Our bottom line
The IG Stocks and Shares ISA not only offers a huge choice of investments, but also two solid account type choice options. You can opt for IG’s successful Share Dealing account, which offers active investors cheap commissions and a large variety of investments. Alternatively, if you like a more managed approach, then you can go with IG’s Smart Portfolio ISA, where your investments are fully managed based on your chosen risk profile. Plus, if you just can’t choose between the two, there is also the option to split your ISA allowance between the two account types.
Top feature of IG’s Stocks and Shares ISA
The top feature of IG’s Stocks and Shares ISA is having two solid account options to choose from. There is the regular share dealing ISA and also the Smart Portfolio ISA. As an established online trading platform, IG is simply offering customers what it does best – but with the benefit of a tax wrapper.
The IG share dealing ISA benefits those who are fairly active and invest consistently. Commission fees are designed and structured for those who invest regularly. Meanwhile, its Smart Portfolio ISA gives you a fully managed portfolio for a low cost, based on your chosen risk profile.
IG also offers the option to split your ISA allowance between the two account types. While you are still only technically paying into one ISA, you could benefit from the two different approaches. This means the ease of a managed portfolio for some of your money, and the ability to be in control and make your own investment decisions with the rest.
However, it’s worth noting, if you’re ever unsure about the suitability of an investment for your own circumstances, please seek independent financial advice, as with investing your capital is at risk.
IG’s research offerings
The biggest resource on offer is the IG Academy. Here you can learn more about investing and trading, and also access IG’s demo account. As part of this you are ‘given’ £10,000 in virtual funds so that you can start practising your investment strategies before committing to a live account.
The IG Academy also offers free online courses, webinars and seminars designed to help you hone your investment skills. These include beginner courses such as ‘How does trading work?’, as well as more advanced subjects such as ‘Understanding risk and reward’.
Do be mindful that any investment information and expert opinion provided on IG’s website is not personal advice and is designed for investors who are happy making their own investment decisions. If you’re unsure about the suitability of an investment for your circumstances, you’ll want to seek out your own independent financial advice.
Customer service and support
Customer support can be reached through email, by live chat 24 hours a day (Saturday 8am to Friday 10pm), or on the following phone number:
- 0800 195 3100 (8am – 6pm UK time)
IG also has an extensive FAQ section and an online forum where you can have your questions answered by peers or IG staff. If you prefer to reach out publicly, there is an active customer support Twitter account.
Is IG’s Stocks and Shares ISA a good choice for you?
If you’re an active investor looking for complete access to a range of global markets and trading instruments, then you might like IG’s Stocks and Shares ISA. The detailed platform and educational resources are all there to help you hone your trading skills and take control of your investments.
Overall, the IG platform is geared towards experienced traders who know financial markets and have a good amount of investing knowledge. This is the type of account where it helps to have experience on your side.
But for those who prefer a managed portfolio, then the Smart Portfolio ISA could be a good option for you. It has low management fees and it’s simple to choose a ready-made portfolio based on your chosen risk profile.
However, you can decide to split your ISA allowance between the two account types, giving you the best of both worlds. The IG Stocks and Shares ISA is good value and provides options to suit investors who prefer different investment styles.
Alternatives to consider
If you’re looking for an excellent platform that gives you access to a wide range of investment choice, you should also take a look at: