IG US Review 2024

Introduction

IG US is a prominent online broker specializing in forex trading and CFDs (Contracts for Difference). Established as a division of IG Group, a global leader in online trading, IG US caters specifically to clients in the United States.

Expert Analysis

IG US stands out in the competitive US brokerage industry with its comprehensive range of trading instruments, strong regulatory framework, and robust trading platforms. Our analysis highlights IG US’s commitment to client satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and technological innovation, making it a trusted choice for American traders.

The broker is regulated by several regulatory bodies, including the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the National Futures Association (NFA). These regulatory licenses ensure adherence to stringent standards of financial security and client protection, essential for US-based traders.

IG US offers a diverse selection of trading instruments, including forex pairs, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and shares via CFDs. This extensive range allows traders to diversify their portfolios and access various global markets.

Traders have access to IG US’s advanced trading platform, IG Trading, tailored specifically for US clients. This platform is known for its user-friendly interface, advanced charting tools, and seamless execution, catering to both novice and experienced traders alike.

In addition to its trading platform, IG US provides educational resources such as webinars, articles, and trading guides. These resources are designed to empower traders with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed trading decisions.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

✔️ Regulated by CFTC and NFA
✔️ Comprehensive range of trading instruments
✔️ User-friendly and advanced trading platform (IG Trading)
✔️ Strong reputation and global presence
✔️ Educational resources available

Cons

❌ Limited cryptocurrency offerings compared to some competitors
❌ Higher minimum deposit requirement

Is IG US Right for You?

IG US is suitable for US-based traders looking for a reliable broker offering a wide range of trading instruments and robust trading platforms. With its strong regulatory oversight, user-friendly interface, and comprehensive educational resources, IG US caters to both beginners and experienced traders seeking a secure and efficient trading environment.

What Sets IG US Apart?

IG US distinguishes itself in the US brokerage market through several key factors:

• Regulatory Compliance: Regulated by the CFTC and NFA, IG US adheres to strict regulatory standards, ensuring transparency and client protection.
• Advanced Trading Platform: IG Trading provides a robust trading experience with advanced features, suitable for traders at all levels of experience.
• Diverse Trading Instruments: IG US offers a broad array of trading instruments, allowing traders to diversify their portfolios across various asset classes.
• Educational Resources: IG US provides educational resources to support traders in enhancing their trading knowledge and skills.
• Global Reputation: As part of the IG Group, a global leader in online trading, IG US benefits from a strong reputation and extensive industry experience.

Main Features

Trust and Safety

IG US maintains a strong commitment to trust and safety through stringent regulatory oversight and comprehensive client protection measures. The broker operates under the supervision of top-tier regulatory authorities, ensuring transparency and security for client funds.

Regulation

• Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC): IG US LLC is registered with the CFTC as a Retail Foreign Exchange Dealer (RFED) and is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA). This regulatory framework ensures compliance with U.S. financial regulations, providing a secure trading environment for U.S.-based clients.

Is IG US Safe to Trade With?

IG US offers a secure trading environment under the oversight of the CFTC and NFA. Client funds are segregated from the broker’s operational funds and are held in reputable banks. IG US also adheres to strict compliance standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring the safety of client funds and maintaining transparency in its operations.

Commission and Fees

IG US offers a transparent and competitive commission and fee structure. The broker primarily operates on a spread-based model, where traders pay the difference between the bid and ask prices for each trade executed. Additionally, IG US provides various account types, each with distinct spreads and commissions tailored to accommodate different trading strategies and preferences.

Commission and Fees Overview

• Spread-Based Trading: IG US primarily operates on a spread-based model, where traders pay the difference between the bid and ask prices for each trade executed. Spreads vary depending on market conditions and account types but are competitive across various financial instruments.
• Commissions: Certain trading products at IG US may attract commissions, particularly for Direct Market Access (DMA) accounts and specific asset classes like shares or options. Commissions are disclosed transparently on IG US’s website and vary based on the trading volume and account type.
• Additional Fees: Traders should be aware of potential overnight financing charges (swap rates) for holding positions overnight, which vary by asset class and direction of the trade. IG US provides clear information regarding swap rates and other fees on its platform.
• Account Types: IG US offers different account types, including Standard, DMA, and Professional accounts. Each account type has its own fee structure and may offer different trading conditions suited to various strategies and preferences.
• Transparency: Detailed fee information, including spreads, commissions, and overnight financing charges, is readily available on IG US’s website. This transparency enables traders to calculate their trading costs accurately and make informed decisions.

