IG vs Tickmill: Full Comparison for New Zealand Traders (2026)
Which broker is better for New Zealand traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Quick Verdict — New Zealand Traders
For New Zealand traders looking to compare IG vs Tickmill in 2026, both brokers offer robust access to global markets but cater to slightly different needs. IG, with a score of 4.2/5, is a well-established broker known for its comprehensive platform, extensive asset range, and strong educational resources. Tickmill, rated 4.0/5, is a cost-focused broker popular among active and high-volume traders for its low spreads and transparent pricing. Both are regulated by the local financial regulator, providing Kiwis with a secure trading environment. New Zealand traders benefit from local payment methods including Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20, making deposits and withdrawals convenient. This comparison covers spreads, platforms, regulation, and local features to help you decide which broker aligns with your trading style.
Overall Scores Comparison
Trading Costs - Spreads & Commissions
| Instrument | IG | Tickmill | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | Tickmill |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | Tickmill |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | Tickmill |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | Tickmill |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $0 | $100 | IG |
When comparing trading costs for New Zealand traders, Tickmill has a clear edge for high-volume traders with its Raw account offering spreads from 0.0 pips plus a $3 per side commission. IG’s standard account has wider spreads (around 0.6-1.0 pips on major pairs) but no commission, making it more suitable for lower-frequency traders. Over 100 lots per month, Tickmill’s cost advantage can save hundreds of NZD. However, IG’s pricing includes no hidden fees, and its platform offers better tools for analysis. For New Zealand traders focused on scalping or day trading, Tickmill’s lower spreads are preferable. For swing traders, IG’s all-in pricing may be simpler.
Account Types Comparison
| Account Type | IG | Tickmill |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $0 | $100 |
Leverage Comparison - New Zealand Traders
| Entity / Asset | IG | Tickmill |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand (offshore) | Up to 1:30 | Up to 1:1000 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:30 | 1:1000 |
| 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 | IG | Tickmill | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | IG |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | IG |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | ✗ | IG |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | 1,000+ | ✗ | Tickmill |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✗ | Tie |
Platforms Comparison
| Platform | IG | Tickmill |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✓ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
IG offers its proprietary platform plus MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and ProRealTime, providing New Zealand traders with advanced charting, automated trading, and a vast library of indicators. Tickmill primarily uses MT4 and MT5, which are popular for their speed and customizability. For New Zealand traders, IG’s platform is more feature-rich, with integrated news, sentiment data, and a user-friendly web interface. Tickmill’s MT4/MT5 are excellent for algorithmic trading and expert advisors. If you value a modern, all-in-one platform, IG wins. If you prefer the familiarity and speed of MT4/MT5, Tickmill is a strong choice.
Execution Quality - Speed & Slippage
| Factor | IG | Tickmill | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | Tickmill |
| 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 |
Both brokers offer fast execution with no requotes on most orders. IG uses a market maker model with some internalization, while Tickmill uses straight-through processing (STP) with no dealing desk intervention. For New Zealand traders executing high-frequency strategies, Tickmill’s STP model may provide more transparent order fills. IG’s execution is reliable for most retail traders. Tickmill’s average execution speed is under 40ms, which is competitive for scalpers.
Regulation & Safety for New Zealand Traders
| Safety Factor | IG | Tickmill |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | FCA | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Both IG and Tickmill are regulated by the local financial regulator, ensuring New Zealand traders benefit from strict oversight, client fund segregation, and access to dispute resolution schemes. IG is also regulated by top-tier bodies like the FCA and ASIC, adding an extra layer of security. Tickmill holds licenses from the FCA, CySEC, and the local regulator. For New Zealand traders, this means both brokers adhere to local capital adequacy and reporting standards. The local financial regulator’s supervision ensures that client funds are protected and that brokers operate transparently. This makes both options safe for Kiwi traders.
Deposits & Withdrawals for New Zealand
| Payment Method | IG | Tickmill |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✗ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✗ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✗ |
| Withdrawal time | 1 to 5 business days | Most withdrawals 1 business day; bank wire 1-3 days, Credit/Debit Cards: Up to 8 working days. |
New Zealand traders can fund their accounts at both IG and Tickmill using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. Bank Transfers are free at both brokers but may take 1-3 business days. Skrill and Neteller deposits are instant and typically free, though withdrawal fees may apply. USDT TRC20 is a fast, low-cost option for crypto-savvy traders, with deposits reflecting within minutes. Tickmill also supports credit/debit cards and additional e-wallets like Perfect Money. IG offers a wider range of bank transfer options including local NZD accounts. Withdrawals are processed within 1-2 business days at both brokers, with e-wallets being the fastest. Always check for any currency conversion fees when depositing in USD.
Islamic Accounts - Swap-Free for New Zealand Muslims
| Islamic Account Feature | IG | Tickmill |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Tickmill offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for New Zealand Muslim traders who wish to trade in accordance with Sharia law. IG provides swap-free status upon request for eligible clients, with no overnight interest charges on positions held beyond the daily rollover. Tickmill offers Islamic accounts on its Standard and Raw account types automatically, with no swap fees. Both brokers ensure that the accounts function identically to standard accounts in terms of spreads and execution. New Zealand traders should note that Islamic accounts may have reduced leverage or longer holding period limits. Overall, both brokers accommodate Muslim traders well.
Customer Support Comparison
| Support Feature | IG | Tickmill | 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, phone, and email, with a dedicated New Zealand phone line. Tickmill provides 24/5 support through live chat, email, and a call-back service. Both brokers have comprehensive FAQ sections. For New Zealand traders, IG’s local phone support is a plus for immediate assistance. Tickmill’s support is responsive but may have slightly longer wait times during peak hours. Overall, IG has a slight edge in support availability.
Mobile App Comparison
| Mobile Feature | IG | Tickmill | 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 |
Education & Research Tools
| Resource | IG | Tickmill | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | ✗ | IG |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | IG |
Real User Reviews - Trustpilot
Pros & Cons of Each Broker
IG
Tickmill
Who Should Use Which Broker? - New Zealand Guide
Choose IG if you...
- Want a comprehensive platform with advanced tools and analysis.
- Prefer a broker with a strong reputation and multiple top-tier regulations.
- Trade a wide range of assets including forex, indices, shares, and commodities.
- Value educational resources and market research.
Choose Tickmill if you...
- Focus on low spreads and commissions for high-volume trading.
- Prefer MT4/MT5 for automated trading with expert advisors.
- Want a simple, cost-effective account structure.
- Are a scalper or day trader who prioritizes execution speed.
FAQ - IG vs Tickmill in New Zealand
Final Verdict - New Zealand 2026
For New Zealand traders, the choice between IG and Tickmill depends on your trading style. IG is the better all-rounder with a superior platform, broader asset coverage, and strong educational support—ideal for retail traders who value tools and research. Tickmill excels in cost efficiency, offering lower spreads and commissions for active traders. Both brokers support local payments like Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20, and are regulated by the local financial regulator. If you trade high volumes and want to minimize costs, choose Tickmill. If you prefer a feature-rich platform and a wider market range, IG is the winner. Overall, IG’s higher score and comprehensive offering make it the top pick for most New Zealand traders in 2026.