is activated.
Good to know
Choosing your base currency during registration can help avoid future conversion fees.
If you register during peak periods or if documents are missing/unclear, approval may take longer.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online registration, regulatory questionnaire, documentation upload |
| Validation time | 1–3 business days (may vary during peak periods) |
| Accepted deposit methods | Bank transfer, credit/debit card, PayPal |
| Minimum required deposit | $0 (bank transfer), $250 (card/PayPal) |
| Required documents | Government-issued ID, proof of address, possibly financial suitability questionnaire |
| Practical tip | Ensure all photos/scans are clear and readable to speed up identity verification |
Deposits and withdrawals on IG
Deposits to your IG account can be made by bank transfer, credit/debit card, or PayPal. Bank transfers may have no minimum, while card and PayPal deposits require at least $250. Deposits by card and PayPal are processed instantly; bank transfers usually take 1–3 business days. There are no fees for adding funds, but ensure your funding currency matches your account’s base currency to avoid conversion costs. Withdrawals are available via the same methods, with most transactions processed in 1–2 business days. A $100 minimum withdrawal applies, and there are no internal fees, though bank fees may apply for international transfers. IG does not offer an integrated wallet or direct fiat-to-crypto conversion—crypto trading is CFD-based only.
Good to know
To avoid processing delays, always withdraw to a method previously used for deposit.
Check your bank’s fees for currency conversion or international transfers before funding your IG account.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | CAD, USD, others | $250 | Instant | None from IG; card issuer may charge extra |
| Bank transfer | CAD, USD, others | $0 | 1–3 business days | None from IG; possible banking/FX fees |
| E-wallets | PayPal (CAD, USD) | $250 | Instant | None from IG; PayPal fees may apply |
| Stablecoins/cryptos | Not offered | – | – | – |
| Other local options | Not specified | – | – | – |
Account Types
IG is an internationally renowned broker, recognized for its extensive offering across CFD, forex, and equity markets. For clients in Canada, IG operates as a CIRO-regulated provider, focusing primarily on CFD trading, with margin accounts for indices, forex, commodities, shares, and cryptocurrencies (via CFDs) but no direct crypto custody. Accounts cater to both casual and advanced traders, including unlimited demo, standard live, DMA/professional, and swap-free (Islamic) variants upon request. Accounts for classic securities, staking, or cold crypto storage are not offered. Base currencies generally include CAD, USD, EUR, and GBP, making funding flexible.
| Account type | Available | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | Unlimited practice trading, virtual funds, full access to platforms and instruments |
| Standard account | ✅ | Live CFD/forex trading, access to 17,000+ markets, competitive spreads |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not offered; DMA account available for professional/advanced traders instead |
| Islamic account | ✅ | Swap-free upon request, designed to comply with Sharia law |
| Professional account | ✅ | Requires higher experience, enables advanced features like DMA trading and higher leverage |
| CFD account | ✅ | Main offering: trade indices, forex, commodities, stocks, crypto (via CFDs), options, more |
| Classic securities account | ❌ | Not available; focus is on margin/CFD trading |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; no passive yield or DeFi features |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Not offered; no crypto custody—crypto trading is via CFDs only |
| Tax-advantaged account | ❌ | Not available; IG does not provide RRSP or TFSA accounts in Canada |
| Accepted base currencies | ✅ | CAD, USD, EUR, GBP |
Expert advice
Trip: Use the free IG demo account to test all available trading platforms (Web, MT4, ProRealTime) and asset types before opening a live account—this will help you compare costs and choose the most suitable setup for your experience level and trading strategies.
How IG compares to competitors
| IG | XTB | Libertex | Interactive Brokers | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 | $10 | $0 | |
| Number of instruments | 5,500+ (CFDs, real stocks & ETFs) | 300+ (mainly CFDs) | 150+ global markets (vast range) | |
| Spreads (examples) | EUR/USD: from 0.1 pips Gold: from 0.15 S&P 500: from 0.5 pts | EUR/USD: from 0.0 pips (+commission) Gold: from 0.2 S&P 500: from 0.5 pts | EUR/USD: from 0.1 pips (+low com.) Gold: from 0.15 S&P 500: from 0.12 pts | |
| Trading platforms | xStation 5 (web/mobile) | Libertex, MT4, MT5 | Trader Workstation, IBKR Mobile, Web Portal, GlobalTrader | |
| Regulation | FCA (UK), CySEC | CySEC | CIRO (Canada), SEC (US), FCA (UK) | |
| Demo account | ✅ (30-day limit) | ✅ (unlimited) | ✅ (Paper Trading) | |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ (third-party) | |
| Read the review | Read the review XTB | Read the review Libertex | Read the review Interactive Brokers |
Gold: from 0.15
S&P 500: from 0.5 pts
Gold: from 0.2
S&P 500: from 0.5 pts
Gold: from 0.15
S&P 500: from 0.12 pts
Customer reviews
IG has an overall Trustpilot rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, based on more than 8,010 reviews worldwide. Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Easy and intuitive account opening process
- Wide range of available markets and trading instruments
- Responsive and helpful customer support
- Reliable web platform and mobile app
- Fast deposits and withdrawals
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Occasional technical issues, especially during periods of high market volatility
- No integrated copy trading feature for Canadian accounts
- Some users find spreads less competitive than those at discount brokers
- Inactivity fees after periods of no trading
- Minimum withdrawal requirement is higher than some competitors
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
M.P. – 05/06/2024 : “The platform is easy to use and offers a wide range of markets. Customer support is always responsive and professional.”
