IC Markets Trading Broker Review

Written by Christopher Lewis

Christopher Lewis

Christopher Lewis is a professional trader and author specialized in Forex and Crypto trading.

, | Updated: September 1, 2025

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• Go to:
• General Information
• Account Information
• Trading Information
• Spreads
• Leverage
• Deposit Methods
• Regulation and Security
• Account Types and Features
• How to open an account with IC Markets
• Trading Platforms
• Trading Instruments
• Trading Conditions
• Deposits and Withdrawals
• Security and Transparency
• Copy Trading and Extra Services
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion
›

IC Markets is a Sydney-based online broker that launched in 2007 with the core vision of bridging the gap between retail and institutional traders. The broker achieves this by providing a transparent environment and favourable trading conditions, characterised by narrow spreads and low commissions. These advantages have enabled the company to expand rapidly over the last 18 years, growing its client base to more than 200,000 active customers across 200 countries. The broker serves this diverse clientele with access to more than 2,250 CFD markets, including 61 currency pairs, 28 commodities, 25 indices, 9 bonds, over 2,100 stocks, as well as futures and cryptocurrencies.

Christopher Lewis is a US based Forex trader and analyst who trades across all sessions and pairs. He contributes forecasts, videos, and signals to major platforms like DailyForex.com, FXEmpire.com and Investing.com

Expert opinion by Christopher Lewis:

IC Markets is one of the world's largest brokers, offering social trading, web trading, and the MetaTrader ecosystem. Furthermore, they also offer cTrader and TradingView. Using CFDs to trade stocks, futures, digital currencies, bonds, indices, commodities, and forex at IC Markets, you have the ability to trade the entire world. IC Markets is regulated by the Financial Services Authority of Seychelles.

IC Markets Contact Information

IC Markets operates under the stringent regulatory frameworks of respected watchdogs such as the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Additional licences have been granted by the authorities in the Bahamas and the Seychelles, enabling the broker to operate internationally.

Customers can choose between two principal account types, beginning with the commission-free Standard account, where spreads start from 0.8 pips. Raw MetaTrader accounts provide spreads from 0.0 pips and a commission of $3.50 per side. Traders can reduce their costs further by connecting a Raw account to cTrader, lowering the commission to $3 per side. IC Markets supports clients of all experience levels with a wealth of educational resources and tools, including guides, economic calendars, forex calculators and concise market-commentary videos.

General Information about IC Markets

Account Information

Account Types	Standard Account, Raw Spread cTrader Account, Raw Spread MT Account
ECN Account
Pro Account
MAM Account

Trading Information

Markets	Commodities CFDs, Crypto CFDs, Energy CFDs, Forex CFDs, Indices CFDs, Metals CFDs, Stock CFDs
Min Contact Size	0.01
Max Contract Size	1000 (1,000 lots)
Min Account Balance	USD200
Scalping Allowed
Hedging Allowed
PAMM Trading
Swap-free Trading

Spreads

Leverage

Deposit Methods

Visa Card
MasterCard
Paypal
Credit/Debit Card
Amex
Bank/Wire Transfer
Crypto
Bitcoin
Skrill
Neteller
Google Pay
Apple Pay
Payid
USDT
Tether
Astropay

Regulation and Security

IC Markets prioritises client safety and operates within stringent regulatory frameworks. It is licensed by several authorities: the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) and South Africa’s Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).

Client funds are safeguarded in segregated accounts with top-tier banks, ensuring the company’s operational funds remain separate from traders’ investments. Negative balance protection ensures traders cannot lose more than their initial deposits. Additionally, the broker adheres to robust anti-money laundering (AML) and client verification protocols, delivering the secure environment traders demand.

Account Types and Features

IC Markets offers a diverse range of account types to suit the varied needs of traders, whether they are just starting out or are experienced professionals. Each account type is structured to provide optimal trading conditions, transparency and flexibility, catering to different trading styles and preferences.

