BlackBull Markets, an STP broker, offers MT4 and 60+ forex pairs, while IG Group, a market maker, provides MT4 plus three additional platforms. See how they stack up; IG Group ranks highest in this review.
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Our full comparison covers the 10 most important trading factors. Here are five noticeable differences between BlackBull Markets and IG:
BlackBull Markets and IG Group are reputable brokers offering competitive features. BlackBull Markets excels in providing lower commissions and a broader range of instruments, while IG Group shines with its advanced trading platforms and slightly tighter spreads on key forex pairs. Both cater to different trading styles, making them appealing to a wide range of traders.
BlackBull Markets and IG Group offer competitive spreads, but the difference lies in their specific pairs. BlackBull Markets excels with tighter spreads for GBP/USD (0.43) and USD/CAD (1.4), benefitting traders of these pairs. IG Group takes the lead with tighter spreads on AUD/USD (0.29) and EUR/USD (0.16). Both showcase spreads below industry averages for many pairs, giving traders cost-efficient choices.
| Standard Account | BlackBull Markets Spreads | IG Group Spreads | Industry Spreads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Average | 1.5 | 1.62 | 1.6 |
| EUR/USD | 1.1 | 1.13 | 1.2 |
| USD/JPY | 1.4 | 1.12 | 1.4 |
| GBP/USD | 1.4 | 1.66 | 1.6 |
| AUD/USD | 1.2 | 1.01 | 1.5 |
| USD/CAD | 1.4 | 1.98 | 1.8 |
| EUR/GBP | 1.7 | 1.71 | 1.5 |
| EUR/JPY | 1.8 | 2.27 | 1.9 |
| AUD/JPY | 2 | 2.06 | 2.1 |
BlackBull Markets charges a lower $3.00 commission per lot, making it appealing for cost-conscious traders, especially those who deal in high-volume trades. IG Group charges double at $6.00 per lot, which might be a drawback for some traders.
Both steer clear of inactivity fees, a plus for less-active traders. BlackBull Markets’ standard account is commission-free but it has slightly higher spreads compared to its ECN accounts. IG Markets takes a simpler approach with spread-only pricing for its standard account, eliminating the need for separate commission considerations.
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Standard Account Spreads
|
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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1.10 | 1.20 | 1.50 | 1.40 | 1.40 |
|
1.13 | 1.01 | 1.71 | 1.66 | 1.12 |
|
1.30 | 1.70 | 2.10 | 1.40 | 1.50 |
|
1.20 | 0.90 | 1.50 | 1.80 | 1.80 |
|
1.20 | 1.40 | 1.50 | 1.60 | 1.50 |
|
1.10 | 1.20 | 1.30 | 1.30 | 1.30 |
|
1.20 | 1.80 | 1.90 | 1.90 | 1.60 |
|
1.32 | 1.95 | 1.37 | 1.70 | 1.40 |
Avg. spreads are taken from each broker's website and updated monthly. Last update on 04/01/2025
Both offer unique advantages. BlackBull Markets is ideal for traders seeking lower commissions and diverse instruments, while IG Group is better suited for those prioritising advanced platforms and slightly tighter spreads. To sum it up, the choice depends on individual trading preferences and strategies.
Our Lowest Spreads and Fees Verdict
IG Group leads in this category due to lowest spreads and fees.
*Your capital is at risk ‘70% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
BlackBull Markets and IG Group are strong contenders in the forex trading space, offering diverse features and platforms. BlackBull Markets stands out with its support for MetaTrader 5 and cTrader, appealing to traders seeking advanced tools. IG Group, on the other hand, shines with its proprietary platform, offering unique features like advanced charting and web-based access. Both cater to different trading preferences, making them suitable for a wide range of traders.
| Trading Platform | BlackBull Markets | IG Group |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 | Yes | No |
| cTrader | Yes | No |
| TradingView | Yes | Yes |
| Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes |
We have created a software questionnaire if you are unsure what platform best suits your trading style. Based on six simple questions, we can recommend the best trading software for your trading needs.
BlackBull markets support MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, providing advanced charting and automated trading capabilities. Meanwhile, IG Group offers MetaTrader 4 but lacks MetaTrader 5, focusing instead on its proprietary platform.
BlackBull Markets include cTrader and TradivingView, ideal for traders seeking robust analytical tools. On the other hand, IG Group’ proprietary platform with advanced charting, technical indicators, and direct chart trading, is accessible from any device.
