Author:

Thomas Wallace's avatar

Thomas Wallace

Last update:

2025/07/29

Forex risk disclaimer:

Trading forex and CFDs carries a high level of risk!

IC Markets's review 2025 image

IC Markets Review 2025

Country:

United States

Year: 2007

Leverage: Up to 1:500

Deposit: From 200 USD

Spread: Low

Broker type: NDD

Website
Regulated

Regulation type:

CySEC, FSA, ASIC

Rating:


Offices: London, Dubai, Limasso

Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView

Instruments: Forex, Indices, Commodities, Stocks, Bonds, Cryptocurrency, Futures

Payment Methods:

General Overview

IC Markets, occasionally identified as International Capital Markets, has progressively advanced into one of the most influential CFD and Forex brokerage entities worldwide. For more than a decade, this company has garnered a broad reputation for providing a refined trading setting featuring swift executions, narrow spreads, and an expansive inventory of tradable offerings. Whether a newcomer seeking foundational insight or an established market player requiring sophisticated analytical tools, IC Markets aims to fulfill a comprehensive spectrum of trading aspirations.

A key factor behind IC Markets’ ascendancy is its emphasis on unmistakable transparency and reliability. By openly presenting details on liquidity channels, execution protocols, and cost structures, the broker minimizes ambiguities that might hamper a trader’s perspective. IC Markets also upgrades its technical base on a continual basis to preserve quick responsiveness, even during turbulent intervals. By stressing clarity and strong technological fundamentals, IC Markets fosters an environment ideal for scalpers, day traders, and swing traders alike.

Beyond its principal services, IC Markets delivers trustworthy customer assistance along with a range of educational materials oriented toward encouraging measured market engagement and prudent risk management. Through interactive programs, analytical dispatches, and step-by-step tutorials, the broker enables participants to consistently refine their expertise. This holistic outlook demonstrates how IC Markets differentiates itself among retail brokerage providers, uniting modernized tech solutions, cost-conscious fee setups, and a steadfast focus on client well-being.

Pros

  • Low forex fees
  • Easy and fast account opening
  • Free deposit and withdrawal
  • Offers standard and raw spread accounts
  • Supports multiple trading platforms (MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader)
  • Regulated by ASIC and FSA
  • Wide range of account types including Islamic accounts
  • Strong 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Limited product selection outside forex
  • No investor protection for non-EU clients
  • Slow live chat support
  • High minimum deposit for certain account types
  • Complex fee structure

Trust and Safety

Regulations: CySEC, FSA, ASIC

Security parameters and compliance commonly rank as top concerns when selecting a broker. IC Markets enforces various processes to maintain a protected environment for user funds and private data, reinforcing confidence across its global clientele. By segregating client deposits, partnering with top-tier banking institutions, and using robust encryption, IC Markets seeks to protect both capital and personal information.

Regulatory observance is integral to IC Markets’ operational framework. The broker adheres to strict benchmarks from well-regarded financial agencies, ensuring alignment with diligent requirements for risk oversight, systematic audits, and deposit protection. Such robust oversight helps avert malpractice or poor handling of positions, issues typically arising in inadequately supervised broker operations.

Is IC Markets Regulated?

IC Markets operates under the supervision of several prominent regulatory bodies, most notably the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). ASIC is widely respected for stringent rules surrounding transparency and capital reserves, prompting brokers to uphold recognized best practices. In addition, IC Markets maintains licensure from the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). Through these various frameworks, the broker broadens its worldwide scope, enabling traders from different regions to choose the entity most relevant to local requirements.

Under these licenses, IC Markets undergoes frequent assessments and extensive internal inspections, diminishing the chances of financial pitfalls during unfavorable market spells. Consequently, traders often find assurance that the broker is compelled to address potential issues candidly and in adherence to official guidelines.

Is IC Markets Safe?

