Invest in CFDs with IG Markets: Complete Guide 2025

CFDs represent an indispensable trading tool for investors looking to gain exposure to numerous financial markets without directly owning the underlying assets. In this in-depth guide, discover everything you need to know to invest effectively and safely in CFDs with IG Markets, the global leader in the sector, in 2025.

Introduction to CFDs

CFDs are derivative financial products that allow speculation on the rise or fall of the price of thousands of assets (stocks, currencies, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies) without actually acquiring these assets. They operate on the principle of margin and offer leverage which can potentially amplify both gains and losses. Therefore, CFDs are reserved for informed and experienced investors who are well aware of the inherent risks associated with their use.

Advantages of CFDs

The major advantages of CFDs for investors:

  • Flexibility: ability to benefit from market rises as well as falls by opening buy or sell positions on many underlying assets.
  • Access to global markets: you can trade in just a few clicks on over 17,000 international financial instruments, 24 hours a day and 5 days a week according to the markets.
  • Margined trading: only a fraction (margin call) of the total position value needs to be immobilized, accessible even with a small capital.
  • Managed leverage: adjustable according to the category of assets and the investor's experience, subject to current regulations (e.g., ESMA restrictions for European individuals).
  • Reactivity: immediate closure and opening of positions, active risk management with stop orders, take profit, trigger levels, and negative balance protection.

Risks Associated with CFDs

It is essential to remember that:

  • 71% of individuals lose money on CFDs with IG. Trading with leverage can generate losses greater than the invested capital if the account is not protected or closely monitored.
  • Leverage exposes to increased volatility: even modest market movements are amplified, significantly increasing the risks.
  • Inactivity fees may apply after two years without transactions. Inquire about inactivity fees, withdrawal costs, and other non-trading expenses.

IG Markets Analysis: Key Figures and Financial Strength in 2025

IG Group, founded in 1974 in London, is a world reference in the CFD broker sector. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, it has a market capitalization of $4.9 billion at the end of 2025. IG deploys its services in 19 countries through a workforce of 2,550 employees and attracts more than 2 million users worldwide, including approximately 200,000 active clients specifically on CFDs.

Financial Performance 2025:

  • Revenue: $1.34 billion, up 9% year-over-year.
  • Adjusted pre-tax profit: $670 million.
  • Net profit: $475 million (+24% compared to 2024).

The broker also stands out for its carbon neutrality policy adopted since 2020, and increasing involvement on ESG topics (environmental, social, and governance). IG donates 1% of its profits to high-impact charitable causes.

In 2024, IG was honored three times by ADVFN: best platform for active traders, best multi-platform broker, and best mobile app.

Strategic Acquisition and Product Innovation

In April 2025, IG acquired the neo-broker FreeTrade to strengthen its investment offering. Following this acquisition, IG launched a new range of stock and ETF investments, including a commission-free offer to meet the needs of long-term individual investors. FreeTrade generated £6.5 million in net trading revenue since its integration.

Liquidity Compensation and Account Policy

In October 2025, IG announced compensation for unused liquidity up to 5% per annum on investment accounts, an attractive novelty in a competitive market.

Financial Products Available at IG Markets

IG Markets offers its clients one of the widest ranges in the CFD sector:

  • Stock CFDs: more than 12,000 international stock CFDs, covering major global stock exchanges (Europe, America, Asia, Oceania).
  • ETF CFDs: nearly 6,000 accessible ETFs, allowing diversified thematic or sectoral exposure.
  • Stock Indices: trading on all major global indices (e.g., CAC 40, DAX 40, S&P 500, NASDAQ 100, FTSE 100, Nikkei, Hang Seng...).
  • Foreign Exchange (Forex): over 80 currency pairs, with fast execution and competitive spreads.
  • Commodities: comprehensive coverage of major gold, oil (Brent and WTI), silver, copper, natural gas markets, etc.
  • Cryptocurrencies: wide selection including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, etc.

IG provides a robust proprietary platform, advanced chart analysis tools, real-time data, and numerous educational resources. Orders can be placed via mobile app, tablet, or web browser for a smooth and secure trading experience.