• Standard Account

  The Standard Account is designed for novice traders seeking a straightforward, commission-free trading experience. With spreads starting from 0.8 pips, it offers a cost-effective entry point into the trading world. This account suits traders who value the convenience of spread-only pricing without the complexity of commission-based models. It enables users to access the full range of instruments, including forex, indices and commodities, without incurring costs beyond the spread.

• Raw Spread Account

  The Raw Spread Account caters to more experienced traders who require tighter spreads and are prepared to pay a commission in exchange for superior pricing. Spreads can be as low as 0.0 pips, giving traders access to the most competitive market rates available. The account levies a commission of $3.50 per side per lot, making it ideal for high-volume or algorithmic trading. By providing direct market access with minimal mark-ups, this account delivers efficient execution for those who prioritise low-cost, high-frequency strategies.

• cTrader Raw Account

  The cTrader Raw Account offers the same tight spreads as the Raw Spread Account but is optimised for use with the cTrader platform. It provides raw pricing with spreads from 0.0 pips, while charging a lower commission of $3.00 per side per lot. This makes it particularly appealing to traders who favour the cTrader platform’s intuitive interface and advanced charting tools. The account is ideal for anyone who requires rapid, accurate order execution and wishes to benefit from the high-quality liquidity and low spreads available on cTrader.

• Islamic Account

  For traders adhering to Sharia principles, IC Markets offers Islamic accounts that are swap-free, meaning there are no interest charges on overnight positions. This ensures compliance with Islamic law, which prohibits the payment or receipt of interest. The Islamic option can be applied to both the Standard and Raw Spread account types, providing identical trading conditions to their conventional counterparts but without swap fees. It is therefore an excellent choice for those pursuing long-term strategies while remaining faithful to religious guidelines.

• Demo Account

  IC Markets also provides a Demo Account for traders who wish to practise their skills, test strategies or familiarise themselves with the trading platforms. The demo account offers unlimited usage, enabling users to trade risk-free with virtual funds. Whether you’re new to trading or trialling a new strategy, the Demo Account is an excellent way to refine your trading skills without risking real money. It is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to explore the platform’s features or practise trading in live market conditions before committing capital.

How to open an account with IC Markets

Opening an account with IC Markets is a simple process designed to get you trading as quickly as possible. Here are the main steps:

1. Registration

   Start by visiting the IC Markets website and clicking the “Open Account” button. You will need to enter your personal details, including your name, email address and telephone number. Ensure the information provided is accurate to avoid delays.

2. Verification

   After registration, you must verify your identity and address to comply with regulatory requirements. Upload documents such as a government-issued ID (passport or driving licence) and proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement.

3. Account Selection

   Choose the trading account type that best suits your needs. IC Markets offers options such as Standard, Raw Spread and cTrader Raw accounts, each designed for different trading strategies and preferences.

4. Platform Selection

   Once you have chosen your account, select the platform you prefer. IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView, each offering distinctive features tailored to various trading styles.

5. Funding Your Account

   Next, fund your account using a variety of methods such as credit or debit cards, bank transfers or e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller, etc.). Minimum deposit amounts may vary according to the chosen method.

6. Start Trading

   After funding, download the selected platform, log in with your credentials and you are ready to begin trading. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, IC Markets provides the tools you need to trade across a wide range of instruments.

Trading Platforms

• MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
  One of the most popular platforms worldwide, MT4 provides an intuitive interface suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. It includes powerful automated trading capabilities through Expert Advisors (EAs) and offers a wide range of charting tools, technical indicators and real-time market data. MT4 is ideal for traders seeking simplicity combined with reliability.
• MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
  MT5 elevates trading with even more advanced tools. It offers additional timeframes, greater charting flexibility and a broader suite of technical indicators than MT4. MT5 is well-suited to multi-asset trading, as it supports a wider variety of asset classes, including stocks and commodities, and it incorporates an economic calendar for real-time market analysis.
• cTrader
  Designed specifically for ECN (Electronic Communication Network) trading, cTrader offers ultra-low latency and advanced risk-management tools. With Level II pricing, traders can access real-time bid/ask data to make more informed decisions. cTrader also features sophisticated charting and rapid order execution, making it suitable for experienced traders or those focusing on high-frequency trading strategies.
• TradingView
  TradingView delivers a sophisticated charting experience with an extensive range of technical-analysis tools. It allows traders to share ideas and strategies through its vibrant social-trading community. The platform is accessible from any device and provides seamless order execution, enabling users to analyse the market and place trades efficiently.

