IC Markets

About IC Markets

IC Markets is a well-established global Forex and CFD broker, founded in 2007 in Sydney, Australia. It has grown to become one of the largest true ECN brokers, catering to both retail and institutional clients worldwide. The broker is renowned for its competitive pricing, advanced trading technology, and a wide range of trading instruments, making it a popular choice for high-volume traders and those employing algorithmic strategies.

Regulation and Safety

IC Markets operates under the supervision of several reputable financial authorities, ensuring a secure trading environment for its clients. Key regulatory licenses include the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB), and the Financial Services Authority (FSA) of Seychelles. These regulations mandate strict operational standards, client fund segregation, and transparent business practices, providing a degree of security and trustworthiness.

Trading Platforms

IC Markets offers a comprehensive suite of industry-leading trading platforms: MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and cTrader. These platforms are available across various devices, including desktop, web, and mobile, ensuring flexibility for traders. MT4 is widely favored for its extensive charting tools and Expert Advisor (EA) capabilities. MT5 offers enhanced features, more timeframes, and additional analytical tools. cTrader is popular for its advanced order types, depth of market, and sophisticated algorithmic trading options, appealing to serious day traders and scalpers.

Markets and Instruments

Traders at IC Markets have access to a diverse array of financial instruments across multiple asset classes. This includes over 60 currency pairs in Forex, major global indices, a variety of commodities such as metals and energies, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, and a selection of global stocks and bonds. This extensive offering allows traders to diversify their portfolios and capitalize on opportunities across different markets.

Account Types

IC Markets provides two primary account types designed to suit different trading styles: the Standard Account and the Raw Spread Account. The Standard Account offers commission-free trading with slightly wider spreads, suitable for new traders or those who prefer a simpler cost structure. The Raw Spread Account, available on both MT4/MT5 and cTrader, features ultra-low spreads starting from 0.0 pips, coupled with a small commission per lot traded. This account type is ideal for scalpers, high-frequency traders, and EA users who prioritize minimal spreads.

Spreads, Fees and Commissions

IC Markets is known for its highly competitive pricing model. Spreads on the Raw Spread account can start from 0.0 pips on major currency pairs, with a commission of approximately $3.50 per side per standard lot ($7.00 round turn) on MT4/MT5, and $3.00 per side per standard lot ($6.00 round turn) on cTrader. The Standard Account offers commission-free trading with average spreads starting from around 0.6 pips. Swap fees apply for positions held overnight, and these are standard across the industry.

Deposits and Withdrawals

IC Markets supports a wide range of convenient deposit and withdrawal methods. These include bank transfers, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard), and popular e-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. Other regional options like UnionPay and FasaPay are also available. Deposits are often processed instantly, while withdrawals typically take 1-5 business days, depending on the method. IC Markets generally does not charge internal fees for deposits or withdrawals, though third-party bank fees may apply.

Leverage

IC Markets offers flexible leverage options, which vary based on the client's regulatory jurisdiction. For clients trading under entities regulated by ASIC or CySEC, leverage is typically capped at 1:30 for major Forex pairs. However, for clients registered under their global entities (e.g., SCB or FSA Seychelles), leverage can go up to 1:500. This higher leverage allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller capital outlay, though it also amplifies potential risks.

Customer Support

IC Markets provides robust customer support services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Clients can reach the support team via live chat, email, or telephone. The support staff are generally knowledgeable and responsive, capable of assisting with a wide range of inquiries from technical issues to account management. A comprehensive FAQ section and educational resources are also available on their website.

Final Verdict

IC Markets stands out as a strong choice for traders seeking competitive pricing, advanced trading platforms, and a wide selection of instruments. Its commitment to low spreads and fast execution, particularly on its Raw Spread accounts, makes it highly attractive for active traders, scalpers, and those utilizing EAs. While its research and educational content might be less extensive than some competitors, its core offering of excellent trading conditions and reliable regulation positions it as a reputable and efficient broker for serious Forex and CFD trading.