Which broker is better for Malaysia traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Malaysian experienced retail traders seeking a reliable forex broker often compare EasyMarkets vs IG, two globally recognised platforms with distinct strengths. IG, scoring 4.2/5, is known for its deep liquidity, tight spreads, and advanced trading tools, making it a favourite among active traders. EasyMarkets, with a 3.4/5 rating, appeals to those who prefer fixed spreads and guaranteed stop-loss orders, as well as local payment methods like FPX and USDT. Both brokers accept Malaysia clients via offshore entities, and while neither is directly regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC Malaysia), they operate under respected international regulators such as the FCA and ASIC. This comparison is tailored for Malaysia—covering local payment options (FPX, Bank Transfer, Skrill, USDT), Islamic account availability, and the impact of spreads on trading costs. Whether you prioritise low-cost execution or pricing simplicity, understanding these differences is key to choosing the right broker for your needs.
| Instrument | EasyMarkets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | IG |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | IG |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | IG |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | IG |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $25 | $0 | IG |
For Malaysia traders, trading costs can significantly impact profitability, especially when trading larger volumes. IG offers floating spreads starting from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD with no commission on standard accounts, making it cost-effective for scalpers and day traders. EasyMarkets charges fixed spreads around 1.5 pips on the same pair, but includes commissions on some account types. While fixed spreads provide predictability, the wider average spread means higher per-trade costs for Malaysia traders executing frequent or high-volume strategies. Over a month of active trading, IG’s tighter spreads could save hundreds of ringgit in variable costs.
| Account Type | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $25 | $0 |
| Entity / Asset | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Malaysia (offshore) | Up to 1:2000 | Up to 1:30 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:2000 | 1:30 |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:200 | 1:200 |
| Indices | 1:100 | 1:100 |
| Cryptocurrencies | 1:2 to 1:10 | 1:2 to 1:10 |
| Asset Class | EasyMarkets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | EasyMarkets |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | EasyMarkets |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | EasyMarkets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | 1,700+ | IG |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Platform | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✗ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✗ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✓ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✗ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
IG provides access to its proprietary web platform, MetaTrader 4 (MT4), and ProRealTime, all of which offer advanced charting and execution tools suitable for experienced Malaysia traders. EasyMarkets also offers MT4 and its own web trader, but the platform lacks the depth of IG’s order types and research. For Malaysia users, both platforms are available in English, and mobile apps perform well on local networks. IG’s superior platform ecosystem gives experienced traders more flexibility in customising strategies and managing risk.
| Factor | EasyMarkets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | IG |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | EasyMarkets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
IG is known for consistently fast execution speeds and minimal slippage, thanks to its direct market access and deep liquidity pool. EasyMarkets uses a market maker model with fixed spreads and a guaranteed stop-loss feature, which can prevent slippage but may result in requotes during volatile markets. For experienced Malaysia traders who rely on precision and speed, IG’s execution quality is superior.
| Safety Factor | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Neither EasyMarkets nor IG is directly regulated by SC Malaysia, but both hold licences from top-tier authorities: IG is regulated by the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), and others, while EasyMarkets is regulated by CySEC and the FSA (Seychelles). For Malaysia traders, this means client funds are subject to segregation rules under these jurisdictions, offering a degree of protection. IG’s strong regulatory oversight provides additional confidence, with negative balance protection and access to financial ombudsman services. Malaysia traders should note that local deposit insurance does not apply, but both brokers maintain solid reputations.
| Payment Method | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✗ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✗ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✗ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | Cards 1-2 business days; e-wallets instant-1 business day; bank wire 3-10 business days; overall back-office processing within 1 business day (24h) | 1 to 5 business days |
Depositing and withdrawing in MYR is straightforward with both brokers, but EasyMarkets has an edge for Malaysia traders due to its support for FPX, bank transfer, Skrill, and USDT. Deposits via FPX are usually instant, while bank transfers can take 1–3 business days. IG accepts bank wire and Skrill but does not support FPX or USDT. For withdrawals, EasyMarkets processes via the same methods, with FPX withdrawals typically within 24 hours. IG’s bank transfers may take 2–5 days. Skrill and USDT offer faster alternatives on both platforms, though fees may apply. Overall, EasyMarkets provides more local-friendly deposit options.
| Islamic Account Feature | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Swap-free available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Admin fee instead of swap | On some instruments | On some instruments |
| MT4 / MT5 supported | ✓ | ✓ |
| How to apply | Contact support | Contact support |
Malaysia Muslim traders can open Islamic (swap-free) accounts with both EasyMarkets and IG. EasyMarkets offers swap-free accounts on standard accounts, with no swap charges on overnight positions. IG provides Islamic accounts upon request, but they may apply an administrative fee after a holding period (e.g., 10 days). Traders should confirm the specific terms with each broker before trading. Both options comply with Sharia principles, but EasyMarkets offers a simpler, fee-free structure for eligible accounts.
| Support Feature | EasyMarkets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | EasyMarkets |
IG provides 24/5 customer support in English via live chat, phone, and email, with a dedicated Malaysia phone line. EasyMarkets offers 24/5 live chat and email support, but response times can be slower. Neither broker offers Malay-language support, but English proficiency is generally high. For Malaysia traders requiring quick assistance during active trading hours, IG’s faster and more comprehensive support is an advantage.
| Mobile Feature | EasyMarkets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✓ | IG |
| Resource | EasyMarkets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | EasyMarkets |
Choose EasyMarkets if you...
Choose IG if you...
For experienced Malaysia traders, IG is the clear winner with its 4.2 rating, low spreads, advanced platform, and robust regulation. It caters well to active, high-volume trading and offers a trusted environment. EasyMarkets, rated 3.4, remains a viable option for those who value fixed spreads, guaranteed stops, and local payment methods like FPX and USDT. However, its higher costs and limited tools make it less suitable for seasoned traders. Ultimately, consider your trading style and payment preferences—IG for cost efficiency and execution, or EasyMarkets for simplicity and local payment convenience, all under the oversight of SC Malaysia’s regulatory framework.