Which broker is better for China traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
For China offshore traders seeking international exposure, choosing between IG and Libertex is a critical decision. Both brokers operate globally and accept China clients via offshore entities, but they differ significantly in platform, costs, and features. IG, with a strong 4.2/5 rating, is a well-established broker known for its advanced trading tools, tight spreads, and robust regulatory framework. Libertex, scoring 3.7/5, offers a simpler, more user-friendly experience with a proprietary platform and no commission on many trades. For China traders, key considerations include deposit methods like USDT and Bank Transfer (international), local regulatory concerns (CSRC), and the need for reliable execution. This comparison helps you decide which broker aligns with your trading style, whether you prioritize low costs, platform sophistication, or ease of use. Both brokers support CNY-related instruments and international markets, making them viable choices for China-based traders looking to diversify offshore.
| Instrument | IG | Libertex | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | Libertex |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | Libertex |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | Libertex |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | Libertex |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $0 | $10 | IG |
For China traders, trading costs are a major factor. IG offers competitive spreads, with EUR/USD at 0.6 pips on its RAW account and no commission on standard accounts. Libertex has wider spreads (1.0-1.5 pips on EUR/USD) but no commission on most instruments. For high-volume traders, IG's lower spreads can save hundreds of CNY monthly. However, Libertex's zero-commission model appeals to traders who hold positions longer. When trading indices or commodities, IG's costs remain lower, while Libertex may be cheaper for small, low-frequency trades. Consider your trading volume and instrument preferences to optimize costs.
| Account Type | IG | Libertex |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✗ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $0 | $10 |
| Entity / Asset | IG | Libertex |
|---|---|---|
| China (offshore) | Up to 1:30 | Up to 1:999 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:30 | 1:999 |
| 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 | IG | Libertex | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | IG |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | IG |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | IG |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | 1,000+ | ✗ | Libertex |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Platform | IG | Libertex |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✗ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✗ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✓ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✗ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
IG provides MetaTrader 4 (MT4), ProRealTime, and its own web platform, offering advanced charting and automated trading—ideal for China traders who use Expert Advisors (EAs). Libertex uses a proprietary platform with a clean interface and social trading features, but lacks MT4/MT5 support. For China traders who rely on custom indicators or algorithmic strategies, IG's MT4 is a clear advantage. Libertex's platform is simpler and mobile-friendly, suitable for beginners or those who prefer a streamlined experience. Both offer mobile apps in English and Chinese, but IG's platform depth wins for serious traders.
| Factor | IG | Libertex | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | Libertex |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | IG |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✗ | Tie |
IG provides fast execution with low latency, averaging 30-50 milliseconds, and no requotes on major pairs. Libertex offers decent execution but may experience slippage during volatile markets. For China traders trading high-volume or during Asian session peaks, IG's execution reliability is a key advantage. Libertex's execution is acceptable for casual traders but may not suit scalpers or algorithmic strategies.
| Safety Factor | IG | Libertex |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | FCA | CySEC |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✗ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
IG is regulated by the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), and other top-tier bodies, providing strong client protection. Libertex is regulated by CySEC (Cyprus) and the FSC (Belize), which offer less stringent oversight. For China traders, neither broker is CSRC-regulated, meaning you must trade via offshore entities. IG's higher regulatory status offers greater trust and security, especially for large deposits. Libertex's lower-tier regulation may raise concerns about fund safety. Always verify the specific entity you are trading with and ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance.
| Payment Method | IG | Libertex |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✗ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✗ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✗ |
| Withdrawal time | 1 to 5 business days | 5 business days |
China traders can fund both IG and Libertex using USDT and Bank Transfer (international). USDT deposits are processed within minutes via third-party payment providers, with no fees from the brokers. Bank transfers take 1-3 business days and may incur intermediary bank charges (typically $10-30). IG supports USDT via its partnership with payment processors like Banxa, while Libertex integrates USDT directly into its platform. Withdrawals follow similar methods: USDT withdrawals are fast (same day), while bank transfers take 2-5 days. Minimum deposits are low: IG requires $250 equivalent, Libertex $100. For China traders, USDT is the most efficient option, avoiding capital control delays.
| Islamic Account Feature | IG | Libertex |
|---|---|---|
| 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 IG and Libertex offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for China Muslim traders. IG provides swap-free accounts upon request, subject to eligibility and account type. Libertex offers Islamic accounts automatically during registration, with no swap fees on overnight positions. These accounts comply with Sharia law, which prohibits interest (riba). China traders should note that swap-free accounts may have limitations on certain instruments or trading strategies. Libertex's automatic setup is more convenient, while IG's request-based process requires additional steps. Both brokers support CNY-based trading on Islamic accounts.
| Support Feature | IG | Libertex | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✗ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | IG |
IG offers 24/5 customer support via live chat, email, and phone, with Chinese language assistance available. Libertex provides 24/5 support via live chat and email, but phone support is limited. For China traders, IG's dedicated Chinese-speaking team and faster response times (under 2 minutes for live chat) are superior. Libertex's support is adequate but may have longer wait times. Both brokers have comprehensive FAQ sections in English and Chinese.
| Mobile Feature | IG | Libertex | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | IG |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | IG |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✓ | ✗ | IG |
| Resource | IG | Libertex | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | ✗ | IG |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | IG |
Choose IG if you...
Choose Libertex if you...
For China offshore traders, IG is the stronger choice overall, thanks to its higher rating (4.2 vs 3.7), tighter spreads, robust regulation, and advanced platforms. Libertex is a viable alternative for beginners or those seeking simplicity and zero-commission trading. Both brokers support USDT and Bank Transfer (international) deposits, but IG's execution and cost efficiency make it better for active traders. However, neither is CSRC-regulated, so China traders must assess legal risks. For long-term success, IG offers more reliability and features for international exposure.