Finally, in this last segment, BlackBull Markets supports copy trading, enabling traders to replicate strategies from experienced professionals. IG Group, in contrast, also offers copy trading, enhancing its appeal to traders looking for collaborative strategies.
We have created a software questionnaire if you are unsure what platform best suits your trading style. Based on six simple questions, we can recommend the best trading software for your trading needs.
IG Group has its proprietary platform that comes with a range of additional features and tools. Which include:
In addition to these, IG Group comes with a platform that is web-based. This way you can access from any device without needing to install any software.
IG Group takes the lead in this segment with its proprietary platform, offering features not available on MetaTrader 4. BlakcBull Markets excels in providing a broader range of platforms, including MetaTrader 5 and cTrader, catering to traders who prioritise advanced tools. Both enhance trading experiences through their unique offerings, making the choice dependent on individual trading styles and needs.
Our Better Trading Platform Verdict
IG Group subtly outshines due to their better trading platform
*Your capital is at risk ‘70% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
BlackBull Markets and IG Group are top-tier brokers, each offering unique account types tailored to traders’ needs. BlackBull markets impress with three distinct accounts, Standard for beginners, prime for seasoned traders, and Institutional for professional-boasting a swap-free option for Muslim traders.
IG Group counters with two standout choices:
These accounts are a tax-friendly option for UK residents. Both shine for their ability to address diverse trading styles and preferences.
| Blackbull Markets | IG Group | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Account | Yes | Yes |
| Raw Account | Yes | Yes |
| Swap Free Account | Yes | No |
| Active Traders | Yes | No |
| Spread Betting (UK) | No | Yes |
BlackBull Markets’ Prime and Institutional accounts provide competitive spreads and commissions, making them ideal for active traders aiming for cost-efficient trades. IG Group Spread Betting account offers tax-free trading for UK traders, while their CFD account gives access to an extensive range of markets. BlackBull Markets adds extra appeal with its swap-free account features, catering to specific trading needs. The brokers’ varied options enhance the forex industry’s vibrancy, helping traders craft personalised strategies.
Finally, BlackBull Markets edges ahead with its versatile account types, swap-free options, and competitive features, catering to a broader spectrum of global traders. IG Group stands out for its tax-efficient Spread Betting account and expansive market access, appealing to a niche but significant audience. Both elevate the forex trading experience, leaving traders spoiled for choice based on their unique needs.
Our Superior Accounts and Features Verdict
BlackBull Markets marginally exceeds because of their superior accounts and features.
BlackBull Markets and IG Group provide exceptional trading environments, but BlackBull Markets stands out with industry-leading execution speed. Scalpers and high-frequency traders benefit greatly from their lightning-fast order placements, minimising slippage and ensuring precise trade execution. IG Group, while slightly slower, offer a reliable, stable platform packed with user-friendly tools and features for a smooth trading experience. Both cater to different trader priorities, making them formidable choices.
| Broker | Execution Speed |
|---|---|
| BlackBull Markets | Fastest |
| IG Group | Fast |
BlackBull Markets excels with unmatched execution speeds, a critical factor for traders relying on timing precision like scalpers. Their robust trading infrastructure ensures minimal slippage, giving traders an edge. IG Group emphasises platform stability and accessibility, combining efficient trading tools with a user-friendly design. While not as fast, their trading setup is reliable and convenient, appealing to traders focusing on broader usability. These strengths highlight how both support diverse trading styles and enhance the overall forex trading landscape.
BlackBull Markets shines brightest in terms of trading experience, offering unparalleled speed and execution efficiency, m making it a favourite for precision-focused traders. IG Group secures its position with reliable platforms and user-friendly features, ensuring ease of use for traders prioritising accessibility. Together, these brokers elevate trading standards, giving traders the confidence to execute their strategies effectively.
Our Best Trading Experience and Ease Verdict
BlackBull Markets takes the top spot here due to their best trading experience and ease.
BlackBull Markets and IG Group excel in trust and regulation, catering to traders who prioritise safety and credibility. BlackBull Markets is regulated by the New Zealand Financial Markets Authority (FMA), ensuring local oversight and reliability. IG Group offers broader global coverage, including Tier 1 regulations from the FCA in the UK, ASIC in Australia, and others, positioning itself as a global powerhouse. The comprehensive regulatory frameworks of both provide reassurance and reliability, fostering confidence in traders across the forex landscape.