Frequently deemed a dependable pick for retail trading, IC Markets derives its credibility from numerous safeguards that amplify user security. By keeping trader deposits apart from corporate funds, it guards against conflicting use of client money. Additionally, sophisticated encryption and layered security routines limit infiltration risks. Meanwhile, its affiliations with established banks enhance liquidity access, promoting speedy payouts for users.

The company is also recognized for prompt customer support and client-first policies. This covers quick handling of withdrawal enquiries or identity checks, guaranteeing possible hurdles are resolved without delay. In tandem with rigorous external supervision, these features mark IC Markets as a comparatively lower-risk path for those seeking a transparent, stable trading experience.

Trading Platforms

MetaTrader 4 | MetaTrader 5 | cTrader | TradingView

Visit Platforms

To accommodate different trading inclinations, IC Markets features four leading platforms: MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), cTrader, plus a WebTrader interface. Each solution answers distinct needs—MT4 is praised for reliability and a large user ecosystem, MT5 offers advanced features, cTrader has a modern interface and level-two market data, while WebTrader functions in a web browser with no installation required.

By persistently updating servers and partnering with top-tier data centers, IC Markets upholds a steady environment for timely data feeds. This reliability supports algorithmic strategies that hinge on minimal latency. Whether drawing chart patterns by hand or relying on programmed EAs for execution, these platforms offer the scope to suit numerous trading techniques.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4)

A mainstay in the retail Forex scene, MT4 is highly regarded for its intuitive interface and an expansive library of tailor-made indicators plus EAs. Coupled with IC Markets’ liquidity backbone, MT4 is apt for strategies that count on accurate placements and low latency, such as scalping. Its consistent popularity attests to a tried-and-true, user-friendly setup.

MetaTrader 5 (MT5)

MT5 emerges as a progression from MT4, with supplementary timeframes, enhanced chart utilities, and a refined backtesting mechanism. Traders wanting broader multi-asset coverage often select MT5, supporting not just currency pairs but also other product lines. Its embedded economic feed and partial fill options grant systematic or algorithmic methodologies finer control over orders.

cTrader

cTrader is applauded for its sleek interface and robust chart functions, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize level-two depth of market. The cAlgo framework lets users code and implement algorithmic solutions. Combined with IC Markets’ efficient server array, cTrader stands out as a viable choice for methodical or detail-oriented traders seeking direct price transparency.

WebTrader

IC Markets’ WebTrader marks a browser-based format that forgoes downloaded software. Though it retains core MT4 essentials—live price charts, real-time feeds, quick trade actions—it might not match all the custom additions found in desktop installations, yet it remains a useful option for cross-device accessibility and immediate usage.

Tradable Instruments

Instruments: Forex, Indices, Commodities, Stocks, Bonds, Cryptocurrency, Futures

IC Markets maintains a substantial library of tradable assets, allowing investors to spread activity across multiple categories without juggling several brokers. This integrated access is particularly advantageous to those shifting between currencies, indices, commodities, metals, crypto, or share CFDs based on strategic signals or macroeconomic updates. Though Forex is central, the broker’s coverage expands further into other CFD instruments too.

Such variety supports real-time pivots—for instance, from currency pairs to metals if macro indicators spark heightened safe-haven sentiment. Likewise, those who want to exploit business or economic developments can turn to index or share CFDs for capturing relevant movements.

Forex

In Forex, IC Markets stands out with a broad collection of major, minor, and exotic pairs. Thanks to prime-level liquidity networks, the broker often offers notably narrow spreads on heavily traded options like EUR/USD or USD/JPY. Given the market’s round-the-clock nature, participants can make the most of overlapping sessions to secure improved order fills and possibly more favorable spread conditions.

Indices

IC Markets makes numerous benchmark indices—like the Dow Jones and the DAX—available as CFDs, enabling traders to project on collective economic sentiment without dissecting single equities. Economic or political turbulence can rapidly move these indices, occasionally delivering rewarding short-run setups. Because of typically reduced spreads, IC Markets’ index CFDs can suit short- to medium-range trading horizons.

