IG Boosts Cash Interest, Drops Account Fees for UK Investors

IG Increases Returns, Simplifies Fee Structure

Online trading and investment platform IG Group has announced major updates to its retail account offerings, including higher interest rates on uninvested cash and the removal of quarterly inactivity charges from its UK investment accounts.

The move places IG among a growing number of brokers enhancing client incentives. Competitors such as eToro, BidX Markets, and XTB have recently introduced interest-bearing accounts or eliminated inactivity fees to attract retail investors seeking better cash returns and cost-efficient trading.

UK Clients to Earn Higher Interest

Starting this year, new UK clients who open an IG Stocks and Shares ISA, General Investment Account, or Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) and complete their first trade will qualify for a 7.5% variable AER on up to £10,000 in uninvested cash.

The promotional rate applies to accounts opened from mid-January through March 2026. IG said the offer aims to help investors earn more while deciding how to allocate their capital.

Michael Healy, IG UK Managing Director, emphasized the platforms focus on customer value: “We want investors to benefit from competitive returns and take their time with confidence,” he said.

IG Removes Custody Fees and Adds Benefits

To earn interest each month, account holders must maintain an active Smart Portfolio, hold any share position during the period, or execute at least one eligible trade. Cash balances above the £10,000 threshold will accrue interest aligned with IGs standard base rate, currently matching the Bank of England rate.

IG has also eliminated its £24 quarterly custody fee, previously applied to accounts that executed fewer than three trades per quarter. This adjustment removes costs for investors who prefer a long-term or passive approach.

Broader Industry Context

Under the updated pricing model, IG clients benefit from zero commission on all shares and ETFs, alongside no platform, account maintenance, deposit, or withdrawal fees.

This strategy reinforces IGs broader effort to remain competitive in a shifting retail trading landscape, aligning with industry trends favoring transparency, lower costs, and improved returns on idle funds.