IG Opens US Options and Futures Market to UK Traders

The UK boasts a wealth of experienced traders managing diverse and active portfolios, constantly seeking new market opportunities. However, access to options and futures has historically been limited compared to the US market.

To address this gap, IG has launched trading for US-listed options and futures, targeting UK self-directed retail traders. This initiative, powered by IG Groups US-based trading platform tastytrade, comes at a time when options and futures trading is becoming an increasingly integral part of traders' portfolios.

IG acquired tastytrade in 2021 to diversify its product offerings and enhance its global footprint. This strategic move has paved the way for the introduction of US-listed derivatives to IG's UK clients.

With this new offering, IGs UK clients can trade a wide array of financial instruments across over-the-counter (OTC) and listed markets. The product range includes ISAs, share dealing, contracts for difference (CFDs), spread betting, options, and futures.

UK traders will be able to engage with over 7,000 underlying assets in the US options and futures markets, benefiting from the full depth and liquidity available. The platform offers instant funding and currency conversion, enabling clients to capitalize on market opportunities without delay.

In addition to stock, options, and futures trading, IG will provide advanced trading tools, competitive rates, and proprietary content through the tastytrade platform. This will include extensive data points, allowing traders to make informed, data-driven decisions.

UK clients will also have access to new, actionable financial content through tastylive, the first live network for active retail options traders. Tastylive will extend its live streaming hours from eight to thirteen, providing five additional hours of live content daily to educate and support UK traders in real-time.

JJ Kinahan, CEO of IG North America and President of tastytrade, emphasized the company's dedication to providing the best trading experience for global clients. He highlighted the value of options and futures markets for active traders, allowing them to express views on various market movers. He also stressed the importance of this launch for UK traders, recognizing the sophistication of the UK trading community and how the new offering complements their existing portfolios. Kinahan reiterated IG's commitment to providing access and educational resources to maximize these opportunities.

Tom Sosnoff, CEO of tastylive, noted that IG's expansion into US options and futures represents a significant milestone. He pointed out that the leadership team understands the necessity of equipping traders globally with the right tools and technology. Sosnoff expressed excitement about offering UK traders capital-efficient opportunities and welcoming them to the tastytrade community. He stated that this partnership with IG aligns with the mission to empower self-directed retail traders, combining exceptional content with sophisticated analysis to meet the evolving demands of the trading landscape.

With this expanded offering, IG aims to provide UK traders with unparalleled access to the dynamic US options and futures markets, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and client satisfaction.