What You Need to Know About IG's Cryptocurrency CFD Products

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Trading cryptocurrency CFDs (Contracts for Difference) offers a flexible way to speculate on digital asset price movements without owning the underlying coins. IG, recognized globally as a leading CFD provider, delivers a robust trading experience with competitive pricing, 24-hour market access, and a diverse range of crypto assets. This guide dives into the key features, terms, and practical considerations for trading cryptocurrency CFDs with IG.

Key Features of IG’s Cryptocurrency CFD Offerings

IG enables traders to access major digital currencies and crypto indices through CFDs—financial derivatives that allow you to profit from price changes in either direction. With no need to hold actual cryptocurrencies, you can trade quickly and efficiently while benefiting from leverage and risk management tools.

👉 Discover how to start trading crypto CFDs with confidence and ease.

Real-Time Market Access

Most cryptocurrency markets on IG are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, aligning with the continuous nature of blockchain networks. However, note that the digital asset market closes weekly from Friday at 10 PM to Saturday at 8 AM UK time. During this period, traders should carefully manage open positions to avoid unexpected exposure.

Wide Range of Tradable Cryptocurrencies

IG offers CFDs on a broad selection of digital assets, including:

Additionally, IG provides a Crypto 10 Index, which tracks the performance of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. This index covers over 83% of the total digital asset market cap—offering diversified exposure in a single instrument.

Understanding Trading Costs and Requirements

To trade cryptocurrency CFDs effectively, it's essential to understand the associated costs and margin requirements.

Minimum Spreads and Pricing

Spreads—the difference between buy and sell prices—vary by asset and market conditions. For example:

During periods of high volatility, spreads may widen significantly. Large trades may also face tiered pricing, meaning higher volume positions could incur wider spreads.

Margin and Leverage

IG applies a standard margin requirement of 10% for most crypto CFDs. However, newer or more volatile assets like Solana and Avalanche require 50% margin due to increased risk.

Margin is calculated as a percentage of the total position value and may vary based on your account type (e.g., Trader or Select account). Tiered margining applies, so larger positions may demand higher collateral.

Overnight Financing Fees

Holding positions overnight incurs financing charges, applied daily at 10 PM UK time.

For long positions:

For short positions:

Fees are charged or credited seven days a week, including weekends. Special adjustments apply around holidays like Christmas and New Year.

Example Calculation:

Holding a long position of 1 Bitcoin CFD at $30,000:

$30,000 × 0.0694% = **$20.82 daily financing cost**

Holding a short position at the same price:

$30,000 × 0.0139% = **$4.17 daily credit**

Risk Management and Trading Limits

IG prioritizes responsible trading by implementing safeguards during volatile market conditions.

Exposure Limits

Due to operational constraints in hedging client exposure in the underlying markets, IG imposes nominal value limits on crypto CFD positions:

Clients exceeding these limits risk having their positions reduced.

Temporary Trading Restrictions

During periods of extreme volatility or high demand, IG may temporarily suspend new buy or sell orders. This ensures platform stability and fair pricing.

You can check whether a market is available for long positions via the IG trading app or web platform under "Market Information." Note that existing positions can always be closed, even if new long entries are restricted.

Blockchain Forks and Corporate Actions

Cryptocurrency markets are subject to structural events like blockchain forks—when a network splits into two versions.

IG bases its pricing on major exchanges and market makers. In the event of a hard fork, IG typically adopts the chain supported by the majority of users. If a new viable cryptocurrency emerges (e.g., Bitcoin Cash from Bitcoin), IG may:

However, IG is not obligated to support new tokens. If the new coin isn't listed on major exchanges or lacks mining activity within a reasonable time, positions may be closed without compensation.

Trading may be suspended during forks if reliable pricing is unavailable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I own the actual cryptocurrency when trading CFDs on IG?
A: No. CFDs are derivative products—you speculate on price movements without holding the underlying asset.

Q: Can I trade crypto CFDs on weekends?
A: Yes. Most crypto markets are open 24/7, except for a brief weekly maintenance window from Friday 10 PM to Saturday 8 AM UK time.

Q: What happens if my position exceeds exposure limits?
A: IG may reduce your position automatically to stay within risk thresholds. It's important to monitor your open trades during volatile periods.

Q: How does IG handle dividends or token rewards like staking?
A: Since you don’t own the asset, you won’t receive benefits like staking rewards or airdrops. For example, NEO CFD positions do not entitle you to GAS tokens.

Q: Are there any hidden fees?
A: The main costs are spreads and overnight financing. There are no commission fees on crypto CFDs, but always review the full product details before trading.

Q: Can I use stop-loss orders?
A: Yes. IG offers guaranteed stop-loss orders (GSLOs) for an additional premium, protecting against slippage during fast-moving markets.

👉 Learn how advanced risk tools can protect your investments in volatile markets.

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Trading cryptocurrency CFDs with IG combines accessibility, transparency, and professional-grade tools. Whether you're hedging exposure or speculating on price swings, understanding the mechanics—from spreads to margin and corporate actions—is crucial for long-term success.

👉 Start applying these insights with a trusted global trading platform today.