Which broker is better for Thailand traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
For experienced retail traders in Thailand, choosing between EasyMarkets and IG is a pivotal decision. EasyMarkets, rated 3.4/5, is known for its user-friendly platform and fixed spreads – a comfort for those who want predictable costs. IG, scoring 4.2/5, is a global powerhouse offering deep liquidity, tight variable spreads, and advanced tools for serious traders. Both brokers welcome Thai clients and support local payment methods like PromptPay, Bank Transfer, and Skrill, making it easy to fund accounts in Thai Baht (THB). However, they differ significantly in product range, execution quality, and regulatory oversight. This comparison dives into trading costs, platform features, regulation (including relevance to the SEC Thailand), deposit/withdrawal specifics, and Islamic account options. Whether you trade forex, indices, or commodities, understanding these differences is crucial for your success in the Thai market. Let’s break down each aspect so you can decide which broker aligns with your trading style and local 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 Thai traders, trading costs are a major factor. IG offers variable spreads starting from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD, with a typical commission of $0 for standard accounts – a clear win for volume traders. EasyMarkets uses fixed spreads averaging 1.0–1.2 pips on the same pair, no commission, but higher total cost per trade. On THB crosses like USD/THB, IG’s liquidity gives it tighter pricing, though not always quoted directly. Over 50 trades per month, IG’s cost advantage can save Thai traders thousands of baht. Additionally, IG’s low margin rates for experienced traders reduce capital tied up, while EasyMarkets' fixed spreads protect against volatility – useful when Thai market news causes sudden swings. Overall, IG is more cost-efficient for active, experienced Thai 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand (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 | ✓ | ✓ |
Experienced Thai traders need robust platforms. IG offers its proprietary web platform, plus MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and ProRealTime, all with advanced charting, automated trading, and real-time data. EasyMarkets provides its own web trader and a mobile app, which are simpler but lack algorithmic trading capabilities. For Thai users, IG’s platform supports local time zones and THB pricing view, while EasyMarkets offers a built-in risk management tool (dealCancellation) that appeals to traders who want to reverse losing trades. MT4 on IG also allows for Expert Advisors (EAs), crucial for many retail pros. If you demand advanced analysis and automation, IG is the clear choice; if you prefer an easy interface with extra safety features, EasyMarkets could suffice.
| 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 |
Execution quality directly affects Thai traders, especially when trading fast-moving Asian sessions. IG uses straight-through processing (STP) with no dealing desk intervention, offering fast execution with average speeds under 40ms. EasyMarkets operates as a market maker, which can lead to requotes during high volatility, though it provides fixed spreads that some traders like. For experienced Thai traders trading major pairs during the Tokyo or Singapore overlap, IG’s execution is superior – minimal slippage and no conflict of interest. EasyMarkets’ model may be acceptable for smaller positions, but for serious scalping or news trading, IG’s execution is the clear winner.
| Safety Factor | EasyMarkets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Both brokers are regulated by top-tier authorities: IG by the FCA (UK) and ASIC (Australia), while EasyMarkets is regulated by CySEC (Cyprus) and ASIC. The SEC Thailand does not directly oversee foreign brokers, so Thai traders rely on these international regulators for protection. IG’s FCA regulation offers up to £85,000 of investor compensation, stronger than CySEC’s €20,000 limit. For experienced Thai traders, this difference matters when considering large balances. Additionally, IG’s longer history (since 1974) and listing on the London Stock Exchange add credibility. EasyMarkets is also legitimate but scores lower due to its smaller capital base and less stringent home regulation. Both comply with Thai anti-money laundering laws for payment processing, but IG’s regulatory framework provides greater security for serious traders.
| 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 |
Thai traders can deposit and withdraw using PromptPay (instant, free), Bank Transfer (1-2 days, small fee), and Skrill (instant, small fee). EasyMarkets sets a minimum deposit of $100 (approx 3,500 THB), while IG requires $250 (approx 8,750 THB). Withdrawals are processed to the same method: PromptPay is fastest for Thai banks (often within 24 hours). EasyMarkets charges no withdrawal fees, but bank transfers may incur intermediary charges. IG offers free withdrawals via bank transfer once per month; additional ones may cost a small fee. Skrill withdrawals are instant at both brokers. For Thai traders, PromptPay is the most convenient and cost-effective, especially for smaller amounts. Always verify the broker’s THB processing – IG typically converts to USD, which may involve currency conversion costs, while EasyMarkets handles THB deposits directly.
| 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 Thailand seeking swap-free (Islamic) accounts have options at both brokers. EasyMarkets provides Islamic accounts automatically for clients in eligible regions, with no hidden swap fees on overnight positions, covering forex, indices, and commodities. IG offers Islamic accounts upon request, requiring proof of residence in an Islamic country – Thailand qualifies. IG’s Islamic accounts are available on most instruments, but some products like CFDs on individual shares may incur fees. Both brokers ensure compliance with Sharia principles. For Thai Muslim traders, EasyMarkets’ simpler application process may be more convenient, while IG’s broader product access might appeal if you trade diverse assets. Always confirm with customer support the exact terms, including any administrative fees or holding period limits.
| 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 |
Customer support for Thai traders is available in English from both brokers. IG offers 24/5 phone support and a comprehensive email/chat system with local Thai office hours (9 AM–6 PM ICT). EasyMarkets provides 24/5 live chat and phone support in English, with Thai language support during limited hours. IG’s larger team generally responds faster, and its extensive FAQ and educational materials are well-suited for experienced traders. EasyMarkets is helpful for beginners but may lack depth for advanced queries. For urgent issues during Asian hours, IG’s support is more reliable.
| 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 retail traders in Thailand, IG is the superior choice overall, scoring 4.2/5 vs EasyMarkets’ 3.4/5. IG offers tighter spreads, better execution, advanced platforms like MT4, and stronger regulation (FCA). It also supports Thai baht deposits via PromptPay, Bank Transfer, and Skrill, though with a higher minimum ($250). EasyMarkets remains a solid alternative for those who value fixed spreads, simplicity, a lower minimum ($100), and innovative risk tools. Both brokers are legal for Thai traders but not directly regulated by the SEC Thailand – rely on their international licenses. If you trade frequently or need advanced analysis, choose IG. If you trade moderately and want cost certainty, EasyMarkets works. For most experienced Thai traders, IG provides a more professional and cost-effective trading environment.