Commodities

For those focused on raw materials, IC Markets grants CFD exposure in energies (oil, natural gas) and agricultural products (coffee, sugar, and more). Shifts in supply or demand, weather transformations, and geopolitical tensions can all stir volatility, providing scope for both near-term speculation and protracted moves.

Metals

Precious metals like gold (XAU) and silver (XAG) frequently appeal to traders seeking haven assets. By featuring them, IC Markets helps users offset inflationary or political concerns. The broker’s high-level execution systems aim to diminish slippage, critical considering how swiftly metals can swing after pivotal announcements.

Cryptocurrencies

Following ongoing interest in digital assets, IC Markets offers CFDs for leading cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Ripple. While the volatility can be intense, profit opportunities exist for adept traders well-versed in crypto’s inherent fluctuations. Traders appreciate the chance to short or long without needing external wallets, though caution is necessary, given crypto’s unregulated domain.

Shares

IC Markets also extends CFDs on company shares pulled from international exchanges, letting participants speculate on corporate developments—be they financial statements or larger industry cycles. Because these are CFDs, both long and short plays are supported, enabling multi-directional strategies for bullish or bearish forecasts.

Bonds

A variety of government bonds is included, widening the scope for conservative hedging or diversifying a portfolio. Bond rates typically shift inversely to interest announcements, offering traders a measure of balance against stock market fluctuations. Although less common among basic retail accounts, these can be integral for smoothing volatility in a multi-asset plan.

Futures

While not as extensive as dedicated derivatives venues, IC Markets provides an array of futures-based CFDs linked to principal indices, commodities, and other underlyings. These fit those wishing to adopt lengthier perspectives or hedge existing strategies, paralleling actual futures pricing absent the overhead of a specialized futures account. True to form, the broker’s priority on direct quotes and efficient execution also holds here.

Account Types

In deference to a diverse global clientele, IC Markets offers multiple account types, each spotlighting distinct pricing systems or customized features. Whether minimal spreads, no commissions, or a model aligning with Sharia finance is the priority, the broker preserves universal benefits—rapid trade execution and a wide product range—across all tiers. The distinctions mostly concern how charges are structured and any specialized account attributes.

Moreover, traders can fund accounts in various base currencies, diminishing conversion fees for those not using USD. Some accounts also afford scaled commission reductions aimed at large-volume trading, drawing algorithmic or frequent practitioners. Whichever account is chosen, the broker normally enforces identity verification to respect regulatory demands and preserve account security.

Standard Account

The Standard Account incorporates the broker’s fees directly into the spread, doing away with a separate commission figure. This straightforward cost model appeals to newer users disinclined to handle both commission and spread calculations. Even though spreads might begin near 1.0 pip on principal pairs, the environment remains reasonably competitive for those perfecting a routine.

Raw Spread Account

Designed for high-frequency players or scalpers, the Raw Spread Account merges super-low spreads with a modest commission. Spreads can dip to 0.0 pips for significant pairs during bustling sessions, while the commission—commonly around USD 3.5 per side per lot—often makes total costs extremely favorable for rapid-fire strategies. Its transparent layout helps traders ascertain precise cost implications on every trade.

Pro Account

Sometimes called a VIP or Pro tier, this option targets traders with greater deposits or recurrent substantial volumes, promising preferential rates, specialized service, or related perks. Terms normally involve a significant initial capital plus ongoing trade regularity. Traders intrigued by these privileges can consult IC Markets to see if they meet the conditions.

Islamic Account

For those following Islamic financial guidelines, IC Markets provides a swap-free account model that exempts interest-based overnight charges. Instead, a basic administrative levy might apply if trades stay open beyond specific cutoffs, ensuring compliance with the avoidance of interest. Other than removing overnight interest, the account mostly mirrors the Standard or Raw Spread versions.

