IG vs XM: which broker is better in 2026?
We compare IG and XM — 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
CriteriaIGXM
Overall score 4.1 3.6
Regulation & safety 4.5 3.0
Fees & deposit 3.5 3.5
Platform & assets 4.5 4.0
User support 4.0 4.0
Trust score85/10069/100
Minimum depositVaries by account type — check the official siteVaries by account type — check the official site
Demo accountAvailableAvailable
PlatformsProprietary web platform, Mobile app, MetaTrader 4 (in some markets)MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, XM app
Fee modelSpread & commission model varies per product — details not yet verifiedStandard / ultra-low spread; figures vary
Pros & cons
- 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
- Very large client base, strong multilingual education & support
- MT4/MT5 + many instruments
- CySEC license for the EU entity
- Many retail clients via the offshore entity (Belize) — weaker protection
- Standard spread is not the cheapest
- Leverage is high-risk
Regulation at a glance
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.
XM
Trading Point group — regulated by CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (historically), DFSA (Dubai), FSC (Belize), FSCA (South Africa). Many retail clients via the offshore entity (Belize).