IG vs Shares 2026: which is better?
We compared IG and Shares on licences, deposits, platforms and accounts. The better choice depends on what you need; these are the main differences.
Key differences
- IG holds 10 licences from strong regulators, against 1 for Shares.
- IG offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, which Shares does not.
Comparison table
| Comparison table |
IG
Broker
|
Shares
Broker
|
|---|---|---|
| Licences | FCA, ASIC, DFSA, CFTC, NFA, MAS, FINMA, BaFin, JFSA, FMA, FSCA, BMA Best | AMF, ACPR |
| Minimum deposit | $0 | — |
| Maximum leverage | 1:200 | — |
| Trading platforms | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView, Web Trader, Mobile App, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer | Shares App |
| Markets | Forex, Stocks, Cryptocurrencies, Commodities and Gold, Indices, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | Stocks, Cryptocurrencies, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) |
| Demo account | ✓ Yes | — |
| Copy trading | ✗ No | — |
| Founded | 1974 | 2021 |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom | Paris, France |
| Read the review | Read the review |
Data is for information only and may change; always check the official website before opening an account.
Add a third broker to the comparison
Choose IG if you
- want more licences from strong regulators
- use MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, IG or Shares?
We compared IG and Shares on licences, deposits, platforms and accounts. The better choice depends on what you need; these are the main differences. IG holds 10 licences from strong regulators, against 1 for Shares. IG offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, which Shares does not. The best choice depends on your country and trading style, so check which licence your account will be opened under.
Are IG and Shares regulated?
IG licences: FCA, ASIC, DFSA, CFTC, NFA, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, BaFin, JFSA, FMA, BMA. Shares licences: ACPR, AMF.
What is the minimum deposit at IG and Shares?
IG: $0. Shares: not available.
Do IG and Shares offer an Islamic account?
IG: No. Shares: No.