FBSvs
IGStock Broker Comparison
This comparison pits FBS against IG in the stocks arena, weighing CFDs versus real share dealing. The tension centers on costs, regulation, and access across global markets.
Our Verdict
IG winsClear Winner
IG is the editorial winner with a higher score (4.5 vs 3.3). The gap reflects IG's stronger trust/regulation and platform depth.
IG
4.5/5
FBS
3.3/5
Key Differences
- 1IG offers real share dealing; FBS provides stock CFDs only.
- 2IG spans 30 exchanges; FBS covers 3 exchanges.
- 3IG supports extended hours; FBS does not.
Who should choose FBS vs IG?
Find out which stock broker best suits your investing profile.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of stock trader, based on costs, safety, features, and editorial scoring.
Best for safety & regulation
Recommended
IG is best for safety & regulation due to multiple authorities including FCA and ASIC.
Best for active traders
Recommended
FBS vs IG: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.3/ 5 | 4.5/ 5 |
| Min deposit | $1 | No minimum▼ lower |
| Spreads from | 0 pips▼ lower | 0.6 pips |
| Commission / lot | $20/lot | N/A |
FBS vs IG Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- $1 minimum deposit, widest accessibility for equity CFD markets
- MT4/MT5 with full EA support for automated stock strategies
- 24/7 multilingual support across Asian and CIS markets
Cons
- Offshore regulation (IFSC Belize), minimal investor protection
- Limited stock selection vs dedicated equity brokers
FBS vs IG: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
1
FBS
criteria win
5
IG
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | FBS | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Fail | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Fail | Pass |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Fail | Pass |
| Costs | ||
| Commission-free trading | Fail | Fail |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Fail | Fail |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Fail | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Fail | Pass |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Pass | Pass |
| Stock screener tool | Fail | Pass |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Pass | Pass |
FBS vs IG: Frequently Asked Questions
IG is the stronger choice: it rates 4.5/5 versus 3.3/5 for FBS, a gap that reflects clear differences across regulation, fees, and platform quality in our review.
FBS lists tighter spreads from 0, compared with IG's 0.6. For stock trading, also factor in any per-trade or per-share commissions — spreads and commissions together determine the true cost per trade.
IG has no minimum deposit, while FBS requires at least $1. This makes IG more accessible for traders with limited starting capital.
IG holds top-tier regulation (FCA, ASIC, DFSA), providing stronger investor protections. FBS may be regulated but does not hold top-tier status in our data. Verify regulatory status on each regulator's public register before depositing funds.
IG stands out for beginners: it has a lower entry point and provides negative balance protection, which caps losses at your deposited amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
FBS lists maximum leverage of 3000:1, while IG lists up to 1:1. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
FBS charges $20 per trade on commission-based accounts. Commission details for IG are not currently available. Check their website for up-to-date pricing. Stock commissions may be charged as a flat rate per trade or per share; confirm the exact structure on each broker's website.
FBS supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, while IG supports ProRealTime, Proprietary Web/Mobile, TradingView, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 4. FBS has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5. IG has exclusive access to ProRealTime and Proprietary Web/Mobile and TradingView.
Neither FBS nor IG is listed as offering commission-free trading in our data. Compare each broker's commission schedule directly, as fees vary by account type and the markets you trade.
IG scores higher on investor protection criteria, with compensation scheme coverage and segregated client funds. For stock investors, confirming compensation scheme coverage ensures your assets are protected up to a defined limit if the broker becomes insolvent.
