Which broker is better for Netherlands traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
When comparing EasyMarkets vs IG for Netherlands traders in 2025, the differences in regulation, costs, and payment methods are critical. IG holds a direct license from the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM), giving local traders strong protection under European MiFID rules. EasyMarkets, on the other hand, operates under CySEC and FSA Seychelles, meaning it is not directly regulated by the AFM. For Dutch retail traders, this regulatory gap often makes IG the safer choice. However, EasyMarkets offers unique features like guaranteed stop losses, fixed spreads, and the ability to deposit using USDT TRC20—a cryptocurrency option not available at IG. Netherlands traders also value local payment methods: IG supports iDEAL, which is widely used in the Netherlands, while EasyMarkets does not. Both brokers accept Bank Transfer, Skrill, and Neteller, but only EasyMarkets accepts USDT. With IG scoring 4.2 out of 5 and EasyMarkets 3.4, this comparison helps you decide based on your trading style, budget, and need for local regulation.
| 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 Netherlands traders trading in USD, IG offers more competitive trading costs with variable spreads starting from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD, compared to EasyMarkets' fixed spreads from 1.0 pips. IG’s commission-free standard account is ideal for retail traders who trade moderate volumes. EasyMarkets uses a fixed spread model that protects against slippage but can be more expensive on high-volume trading. If you trade over 10 lots per month, IG’s cost structure becomes significantly cheaper. EasyMarkets also charges an inactivity fee after 90 days, whereas IG only charges after 24 months. Overall, IG provides better value for active Dutch traders.
| 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Netherlands (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 a superior platform experience for Netherlands traders with its proprietary web platform, MetaTrader 4 (MT4), and the advanced ProRealTime. EasyMarkets offers a web-based platform and mobile apps but lacks MT4 or cTrader. For Dutch retail traders familiar with MetaTrader, IG is the clear winner. IG also integrates with TradingView and offers a comprehensive API for automated trading. EasyMarkets’ platform is simpler and suitable for beginners, but it lacks advanced charting tools and algorithmic trading capabilities that many Dutch traders prefer.
| 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 |
EasyMarkets offers guaranteed stop losses and no slippage on its fixed spread accounts, appealing to risk-averse traders. IG provides fast market execution with variable spreads, but does not guarantee stops. For Netherlands traders day trading major pairs like EUR/USD, IG’s execution is reliable and quick. However, during high volatility, IG may experience slippage, while EasyMarkets protects against it. The choice depends on whether you prefer fixed or variable execution.
| Safety Factor | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Regulation is a key differentiator for Netherlands traders. IG is authorized by the AFM and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring compliance with Dutch and EU financial laws. This means negative balance protection, segregated accounts, and access to the Dutch investor compensation scheme (up to €20,000). EasyMarkets is regulated by CySEC (EU) and FSA Seychelles, but not directly by the AFM. While CySEC provides some protection, it is weaker than AFM oversight. Netherlands traders should prioritise IG for peace of mind, especially if trading larger amounts.
| 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 |
Netherlands traders have several deposit options at both brokers, but there are key differences. IG supports iDEAL, the most popular local payment method, while EasyMarkets does not. Both accept Bank Transfer, Skrill, and Neteller. Only EasyMarkets accepts USDT TRC20, which is attractive for crypto users. EasyMarkets has a minimum deposit of $100, while IG has no minimum for bank transfers. Withdrawals are free at both brokers, but IG processes them faster (1-2 business days) compared to EasyMarkets (2-5 days). For Dutch traders who want local convenience, IG’s iDEAL integration is a major advantage.
| 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 |
Muslim traders in the Netherlands can open Islamic (swap-free) accounts with both brokers. EasyMarkets offers a straightforward Islamic account with no swap fees on any instrument, no additional documentation required, and no hidden charges. IG also offers swap-free accounts, but requires a declaration of faith and applies a holding period before switching. For Dutch traders seeking a simple and transparent Islamic account, EasyMarkets is the better option. However, IG’s regulatory oversight may still appeal to those who prioritise AFM regulation.
| 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 Dutch via phone, email, and live chat, which is ideal for Netherlands traders. EasyMarkets offers 24/5 support in English only, with limited local language options. IG also has a local office in Amsterdam, making Dutch-language support more accessible. For urgent issues or local assistance, IG has a clear advantage for Netherlands traders.
| 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 Netherlands traders in 2025, IG is the superior broker overall, scoring 4.2 vs EasyMarkets' 3.4. IG’s AFM regulation, lower spreads, MT4/ProRealTime platforms, and support for iDEAL make it the best choice for most retail traders. EasyMarkets remains a viable alternative if you need crypto deposits via USDT TRC20, guaranteed stop losses, or a simple swap-free account. However, for long-term safety and cost efficiency, IG is strongly recommended for Netherlands traders. Always consider your own trading style and regulatory comfort before deciding.