Trading Instruments

• Forex

  • Currency Pairs: IC Markets allows trading in over 60 currency pairs, including major, minor and exotic pairs like EUR/USD, USD/JPY and GBP/USD.
  • Leverage: Leverage options vary depending on the account type, with some accounts offering up to 1:500, enabling traders to control larger positions with a smaller capital investment.
  • Spreads: Competitive spreads starting from 0.0 pips on ECN accounts, with commission fees applicable for certain account types.

• Commodities

  • Metals: Gold, silver and other precious metals are available for trading with attractive leverage options and competitive spreads.
  • Energies: Trade energy commodities such as crude oil and natural gas, with varying leverage and spread conditions.
  • Soft Commodities: A selection of soft commodities, including coffee, sugar and cocoa, may also be available based on market conditions.

• Indices

  • Global Indices: IC Markets offers access to a wide range of global indices, such as the S&P 500, NASDAQ, FTSE 100 and DAX.
  • Leverage: Leverage options are typically up to 200:1, depending on the account type and market conditions.
  • Spreads: Competitive spreads, with some indices offering spreads as low as 0.4 points.

• Cryptocurrencies

  • Major Cryptocurrencies: IC Markets provides trading in popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin, as well as other altcoins.
  • Leverage: Leverage for cryptocurrency trading is generally lower, often up to 20:1, due to the highly volatile nature of these markets.
  • Spreads: Spreads for cryptocurrencies can be wider than those for traditional assets, but IC Markets strives to offer competitive pricing.

• CFDs

  • Global Shares: IC Markets offers CFDs on over 1,600 stocks from major exchanges worldwide, including the US, UK, Australia and Europe, allowing for portfolio diversification.
  • Leverage: Leverage for shares is typically up to 20:1, giving traders the opportunity to gain exposure to equity markets with a smaller capital investment.
  • Spreads: Competitive spreads are available, with some shares having spreads as low as 0.01%.

• Bonds

  • Government Bonds: IC Markets offers opportunities to trade in government bonds from various countries, allowing traders to diversify into lower-risk markets.
  • Leverage and Spreads: Leverage for bonds tends to be lower compared with other instruments, with spreads reflecting the bond’s liquidity and market conditions.

Trading Conditions

• Leverage
  IC Markets offers flexible leverage, with options reaching up to 1:500, allowing traders to amplify their market exposure. This structure enables traders to control larger positions with less initial capital, enhancing potential profits while supporting effective risk management.
• Spreads
  Traders can benefit from exceptionally tight spreads starting at 0.0 pips on ECN accounts. This pricing model ensures low transaction costs, which is especially advantageous for high-frequency traders and those executing large volumes, providing optimal conditions for market entry and exit.
• Execution
  IC Markets delivers ultra-fast execution speeds thanks to its cutting-edge technology infrastructure and server locations in major financial hubs. This strategic setup minimises latency and ensures that orders are filled almost instantly, making it ideal for traders who rely on rapid execution, particularly during periods of high volatility.
• Scalping and Hedging
  The broker fully supports scalping and hedging strategies, allowing traders to engage in rapid, short-term trades and manage risk efficiently. Additionally, IC Markets accommodates the use of Expert Advisors (EAs), enabling traders to automate their strategies for even greater efficiency.

These conditions ensure that both novice and professional traders enjoy a reliable, fast and cost-effective trading environment. With low-cost spreads, significant leverage and rapid execution, IC Markets stands out as an ideal broker for those looking to maximise their trading potential.