Deposit & Withdrawal Options

IG US offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal options to accommodate its clients, ensuring flexibility and convenience:

• Bank Transfers: Supports both domestic and international bank transfers, suitable for larger transactions. Processing times may vary depending on the bank and location.
• Credit/Debit Cards: Major credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted for instant deposits, convenient for smaller transactions.
• Electronic Payment Systems: IG US supports popular electronic payment methods such as PayPal and ACH transfers, offering quick deposits and withdrawals.
• Wire Transfer: Allows for direct bank wire transfers, ideal for larger transactions or where other methods are not suitable.
• Check Deposits: Accepts check deposits, providing an alternative for clients preferring traditional banking methods.

Tradable Instruments

IG US provides a comprehensive range of tradable instruments across various asset classes:

Forex (FX) Pairs: Access to major, minor, and exotic currency pairs with competitive spreads and efficient execution.

Indices: Trading opportunities on major global indices such as the S&P 500, NASDAQ, Dow Jones, and more, allowing speculation on equity market movements.

Stocks (Shares): Offers trading in shares of prominent companies listed on major stock exchanges worldwide, providing diversification opportunities.

Cryptocurrencies: Exposure to popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC), reflecting the growing interest in digital assets.

Commodities: Trading available in precious metals (gold, silver) and energy commodities (crude oil, natural gas), enabling portfolio diversification.

Options: Provides options trading on stocks and indices, offering flexibility for traders seeking derivative instruments.

What are Stocks?

Stocks, also known as shares or equities, represent ownership in a company. When you own stocks of a company, you essentially own a portion of that company and become a shareholder.

Here are some key points about stocks:

1. Ownership: Buying stocks means acquiring ownership in a company. Shareholders have voting rights and can participate in decisions such as electing the board of directors.

2. Investment Returns: Investors buy stocks with the expectation of earning returns in the form of capital appreciation (increase in stock price) and dividends (share of company profits distributed to shareholders).

3. Liquidity: Stocks are typically traded on stock exchanges, making them relatively liquid assets that can be bought and sold easily.

4. Types of Stocks: Stocks can be classified into different types:

   • Common Stocks: Provide voting rights and potential dividends.
   • Preferred Stocks: Typically do not offer voting rights but have higher claim on company assets and dividends.

5. Risk and Reward: Investing in stocks carries risks, including market volatility and potential loss of investment. However, they also offer the potential for higher returns compared to more conservative investments like bonds.

6. Market Participation: Stocks allow investors to participate in the growth and performance of publicly traded companies across various sectors and industries.

7. Regulation: Stock markets are regulated to ensure fair trading practices and investor protection. Companies that issue stocks must comply with financial reporting requirements.

Overall, stocks are fundamental to the functioning of financial markets, providing opportunities for investors to build wealth over the long term through ownership in successful companies.

What Can You Trade with IG US?

Account Types

IG US offers several account types to cater to the diverse needs of traders:

• Standard Account: This is the standard account type offered by IG US, suitable for most traders. It provides access to a wide range of markets with competitive spreads.
• DMA Account (Direct Market Access): The DMA account is designed for traders who require direct access to market liquidity and order book visibility. It offers access to deeper liquidity and potentially tighter spreads.
• Spread Betting Account: IG US offers spread betting accounts for UK and Ireland residents. Spread betting allows traders to speculate on the price movements of financial markets without owning the underlying assets. It is tax-efficient in the UK and Ireland.
• Demo Account: Traders can open a demo account with IG US to practice trading strategies and familiarize themselves with the platform without risking real money.

Each account type at IG US is tailored to provide specific trading conditions and benefits, catering to different trading styles and preferences of retail traders and investors.