Investment Universe and Diversity of Markets

  • Total number of financial instruments available at IG: over 17,000.
  • Ability to trade on sectoral indices, bonds, interest rates, futures contracts, options, turbo24, structured products, and funds.

Fees, Spreads, Commissions, and Tariff Conditions 2025

Spreads and commissions on major asset classes

  • Forex:
    • EUR/USD: starting from 0.6 pips during regular hours (may vary outside regular hours or in volatile markets)
    • GBP/USD: 0.9 pips
    • USD/JPY: 0.7 pips
  • Indices:
    • CAC 40 (FRA40) : 1,0 point
    • DAX 40 : 1,2 point (note, no spread lower than 1 in 2025 for this index)
  • Commodities :
    • Gold : 0,3 point
    • Silver : 2,0 points
  • Cryptocurrencies :
    • Bitcoin : starting at 36 (units of the underlying asset)
    • Ethereum : 1,2
  • Stocks in CFD :
    • Europe : 0,05 % per order (minimum 5 €)
    • United States : 0,02 $ per share (minimum 15 $)

The pricing terms may evolve according to market volatility and liquidity. Note : spreads may be widened outside of trading hours. Other fees apply (overnight financing on leveraged positions, exit fees, foreign exchange fees, etc.). The minimum initial deposit to open a real account with IG is set at 1,000 €.

Additional Fees and Entry Barriers

Special attention should be paid to non-trading fees:

  • Inactivity fees : IG charges inactivity fees if no movement is made on the account for two consecutive years. Please consult the current pricing.
  • No deposit fees on most methods, but fees may apply for certain withdrawals by fast bank transfer or other specific methods.
  • No account maintenance fees for the majority of active accounts.

Opening and Operation of a CFD Account with IG

The opening of an account with IG Markets can be done quickly online, subject to the validation of identity and supporting documents necessary for compliance with European regulations (KYC/AML). IG applies a strict segmentation of its customer base : beginners, experienced individuals, professional investors, and institutions. This segmentation allows for adapting the offer of leverage, protection levels (negative balance protection available for individuals), and meeting regulatory requirements such as MiFID II/III and ESMA.

Guarantee of Funds and Regulatory Security

  • IG Markets is regulated in the UK by the FCA and in the EU by several competent authorities.
  • High capital adequacy meeting strict regulatory requirements in terms of solvency and client deposit protection.
  • Segregation of client funds through segregated accounts, which guarantees the security of deposits in case of broker failure.
  • Implementation of risk management devices (margin calls, guaranteed stops, automatic position cut-off systems).

ESG Policy and Sustainability Issues

Since 2020, IG has adopted a carbon-neutral policy, offsets its emissions, and structures its governance around ESG criteria : responsible investment, equal opportunities, social contribution through patronage, strong commitments on cybersecurity and operational transparency.

CFD Investment Strategies Adapted to IG in 2025

To succeed in CFD trading, it is essential to build a solid strategy and master all aspects of margin trading:

Day Trading

Day trading involves opening and closing all positions within the same day to take advantage of intra-day volatility. This strategy relies on precise technical analysis, monitoring of macroeconomic news, and high market responsiveness. IG offers scalping tools, automated order execution, and real-time access to financial news.

Swing Trading

Swing trading aims to exploit market movements over a period of a few days to a few weeks. It requires in-depth graphical and fundamental analysis. IG platforms integrate multiple indicators, technical signals, and economic reports for experienced users.

Progressive Investment

Thanks to liquidity remuneration and the introduction of commission-free stocks/ETFs, IG also attracts medium to long-term investors who want to arbitrage between passive investment and more active trading on indices or currencies.

Risk Management

The systematic use of stops (including guaranteed stop-loss according to markets), diversification, and proper management of capital are crucial. It is strongly recommended never to engage more than 1 to 2% of capital per transaction and to diversify exposure across different asset classes.

Investor Protection and Regulatory Environment

Capital Protection Level: IG applies strict separation of client assets, continuous monitoring of capital adequacy, and provides additional coverages for eligible clients (e.g., guarantees by the UK Financial Services Compensation Scheme up to regulatory limits).

