Fidelity vs IG Group 2026: Which Broker is Better?

Regulation & Safety

Fidelity, established in 1946 and headquartered in Boston, USA, is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). These regulatory bodies ensure that Fidelity adheres to strict financial standards and practices, providing a robust safety net for investors. Although Fidelity has an impressive $11 trillion in assets under management, its regulatory focus is primarily on the US market, limiting international oversight.

IG Group, founded in 1974 and based in London, UK, is regulated by multiple top-tier authorities including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and the SEC. This multi-jurisdictional regulation ensures a high level of safety and compliance globally. IG Group also offers additional fund protection schemes, providing further security to its clients.

Fees & Spreads

Fidelity offers competitive spreads starting from 0 pips, particularly on US stocks and ETFs, with zero commission. This makes it an attractive option for traders looking to minimise costs. Additionally, Fidelity does not charge a minimum deposit or account fees, enhancing its appeal to cost-conscious investors. However, overnight fees may apply, and the platform’s complexity could pose challenges for beginners.

IG Group, on the other hand, offers spreads starting from 0.6 pips across various asset classes, including forex, stocks, and commodities. The broker charges no commission on trades, but a $250 minimum deposit is required to open an account. IG also imposes an inactivity fee after two years, and its complex fee structure may require careful consideration by traders to avoid unexpected costs.

Trading Platforms

Fidelity provides proprietary web and mobile platforms, known for their robust research tools and screeners, although they may be complex for newcomers. IG Group offers a more extensive range of platforms, including its proprietary web and mobile options, as well as MetaTrader 4 (MT4). IG’s platforms are complemented by ProRealTime charts, providing advanced analytical capabilities that cater to both novice and experienced traders.

Who Should Choose Fidelity?

• US-based investors seeking zero commission on US stocks and ETFs.
• Traders interested in fractional share trading starting from $1.
• Long-term investors requiring comprehensive research and screeners.
• Clients looking for a reliable broker with 75+ years of trust.

Who Should Choose IG Group?

• International traders seeking access to over 17,000 markets.
• Forex traders looking for a broker with top-tier regulation.
• Advanced traders requiring ProRealTime charting capabilities.
• Investors interested in trading cryptocurrencies alongside traditional assets.

Our Verdict

For beginners, IG Group is the better choice due to its straightforward platform options and global reach. Professionals might prefer Fidelity’s extensive research tools and zero commission on US stocks. In terms of fees, Fidelity is more cost-effective for US-based trades, while IG Group offers broader market access despite its more complex fee structure.