Registration and Account Opening

1. Visit the IG US Website: Open your web browser and go to the official IG US website.
2. Locate the Registration Section: Look for the “Open an Account” or “Create Account” button prominently displayed on the homepage or in the main menu. Click on it to start the registration process.
3. Choose Your Account Type: IG US offers several account types including Standard Account, DMA (Direct Market Access) Account, and Spread Betting Account (for UK and Ireland residents). Select the account type that best suits your trading needs and click on “Apply Now” or “Open Account”.
4. Fill Out the Registration Form: You will be directed to a registration form. Provide accurate personal information including: Full name, Date of birth, Email address, Phone number, Country of residence, and Preferred account type (Standard, DMA, Spread Betting, etc.)
5. Verify Your Email and Phone Number: After completing the registration form, IG US will send a verification email to the address you provided. Follow the instructions in the email to verify your email address. You may also receive an SMS with a verification code for your phone number.
6. Complete Additional Information: Depending on regulatory requirements, you may need to provide additional personal details such as your residential address, employment status, and financial background.
7. Upload Identification Documents: IG US requires verification of your identity and address. Prepare the following documents for upload: Proof of identity: Passport, national ID card, or driver’s license. Proof of address: Utility bill, bank statement, or government-issued document containing your address. Scan or take clear photos of these documents and upload them securely through IG US’s online portal.
8. Wait for Account Approval: IG US will review your application and documents. This process typically takes a few business days. You will receive an email notification once your account is approved.
9. Fund Your Account: Once your account is approved, log in to your IG US account and navigate to the deposit section. Choose your preferred deposit method (e.g., bank transfer, credit/debit card, electronic payment) and follow the instructions to fund your account.
10. Start Trading: After funding your account, you can log in to the IG US trading platform using the credentials provided during registration. Explore the platform, access a wide range of tradable instruments, and start trading according to your trading strategy.
11. Optional: Set Up Additional Security Measures: Consider enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) through IG US’s account settings for enhanced security.

By following these steps, you can successfully register and open an account with IG US, enabling you to participate in the global financial markets with confidence and ease.

Restricted Countries

IG US restricts clients from certain jurisdictions due to regulatory reasons. The restricted countries typically include countries outside of the United States where IG US is not authorized to offer its trading services. Specific details regarding these restricted countries can be obtained directly from IG US through their official communications or by visiting their website. Traders from these jurisdictions are generally unable to open accounts or trade with IG US. It’s advisable for individuals to verify current restrictions directly with IG US to ensure compliance with regulatory policies before attempting to open an account or engage in trading activities.

Trading Platforms

IG US offers the following trading platforms to its clients:

• IG Trading Platform (Web-based and Mobile): IG’s proprietary trading platform is accessible via web browsers and mobile apps (iOS and Android).
• MetaTrader 4 (MT4): MT4 is a widely used third-party trading platform known for its advanced charting tools and automated trading capabilities.
• L2 Dealer (Direct Market Access): L2 Dealer is a professional-level trading platform designed for advanced traders and institutional clients.

IG US provides a range of trading platforms catering to different trading styles and preferences, from its user-friendly proprietary platform with integrated news and analysis to third-party platforms like MT4 and L2 Dealer for more advanced traders seeking DMA and customizable trading environments.

Key Aspects of the Platform

Here are the key aspects of the trading platforms offered by IG US:

IG Trading Platform (Web-based and Mobile):

• User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use with intuitive navigation and customizable layouts.
• Advanced Charting: Offers a wide range of technical indicators, drawing tools, and chart types for comprehensive market analysis.
• Order Management: Enables traders to place, manage, and monitor trades directly from the platform.
• Real-Time News and Analysis: Provides access to real-time market news, economic calendar, and analysis tools to support trading decisions.
• Risk Management: Includes risk management features such as stop-loss orders and guaranteed stop orders to manage trading risks.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4):

• Technical Analysis: Supports extensive technical analysis with a wide range of indicators and charting options.
• Expert Advisors (EAs): Allows traders to automate their trading strategies using EAs and custom indicators.
• Algorithmic Trading: Facilitates trading automation and strategy testing through back-testing functionalities.
• Market Access: Provides access to a broad range of financial instruments, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies.

L2 Dealer (Direct Market Access):

• Direct Market Access (DMA): Offers direct access to liquidity providers for transparent pricing and faster order execution.
• Advanced Order Types: Includes advanced order types like limit orders, stop orders, and market orders with depth of market (DOM) visibility.
• Customizable Interface: Allows traders to customize layouts, set preferences, and create personalized trading environments.
• Real-Time Data: Provides real-time market data and news updates to support informed trading decisions.