IC Markets Leverage

Depending on the overseeing regulatory division, IC Markets can grant leverage reaching up to 1:500 on specific pairs. While heightened leverage magnifies gains, it likewise exacerbates losses, demanding wise margin oversight. Traders are advised to track margin carefully, particularly around pivotal economic disclosures that could trigger abrupt price actions. Some jurisdictions limit maximum leverage to shield retail clients from disproportionate exposures.

Deposits and Withdrawals

IC Markets caters to an internationally diverse user group through a range of deposit and withdrawal approaches—bank transfers, credit and debit cards, PayPal, Skrill, and regional solutions. This breadth empowers traders worldwide to fund and retrieve their balances quickly. Moreover, the minimum deposit generally remains accessible, accommodating those at the novice level along with seasoned operators.

Processing intervals differ based on the selected channel: e-wallet or card transfers commonly finalize rapidly, while bank wires may take several workdays due to cross-institution processes. In all cases, IC Markets institutes advanced encryption and compliance checks to preserve user security. Aligning with AML/KYC policies, the broker may require personal ID or proof of address before enabling substantial withdrawals, ensuring robust security overall.

IC Markets Deposit Options and Fees

Incoming deposits at IC Markets normally proceed with minimal friction, especially via e-wallets or cards. Although IC Markets itself avoids imposing deposit fees, some external banks or payment outlets might set their own surcharges beyond the broker’s reach. If the deposit currency is mismatched with the account base currency, conversion arises, incurring costs that can be sidestepped by depositing in a matched currency.

Deposit Method Processing Time Fees
Credit/Debit Cards Instant or up to 1 hour 0 - Minimal
PayPal Instant 0
Skrill/Neteller Instant 0
Bank Wire Transfer 1-3 business days Varies by bank

Before depositing larger sums, traders are encouraged to finalize account verifications—usually government-issued identification and a utility bill or similar. This aligns with regulatory imperatives and confirms that only authentic holders manage deposits, as well as subsequent withdrawals.

IC Markets Withdrawals Options and Fees

Withdrawals from IC Markets are known to proceed efficiently, with same-day processing often available if requests meet the broker’s daily cut-off. How long the funds take to appear depends on the chosen vehicle. E-wallets and card redemptions can be near-instant or take mere hours, while bank wire transfers might span two-to-five business days.

  • Occasionally zero or low withdrawal fees for multiple routes
  • Same-day handling when demands arrive before cut-off
  • Credit/Debit refunds: Up to five days until final credit
  • Bank wires: Normally two-to-five days, subject to intermediary banks

To remain consistent with anti-fraud stipulations, withdrawals typically revert to the deposit origin until the deposited sum is repaid. This ensures proper audit tracking, validating that only legitimate holders receive withdrawn amounts. Any surplus over the deposit can be transferred through other channels according to AML provisions.

Poli

Visa

Skrill

Mastercard

Klarna

Fees and Commissions

A principal attraction at IC Markets is its budget-friendly fee profile, centered on slim spreads and reasonable commissions. Irrespective of whether one opts for intraday trading or maintains multi-day positions, cost management significantly shapes net profitability. IC Markets accommodates variable fee preferences by providing multiple account variants crafted around distinct cost priorities.

On top of spreads and commissions, the broker discloses supplementary expenses, including inactivity penalties, processing charges, or currency translation markups. By restraining concealed or superfluous fees, IC Markets highlights its commitment to openness. This is particularly beneficial for traders executing frequent entries, as well as those who retain trades for an extended duration.

IC Markets Trading Fees

IC Markets separates trade-related costs into spreads and commissions. The exact setup depends on the account category chosen. The Raw Spread account, for instance, can provide spreads down to 0.0 pips on core currency pairs, paired with a commission around USD 3.5 each lot, per side. Meanwhile, the Standard account factors the broker’s margin into somewhat larger spreads—commonly from about 1.0 pip on EUR/USD—yet forgoes an explicit commission fee.

