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AvaTrade
VS
IG

AvaTrade vs IG: which broker is better in 2026?

We compare AvaTrade and IG — two forex & CFD brokers — side by side across regulation, fees, platforms, minimum deposit, and our editorial scores. Based on our overall editorial score, IG edges ahead (4.1/5), but the right choice depends on what matters most to you — check the breakdown below.

Side-by-side comparison

CriteriaAvaTradeIG
Overall score 3.6 4.1
Regulation & safety 3.5 4.5
Fees & deposit 3.5 3.5
Platform & assets 4.0 4.5
User support 3.5 4.0
Trust score72/10085/100
Minimum depositVaries by account type — check the official siteVaries by account type — check the official site
Demo accountAvailableAvailable
PlatformsMetaTrader 4/5, AvaTradeGO (mobile), AvaOptions, WebTraderProprietary web platform, Mobile app, MetaTrader 4 (in some markets)
Fee modelSpread model — details not yet verifiedSpread & commission model varies per product — details not yet verified

Pros & cons

AvaTrade
  • Supervised by the Central Bank of Ireland + multiple global entities; founded 2006
  • Full platform selection (MT4/MT5/AvaTradeGO/AvaOptions)
  • Broad instrument coverage including options
  • A private company — financial transparency more limited than a public company
  • Some clients via offshore entities
  • Leverage is high-risk
IG
  • Very strong regulation — supervised by the FCA & a FTSE 100 public company (high financial transparency from public-company duties)
  • One of the oldest & largest providers (since 1974) with 19,000+ markets
  • Mature platforms: proprietary web + mobile app + MT4 in some markets
  • Leveraged products (CFDs/spread betting) remain high-risk regardless of strong regulation
  • Spreads/fees aren't always the cheapest compared to low-cost ECN brokers
  • Product availability & regulatory entity differ per country — verify which serves your region

Regulation at a glance

AvaTrade

Supervised by the Central Bank of Ireland as its primary regulator (mentioned by Wikipedia in the context of an acquisition blocked by this regulator). Operates multiple entities globally — license status per entity not verified in detail.

IG

Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, a FTSE 100 constituent — high financial transparency due to public-company obligations.