Regulation 2025: The regulatory environment is evolving with the completion of MiFID III in Europe, the rise of ESG requirements, and enhanced rules for individual investor protection. IG strictly adheres to these standards.

Customer Service, Reviews, and Quality of Service

IG enjoys an excellent reputation in 2025, with a rating of 4/5 or higher collected from over 31,000 customer reviews on major platforms (TrustPilot, Google, Apple Store, Play Store). Customer support, available by phone, email, and live chat, stands out for its availability and competence in serving both beginners and institutional clients.

  • CFD Specificity: CFDs allow indirect exposure; IG does not operate on physical stocks or ETFs. It is not possible to directly purchase assets through IG.
  • Execution Liquidity: For stock and ETF CFDs, IG reserves the right to limit the size or availability of certain markets based on overall liquidity conditions. Investors should always review the order book and any temporary access restrictions.
  • Lack of precise indicators on detailed ESG performance or operational risk management: IG primarily communicates on its global commitments and carbon neutrality, less so on specific sustainability indicators by asset class.
  • Hidden costs: beyond trading, be aware of inactivity fees and withdrawal fees, which can be significant in a passive investment perspective.

IG Markets Comparison - Main CFD Competitors in 2025

Features IG Markets Competitor A Competitor B
Number of CFD instruments +17,000 12,500 9,000
Active CFD clients ~200,000 180,000 150,000
Market capitalization (2025) $4.9 billion $2.8 billion $3.2 billion
Net profit (2025) $475 million $240 million $158 million
Number of employees 2,550 1,450 1,200
EUR/USD spreads from 0.6 pip 0.9 pip 0.7 pip
CAC 40 | DAX40 spreads 1.0 | 1.2 1.2 | 1.5 1.1 | 1.3
European stock CFD commission 0.05% (min. €5) 0.08% (min. €8) 0.04% (min. €6)
Client CFD loss rate 71% 76% 68%

IG Markets FAQ: Clear Answers to Essential Questions

What are the account opening criteria at IG?

The opening requires an initial deposit of €1,000, a full identity verification (KYC), address validation, and completion of an investment suitability questionnaire. The platform evaluates the investor's experience, knowledge, and ability to bear risk.

Does the IG platform suit beginners?

Yes, IG offers interactive guides, webinars, educational articles, free demos, and dedicated support to cater to both novices and experienced traders.

Can I buy stocks or ETFs outright?

No, IG exclusively offers CFDs on stocks and ETFs, not direct purchases of physical assets.

What is the negative balance protection policy?

Individual accounts benefit from negative balance protection under European regulation. In case of extreme market events, losses cannot exceed the account balance, subject to general terms and conditions.

How are funds deposited with IG protected?

The deposited funds are maintained in segregated accounts separate from the broker's own assets. The company displays a level of equity well above the mandatory regulatory thresholds.

Are there any hidden fees?

The main fees are transparent: spread, commissions, and overnight financing. Inactivity fees are applied after 24 months without transactions, and certain withdrawal fees may be charged depending on the withdrawal method chosen. No standard deposit fee is charged.

Conclusion: IG Markets, a global reference for trading CFDs in 2025

In 2025, IG Markets establishes itself as the essential platform for demanding CFD investors. Its international reach, financial strength, and innovative policy (liquidity remuneration, commission-free offer, acquisition of FreeTrade) attract an increasing audience of experts and newcomers to the financial markets. Its incomparable range, its commitment to ESG principles, the security of its equity, and the quality of its customer service place IG at the top of the list of CFD brokers in Europe and around the world.

However, CFD trading is not suitable for everyone: individuals must be aware of the high risk of losses, the fee structure, and the limitations of derivative products. It is therefore essential to educate oneself, test strategies in demo environments, and never invest capital that one would not be willing to lose. For more information, consult the educational resources offered by IG, compare fees, explore the details of the product range, and seek advice from a professional if necessary.

Trading CFDs through IG Markets remains an opportunity to access global markets with flexibility and power, provided one masters the mechanisms and applies best practices for risk management. IG Markets embodies the industry standard in 2025 facing intensified competition and strengthened regulations.