Client numbers are booming at IG Group, and the spread betting and contracts for difference (CFD) specialist expects first-half turnover to be 9 per cent higher at around £157m. Both of the group's operations in the UK and Australia have progressed well, with new client numbers rising 14 per cent and 13 per cent respectively. Growth in mainland Europe has also been impressive, with turnover in Germany leading the way with a gain of 56 per cent.
But the introduction of regulatory restrictions on leverage in August this year will have an impact on client activity levels, with further restrictions on equity indices due to start on 1 January. As a result of this, the group will carry out an impairment review of the carrying value of its goodwill and other intangibles prior to the release of its interim figures in January.
