IC Markets
IC Markets Review 2025 – Is It a Safe Forex Broker?
Thinking of trading with IC Markets? In this detailed review, we examine IC Markets’ regulations, account types, spreads, fees, platforms, and more. By the end, you’ll see whether IC Markets is a good fit for your trading style in 2025.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Broker Name | IC Markets |
| Founded | 2007 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia |
| Regulations | ASIC (Australia), CySEC (Cyprus), FSA (Seychelles) |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 |
| Account Types | Standard, Raw Spread (MT4/MT5), cTrader Raw Spread; also Islamic (swap‑free) |
| Trading Platforms | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader (Web, Desktop, Mobile) |
| Instruments Offered | Forex pairs, CFDs on indices, stocks, commodities, metals, cryptocurrencies in many jurisdictions |
| Leverage | Up to 1:500 (depending on regulatory region) |
Regulation & Safety
IC Markets is heavily regulated and uses strong safeguards to protect traders:
- Regulated by ASIC Australia – License No: 335692
- Regulated by CySEC Cyprus – License No: 362/18
- Regulated by the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) – Licence SD018
- Segregated client funds
- Negative balance protection (in certain jurisdictions)
Account Types Offered
| Account Type | Platform(s) | Spreads From | Commission | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | MT4 / MT5 | ≈ 0.8‑1.0 pips | No separate commission | $200 |
| Raw Spread (MetaTrader) | MT4 / MT5 | 0.0 pips (on major pairs) | ≈ **US$3.50** per lot per side (or US$7 round‑turn) | $200 |
| Raw Spread (cTrader) | cTrader | 0.0 pips | ≈ **US$3.00** per lot per side (≈ US$6 round‑turn) | $200 |
| Islamic (Swap‑Free) | MT4, MT5, cTrader | Same as underlying account type (Standard or Raw) but no swaps on FX, indices, metals in many cases | Commission/same spreads as base type; some fixed overnight admin fees where swaps are removed | $200 |
Trading Platforms
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4) – widely supported, many custom indicators & Expert Advisors (EAs)
- MetaTrader 5 (MT5) – more advanced features, more instruments
- cTrader – Especially for those preferring a different UI, Depth of Market view, faster latency, etc.
- Available on Web, Desktop (Windows/Mac), iOS & Android mobile apps
Instruments You Can Trade
- Over 60‑70+ Forex currency pairs
- CFDs on indices, commodities, and metals (Gold, Silver, Oil)
- Stocks CFDs (depending on your jurisdiction)
- Cryptocurrency CFDs in permitted regions
Spreads, Fees & Commission
- Spreads: As low as 0.0 pips on Raw Spread and cTrader accounts for major pairs, Standard account spreads start around 0.8‑1.0 pips.
- Commission: Roughly US$3.50 per lot per side for Raw Spread (MetaTrader), about US$3.00 per lot per side for cTrader Raw Spread. Standard accounts have no separate commission.
- Swap / Overnight fees: Apply on positions held overnight except on Islamic accounts; in those cases, administrative or fixed fees may apply in lieu of swap.
- Deposit / Withdrawal Fees: Deposits are typically free; withdrawals are free for many methods, though some bank transfers (especially international) may incur a fee or time delay.
- Inactivity Fees: IC Markets may charge fees after long periods of inactivity (check the T&Cs for your region)
Security & Measures
- Client funds are held in segregated bank accounts
- SSL encryption for website and trading platforms
- Negative balance protection (in certain jurisdictions)
- Identity verification (KYC) required to open live account
Deposit & Withdrawal Options
| Method | Processing Time | Fees / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Credit / Debit Card | Instant to few hours | Usually no fee |
| Bank Transfer | 1‑5 business days (varies by country & bank) | Some international transfer fees may apply |
| E‑wallets (Skrill, Neteller etc.) | Instant to same day in many cases | No or low fee in most regions |
| Cryptocurrencies (where permitted) | Hours | Varies based on coin and network fees |
Customer Support
- Live Chat – generally responsive
- Email Support & Ticket System
- Phone Support in some regions
- Support available in multiple languages
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very tight spreads, especially on Raw Spread & cTrader accounts
- Multiple platforms to choose from (MT4, MT5, cTrader)
- Regulated by several reputable authorities
- Islamic / swap‑free accounts available
Cons
- Minimum deposit of $200 is higher than some brokers that allow lower entry amounts
- Regulation strength and features may vary depending on client region (e.g. some protections stronger under ASIC/CySEC than under FSA Seychelles)
- Commission + spread cost model can get complex, especially for new traders computing total cost
Is IC Markets Right for You?
If you are a trader who values tight spreads, fast execution, and the flexibility of multiple platforms, IC Markets is a strong contender. Its Raw Spread and cTrader accounts are especially good for scalpers, algos, and experienced traders. If you are new, the Standard account may be more straightforward but costs are slightly higher in spreads.
If you decide to go with IC Markets:
Open Live Account with IC Markets
Tracking IC Markets Review with Google Analytics
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FAQs About IC Markets
Is IC Markets regulated?
Yes — by ASIC (Australia), CySEC (EU), and FSA (Seychelles). Different protections may apply depending on your country.
What is the minimum deposit?
$200 for most live accounts.
Does IC Markets offer Islamic / swap‑free accounts?
Yes. IC Markets provides Islamic / swap‑free accounts on Standard and Raw Spread account types across MT4, MT5, and cTrader.
What are typical spreads on major currency pairs?
On Raw Spread / cTrader accounts, spreads on pairs like EUR/USD can be as low as 0.0 pips; on Standard accounts, expect around 0.8‑1.0 pips.
How fast are deposits and withdrawals?
Deposits are usually instant for cards/e‑wallets; bank transfers may take 1‑5 business days. Withdrawals for many methods occur within 1‑2 business days depending on region.
Disclaimers
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Make sure you fully understand the risks involved before trading
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