IG Group weighs leaving London to tap into high-growth trading markets

Thu, 19th Mar 2026 12:09

* IG Group to join FTSE 100 next week

* Company raises 2026 revenue ⁠guidance

* Says Middle East turmoil boosted market volatility (Adds context on US, executive quote in paragraph 4-5)

March 19 (Reuters) - IG Group is weighing moving its listing from London, possibly to the ‌United States, a senior executive said on Thursday, as the spread betting specialist seeks to tap into fast-growing markets being reshaped ⁠by new trading technologies.

The strategic review was announced as the British ⁠group raised its full-year and medium-term revenue guidance, and reported record revenue for 2025.

IG shares jumped more than 8%.

When asked about a possible move from London to the U.S., the company's UK and Ireland Managing Director, Michael Healy, said it was an option.

"(The U.S.) is a very fast-growing ‌and a highly dynamic market," Healy, told Reuters, adding that a decision had not yet been made.

Prediction markets, which let people buy and sell contracts on real-world outcomes, are gaining popularity for their gaming-like style in the U.S., where a quarter of IG's business is already based.

But the sector is also under scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers after rapid expansion by companies such as Kalshi, which has partnered with IG rival Plus500.

IG Group, which offers trading ‌in contracts for difference, stocks and cryptocurrencies through brands including tastytrade and Freetrade, declined to provide further details on whether any move would involve shifting IG's primary ‌listing or a new secondary listing.

GREATER AMBITION

A potential move from London would mark another blow to the financial hub, which has lost several major companies which have either dropped UK listings or shifted primary listings abroad.

The U.S. has proved to be more receptive to sectors like crypto and retail trading via apps, offering trading companies more liquidity and higher valuations.

IG - ‌which joins the FTSE 100 next week - expects to outline the results of the review, which also includes acquisitions and partnerships, in the autumn.

On an investor call, CEO Breon Corcoran said the company would look at its two ⁠top markets, ⁠the U.S. and UK, for M&A.

"(The strategic review) should be seen ‌as a sign of greater ambition from a position of increased strength and credibility," Barclays analyst Richard Taylor said.

IG also raised its 2026 organic revenue growth outlook to the top end of its mid-to-high single-digit percentage range.

Recent turmoil, particularly in the ‌Middle East, has lifted market volatility and supported demand, IG said.

IG shares jumped as much as 8.6% and outperformed the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 indexes, which were down about 2% amid the Iran conflict.