  • Raw Spread Account Commission: Roughly USD 3.5 per lot per side.
  • Standard Account Commission: No standalone commission, with marginally bigger spreads.
  • Volume Incentives: Possible rewards for high-volume transactions.

Those seeking razor-thin spreads for scalping or swift strategies could choose the Raw Spread approach. Others who value simpler cost tracking might lean toward the Standard format. In any event, IC Markets’ adaptable framework ensures that its fee design can be matched to varying trading modalities and risk tolerance levels.

IC Markets Spreads

One noteworthy feature of IC Markets is its stably low spreads, noticeably within the Raw Spread accounts. During periods of strong liquidity, prime pairs like EUR/USD or GBP/USD often display spreads around 0.0–0.2 pips. Additional currency combinations and CFDs remain equally appealing due to the broker’s merged liquidity pool drawn from first-rate providers.

Instrument Typical Spread (Raw) Typical Spread (Standard)
EUR/USD 0.0 - 0.2 pips 1.0 pips
GBP/USD 0.3 - 0.5 pips 1.2 pips
Gold (XAU/USD) 0.15 - 0.20 0.30

Maintaining such restricted spreads on an ongoing basis attracts traders who rely on precise entries and exits. Even so, like anywhere else, spreads may widen amid drastic market volatility or shallow liquidity. Traders should thus remain mindful of market dynamics, employing sensible risk controls—limit orders, careful leverage, and so forth—under more volatile scenarios.

IC Markets Non-Trading Fees

When evaluating non-trading fees, IC Markets keeps them largely minimal. The firm rarely charges for account upkeep, and deposit avenues such as e-wallets, bank transfers, or credit cards typically come without hidden costs. Certain withdrawal processes, however, might apply small fees, often subject to local policies or intermediary banking.

  • No ongoing account or platform costs
  • No deposit surcharges for prevalent payment solutions
  • Sporadic nominal withdrawal fees
  • Potential conversion charges if base currency diverges from deposit currency

Similarly, IC Markets ordinarily bypasses inactivity levies, suiting investors who trade occasionally or retain positions long-term. However, confirming the most current rules is advisable, since broker policies can shift in response to regulations or business decisions.

Bonuses and Promotions

In contrast to brokers frequently pushing sizable promotional rewards, IC Markets chooses to concentrate on refined trading conditions rather than extravagant bonuses. Nonetheless, it may occasionally run offers like referral rebates or specific deposit credits. Such deals commonly come with stipulations—targeted trade volumes or required holding spans—to ensure genuine usage and regulatory harmony.

As promotional regulations differ regionally—some jurisdictions heavily restrict or prohibit bonuses—the exact deals hinge on the user’s location and the operating IC Markets entity. Checking the broker’s official portal or emailing support yields the most dependable, up-to-date promotional details.

Referral Bonus

IC Markets might introduce referral incentives benefitting both existing and newly joining traders. This can mean deposit-driven credits or trading bonuses activated once the referred user satisfies designated thresholds for deposits or trade amounts. It encourages organic growth while confirming referred accounts genuinely engage in trading rather than remaining inactive.

Trading Credit Bonus

At intervals, IC Markets awards deposit-based credits, enlarging a trader’s accessible margin. However, the bonus itself normally remains locked behind volume requirements. It’s therefore crucial to comprehend these rules thoroughly before factoring such credits into broader money management protocols.

Education

To round out its comprehensive service array, IC Markets allocates resources to instructing traders. Offerings include platform guides, foundational lessons for those new to Forex, and deeper explorations of analytical methods or market-moving news. By circulating multiple educational tools, the broker facilitates informed action in often volatile markets.

Likewise, IC Markets provides a demo account for individuals to practice real-time strategies without committing actual capital. Online webinars or in-person tutorials present real examples of how experienced operators react to immediate economic data or experiment with algorithmic concepts. Additionally, timely announcements, the broker’s blog, plus an updated economic schedule alert participants to possible catalysts that may shift trends. Altogether, these resources steer traders toward logical decisions and ongoing enhancements of their trading techniques within IC Markets’ ecosystem.

