EasyMarkets vs IG – Ireland Broker Comparison 2026

For Ireland traders, trading costs are a major factor. IG offers tighter spreads on major forex pairs like EUR/USD (from 0.6 pips) compared to EasyMarkets (from 1.0 pip). On a standard lot trade, IG can save you $4 per trade on spreads alone. However, EasyMarkets provides fixed spreads, which protect against slippage during news events – useful for traders who prefer cost certainty. IG also charges lower commissions on share CFDs, while EasyMarkets has a simpler, all-in spread model. Over 100 trades per month, the cost difference becomes significant, making IG the more cost-effective choice for volume traders.

EasyMarkets offers its proprietary web platform and mobile apps, which are intuitive and include unique tools like ‘Rate Shield’ and ‘Negative Balance Protection’. IG provides the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and its own advanced web platform, along with ProRealTime and L2 Dealer. For Ireland traders who value custom indicators and algorithmic trading, IG’s MT4 integration is a strong advantage. EasyMarkets’ platform is simpler and better suited for beginners, while IG caters to both retail and experienced traders with extensive charting and analysis tools.

IG uses Straight-Through Processing (STP) and No Dealing Desk (NDD) execution, offering low latency and minimal requotes. EasyMarkets operates as a market maker, which means potential for requotes during volatile markets, but they offer guaranteed stop-loss orders and negative balance protection. For scalpers and high-frequency traders in Ireland, IG’s execution speed is superior, while EasyMarkets is suitable for swing traders who value order certainty.

Regulation is key for Ireland traders. IG is directly regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and also holds a license with the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), offering strong local oversight and investor protection up to €20,000 under the Irish Deposit Guarantee Scheme. EasyMarkets is authorised by CySEC (Cyprus) and the FCA, benefiting from EU MiFID passporting to serve Irish clients. While both are legitimate, IG’s CBI registration gives Irish traders an extra layer of confidence and local recourse. Always check the specific entity you open an account with to ensure compliance with Irish regulations.

Ireland traders can fund accounts at both EasyMarkets and IG using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. EasyMarkets also accepts credit/debit cards, while IG additionally supports PayPal. Minimum deposits are $100 for EasyMarkets and $0 for IG (but $250 for bank transfers). Deposits via e-wallets are instant, while Bank Transfer and USDT TRC20 may take 1-3 business days. Withdrawals are processed within 1 business day for e-wallets and 2-5 days for bank transfers. Neither broker charges fees for deposits or withdrawals, but third-party fees (like bank intermediary charges) may apply. USDT TRC20 is a convenient option for crypto-savvy traders, though network fees vary.

Both EasyMarkets and IG offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Muslim traders in Ireland who require Sharia compliance. EasyMarkets provides swap-free trading on all account types with no additional documentation required for standard forex pairs – simply request it via support. IG offers Islamic accounts after a formal application and proof of faith; once approved, no swap charges apply on overnight positions for most instruments. Both brokers ensure no hidden interest fees, but traders should verify that their preferred instruments (e.g., cryptocurrencies) are included. EasyMarkets’ simpler process may appeal to traders seeking quick setup.

EasyMarkets offers 24/5 customer support via live chat, email, and phone. IG provides 24/7 support (except weekends) with dedicated phone lines for different regions, including a UK/Ireland support number. IG also has a comprehensive FAQ and community forum. For Ireland traders, IG’s local phone support and faster response times during Dublin business hours give it an edge. EasyMarkets’ live chat is responsive but limited to trading hours.