Overall, IC Markets can be summarised as a trustworthy and highly regulated Forex Broker that is very competitive regarding its trading fees. IC Markets offers access to an extensive range of financial instruments and has a trust score of 94 out of 99.  

IC Markets Review – Analysis of Brokers’ Main Features

1. ☑️ Overview
2. ☑️ Detailed Summary
3. ☑️ Security Measures
4. ☑️ Account Types
5. ☑️ How To Open an Account
6. ☑️ Trading Platforms and Software
7. ☑️ Fees, Spreads, and, Commissions
8. ☑️ Which Markets Can You Trade?
9. ☑️ Leverage and Margin
10. ☑️ Deposit and Withdrawal
11. ☑️ Educational Resources
12. ☑️ Pros and Cons
13. ☑️ In Conclusion
14. ☑️ Frequently Asked Questions

 

Overview

Established in Sydney, Australia 2007, IC Markets has become a renowned online retail forex and CFD broker. It is revered for its commitment to offering traders a secure and transparent environment, catering to skilled experts and beginners. This brokerage firm adheres strictly to global financial regulations because it operates under the oversight of various major financial authorities such as ASIC from Australia or CySEC operating out of Cyprus, along with FSA hailing from Seychelles, ensuring trustworthiness at all times. One of IC Markets’ main strengths is its extensive range of financial instruments, encompassing forex, commodities, indices, bonds, cryptocurrencies, and stocks. This broad selection satisfies traders’ diverse requirements and allows them to diversify their portfolios efficiently. Additionally noteworthy is the brokerage’s implementation of an Electronic Communication Network (ECN) model that enables direct communication between players in the foreign exchange market.  

Detailed Summary

 

Security Measures

IC Markets puts a high priority on the security of its customers’ assets and personal information. As a regulated organization, IC Markets is subject to severe regulatory requirements established by many financial agencies, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), among others. A crucial component of their security procedures is the separation of client assets from the company’s operating finances, which ensures that customers’ investments are not utilized for any other reason. Furthermore, IC Markets provides negative balance protection, which protects customers from losing more money than they have deposited, an important safety in turbulent trading situations. In addition, the broker maintains an insurance policy to cover customers in the unusual case of default. IC Markets employs industry-standard encryption technologies to protect customer data and financial transactions. They run servers at the LD5 IBX Equinix Data Center, which offers a solid foundation for safe, quick, and dependable trading. With servers in a data center recognized for its excellent security and durability, IC Markets protects the trading environment from various digital threats.  

IC Markets Account Types

cTrader Account

IC Markets’ cTrader Account caters to traders seeking advanced technical complexity and fast execution speed. This account boasts enhanced charting capabilities, a diverse range of indicators, and level II pricing, perfect for algorithmic trading and scalping strategies. Professional traders appreciate the all-encompassing order management abilities and quick market entry/exit functionality. Furthermore, known for its lightning-fast execution times and impressive risk-management features that experienced traders value when using the platform. With 64 currency pairs and index CFDs on offer with leverage of up to 1:500, combined with low $3 costs per side, this an attractive option suitable towards daily aggressive day-trading scalpers. Additionally, tailored Islamic trading conditions are available on this account, making it ideal for catering to every trader’s demands.

Raw Spread Account

The IC Markets Raw Spread Account appeals to traders prioritizing minimal spread charges. This account grants access to the widely used and user-friendly MetaTrader 4 and 5 platforms while offering transparent pricing at a $3.5 cost per side across diverse trading instruments, including expert advisers and algorithmic trading strategies. This particular account type boasts micro-trading capabilities and an impressive leverage ratio of up to 1:500. This renders it particularly suitable for high-volume traders seeking optimal performance control and enhanced strategy refinement opportunities by employing experts’ insights into market behavior patterns.

Standard Account

IC Markets’ Standard Account is a more conventional option incorporating commission costs in the spread. This account type streamlines the fee structure, making it an appealing choice for new or infrequent traders. The Standard Account, available on MetaTrader platforms, has an easy-to-use interface and full analytical capabilities, making it suitable for discretionary traders. Its no-commission structure, with typical spreads of 0.6 pips and a minimum deposit of $200, is especially appealing to beginners globally who want transparent cost assessment and a streamlined trading experience.

Demo Account

IC Markets Demo Account provides a virtual trading environment where users can practice and perfect their trading strategies without incurring financial risk. It simulates real-market situations and is a wonderful resource for new and experienced traders. The demo account stays live forever and is ideal for long-term strategy development, terminating after 30 days of inactivity. With a virtual balance of up to $5,000,000, traders can practice with large sums of money, improving their trading abilities and confidence before moving on to genuine markets.

Islamic Account

IC Markets offers an Islamic Account that follows Sharia law by not charging exchange fees on overnight holdings. This account does not sacrifice the sophisticated features and execution speeds seen in traditional accounts, guaranteeing that trading effectiveness is maintained. The Islamic Account is available on the MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader platforms and provides access to a wide selection of trading products. While retaining competitive spreads and high-leverage choices, this account illustrates IC Markets’ commitment to diversity and meeting the unique requirements of Muslim traders.

Professional Account

For the discriminating and experienced trader, IC Markets’ Professional Account provides better conditions such as increased leverage and negative balance protection. This account type is intended for traders with a large investment portfolio and extensive market expertise. It requires fulfilling requirements such as a big portfolio size and trading frequency. Although the Professional Account lacks Investor Compensation Fund coverage, it does provide perks such as separate client trust bank accounts for increased fund security. This account demonstrates IC Markets’ commitment to meeting the complex demands of experienced traders, providing advanced trading conditions and extra protections.  

Can I open an Islamic Account?

Yes, IC Markets has an Islamic Account option that conforms with Sharia law by not charging swap fees on overnight holdings.  

What is the difference between the Raw Spread and Standard Account?

IC Markets’ Raw Spread Account features spreads beginning at 0.0 pips and a commission cost, but the Standard Account has no commission fees and spreads starting at 0.6 pips.  

How To Open an IC Markets Account

• To register an account with IC Markets, follow these easy steps:
• Navigate to the IC Markets Website and choose the green “Open a Live Account” option.
• Choose the account that best suits your requirements.
• Complete the application form.
• Fund your account
• Download Your Trading Platform
• Select your desired platform and download the program to your computer or mobile device.

 

Are there any requirements to open an IC Markets Professional Account?

Yes, IC Markets has an Islamic Account option that conforms with Sharia law by not charging swap fees on overnight holdings.  

What is the process to open an account with IC Markets?

IC Markets’ Raw Spread Account features spreads beginning at 0.0 pips and a commission cost, but the Standard Account has no commission fees and spreads starting at 0.6 pips.  

Trading Platforms and Software

MetaTrader 4

The MetaTrader 4 platform, made available by IC Markets, has proven to be an ideal option for traders requiring a dependable and adaptable trading environment. This software is recognized for its dependability and practical functionality while offering advanced charting features, technical tools for analysis purposes, and automated trade execution capabilities through Expert Advisors. The system’s adaptability allows individuals to personalize it according to their preferred trading strategies, resulting in a more bespoke experience. Its enduring popularity can largely be attributed to possessing an extensive collection of indicators complemented with compatibility alongside various scripts and plugins – fostering precise implementation of diverse trading techniques in an efficient manner.

MetaTrader 5

MetaTrader 5, available through IC Markets, offers a sophisticated platform for traders seeking advanced trading features and expanded product offerings. Building on the success of its predecessor, MetaTrader 5 enhances analytical capabilities with increased timeframes, superior charting tools, and indicators. The multi-asset functionality facilitates seamless market transitions across Forex markets, stocks, and futures. With extensive order management abilities and depth of market views complemented by comprehensive control over trade activity options, it affords granular insights to make prudent decisions based upon strategical forethoughts in achieving desired results.

cTrader

The cTrader platform is widely recognized for its user-friendly interface and superior functionality, which has resulted in a strong uptake by professional traders globally. The platform boasts exceptional capabilities that enable it to provide a transparent trading environment featuring Level II pricing and swift order execution – critical features required when executing more intricate or sophisticated trading strategies. Moreover, with robust charting abilities coupled with algorithmic trading support at their disposal, users of the cTrader service are empowered to develop and deploy automated systems better suited to meet specific needs. Given its cutting-edge features combined with an intuitive design framework catering explicitly towards achieving higher levels of efficiency while preserving transparency within the context of modern financial markets. In addition, this solution represents an excellent alternative for those seeking competitive advantages operating globally across rapidly evolving economic landscapes.

IC Social

IC Social is a distinctive platform developed by IC Markets to meet the growing demand for social trading globally. This cooperative medium facilitates traders to share thoughts, monitor market trends, and replicate trades of adept counterparts, creating an aggregate repository of knowledge that accrues benefit to all users. Particularly geared towards novice or seasoned traders seeking expansion in their trade spectrum, IC Social’s emphasis on connectivity and mobile responsiveness aligns with contemporary expectations of the socially-driven trader community valuing inclusive participation via accessible means while upholding quality standards.

Signal Start

IC Markets’ Signal Start service offers a sophisticated trading system that automates the sourcing of signals from an extensive pool of global signal providers. This offering particularly benefits traders looking to diversify their investment strategies by leveraging expertise from alternative trading styles and markets. Signal Start has garnered recognition for its intuitively designed interface, which affords seamless integration in following trade indicators and thus presents investors with reliable means to optimize results. Additionally, users benefit hugely from Signal Start’s prioritization of technical stability – a critical feature driving instantaneous execution and sustained performance within fiercely competitive marketplaces commonly encountered by traders today.

