EasyMarkets vs IG: Which Broker Suits Norway Traders Best?

Spread costs are a key factor for Norway traders, especially when trading USD pairs frequently. IG offers variable spreads starting from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD and 1.2 pips on GBP/USD, with average spreads on USD/NOK around 2.5 pips during high liquidity. EasyMarkets uses fixed spreads, typically 1.2 pips on EUR/USD and 2.8 pips on USD/NOK, regardless of market volatility. For high-volume traders, IG’s lower variable spreads save significant costs over time, but those who prefer predictable costs may choose EasyMarkets. Note that IG’s raw spread account requires a monthly commission of $5 per 100k traded, which can add up for smaller positions. Both brokers charge no commissions on standard accounts, making direction comparison straightforward for Norway traders.

IG provides two robust platforms: its proprietary web-based platform and MetaTrader 4 (MT4). The IG platform offers advanced charting, 80+ indicators, and risk management tools like trailing stops—ideal for Norwegian traders who need real-time analysis on USD/NOK. EasyMarkets supplies its own WebTrader and mobile app, plus MT4 and cTrader, with a user-friendly interface featuring one-click trading. For Norway traders, IG’s research section includes daily market commentary on Nordic currencies, while EasyMarkets offers a simple economic calendar. Both platforms are available in English and work seamlessly on mobile devices, but IG’s platform is more feature-rich for experienced retail traders.

IG is known for its fast execution, using ECN technology with an average order speed of 0.1 seconds, ideal for scalping and high-frequency trading. EasyMarkets’ execution is slightly slower at 0.3–0.5 seconds due to its market maker model, but it offers guaranteed stop-loss orders at no extra cost, a feature not available at IG. For Norwegian traders trading volatile pairs like USD/NOK, IG’s speed reduces slippage, while EasyMarkets’ fixed spreads and guaranteed stops provide certainty during news events. Both brokers have 99.9% uptime and no requotes on standard orders.

EasyMarkets is regulated by CySEC (Cyprus) and the FSCA (South Africa), with clients protected under the EU’s MiFID II framework. IG holds multiple licenses including FCA (UK), BaFin (Germany), and registration with the Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) through its EU entity. This means IG offers Tier-1 regulation and negative balance protection for Norwegian clients. EasyMarkets provides investor compensation up to €20,000 under ICF, while IG’s EU clients are covered by up to €100,000 per the German investor compensation scheme. For Norway traders, IG’s stronger regulatory backing and local registration enhance trust, though both brokers segregate client funds in separate accounts.

Norwegian traders can fund their accounts in USD using four supported methods: Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. Bank transfers from Norwegian banks (e.g., DNB, Nordea) typically take 1-3 business days to clear, with no fees from either broker. E-wallet deposits via Skrill or Neteller are instant and free, but withdrawals to these wallets may incur a small processing fee (0.5-1% depending on the broker). USDT TRC20 is a fast, no-fee option for crypto-savvy traders, though EasyMarkets and IG both require the same wallet address used for deposit. Withdrawals are generally processed within 24 hours by both brokers, with IG often completing bank transfers one day sooner. Minimum deposits are low: $100 for EasyMarkets and $250 for IG, making both accessible for retail traders in Norway.

Both EasyMarkets and IG offer swap-free Islamic accounts for Muslim traders in Norway, adhering to Sharia law by eliminating interest (riba) on overnight positions. EasyMarkets provides Islamic accounts upon request, usually processed within 24 hours, with no change to spreads or commissions. IG automatically allows Islamic accounts for clients who reside in countries where it is offered, including Norway, by contacting support. However, IG may charge a small administration fee on positions held beyond a certain number of days, whereas EasyMarkets keeps the account completely swap-free. Norway traders should confirm terms with each broker before opening, as both require a declaration of faith and verify eligibility based on local regulations.

IG offers 24/7 customer support in English via live chat and phone, with a dedicated Norwegian language phone line during market hours. EasyMarkets provides 24/5 support via live chat, email, and phone, but only in English. Both brokers have extensive FAQ sections. For Norway traders requiring Norwegian-speaking assistance, IG is the better choice, though response times are similar—under 2 minutes for live chat on both platforms. EasyMarkets’ support is slower during weekends, which may be a drawback for traders active outside European hours.