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IC Markets has established itself as a competitive broker in the forex and CFD trading landscape, particularly noted for its low spreads and fast execution speeds. With a diverse range of trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, it appeals to both retail and institutional traders. However, potential clients should be aware of the nuances related to regulatory jurisdictions, as the broker operates under different entities that offer varying levels of protection.
Note: It is crucial to consider the different regulatory entities under which IC Markets operates, as they can significantly impact the level of investor protection and trading conditions.
Category | Rating (out of 10) |
---|---|
Account Conditions | 8 |
Tools and Resources | 7 |
Customer Service and Support | 8 |
Trading Setup (Experience) | 9 |
Trustworthiness | 8 |
User Experience | 7 |
Overall | 8 |
We rate brokers based on a comprehensive analysis of user feedback, expert opinions, and factual data.
Founded in 2007, IC Markets is headquartered in Sydney, Australia, and has quickly become a popular choice among traders globally. The broker provides access to various trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, catering to different trading styles and preferences. IC Markets offers a wide range of asset classes, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, making it a versatile option for traders. The broker is regulated by reputable authorities, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), ensuring a level of trust and security for its clients.
IC Markets operates in multiple jurisdictions, including Australia, Cyprus, Seychelles, and the Bahamas. Each entity has its own regulatory framework, which affects the level of investor protection. For example, clients under ASIC are not covered by a compensation scheme, while those under CySEC benefit from the Investor Compensation Fund, which protects up to €20,000 in case of broker insolvency.
IC Markets supports multiple currencies, including USD, AUD, EUR, GBP, and more. The broker also allows deposits and withdrawals in cryptocurrencies, making it convenient for users who prefer digital assets. The minimum deposit required to open an account is $200, which is competitive compared to other brokers.
Currently, IC Markets does not offer any bonuses or promotions. Instead, the broker focuses on providing competitive trading conditions, which include low spreads and commission rates.
IC Markets provides access to over 2,200 tradable instruments, including:
IC Markets is known for its low trading costs. The average spread for major forex pairs like EUR/USD is as low as 0.0 pips on raw spread accounts, with a commission of $3.50 per lot for MetaTrader accounts and $3 for cTrader accounts. The standard account does not charge any commission, but spreads start from 0.8 pips.
IC Markets offers high leverage options depending on the regulatory entity. For instance, leverage can go up to 1:500 for clients registered with the Seychelles entity, while it is capped at 1:30 for clients under ASIC and CySEC regulations.
IC Markets supports several trading platforms, including:
These platforms are accessible on desktop, web, and mobile, providing traders with flexibility and convenience.
IC Markets does not accept clients from several countries, including the USA, Canada, and Israel, due to regulatory restrictions. Prospective clients should verify their eligibility based on their country of residence.
IC Markets offers customer support in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Arabic, and more. Support is available 24/7 through live chat, email, and phone.
Category | Rating (out of 10) |
---|---|
Account Conditions | 8 |
Tools and Resources | 7 |
Customer Service and Support | 8 |
Trading Setup (Experience) | 9 |
Trustworthiness | 8 |
User Experience | 7 |
Overall | 8 |
IC Markets offers several account types, including standard and raw spread accounts. The minimum deposit is set at $200, making it accessible for most traders. The raw spread accounts are particularly beneficial for scalpers and high-frequency traders due to their lower spreads and commission structures.
While IC Markets provides a range of trading tools, including advanced charting capabilities and third-party integrations like TradingView and Autochartist, some users have noted that the proprietary research and educational resources could be improved.
Customer service at IC Markets is generally well-rated, with many users praising the responsiveness and professionalism of the support team. However, some reviews indicated occasional delays in response times, particularly during peak hours.
The trading experience is often highlighted as a strong point for IC Markets, with users reporting fast execution speeds and competitive pricing. The ability to use automated trading strategies is a significant advantage for algorithmic traders.
IC Markets is regulated by multiple authorities, including ASIC and CySEC, which enhances its credibility. However, the lack of negative balance protection for its offshore clients is a point of concern for some traders.
Overall, users report a positive experience with IC Markets, particularly regarding the trading platforms and execution speeds. However, some have expressed a desire for more comprehensive educational resources and research tools.
In conclusion, IC Markets stands out as a reputable broker with competitive trading conditions, particularly for forex and CFD trading. While it offers a robust trading environment, potential clients should carefully consider the implications of the different regulatory entities under which it operates.