IG Group steals the show here due to their high trust score compared to BlackBull Markets.
BlackBull Markets Trust Score
IG Group Trust Score
BlackBull Markets focuses on strong local regulation via FMA, coupled with its stellar review scores, appealing to traders seeking region-specific reliability. IG Group extends its influence globally, boating Tier 1 regulation from institutions like FaFin and FINMA. This wider scope allows IG Group to attract traders from diverse regions, ensuring tailored safeguards and investor protection. Both leverage their regulatory strengths to provide robust platforms that cater to diverse trading needs, showcasing their commitment to trust and security in the competitive forex market.
| BlackBull Markets | IG Group | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 Regulation | FMA (New Zealand) | ASIC (Australia) FCA (UK) BaFin (Germany) FINMA (Switzerland) NFA/CFTC (USA) CYSEC (Cyprus) MAS (Singapore) FMA (New Zealand) |
| Tier 2 Regulation | JFSA (Japan) DFSA (Dubai) |
|
| Tier 3 Regulation | FSA-S (Seychelles) | BMA (Bermuda) FSCA (South Africa) |
When it comes to trust and regulation, BlackBull Markets shines with exceptional review scores and strong local oversight, while IG Group leads the global stage with a multitude of Tier 1 regulatory licenses. Both provide unmatched investor protection and reliability, making it a tie in this segment. Our final verdict in this segment highlights their shared commitment to ensuring a secure trading environment, proving they are both excellent choices for traders seeking peace of mind and operational integrity.
Our Stronger Trust and Regulation Verdict
Both brokers are tied in this category in account of better trust and regulations.
*Your capital is at risk ‘70% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
BlackBull Markets and IG Group deliver competitive offerings in CFDs and products, but IG Group stands out with its broader range. IG Group provide access to 110 forex Paris, 130 indices, and 13,000+ share CFDs, alongside ETFs, bongs and futures. BlackBull Markets focuses on specialised commodities, offering 16 cryptocurrencies and 2,000+ share CFDs, catering to niche traders. Both brokers bring unique strengths, making them compelling choices for traders with diverse needs.
IG Group impresses with its unmatched variety of markets, including ETFs, bonds, and futures, which add versatility to its trading options. Its robust offering across indices, forex pairs, and share CFDs makes it a go-to broker for those seeking market diversity. blackBull Markets, on the other hand, excels in commodities and cryptocurrencies, delivering specialised trading opportunities. With their tailored features, both significantly contribute to the forex industry by supporting various trading strategies and preferences.
Here’s a comparative table showcasing the range of CFDs, products, and markets available with both brokers:
| CFDs | BlackBull Markets | IG Group |
|---|---|---|
| Forex Pairs | 55 | 110 |
| Indices | 12 | 130 |
| Commodities | 10 Metals 3 Energies 7 Soft Commodities 9 Hard Commodities | 11 Metals 7 Energies 23 Softs |
| Cryptocurrencies | 16 | 13 (+ Crypto 10 Index) |
| Share CFDs | 2,000+ | 13000+ |
| ETFs | No | 2000+ |
| Bonds | No | 14 |
| Futures | Futures 22 | Yes |
| Treasuries | No | 14 |
| Investments | Yes 26,000 | Yes |
IG Group takes the lead in this segment, boasting a more extensive product range and CFD markets. Its inclusion of ETFs, bonds, and futures sets it apart, appealing to traders who value expansive options. meanwhile, BlackBull Markets holds its ground with niche offerings in cryptocurrencies and commodities, catering to traders seeking a specialisation. These brokers elevate the industry by addressing varied trading demands.
Our Top Product Range and CFD Markets Verdict
IG Group takes the win in this category because of top product range and CFD markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘70% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
BlackBull Markets and IG Group excel in their dedication to educating traders. Blackbull Markets offers diverse resources like webinars, detailed market analysis, and one-on-one training, focusing on tailored and beginner-friendly guidance. IG Group sets itself apart with an extensive library of educational videos, a dedicated learning app, and interactive quizzes to engage to engage learners. Both showcase their commitment to nurturing informed traders, but with distinct approaches that cater to different learning styles.