Allowed Countries

Prior to opening an account with IC Markets, individuals should verify if local statutes permit its use, given that IC Markets offers services across Asia, Europe, Oceania, and segments of Africa. However, places like the U.S., Canada, and Iran bar citizens from signing up. As these regulations can change at short notice, the broker suggests studying local mandates or contacting support for confirmation.

Owing to its multi-entity licensing, IC Markets assigns each trader to whichever branch best complies with that person’s regional norms. Prospective clients should review local guidelines, permitted leverage thresholds, and any additional constraints shaping trading conditions. This approach harmonizes regulatory compliance with IC Markets’ broad-based market offerings.

Excluded Countries

United States

Canada

Israel

Iran

Customer Support

Recognizing that robust assistance underpins credibility, IC Markets provides multiple communication channels for routine and urgent matters. Coverage commonly runs 24/5, and occasionally more, ensuring traders in different time zones can get help. The support team is trained in product specifics, enabling them to discuss margin rules, platform usage, and order parameters comprehensively.

Phone Support

Phone: +61 2 8014 4280

Real-time phone contact is vital for pressing issues requiring immediate feedback. From margin calls to technical anomalies, verbal dialogue with skilled agents can swiftly expedite solutions. Should more advanced expertise be needed, the call can be directed to specialized departments for deeper investigations.

Email Support

IC Markets’ email channel proves practical for queries needing attachments or structured explanations, such as ID verification or transaction logs. Certain traders appreciate having a textual record for subsequent reference. Usual response windows range from a handful of hours to within one working day, contingent on complexity and overall support volume.

Live Chat

Website: www.icmarkets.com

Accessible from the IC Markets homepage, the Live Chat interface furnishes near-instant typed communication resembling a phone call but without voice involvement. It’s appropriate for concise questions on account mechanics or deposit workflows. Live Chat staff are generally adept at familiar troubleshooting steps, enabling them to handle routine issues immediately.

Physical Address

Level 6, 309 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia

Even though most user queries are solved online, publicizing a tangible office address reinforces authenticity. It shows that IC Markets is officially registered and operates at a genuine corporate venue, rather than existing only in cyberspace.

Broker Name: IC Markets

Broker Type: NDD

Country: United States

Operating since year: 2007

Regulations: CySEC, FSA, ASIC

Phone: +248 467 19 76

Email: [email protected]

Address: Level 6, 309 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia.

Broker status: Active

FAQs

Yes, ICMarkets is regulated by reputable financial authorities, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), ensuring adherence to strict financial standards.

ICMarkets provides various account types, including the Raw Spread Account, Standard Account, Islamic Account, Micro Account, and Pro Account, designed to suit different trading styles and experience levels.

Yes, ICMarkets offers a demo account with virtual funds, allowing beginners to practice and get comfortable with the platform risk-free.

ICMarkets supports MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and cTrader, accommodating a range of needs from beginner-friendly features to advanced trading tools.

ICMarkets does not charge deposit fees, and most withdrawal methods are also free. However, traders should check with their payment providers for any additional charges.

ICMarkets offers over 60 forex pairs, commodities (such as gold and silver), indices, cryptocurrencies, and stocks, allowing traders to diversify their portfolios.

No, ICMarkets typically does not provide bonuses or promotions, focusing instead on low fees, competitive spreads, and transparent trading conditions.

To open an account, visit the ICMarkets website, select “Open a Live Account,” and complete the registration form. Once verified, you can fund your account and begin trading.

ICMarkets offers 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and phone, ensuring assistance is available at any time.

Yes, ICMarkets is beginner-friendly, providing educational resources, a demo account, and a straightforward Standard Account with competitive spreads, making it accessible for new traders.

Leave your thoughts