FP Markets vs IG: Hong Kong Trader Comparison 2026
Which broker is better for Hong Kong traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Quick Verdict — Hong Kong Traders
Hong Kong is one of the world's most sophisticated financial hubs, and its traders demand the best from their brokers. When comparing FP Markets vs IG for Hong Kong traders in 2026, both offer robust platforms and regulatory oversight, but they cater to different trading styles. FP Markets, with a 4.7/5 rating, excels in low-cost forex trading and tight spreads, ideal for active traders. IG, rated 4.2/5, provides a wider range of markets including shares, ETFs, and options, appealing to diversified investors. Hong Kong traders benefit from local payment methods like FPS, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card, making deposits and withdrawals seamless. Both brokers accept HKD and offer support for the local trading environment, but understanding their differences is key to choosing the right partner.
Overall Scores Comparison
Trading Costs - Spreads & Commissions
| Instrument | FP Markets | 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 Hong Kong traders, trading costs are critical. FP Markets offers spreads from 0.0 pips on its Raw account with a commission of $3 per lot per side, making it highly competitive for high-volume forex traders. In contrast, IG's standard spreads start from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD with no commission, but costs can add up for frequent traders. On larger trades, FP Markets can save Hong Kong traders significant money, especially when trading indices or commodities. Always consider your trading volume and frequency when comparing these costs.
Account Types Comparison
| Account Type | FP Markets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✓ | ✗ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $100 | $0 |
Leverage Comparison - Hong Kong Traders
| Entity / Asset | FP Markets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong (offshore) | Up to 1:500 | Up to 1:30 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:500 | 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 |
Trading Instruments - Assets Available
| Asset Class | FP Markets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | FP Markets |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | FP Markets |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | FP Markets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | 1,000+ | 1,700+ | IG |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
Platforms Comparison
| Platform | FP Markets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✓ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✓ | ✓ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
Both brokers offer MetaTrader 4 and 5, which are popular among Hong Kong traders for their advanced charting and automated trading capabilities. FP Markets also provides its own IRESS platform for advanced CFD traders, while IG offers a proprietary web platform and mobile app optimized for speed. For Hong Kong traders who value customization and algorithmic trading, FP Markets is strong; for those who prefer an all-in-one platform with integrated news and analysis, IG's platform is more intuitive.
Execution Quality - Speed & Slippage
| Factor | FP Markets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | IG |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | FP Markets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
FP Markets offers ultra-fast execution with no requotes, thanks to its ECN/STP model, ideal for Hong Kong scalpers and day traders. IG also provides reliable execution but uses a market maker model for some clients, which can lead to slippage during volatile news events. For precise entry and exit, FP Markets is superior.
Regulation & Safety for Hong Kong Traders
| Safety Factor | FP Markets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | ASIC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Regulation is a top concern for Hong Kong traders. While neither broker is directly licensed by the SFC, FP Markets is regulated by ASIC and CySEC, and IG is regulated by the FCA and ASIC. Both have strong reputations and client fund segregation. For Hong Kong traders, this means their funds are held in separate accounts, but they lack the direct protection of the SFC. Consider using an SFC-licensed entity if local regulation is a priority.
Deposits & Withdrawals for Hong Kong
| Payment Method | FP Markets | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✗ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✗ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | 24 hours | 1 to 5 business days |
Hong Kong traders can easily fund accounts at both brokers using FPS, Bank Transfer, or Credit Card. FP Markets supports instant FPS deposits in HKD with no fees, and withdrawals are processed within 1 business day. IG also accepts FPS and bank transfers, but withdrawals may take 1-2 days. Credit card deposits are instant at both, but IG may charge a small fee. For high-volume traders, FP Markets' faster withdrawal times and lower fees give it an edge.
Islamic Accounts - Swap-Free for Hong Kong Muslims
| Islamic Account Feature | FP Markets | 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 |
Both FP Markets and IG offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Hong Kong Muslim traders. FP Markets provides them on all account types, including Raw and Standard, with no additional fees. IG offers Islamic accounts for retail clients but may require a minimum deposit. Check with each broker for specific terms, as swap-free accounts may have limitations on certain instruments.
Customer Support Comparison
| Support Feature | FP Markets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | FP Markets |
Customer support is available 24/5 for both brokers, with Hong Kong traders able to reach them via live chat, email, and phone. FP Markets offers dedicated support in Mandarin and Cantonese, while IG provides English support primarily. For local language assistance, FP Markets is better suited for Hong Kong traders.
Mobile App Comparison
| Mobile Feature | FP Markets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | FP Markets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | FP Markets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
Education & Research Tools
| Resource | FP Markets | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | ✗ | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | FP Markets |
Real User Reviews - Trustpilot
Pros & Cons of Each Broker
FP Markets
IG
Who Should Use Which Broker? - Hong Kong Guide
Choose FP Markets if you...
- Are a high-volume forex trader focused on low spreads
- Prefer MetaTrader 4/5 for automated trading
- Want fast withdrawals with FPS support
- Need Cantonese or Mandarin customer support
Choose IG if you...
- Want access to a wide range of markets including shares and ETFs
- Prefer a proprietary platform with integrated analysis
- Are a beginner or intermediate trader
- Value brand reputation and educational resources
FAQ - FP Markets vs IG in Hong Kong
Final Verdict - Hong Kong 2026
For Hong Kong traders in 2026, the choice between FP Markets and IG depends on your trading style. FP Markets wins on cost, execution speed, and local payment support via FPS, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card, making it ideal for active forex traders. IG offers broader market access and a user-friendly platform, suitable for diversified portfolios. While neither is SFC-licensed, both are reputable. If you prioritize low spreads and fast deposits, choose FP Markets; if you want variety and ease, go with IG.