Which broker is better for Cyprus traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Cyprus traders looking to trade forex and CFDs have two well-known options: Forex.com and IG. Both brokers operate under strict regulation, including from CySEC, offering peace of mind for local clients. In 2025, IG holds a higher overall score (4.2/5) thanks to its extensive market access, advanced platforms, and competitive spreads. Forex.com (3.4/5) remains solid for beginners with its straightforward interface and reliable execution. Cyprus traders can deposit using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, or even USDT TRC20, giving flexibility. Whether you day trade EUR/USD or diversify into indices and commodities, understanding the local differences – from spread costs to customer support in Greek or English – is essential. This comparison breaks down the key factors specifically for Cyprus residents to help you choose the right broker for your trading style and goals.
| Instrument | Forex.com | 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 | $100 | $0 | IG |
For Cyprus traders, trading costs can significantly impact profitability. IG offers tighter spreads starting at 0.8 pips on EUR/USD, which is beneficial for high-volume scalpers. Forex.com’s standard account starts around 1.0 pip, but its Raw Pricing account can narrow that to 0.2 pips with a commission. IG also provides volume-based rebates that further reduce costs. Cyprus traders who trade frequently should lean toward IG, while occasional traders may find Forex.com’s all-in pricing simpler. Remember that swap rates and overnight fees also vary; check each broker’s policy for positions held beyond a day.
| Account Type | Forex.com | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✗ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $100 | $0 |
| Entity / Asset | Forex.com | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Cyprus (offshore) | Up to 1:50 | Up to 1:30 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:50 | 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 | Forex.com | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | Forex.com |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | Forex.com |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | Forex.com |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | 1,700+ | IG |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Platform | Forex.com | IG |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✗ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✓ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✓ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✗ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
IG provides its proprietary web platform plus MetaTrader 4 and ProRealTime, catering to both beginners and advanced Cyprus traders. The advanced charting and algorithmic trading tools are ideal for those who rely on technical analysis. Forex.com offers TradingView integration and its own web platform, which is user-friendly but less feature-rich than IG’s offering. For mobile trading, both brokers have well-rated apps, but IG’s app offers more order types and customisation. Cyprus traders who value advanced analysis and automation will prefer IG; those seeking simplicity will like Forex.com.
| Factor | Forex.com | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | IG |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | Forex.com |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
IG boasts fast execution with average speeds under 50ms and no requotes on most trades, ideal for Cyprus day traders. Forex.com also offers reliable execution with minimal slippage, but its order routing can occasionally be slower during volatile markets. Both brokers provide negative balance protection, which is crucial for leveraged trading. IG’s larger liquidity pool via its banking relationships gives it an edge in execution quality, especially during news events. Cyprus traders who prioritise speed should choose IG.
| Safety Factor | Forex.com | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | FCA | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Both Forex.com and IG are authorised by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the local financial regulator. This means Cyprus traders benefit from negative balance protection and access to the Investor Compensation Fund (ICF) for claims up to €20,000. Additionally, both brokers are regulated by the FCA in the UK, adding an extra layer of oversight. IG has a stronger reputation for regulatory compliance, while Forex.com has had minor regulatory issues in the past. Regardless, Cyprus traders can trade with confidence knowing both are fully licensed and monitored.
| Payment Method | Forex.com | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✗ | ✗ |
| Neteller | ✗ | ✗ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✗ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | 1 to 3 business days | 1 to 5 business days |
Cyprus traders can fund accounts at both Forex.com and IG using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. Bank Transfers are free but may take 1-3 business days; Skrill and Neteller deposits are instant with minimal fees. USDT TRC20 is a convenient crypto option with near-zero cost and fast confirmation. For withdrawals, IG processes most methods within 24 hours, while Forex.com can take up to 2 days for Skrill/Neteller. Both brokers allow withdrawals in USD, the base currency for this comparison. Minimum deposits are low – $100 for Forex.com and £250 for IG (approx €290), making both accessible to Cyprus retail traders.
| Islamic Account Feature | Forex.com | 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 |
Cyprus has a significant Muslim population, and both brokers accommodate Sharia-compliant trading through swap-free Islamic accounts. Forex.com and IG offer these accounts to eligible clients, eliminating overnight interest on leveraged positions. However, there are differences: IG requires a formal request and may apply an administrative fee after 30 days, while Forex.com is more straightforward with no extra charge. Cyprus traders should contact support to confirm eligibility and any holding period restrictions. Both brokers ensure that Islamic accounts still have full access to standard spreads and platforms.
| Support Feature | Forex.com | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | Forex.com |
Cyprus traders can reach customer support in both English and Greek at IG, which offers 24/5 live chat, phone, and email. Forex.com also provides 24/5 support with English and limited Greek-language assistance. IG’s response times are typically faster, and its Cyprus-specific phone line is a plus. Forex.com’s support is adequate but lacks round-the-clock availability. For local queries, IG has a slight edge in accessibility and language options.
| Mobile Feature | Forex.com | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | Forex.com |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | Forex.com |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✓ | IG |
| Resource | Forex.com | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | Forex.com |
Choose Forex.com if you...
Choose IG if you...
For Cyprus traders in 2025, IG is the stronger choice overall with a 4.2 rating, offering better spreads, more platforms, and excellent regulation. Its support for local payment methods like Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20 makes it convenient for deposits and withdrawals. However, Forex.com (3.4/5) is a viable alternative for beginners or those who prefer a no-commission structure and an easier learning curve. Both brokers are regulated by the local financial regulator (CySEC), providing safety and compensation scheme protection. If you trade frequently or need advanced tools, choose IG. If you trade occasionally and want simplicity, Forex.com may suit you better. Consider your style and test both with demo accounts before committing.