Comparison of IG vs Vantage [ 2024 ]

The best brokers to invest in cryptocurrencies compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is theIG vs Vantage comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

ig

IG

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

vantage

Vantage

Main points

Fees

Average 3,4/5

Regulated

FCA, ASIC

Demo account

Yes
Low 4/5

Fees

ASIC, FCA

Regulated

Yes

Demo account

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

No

Buy and hold

No
Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

No

Passive income

No

Buy and hold


Comparison of fees

Rating

4.0 – IG offers competitive spreads and a transparent fee structure for crypto CFDs. However, the inactivity fee after 24 months can be a downside for less active traders .
4.2 – Vantage offers tight spreads and no deposit or withdrawal fees, making it a good choice for both new and experienced traders. However, additional fees might apply depending on the payment method used .

Level

Average 3,4/5
Low 4/5

Brief explanation

IG’s commission structure for cryptocurrency trading primarily involves spreads and overnight funding fees. When trading CFDs on cryptocurrencies, IG charges a spread, which is the difference between the buy and sell price. This spread varies depending on the cryptocurrency being traded. For example, spreads for Bitcoin and Ethereum are typically lower due to higher liquidity, while smaller altcoins may have wider spreads. Additionally, IG charges an overnight funding fee if positions are held open past a certain time. This fee is based on the size of the position and the duration it is held. Unlike some exchanges, IG does not charge a direct commission per trade, making the spread the primary cost to consider. However, traders should be aware of the potential for overnight fees to accumulate if positions are held long-term. Overall, while IG’s fee structure can seem complex due to the combination of spreads and overnight funding fees, it remains competitive for those who trade actively and manage their positions effectively.
Vantage operates as a CFD broker, and its fee structure is designed to be transparent and competitive. The primary cost for trading cryptocurrency CFDs on Vantage comes from the spread, which is the difference between the bid and ask prices. This spread can vary depending on market conditions and the specific cryptocurrency being traded. Additionally, if you hold a position overnight, an overnight financing fee is applied. This fee is calculated based on the leverage used and the value of the position held overnight . Vantage does not charge any deposit fees, making it cost-effective to fund your trading account. Withdrawals are also generally free, except for international bank withdrawals beyond the first free one each month, which incur a fee of 20 currency units (e.g., $20, €20) . There are no commission fees for trades on standard accounts, but for ECN accounts, a commission of $3 per lot for Raw ECN and $1.5 per lot for Pro ECN is charged . This commission structure is typical for ECN accounts, which offer tighter spreads but involve a per-trade commission. Overall, Vantage provides a competitive fee structure that is advantageous for traders who are mindful of trading costs. The combination of low spreads, no deposit fees, and the absence of most withdrawal fees makes it an attractive option for both new and experienced traders.

IG

Vantage

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Product selection

Native token

IG does not have a native token.
Vantage does not have a native token.

Earns

IG does not provide staking or earning options for cryptocurrencies. It offers crypto trading primarily through CFDs .
Vantage does not have options for earning with cryptocurrencies through staking. It offers trading of crypto CFDs with leverage .

NFT marketplace

IG does not have an NFT marketplace.
Vantage does not have an NFT marketplace.

Cripto/debit card

IG does not provide a card for its clients .
Vantage does not provide a card for its clients .

Company information

Full name

IG Group Holdings Plc​​.
Vantage Global Prime Pty Ltd​​.

Regulation

FCA (UK), ASIC, FINMA, MAS, JFSA, CFTC/NFA (USA)​​.
ASIC, FCA, VFSC​​.

Year founded

1974​​
2009​​

Founder

Stuart Wheeler​​
Unknown (information not readily available)

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes, IG accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .
Yes, Vantage accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .

Mastercard

Yes, IG accepts Mastercard for deposits​​.
Yes, Vantage accepts Mastercard for deposits​​.

Wire transfer

Wise is supported as a payment method .
Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method .

Card

Yes, IG accepts credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) .
Information about Vantage’s acceptance of credit/debit cards is not explicitly stated in the retrieved documents.

