HFMvs
IGStock Broker Comparison
This stock-focused comparison pits HFM against IG on regulation, exchange reach, and platform tools. The tension centers on ownership options and global coverage.
Our Verdict
IG winsClear Winner
IG is the overall winner by editorial score, with stronger regulation and broader platform and exchange reach than HFM.
IG
4.5/5
HFM
3.8/5
Key Differences
- 1Exchange access: HFM covers 8 exchanges vs IG's 30.
- 2Ownership: HFM offers CFDs only; IG provides real share dealing.
- 3Proprietary platform: IG has a proprietary platform; HFM does not.
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
It’s a tie
Both equally suited
IG wins for safety & regulation, supported by broad multi-jurisdiction oversight.
Best for active traders
Recommended
HFM vs IG: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.8/ 5 | 4.5/ 5 |
| Min deposit | No minimum | No minimum |
| Spreads from | 0 pips▼ lower | 0.6 pips |
| Commission / lot | $6/lot | N/A |
HFM vs IG Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- HFcopy enables automatic copying of equity-focused strategies within the same account
- CySEC and DFSA regulated, strong dual-jurisdiction for EU and UAE clients
- 500+ share CFDs across MT4 and MT5 with no minimum deposit
- No inactivity fee; multilingual 24/5 customer support
Cons
- Stock range (500+) significantly narrower than CMC, IG, or Saxo
HFM vs IG: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
0
HFM
criteria wins
2
IG
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | HFM | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Pass | Pass |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Pass | 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 | Fail | Fail |
| Phone support | Pass | Pass |
HFM vs IG: Frequently Asked Questions
IG rates 4.5/5 versus 3.8/5 for HFM. IG edges ahead on our composite score, though both brokers meet a reasonable standard for most traders.
HFM 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.
Neither HFM nor IG requires a minimum deposit, making both accessible regardless of starting capital.
Both HFM and IG hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each broker's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, both brokers provide negative balance protection. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each broker's site before deciding.
HFM lists maximum leverage of 20:1, 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.
HFM charges $6 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.
HFM supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, while IG supports ProRealTime, Proprietary Web/Mobile, TradingView, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 4. HFM has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5. IG has exclusive access to ProRealTime and Proprietary Web/Mobile and TradingView.
Neither HFM 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.
Both HFM and IG are covered by a compensation scheme according to our data, providing an additional safety net for your stock investments. Confirm the specific scheme and coverage limit that applies to your account before depositing.