Deposits and Withdrawals

IC Markets provides a streamlined process for both deposits and withdrawals, offering clients a convenient and secure way to manage their funds. Below are key details of its funding procedures:

Deposit

• Deposit Options: Clients can fund their accounts via various methods, including credit and debit cards, bank wire transfers, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and several other popular payment services. This flexibility ensures that traders have access to a method that suits their preferences and location.
• Minimum Deposit Requirement: The minimum deposit amount varies depending on the chosen payment method, making it accessible for traders with different budget sizes. The minimum is typically around $200 for most payment methods.
• Deposit Processing Time: Deposits are processed instantly for most methods, allowing traders to start trading without delays. For bank wire transfers, processing may take a few hours or up to one business day, depending on the bank’s processing times.

Withdrawal

• Withdrawal Options: Withdrawals can be made through the same methods available for deposits, such as bank wire transfers, credit/debit cards and e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill and Neteller.
• Withdrawal Processing Time: Withdrawal requests are processed within 1-2 business days for bank wire transfers. E-wallet withdrawals, on the other hand, are typically completed within 24 hours.
• Fees and Charges: IC Markets does not charge fees for most deposit and withdrawal transactions. However, third-party fees may apply, particularly for international wire transfers, and these fees are determined by the respective payment providers.

Security and Transparency

• Secure Payment Gateway: IC Markets uses secure payment gateways to ensure that client transactions are processed safely and that sensitive financial data is protected against unauthorised access.
• Transparent Fees: IC Markets maintains a high level of transparency regarding its deposit and withdrawal procedures, clearly informing clients of any applicable fees. The broker aims to minimise transaction costs and provide clients with a seamless, cost-effective funding experience.

Copy Trading and Extra Services

IC Markets provides a range of value-added services that cater to traders seeking to enhance their trading experience, with Copy Trading being one of the most notable features. This service allows less-experienced traders to automatically replicate the trades of expert traders, enabling them to leverage the knowledge and expertise of seasoned professionals. It is an ideal option for those who want to participate in the markets without dedicating hours to research and analysis. With a user-friendly interface, traders can easily browse top-performing signal providers and mirror their strategies, potentially benefiting from their expertise.

Beyond Copy Trading, IC Markets offers services such as VPS hosting, which is especially beneficial for algorithmic traders. This service ensures uninterrupted, 24/7 operation of automated trading strategies and Expert Advisors (EAs), providing traders with a stable and fast connection. Additionally, IC Markets supports FIX API access, giving institutional and high-frequency traders direct, rapid execution with minimal latency. For those looking to improve their trading skills or stay up to date with market trends, IC Markets supplies an extensive range of research tools, market analysis and educational content. These services make IC Markets a well-rounded broker that accommodates traders of all experience levels and technical needs.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

IC Markets stands out as a leading broker in the financial services industry, providing institutional-grade trading conditions paired with exceptional customer support. With comprehensive regulatory oversight, traders can feel confident that their funds and data are secure. The broker offers access to advanced trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 and cTrader, which are designed to accommodate both beginner and experienced traders alike. Whether you’re interested in forex, commodities, stocks or cryptocurrencies, IC Markets delivers a vast range of instruments, ensuring there is something for every trading strategy.

The broker excels in providing traders with low spreads, fast execution speeds and high leverage options, enabling efficient and transparent trading experiences. IC Markets’ commitment to transparency extends to its pricing structure, helping traders make informed decisions without hidden costs. Additionally, with a variety of funding and withdrawal options, customers enjoy hassle-free management of their accounts.

IC Markets’ focus on continuous innovation, along with its educational resources and advanced trading tools, makes it an attractive option for traders of all experience levels. By offering cutting-edge technology, excellent customer support and a strong commitment to client satisfaction, IC Markets has firmly established itself as one of the top choices in the competitive brokerage landscape.

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