These key aspects highlight the robust features, advanced capabilities, and specialized functionalities of the trading platforms available through IG US. Traders can choose platforms that best suit their trading style and requirements, from user-friendly interfaces with integrated news and analysis to advanced tools for technical analysis and direct market access for institutional-grade trading needs.

Research and Education

IG US is dedicated to providing traders with a robust set of research and educational resources to empower them at every stage of their trading journey. The platform offers a comprehensive range of tools, analysis, and educational materials designed to enrich traders’ knowledge and enhance their decision-making abilities.

Research

Traders on IG US have access to a wealth of research resources, including:

• Market Analysis: Daily and weekly market analysis reports covering major financial instruments. These reports provide insights into market trends, key events, and potential trading opportunities.
• Technical Analysis: In-depth technical analysis reports offering insights into price movements, chart patterns, and technical indicators. This helps traders make informed decisions based on technical factors.
• Economic Calendar: A detailed calendar of upcoming economic events and their potential impact on the markets. This tool helps traders anticipate market movements based on scheduled events.
• News Feed: Real-time news updates from leading financial news sources. The news feed keeps traders informed about the latest developments in global markets.

Education

IG US offers a robust suite of educational resources aimed at helping traders of all skill levels:

• Webinars: Regular webinars hosted by industry experts covering a variety of trading topics. These interactive sessions allow traders to learn from professionals and ask questions in real-time.
• Tutorials: Video tutorials and step-by-step guides on using the trading platforms, executing trades, and implementing various trading strategies. These resources are designed to help traders get up to speed quickly.
• Ebooks: Comprehensive ebooks on forex and CFD trading, risk management, technical analysis, and market psychology. These ebooks provide in-depth knowledge and practical tips for traders.
• Blog: Informative blog posts discussing market trends, trading strategies, industry news, and trader psychology. The blog offers valuable insights and keeps traders updated on market developments.

FAQs

Is IG US regulated?
Yes, IG US is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA).

What trading platforms does IG US offer?
IG US offers its proprietary web-based platform, MetaTrader 4 (MT4), and a mobile trading app.

What is the minimum deposit required to open an account with IG US?
The minimum deposit required is $250.

Does IG US offer a demo account?
Yes, IG US offers a demo account for traders to practice and familiarize themselves with the platform.

What types of accounts are available at IG US?
IG US offers individual and joint accounts, as well as corporate accounts.

Customer Support

IG US prioritizes customer satisfaction by offering comprehensive support services to assist traders with their inquiries, technical issues, and account-related queries. The broker provides various communication channels to ensure that traders can access assistance conveniently.

Live Chat: IG US provides live chat support, allowing traders to connect with customer support representatives in real-time. The live chat feature is accessible through the IG US website and trading platforms, providing prompt responses to questions and concerns.

Email Support: Traders can contact IG US customer support via email. The broker offers dedicated email addresses for different types of inquiries, including technical support, account verification, and general questions. The email support team strives to respond promptly and provide detailed assistance.

Phone Support: IG US offers phone support during business hours, enabling traders to speak directly with support agents. The phone numbers for IG US customer support are available on the broker’s website, allowing traders to discuss their issues or questions in detail.

FAQs and Knowledge Base: IG US maintains an extensive FAQ section and knowledge base on its website, covering various topics related to trading, account management, and platform features. Traders can find answers to common questions and solutions to issues by browsing through the FAQs and articles.

Overall Impression

IG US demonstrates a commitment to providing excellent customer support services to its clients. With multiple communication channels, including live chat, email, and phone support, traders can access assistance conveniently. The prompt and effective customer support contributes to enhancing the overall trading experience, fostering trust and confidence in IG US’ services.

Conclusion

IG US stands out as a reliable and competitive broker in the forex and CFD trading industry. With a strong regulatory framework, competitive trading conditions, advanced platforms, and extensive educational resources, IG US is well-suited for traders of all experience levels. Whether you are a beginner looking to start your trading journey or an experienced trader seeking advanced tools and tight spreads, IG US offers a robust and secure trading environment.

Information and Features

Trading Features

Further Information

Contact Information