Order Execution on IG: Any Slippage Issues?

For traders, especially those relying on speed and accuracy, order execution quality is a make-or-break factor. IG, one of the most well-known brokers globally, claims to offer competitive execution, tight spreads, and transparent pricing. But how does this hold up in real market conditions—especially when it comes to slippage?

In this article, we’ll explore how IG handles order execution, the common causes of slippage, and whether traders using this platform face any consistent issues. Whether you're a scalper or a long-term investor, understanding execution reliability can help you make smarter decisions.

 What Is Slippage in Trading?

Slippage refers to the difference between the expected price of a trade and the actual price at which it is executed. It typically occurs during periods of high volatility, fast-moving markets, or low liquidity. While slippage can be both positive or negative, it’s generally viewed as a risk factor by active traders.

 IG’s Execution Model Explained

IG uses a combination of direct market access (DMA) for professional accounts and a dealing-desk model for retail traders. According to IG, more than 99% of trades are executed in under 0.014 seconds—an impressive figure on paper.

Key execution features include:

•        No Dealing Desk Intervention (for many instruments): IG uses advanced algorithms to match orders without manual interference.

•        Partial Fills and Price Improvement: In some cases, traders receive better pricing than requested.

•        Execution Transparency: IG provides trade confirmation details that specify execution price, spread, and any slippage.

 Slippage on IG: Is It a Real Issue?

Based on user reviews and independent testing, slippage on IG does occur—but it’s typically within reasonable levels. Like most brokers, slippage tends to appear:

• During High-Impact News Events: Non-farm payrolls, interest rate announcements, and geopolitical developments often cause price gaps and fast market conditions.

• Outside Normal Trading Hours: Overnight sessions or illiquid instruments are more prone to slippage.

• On Stop Orders: These are especially vulnerable, as they become market orders when triggered.

It’s worth noting that IG’s platform does allow for the use of "guaranteed stop-loss orders (GSLOs)," which can help prevent negative slippage in exchange for a small fee. This feature is particularly valuable for traders concerned about sudden price spikes.

 Comparing IG’s Execution with Industry Standards

When benchmarked against other top-tier brokers, IG performs competitively. Execution speed and fill reliability are generally solid, though not immune to the same limitations all brokers face in volatile markets.

•        Positive Slippage Possibility: Many traders have reported receiving better-than-expected prices, which suggests fair execution mechanics.

•        Low Requote Frequency: Unlike some offshore brokers, IG rarely delays execution or requotes, especially on major instruments.

•        Strong Platform Infrastructure: The broker’s proprietary and MetaTrader platforms are supported by stable servers and global data centers.

 Should You Worry About Slippage on IG?

If you're trading during normal market hours and avoiding news-related volatility, IG offers relatively consistent execution with minimal slippage concerns. However, like any broker, it’s not immune to fast-market conditions.

Active traders, especially those using Expert Advisors or scalping strategies, should regularly monitor execution reports to identify any recurring issues. Tools like execution analytics or trade journals can help you determine if your strategy is being hindered by delayed fills or slippage patterns.

For those exploring automation and copy trading, choosing a platform that integrates seamlessly with reliable brokers is essential. You can explore more about system compatibility and strategy automation by checking the resources available on our homepage, where different trading environments are explained in detail.

If you ever encounter execution inconsistencies or need assistance tailoring your approach to specific brokers like IG, feel free to connect with our support team. Our contact us page is always open for guidance and personalized advice.