The term "IG cryptocurrency" can refer to two distinct entities: the regulated crypto trading service offered by IG Group, a FTSE 250-listed broker, and a separate blockchain-based prediction platform with its own IG token. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of both, helping you understand the key concepts, evaluate the offerings, and navigate the associated risks.
IG Group is a well-established global trading and investment platform, listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSEG: IGG)[reference:0]. With a history spanning over five decades, it has built a reputation as a trusted broker for a wide range of financial instruments including stocks, indices, ETFs, and forex[reference:1][reference:2].
In June 2025, IG launched crypto trading, becoming the first UK-listed company to allow retail customers to buy, sell, and hold crypto assets directly[reference:3]. This marked a significant step for the UK's crypto sector[reference:4]. Shortly thereafter, in September 2025, IG secured its own cryptoasset license from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), becoming the first UK-listed broker to join the FCA's cryptoasset register[reference:5].
IG's crypto ambitions extend beyond the UK. The company has acquired Independent Reserve, a leading Australian cryptocurrency exchange, for an initial enterprise value of A$178 million[reference:6][reference:7]. This acquisition is expected to enable IG to launch a crypto proposition for customers in Singapore, Australia, and the UAE in the second half of 2026[reference:8].
IG's crypto service is designed for investors who value a regulated, secure, and integrated experience[reference:10]. Here is a breakdown of its key features.
IG offers access to 55+ cryptocurrencies, including major coins like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL), as well as a range of smaller assets[reference:11][reference:12][reference:13]. The service is currently available to eligible UK clients[reference:14], with plans for expansion into Singapore, Australia, and the UAE[reference:15].
IG's fee structure is designed to be transparent. Key points include:
Your IG cryptocurrency account is designed to work alongside your other IG accounts[reference:20]. Cash is held in separate Share Dealing, CFD, or Spread Bet accounts, not directly in the crypto account[reference:21][reference:22]. IG is also developing features such as the ability to exchange one cryptocurrency directly for another without converting to cash first[reference:23].
To open a crypto account, all clients must complete a cryptocurrency knowledge assessment consisting of eight questions, requiring a 75% pass mark[reference:24].
IG places a strong emphasis on security and regulatory compliance, which is a key differentiator from many purely crypto-native platforms.
IG is a registered cryptoasset service provider with the FCA[reference:26]. This means it is subject to UK regulatory standards, including anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) obligations. However, it is important to note that cryptoassets are not regulated in the same way as traditional investments and are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)[reference:27].
IG's cryptoassets are held by Coinbase Prime, a regulated custodian with industry-leading security certifications, including SOC 1 and SOC 2 Type 2[reference:28]. Security measures include:
IG Crypto now supports direct cryptocurrency transfers, allowing you to move digital assets between your IG account and external wallets or other platforms via the blockchain[reference:33]. However, transfer eligibility is separate from trading availability — a token can be tradable on IG but not yet supported for Transfer In[reference:34].
Separate from IG Group's trading platform, there exists a distinct cryptocurrency project that also uses the "IG" ticker. This section clarifies the differences.
The IG token is an Ethereum-based ERC-20 cryptocurrency[reference:35][reference:36]. It powers a blockchain-based events prediction platform[reference:37]. The platform's objective is to provide users with a Consensus Prediction System to help them make anticipation moves on the trading market or gambling[reference:38].
The IG token serves as the medium for users to send their predictions and helpful data, and also acts as the reward when a prediction is accurate[reference:39][reference:40].
It is crucial to distinguish between:
IG's crypto offering is not a replacement for a dedicated cryptocurrency exchange. The table below highlights the key differences.
| Feature | IG Group (Crypto Service) | Dedicated Crypto Exchange (e.g., Binance, Coinbase) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA-registered cryptoasset service provider[reference:41] | Varies widely; some are registered in various jurisdictions, others are not |
| Asset Range | 55+ cryptocurrencies[reference:42] | Hundreds or thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens |
| Fee Structure | 0% commission on BTC/ETH/SOL (with 0.07% external fee); 1.49% spread on others[reference:43][reference:44] | Maker/taker fees typically ranging from 0.01% to 0.60% |
| Custody | Coinbase Prime (regulated custodian)[reference:45] | Often self-custody or exchange-controlled wallets |
| Integration | Integrated with stocks, indices, ETFs, and other asset classes[reference:46] | Primarily focused on cryptocurrency trading |
| Best For | Sophisticated investors seeking a regulated, all-in-one platform[reference:47] | Active crypto traders seeking a wide range of assets and advanced trading features |
📌 This comparison is based on general features and may not reflect all recent updates. Always verify current information directly from the official platforms.
If you are considering using IG's crypto service, here are the key factors to evaluate.
IG's FCA registration provides a level of regulatory oversight that is not available from many crypto-native platforms[reference:48]. This can offer greater peace of mind for investors who prioritize compliance and security. However, the FSCS does not cover cryptoassets[reference:49].
IG's zero-commission model for major coins is competitive, but the 1.49% spread on other cryptocurrencies is higher than the maker/taker fees on dedicated exchanges[reference:50]. Consider your trading volume and the assets you intend to trade when evaluating costs.
For existing IG clients, the seamless integration with other asset classes is a major advantage[reference:51]. The ability to manage stocks, ETFs, and crypto from a single account can simplify portfolio management.
With 55+ cryptocurrencies, IG covers the most popular assets[reference:52]. However, if you are looking for niche altcoins or newly launched tokens, a dedicated exchange may offer a wider selection[reference:53].
Use this checklist when evaluating or using IG's crypto services.
David is a UK-based investor who has used IG for years to trade stocks and ETFs. He wants to add some Bitcoin to his portfolio. Here is his experience:
⚠️ Cryptoassets are high-risk investments. Their prices can be highly volatile, and you could lose some or all of the money you invest[reference:70]. This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.
You should take time to understand how crypto works and the risks involved before investing[reference:75]. If you are uncertain, consult a qualified financial professional.
📌 Verification reminder: Fees, available assets, and platform rules change frequently. Always verify current information directly on the official IG website or the relevant token's official channels.
IG Group is a FTSE 250-listed trading platform that offers a regulated crypto service[reference:76]. The IG token is a separate ERC-20 cryptocurrency used on a blockchain-based prediction platform[reference:77]. They are not affiliated.
Yes. IG is a registered cryptoasset service provider with the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)[reference:78].
IG offers access to 55+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and a range of smaller assets[reference:79][reference:80].
IG charges 0% commission on Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana (with a 0.07% external exchange fee included in the price). A flat 1.49% spread applies to all other cryptocurrencies[reference:81].
Your assets are held by Coinbase Prime, a regulated custodian with institutional-grade security[reference:82]. However, cryptoassets are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)[reference:83].
Yes, IG supports direct cryptocurrency transfers[reference:84]. However, not all tradable tokens are eligible for transfer[reference:85].
IG's crypto offering is well-suited for sophisticated investors who prioritize a seamless and secure investment experience within a regulated environment[reference:86].
IG has operations in 19 countries[reference:87]. Its crypto service is currently available to eligible UK clients, with plans to expand to Singapore, Australia, and the UAE in the second half of 2026[reference:88][reference:89].