BlackBull Markets emphasises personalised support, including video tutorials, trading strategy articles, and training sessions. These resources make it an excellent choice for traders seeking structured, hands-on learning. IG Group offers a broader array of tools, such as a platform demo and mobile app, perfect for traders aiming to learn independently and at their own pace. Their seminars and real-time insights create an all-encompassing learning ecosystem, providing a comprehensive experience. These brokers elevate forex education by addressing diverse trader needs.
Both BlackBull Markets and IG Group are known for their commitment to educating traders by using their educational resources which are tailored to cater to both beginners and experienced traders. Here’s a comparison based on our testing:
IG Group edges ahead in this segment with its expansive and dynamic educational offerings, including innovative tools like a mobile app and quizzes. BlackBull markets still impress with hits personalised and beginner-oriented resources, catering to traders seeking direct guidance. Both significantly contribute to fostering a knowledgeable trading community, proving their dedication to trader success.
Our Superior Educational Resources Verdict
IG Group barely leads in this level owing to their superior educational resources.
*Your capital is at risk ‘70% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
BlackBull markets and IG Group provide excellent support, utilising live chat, email, and phone channels. However, IG Group takes the lead by offering 24/7 support, catering to traders anytime, while BlackBull Markets delivers slightly limited 24/5 availability. These differences define how both brokers address trader concerns and provide reliable assistance.
BlackBull markets shine with multilingual support, ensuring accessibility for traders worldwide. Its 24/5 support schedule efficiently handles inquiries during active trading hours. On the other hand, IG Group surpasses expectations with round-the-clock 24/7 availability, making it highly reliable for traders who operate in multiple time zones or during weekends. Both leverage their customer service channels to build trust and provide timely solutions, significantly contributing to traders’ success in the fast-paced forex market.
| Feature | BlackBull Markets | Go Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat Support | Yes | Yes |
| Email Support | Yes | Yes |
| Phone Support | Yes | Yes |
| Support Hours | 24/6 | 24/7 |
| Multilingual Support | Yes | Yes |
IG Group emerges as the leader in this segment due to its superior 24/7 support system, offering unmatched convenience and reliability. BlackBull Markets remains a strong contender with multilingual support and effective weekday assistance. Both excel in delivering robust customer service, ensuring traders receive the help they need to enhance their forex trading experience.
Our Superior Customer Service Verdict
IG Group stands out in this category owing to their superior customer services.
*Your capital is at risk ‘70% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
BlackBull Markets and IG Group offer versatile funding options, catering to traders with various payment needs. While BlackBull Markets supports credit/debit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies, IG Group provides a similarly extensive range but slightly edges ahead in overall accessibility. The availability of multiple options ensures traders can fund their accounts with ease and convenience, making both brokers strong contenders in this segment.
BlackBull Markets impresses with its wide variety of payment methods, especially its inclusion of popular e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller, and crypto support for modern traders. IG Group offers similar options, including PayPal and card payments, while maintaining seamless integration for quick and efficient transactions. Their robust systems simplify the process for traders, ensuring a smooth funding experience. By prioritising accessibility and diversity, both contribute significantly to enhancing the funding aspect of forex trading.
| Funding Option | BlackBull Markets | eToro |
|---|---|---|
| Credit Card | Yes | Yes |
| Debit Card | Yes | Yes |
| Bank Transfer | Yes | Yes |
| PayPal | Yes | Yes |
| Skrill | Yes | No |
| Neteller | Yes | No |
| Crypto | Yes | Yes |
| Rapid Pay | No | No |
| POLi / bPay | Yes | Yes |
| Klarna | No | No |
IG Group takes the lead in this segment, offering broader accessibility and superior funding versatility. BlackBull Markets remains an exceptional choice with its strong e-wallet and crypto payment options, catering to tech-savvy traders. Both excel in providing user-friendly funding solutions, simplifying the trading process and catering to a wide spectrum of trader preferences.
Our Better Funding Options Verdict
IG Group takes the lead in this segment, thanks to their better funding options.
*Your capital is at risk ‘70% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
BlackBull Markets and IG Group offer a $0 minimum deposit for bank wire transactions, making forex trading more accessible to new traders. BlackBull Markets requires a minimum of $50 for other funding options like credit/debit cards and e-wallets such as Skrill and Neteller. Meanwhile, IG Group has a slightly higher minimum requirement for most payment methods, starting at $50 for USD deposits via credit cards or PayPal. Both prioritise affordability in account funding, making trading initiation seamless.
