IG Group seeks agency for12m global media account

Spread-betting operators IG Group is seeking an agency to handle the 12m global media planning and buying business for IG Index, its financial spread-betting arm.

IG%20Group%2C%20websiteSpread-betting operators IG Group is seeking an agency to handle the £12m global media planning and buying business for IG Index, its financial spread-betting arm.

The review is being led by marketing director David Hodge, who joined IG last month. He is planning to consolidate the group’s media into one network, as it currently uses a number of different agencies depending on the region and channel.

Hodge says he has held chemistry meetings with six undisclosed agencies and will shortlist three to pitch. He is seeking an agency with a global network, but local expertise.

The media planning and buying for the sports spread-betting division of IG Group, branded IG Sport and extrabet.com, is unaffected and will continue to be handled by First City.

IG Index operates in numerous international markets across Europe, Australia, Asia and the US. It allows customers to bet on various financial markets.

Last month IG Group launched its sports arm, IG Sports, as a separate brand. Previously, the sports armsat under the IG Index label, but will now operate separately in an effort to give the sports and leisure offering a clear identity.

Prior to IG, Hodge headed marketing operations for low-cost airline bmibaby and is a former Bulmers marketer.