Comparative table

IG Features Vantage
IG’s low minimum trade size makes it accessible for beginners looking to start small.
Minimum Trade
Vantage offers a low minimum trade amount, making it accessible for traders of all levels. The platform allows trades from as little as $50, catering to both beginners and those with limited capital.
While IG offers competitive spreads, its fee structure can be confusing and relatively high due to additional charges.
Trading and Transaction Fees
Vantage has competitive trading fees, but the spread costs can vary depending on market conditions. While the fees are generally low, they can add up, especially for high-frequency traders.
IG provides a limited selection of cryptocurrencies, focusing primarily on major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Number of Cryptocurrencies
With 34 cryptocurrencies available for trading, Vantage offers a decent selection compared to other CFD brokers. However, the variety is somewhat limited compared to dedicated cryptocurrency exchanges.
The platform mainly supports crypto-to-fiat trading, with fewer options for trading between different cryptocurrencies.
Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs
Vantage does not support direct crypto-to-crypto trading pairs. Instead, all trades are conducted as CFDs, which might not suit traders looking for direct cryptocurrency exchanges.
IG excels in transparency, providing clear and detailed information about fees, regulations, and trading options.
Website Transparency
Vantage maintains a transparent website with clear information on fees, regulations, and trading conditions. The platform ensures that users have access to necessary information before trading.
IG does not provide a card for its clients .
Credit/Debit Card
Vantage does not provide a card for its clients .
IG does not offer dedicated crypto wallets, as it focuses on CFD trading rather than actual cryptocurrency ownership.
Storage Offering
As a CFD broker, Vantage does not offer actual cryptocurrency storage. Traders do not own the underlying assets, so there are no wallet services provided.
There are no staking or reward programs for holding cryptocurrencies on IG.
Staking and Rewards
Vantage does not offer staking or rewards programs for cryptocurrency holdings. This may be a disadvantage for users interested in earning passive income through staking.
Both the mobile app and desktop platform are well-designed, offering advanced trading tools and features.
Mobile App and Desktop
Vantage provides a robust mobile app and desktop platform, allowing users to trade on the go. The platforms are user-friendly and feature-rich, enhancing the trading experience.
IG provides responsive and helpful customer service through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat.
Customer Service
Vantage offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone, and email. However, the live chat service can be slow at times, and the quality of responses may vary.
IG offers multiple deposit and withdrawal methods, though some may incur fees, and processing times can vary.
Deposit and Withdraw
Vantage offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods with quick processing times. However, fees can be high for international bank withdrawals beyond the first free transaction each month.

Key features

Analysis tools

IG provides advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and a highly functional mobile app. They also offer educational resources and risk management tools, including stop and limit orders .
Vantage provides access to the MetaTrader platforms and the TradingView platform, both known for their advanced charting tools and technical analysis capabilities. They also offer Capitalise.ai for algorithmic trading .

Mobile APP

Yes, IG offers the IG Trading app, which is highly regarded and packed with features for both casual and advanced traders .
Information on a specific mobile app for Vantage is not explicitly stated in the retrieved documents.

Security

IG is highly trusted and regulated by multiple top-tier authorities, including the FCA and ASIC. They offer robust security features such as two-factor authentication and SSL encryption. IG also provides negative balance protection, ensuring clients do not lose more than their account balance​​.
Vantage is regulated by top-tier authorities such as the FCA and ASIC, providing robust investor protection. They offer negative balance protection for clients under these jurisdictions​​.

Additional features

IG offers a broad range of cryptocurrencies for trading via CFDs. Their platform includes robust charting tools, various order types, and 24/7 customer support. IG is regulated by top-tier authorities, ensuring a high level of security and reliability. However, their services might not be available to all regions, and they do not provide direct ownership of cryptocurrencies .
Vantage provides access to a variety of cryptocurrency CFDs, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, through the MetaTrader platform. They offer competitive spreads and leverage up to 1:200. Vantage is known for its secure trading environment and extensive educational resources. However, they do not support direct cryptocurrency trading, only CFDs .

Anonymity

IG requires personal identification and verification documents for account opening, thus not supporting anonymous accounts .
Vantage requires users to provide personal information and verification documents, thus not offering anonymous accounts .

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

IG offers trading in cryptocurrency CFDs. The available cryptocurrencies are Ripple (XRP), Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), Ethereum (ETH), NEO, Stellar (XLM), and EOS​​.
Vantage provides trading in cryptocurrency CFDs, supporting a variety of cryptocurrencies similar to other major brokers .

