CMC Markets vs IG: which broker is better in 2026?
We compare CMC Markets 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
CriteriaCMC MarketsIG
Overall score 4.0 4.1
Regulation & safety 4.0 4.5
Fees & deposit 3.5 3.5
Platform & assets 4.5 4.5
User support 4.0 4.0
Trust score80/10085/100
Minimum depositVaries by account type — check the official siteVaries by account type — check the official site
Demo accountAvailableAvailable
PlatformsProprietary web platform (Next Generation), MetaTrader 4, TradingView (integrated), Mobile appProprietary web platform, Mobile app, MetaTrader 4 (in some markets)
Fee modelSpread & commission model varies per product — details not yet verifiedSpread & commission model varies per product — details not yet verified
Pros & cons
- Public company (LSE FTSE 250, since 1989) regulated by the FCA + Bermuda Monetary Authority
- Highly regarded Next Generation platform + MT4 + TradingView integration
- Broad coverage: forex/share/index CFDs, spread betting, and share dealing
- Historical note: ASIC once ordered retail-client remediation over margin-netting breaches
- Focus on leveraged CFD/spread betting products — high-risk
- Not the choice for those chasing the cheapest cost/raw ECN
- 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
CMC Markets
Regulated by the FCA in the UK; holds an additional license from the Bermuda Monetary Authority. Listed on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE 250).
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.