A.S. – 18/03/2024 : “Spreads are competitive, but would love to see integrated copy trading. Some minor technical glitches during busy market times.”
L.D. – 09/01/2024 : “Withdrawals were fast and straightforward. I appreciate the choice of trading platforms, but the inactivity fee is a downside if you pause your trading.”
FAQ
Is IG regulated in CA?
IG is regulated in Canada through IG Wealth Management Inc. and Investors Group Securities Inc., both of which are members of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). This ensures that Canadian clients have access to strong regulatory protections and investor insurance.
What is the minimum deposit on IG?
There is no minimum deposit requirement if you fund your IG account via bank transfer. For card payments or PayPal, a minimum deposit of $250 applies. These requirements make it accessible for a range of investors, with flexible funding options.
Does IG offer a welcome bonus?
IG does not currently offer a welcome bonus or deposit bonus for new clients in Canada. The company focuses on competitive pricing, regulation, and a broad product range rather than bonus-based promotions.
How does leverage work on IG?
Leverage ratios depend on the asset and local regulations. In Canada, maximum leverage for retail clients is capped—up to 30:1 for forex, 20:1 for indices and commodities, 5:1 for stocks, and 2:1 for crypto CFDs. Leverage amplifies both potential gains and risks, so regulatory limits are in place to protect traders.
How does IG make money?
IG makes money primarily through trading spreads, commissions, and certain overnight financing charges on leveraged positions. There are also possible currency conversion fees for trading in non-account currencies, and IG may profit from market making on some instruments.
Who is behind IG?
IG is part of IG Group Holdings plc, a publicly traded company listed on the London Stock Exchange. IG Group is an established global broker, operating since the 1970s and regulated in multiple major jurisdictions.
When was IG launched?
IG was founded in 1974 in the United Kingdom, making it one of the longest-standing online trading firms worldwide. With over 50 years in the business, it has expanded globally with offices in Canada and other financial hubs.
Does IG offer copy trading or social trading?
IG does not provide built-in copy trading or social trading functions for Canadian users. The focus is on self-directed trading through proprietary and widely used platforms, although automated strategies can be used via MetaTrader 4.
How can I contact IG’s customer service?
Canadian clients can contact IG customer service via phone, email, online chat, or helpdesk. Support is available Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, with additional 24/5 access to the international helpdesk for urgent trading inquiries.
Does IG offer any promotions or referral programs?
As of 2025, IG does not advertise any referral or cashback programs for Canadian clients. Their business model emphasizes transparent pricing and top-tier client protection, rather than short-term promotions or rewards.
Is IG regulated in CA?
IG is regulated in Canada through IG Wealth Management Inc. and Investors Group Securities Inc., both of which are members of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). This ensures that Canadian clients have access to strong regulatory protections and investor insurance.
What is the minimum deposit on IG?
There is no minimum deposit requirement if you fund your IG account via bank transfer. For card payments or PayPal, a minimum deposit of $250 applies. These requirements make it accessible for a range of investors, with flexible funding options.
Does IG offer a welcome bonus?
IG does not currently offer a welcome bonus or deposit bonus for new clients in Canada. The company focuses on competitive pricing, regulation, and a broad product range rather than bonus-based promotions.
How does leverage work on IG?
Leverage ratios depend on the asset and local regulations. In Canada, maximum leverage for retail clients is capped—up to 30:1 for forex, 20:1 for indices and commodities, 5:1 for stocks, and 2:1 for crypto CFDs. Leverage amplifies both potential gains and risks, so regulatory limits are in place to protect traders.
How does IG make money?
IG makes money primarily through trading spreads, commissions, and certain overnight financing charges on leveraged positions. There are also possible currency conversion fees for trading in non-account currencies, and IG may profit from market making on some instruments.
Who is behind IG?
IG is part of IG Group Holdings plc, a publicly traded company listed on the London Stock Exchange. IG Group is an established global broker, operating since the 1970s and regulated in multiple major jurisdictions.
When was IG launched?
IG was founded in 1974 in the United Kingdom, making it one of the longest-standing online trading firms worldwide. With over 50 years in the business, it has expanded globally with offices in Canada and other financial hubs.
Does IG offer copy trading or social trading?
IG does not provide built-in copy trading or social trading functions for Canadian users. The focus is on self-directed trading through proprietary and widely used platforms, although automated strategies can be used via MetaTrader 4.
How can I contact IG’s customer service?
Canadian clients can contact IG customer service via phone, email, online chat, or helpdesk. Support is available Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, with additional 24/5 access to the international helpdesk for urgent trading inquiries.
Does IG offer any promotions or referral programs?
As of 2025, IG does not advertise any referral or cashback programs for Canadian clients. Their business model emphasizes transparent pricing and top-tier client protection, rather than short-term promotions or rewards.
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