User-friendliness

IG’s platform is well-regarded for its usability, offering a straightforward interface for trading cryptocurrencies. The platform provides access to various educational resources and customer support, making it easier for new traders to get started. IG’s robust regulatory framework and security measures also contribute to a trustworthy trading environment .
Vantage provides a straightforward and easy-to-use platform for trading cryptocurrencies. The account opening process is simple, and the platform supports various payment methods. Vantage’s trading environment is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible to both new and experienced traders .

Value for money

IG provides excellent value for money with competitive fees and a wide range of tradable cryptocurrencies. However, its fee structure can be complex, and occasional traders may find some charges, such as inactivity fees, to be less appealing​​.
Vantage offers strong value with competitive spreads and no deposit or withdrawal fees. The platform’s leverage options and professional trading tools add further value, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced traders​​.

Countries of operation

United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, United States, Singapore .
United Kingdom, Australia, European Union, Cayman Islands, Bahamas .

Best for

IG is suitable for traders who value a well-established, regulated platform with a range of educational resources. It’s best for those who prefer trading cryptocurrency CFDs and are looking for a comprehensive trading experience with robust security measures​​.
Vantage is perfect for traders who want to engage in leveraged crypto CFD trading in a regulated environment. Its quick account opening process and seamless deposit and withdrawal options make it a good choice for both new and experienced traders​​.

Account

Trading

IG provides a robust platform for trading crypto CFDs, offering a variety of cryptocurrencies with leverage options. It is well-regulated and provides excellent trading tools, making it suitable for serious traders.
Vantage offers a wide range of crypto CFDs with competitive spreads and leverage. The platform is well-regulated and provides a secure trading environment for crypto enthusiasts.

Deposit and withdrawal

IG offers free deposits and withdrawals through bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and PayPal. The process is quick and efficient, with most transactions processed within a few business days.
Vantage supports multiple deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. The first international bank withdrawal each month is free, but subsequent withdrawals may incur fees.

Account opening process

IG offers a smooth and fast account opening process. Users fill out an online application form, provide personal and financial information, and submit verification documents. Accounts are usually approved within a day.
The account opening process at Vantage is quick and fully digital. Users need to fill out an online form with personal and financial details, and submit verification documents. Accounts are generally approved within one business day.

KYC required?

KYC verification is compulsory at IG. Users are required to submit identification documents and proof of address before they can start trading.
Yes, KYC is required at Vantage. Users need to submit personal identification documents and proof of address to verify their accounts.

Customer Service

IG offers comprehensive customer support available 24/5 through phone, email, and live chat. The support team is known for being efficient and knowledgeable, making it easy for users to get assistance.
Vantage provides customer support via live chat, email, and phone. The support team is available 24/5 and is generally responsive, though some users report delays in getting complex issues resolved.

Security

IG is highly trusted and regulated by multiple top-tier authorities, including the FCA and ASIC. They offer robust security features such as two-factor authentication and SSL encryption. IG also provides negative balance protection, ensuring clients do not lose more than their account balance​​.
Vantage is regulated by top-tier authorities such as the FCA and ASIC, providing robust investor protection. They offer negative balance protection for clients under these jurisdictions​​.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

As an expert on our website, I would recommend IG for its robust and secure trading platform. IG’s long-standing reputation, coupled with its strong regulatory oversight, makes it a reliable choice for cryptocurrency trading. The platform’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive educational resources are perfect for beginners, while the advanced trading tools cater to more experienced traders. However, it’s important to be aware of the complex fee structure and limited selection of cryptocurrencies. Overall, IG is a solid option for those looking to trade cryptocurrencies through a well-established broker.
As an expert from Threenvest, I find Vantage to be a robust option for traders looking to delve into the world of cryptocurrency CFDs. The platform excels in offering a diverse range of 34 crypto CFDs, including major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, which cater to both beginner and experienced traders. Its strong regulatory framework under ASIC and VFSC ensures a secure trading environment, further enhanced by features like negative balance protection. While the customer service has areas that need improvement, particularly in live chat responsiveness, the overall user experience is solid. For those who prioritize regulatory security and ease of trading without the complexities of handling actual cryptocurrencies, Vantage is a commendable choice.

How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

 

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).


For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.

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