Losses on leveraged products are not limited to what you expected to put at stake.

If you trade from Australia, the IG Markets app is likely on your radar. It's the mobile entry point to one of the world's largest CFD providers, and it deserves a closer look before you commit.
The app is essentially a full trading terminal in your pocket. It gives you access to over 17,000 markets, covering FX, indices, shares, and commodities. You'll find the same depth of tools you get on the web platform, which isn't always the case with other brokers. It is a serious tool for managing positions on the move, not a stripped-down version of the main site.
We've dug into the specifics for Australian traders. This isn't a rehash of the marketing page. We're looking at what it's actually like to use, what it costs, and the practical limits you need to know.
What Does the IG App Offer?
The core of the IG Markets app is its proprietary platform. It is well-designed, fast, and puts most of the power of the desktop version in your hand. You can open and close trades, set alerts, and build watchlists with ease.
For charting, you have the IG charting package and it works fine. But here's where it gets interesting for technical traders: IG also integrates with TradingView and MetaTrader 4 (MT4). This flexibility is a big plus. The fact there is no MT5 support is worth noting, but for most, TradingView access covers that need.
The sheer number of markets is a standout. Over 17,000 markets means you're not just stuck with major FX pairs. You can trade everything from US tech stocks to niche commodity ETFs, all from the same app. That's a level of diversification that many competitors simply don't offer.
Costs and Spreads to Know
Let's talk money, because that's where the rubber meets the road. IG's pricing is competitive, but you need to know the details.
| Cost Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| FX Spread (ETH/USD) | From 0.6 pips |
| Share Dealing (US / Intl) | Zero commission on 10,000+ shares |
| Minimum Deposit (Bank Transfer) | $0 (via bank transfer) |
| Minimum Deposit (Card) | Around $300 |
| Account Types | CFD and Share Dealing |
The zero-commission model on shares is a major draw if you like trading equities. It's a simple pricing structure. For FX, the 0.6 pip spread on ETH/USD is sharp and competitive with any other international broker.
One thing you won't find are deposit bonuses. IG operates on a regulated model, meaning it doesn't use these promotional gimmicks. That's a sign of a more established, trustworthy operation, even if it means you don't get a freebie to start.
Is It a Safe Bet for Australians?
This is a crucial part of the conversation for any trader in Australia. It's important to be clear about the regulatory picture so you can make an informed choice.
IG Markets is owned by IG Group, which is a London-listed company (FTSE 250) founded back in 1974. They are a global giant. However, when you trade from Australia, you'll likely be dealing with an entity that is not regulated by ASIC itself. The local arm, IG Australia, was sold off some time ago.
This means you are trading with an international entity, which may be regulated by a body like the FSCA or another offshore regulator, depending on the specific entity that opens your account.
The practical shortcomings
No platform is perfect, and the IG app has a few practical shortcomings.
So, Who Is It Good For?
The app is a powerful tool, but it's not the right fit for everyone. Here's our take on who will get the most value from it.
Reasonable if:You're an active trader who values a wide range of markets and robust charting tools. If you want to trade international shares and FX from one app, especially with zero commissions on US shares, it's a compelling choice. The integration with TradingView is a big plus for technical analysis on the move.
Unreasonable if:You are someone who wants the absolute maximum regulatory protection from an ASIC-regulated broker with a local ombudsman. If you plan to use MT5 specifically, or if quick access to Australian-based customer support is a top priority, you'll be better served looking at a more strictly regulated international broker that offers a more robust local presence or suits those specific needs.
At the end of the day, the IG app itself is top-tier. The decision really comes down to your personal risk tolerance for international entities and your specific platform needs. For many, the sheer market access and price point will make it a strong candidate.