BlackBull Markets appeals to diverse traders by offering $0 minimum deposits through bank wire transfers, with reasonable thresholds for cards and e-wallet payments. IG Group provides similar affordability but with slightly higher minimums, depending on the currency and funding method. IG Group’ versatility in allowing PayPal for deposits enhances convenience for some traders, while BlackBull markets earn a competitive edge with its inclusion of popular e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller. Both simplify the funding process, enabling traders to focus on strategy rather than barriers to entry.
BlackBull Markets
| Minimum Deposit | GBP | USD | EUR | AUD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Card / Debit Card | £50 | $50 | €50 | $50 |
| Bank Wire | £0 | $0 | €0 | $0 |
| Skrill | £50 | $50 | €50 | $50 |
| Neteller | £50 | $50 | €50 | $50 |
IG Group
| GBP | USD | EUR | AUD | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Card / Debit Card | £250 Minimum Deposit | $50 Minimum Deposit | €300 Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Paypal | £250 Minimum Deposit | $50 Minimum Deposit | €300 Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Bank Wire | £0 Minimum Deposit | $250 Minimum Deposit | €0 Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Skrill | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Minimum Deposit | Recommended Deposit | |
| BlackBull Markets | $0 | $500 |
| IG Group | $0 | $100 |
This segment ends in a tie as BlackBull Markets and IG Group shine with their $0 minimum deposit feature through bank wire transfers. BlackBull Market’s inclusion of e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller makes it appealing to tech-savvy users, while IG Group’ PayPal integration offers added convenience. Both lower the entry threshold for aspiring traders, making them equally reliable o options for affordability and accessibility.
Our Lower Minimum Deposit Verdict
It’s a tie, as BlackBull Markets and IG Group excel in offering lower minimum deposit requirements and accessibility for traders.
BlackBull Markets is outshined in this category by IG Group owing to the majority of evaluated factors.
| Criteria | BlackBull Markets | IG Group |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest Spreads And Fees | No | Yes |
| Better Trading Platform | No | Yes |
| Superior Accounts And Features | Yes | No |
| Best Trading Experience And Ease | Yes | No |
| Stronger Trust And Regulation | Yes | Yes |
| Top Product Range And CFD Markets | No | Yes |
| Superior Educational Resources | No | Yes |
| Superior Customer Service | No | Yes |
| Better Funding Options | No | Yes |
| Lower Minimum Deposit | Yes | Yes |
IG Group is best for beginner traders due to their comprehensive and user-friendly platform, making it the better choice for beginner traders.
BlackBull Markets stands out as the preferred choice for experienced and seasoned traders seeking advanced and robust features in trading.
IG Group generally offers lower costs compared to BlackBull Markets. They have competitive spreads and are known for their transparency in pricing. For traders who are particularly cost-conscious, understanding the spread dynamics is crucial. You can find a detailed comparison of brokers with the lowest spreads on our Lowest Commission Brokers page.
Both IG Group and BlackBull Markets support MetaTrader 4, but BlackBull Markets is often praised for its seamless MT4 integration and enhanced features. MetaTrader 4 remains a popular choice among traders globally. For a comprehensive list of the best MT4 brokers, you can visit our best MT4 brokers.
BlackBull Markets stands out when it comes to offering social or copy trading options. They have integrated platforms like Myfxbook and ZuluTrade, allowing traders to follow and replicate strategies of successful traders. Social trading can be a game-changer, especially for new traders. For more insights on the best platforms for social trading, check out our best social trading platforms guide.
IG Group offers spread betting to its clients. Spread betting is a popular form of trading in the UK, allowing traders to speculate on the price movements of various financial instruments without owning the underlying asset.
In my opinion, BlackBull Markets has a slight edge for Australian Forex traders. Both brokers are ASIC regulated, ensuring a high level of trust and security for traders. However, BlackBull Markets was founded in New Zealand and has a strong presence in the Australian market, while IG Group is headquartered overseas. For a deeper dive into the best options for Australian traders, you can check out our Best Forex Brokers In Australia guide.
Personally, I believe IG Group stands out for UK Forex traders. Both brokers are FCA regulated, which is a testament to their commitment to maintaining high standards of operation and customer protection. However, IG Group, founded in the UK, has a long-standing reputation and a deep understanding of the UK trading environment. For those in the UK looking to explore their options further, our Best Forex Brokers In UK guide offers a detailed comparison.
No commission account spread propiety testing data and published wesbite spread information, centralised on our Standard Account Spreads page.
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