General information about the IG Online Trading Platform
IG is one of the oldest and most well-known online trading platforms in the world. The company was founded in 1974 in London as a spread betting business, and now they offer an extensive selection of products including CFDs, Forex, stocks, commodities, indices, options, and more. IG has earned a reputation for its comprehensive range of services which include educational resources to help traders become better informed about their investments. Their intuitive platform also offers excellent charting tools that allow users to quickly analyze markets and generate trading ideas. Furthermore, IG’s customer support team is highly responsive and provides helpful advice on any queries or questions customers may have.
The platform's key features
| Easy to use: | The platform is straightforward and user-friendly, making it an ideal choice for beginner traders. |
| Real-time market data: | Users can access real-time pricing information on a variety of markets to help them make informed decisions. |
| Technical Analysis Tools: | IG provides powerful charting capabilities such as indicators and drawing tools, allowing users to gain valuable insights into the markets. |
| Educational resources: | In addition to technical analysis tools, IG offers useful educational content in the form of webinars, seminars, tutorials, and articles that enable customers to stay up to date with the latest developments in trading. |
| Competitive fees: | IG provides competitive commission rates and spreads which enable customers to save money when trading. |
| Security: | The platform employs sophisticated security measures to ensure customers’ funds and data remain safe. |
Step-by-Step Guide on Setting up an Account with IG
- Create an account: First, you need to create a new account with IG before you can start trading. You’ll need to provide basic personal details during the signup process, after which you will be asked to deposit funds into your trading account.
- Choose a platform: IG offers two different types of platforms for traders – its web-based ‘IG Trading Platform’ and its downloadable ‘MetaTrader 4 (MT4)’ software. Both platforms offer access to real-time pricing information and powerful charting tools.
- Fund your account: Once your account is up and running, you must deposit funds to trade. You can use a variety of payment methods including bank transfer, credit/debit card, and PayPal.
- Place orders: Now you’re ready to start trading! You can place orders on the platform using its intuitive order entry system.
- Monitor your trades: Once your trades are placed, you should keep an eye on them to ensure they are going in your desired direction. IG provides a range of features such as price alerts that help with this process.
Tips for Navigating the Features of the IG Platform
- Read the tutorials: Before trading, make sure to read IG’s tutorials and educational materials to get acquainted with the platform’s features.
- Take advantage of tools: Utilize all the available tools offered by IG such as charting capabilities, price alerts, and more, so that you can gain a better understanding of markets and make informed decisions.
- Test it out first: Try out the demo account before committing your funds – this will give you a chance to practice using the platform without putting any money at risk.
- Set stop-losses: Always set stop-loss orders when trading so that you limit your losses if the market moves in an unexpected direction.
- Watch out for fees: Take into account all the fees associated with trading before placing any orders, as these can have a significant impact on your profits and losses.
- Keep up to date: Stay informed about the latest market developments by reading IG’s educational materials and subscribing to its news feed. This will help you make more informed decisions when trading.
Review of Popular Trading Tools and Strategies Available Through IG
- Charting: IG offers powerful charting capabilities, with a range of indicators and drawing tools to help you gain valuable insights into the markets.
- Scalping: This strategy involves opening and closing positions very quickly in an attempt to take advantage of small price movements.
- Day trading: This involves taking multiple trades across different markets over one day, capitalizing on short-term market swings and trends.
- Swing trading: With this method, traders look for larger price movements within a single day or week and hold onto their positions overnight or longer to maximize profits.
- Algorithmic trading: IG also supports algorithmic trading strategies that use computer programs to make automated trades.
- Copy trading: Finally, IG allows traders to copy the strategies of successful traders to mimic their success.
Review Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| • Advanced charting capabilities | • Limited range of markets available |
| • Comprehensive market news and analysis | • High margin requirements for certain products |
| • Risk management tools | |
| • Multiple trading platforms | |
| • Extensive educational resources | |
| • Fast and reliable order execution |
Summary
Overall, IG is one of the most well-established online trading platforms available today, offering a wide range of products and services for traders of all experience levels. The company also offers competitive fees and spreads and has excellent customer support which ensures users always have access to helpful advice when needed. With its intuitive order entry system and powerful charting tools, IG makes it easy to place trades and monitor the markets in real-time. Finally, with a range of popular trading strategies available at IG, users can choose the best approach for their individual needs.