ZuluTrade

In association with IC Markets, ZuluTrade offers a social trading platform that emphasizes trader involvement and collaboration. This platform is particularly advantageous for traders who appreciate working jointly as it facilitates access to diverse ideas and approaches from an extensive network of seasoned traders. ZuluTrade’s advanced risk management features and customization options allow users to tailor their social trading experience according to their financial objectives and propensity towards risks. The partnership between ZuluTrade and IC Markets amplifies the value proposition by providing market participants with affordable spreads and unfettered entry into vast liquidity pools – pivotal advantages within the worldwide trading arena.  

Can I utilize automated trading methods?

Yes, IC Markets’ platforms offer automated trading techniques using Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader and cBots on cTrader.  

Can I access the trading platforms using any web browser?

Yes, IC Markets offers a WebTrader platform for MetaTrader and cTrader that can be accessed via any web browser without the requirement for program installation.  

Fees, Spreads, and, Commissions

Spreads

IC Markets sets itself apart by presenting a competitive spread structure across its diverse account types, accommodating the needs and requirements of global traders. For users holding Raw Spread and cTrader accounts, spreads can start as low as 0.0 pips, particularly for highly liquid currency pairings such as EUR/USD. This narrow-spread approach benefits trading strategies like scalping or high-frequency transactions where execution costs significantly impact profitability metrics. In contrast, Standard Accounts initiate their spreads at 0.6 pips, which is notably higher yet does not attract additional commission fees to compensate. IC Markets’ goal behind these aggressive pricing schemes is to decrease overall trader expenses while empowering them with maximal potential in fast-paced financial markets.

Commissions

At IC Markets, we have designed our commission rates to align with the selected account type. This approach reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering transparency and equitable pricing for all clients. For users of the cTrader Account, a fee of $3 is levied on each side, resulting in an overall charge of $6 per round turn—an attractive option optimized for individuals who require advanced functionality from this platform. In contrast, Raw Spread Account subscribers incur marginally higher fees at a rate of $3.5 charged on either side or total charges amounting to $7 every round turn—a package tailored specifically for traders seeking access to some highly competitive spreads that facilitate high-volume trading activity effectively. Finally, yet significantly important, Standard Accounts stands apart by entailing no separate costs, though incorporated into spread prices. This provides customers with an entirely unambiguous experience regarding their orders’ final price-point appeal strategically positioned as preferable choices, particularly toward those keenly disposed toward transparent cost structures.

Overnight Fees

The imposition of overnight fees, also known as swap rates, significantly affects trading engagements with IC Markets regarding positions held open beyond the daily market cycle. Such costs reflect the variance in interest rate between two currencies forming part of an interrelated pair. The amount credited or debited to a trader’s account considers both the direction and current fluctuation in interest differential that is numerically computed by IC Markets and converted accordingly to base currency ratios. Given their potential impact on retained position profitability after a day lapse, it urges traders operating within the platform ecosystem to remain conversant with these charges.

Deposit and Withdrawal Fees

IC Markets increases the attractiveness of its services by providing fee-free deposits and withdrawals, a feature popular with traders worldwide. This cost-effectiveness applies to various transaction mechanisms, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank wire transfers. By removing unnecessary transactional costs, IC Markets portrays itself as a cost-effective broker, allowing traders to optimize capital management and keep more of their profits.

Inactivity Fees

Another component of IC Markets’ client-friendly approach is the lack of inactivity fees. This approach is especially beneficial for traders who do not participate in the markets regularly. Traders can keep their accounts open without the burden of continual activity, enabling them to strategize and join markets at times most conducive to their trading strategies without fear of paying fines during inactive periods.

Currency Conversion Fees

Although IC Markets does not expressly levy currency conversion fees, traders should exercise caution regarding probable charges related to converting currencies into other denominations, especially if the trading account employs dissimilar currencies. Such fees for conversions are ordinarily set by payment providers or financial institutions involved in handling transactions and constitute a significant determinant affecting trader activities about foreign currency inflow management.  

Which Markets Can You Trade?

IC Markets offers the following Trading Instruments and Products:

• 64 currency pairings for trading
• 22 commodities
• 25 indices
• 11 distinct bond instruments
• 18 cryptocurrency alternatives
• 1,600 stocks

For individuals interested in derivatives, IC Markets provides four futures contracts that may be utilized to speculate or hedge on future price fluctuations of the underlying assets, such as commodities and indexes.  

Are bonds available for trading?

Yes, IC Markets provides bond CFDs, which enable traders to bet on the performance of various government debt assets.  

Leverage and Margin

Leverage and margin are critical concepts in forex trading, and knowing them is essential for risk management and profit maximization. IC Markets provides a variety of leverage alternatives and extensive information to assist you in navigating this complicated landscape.

Leverage Defined

Consider leverage as a magnifying glass for your trading abilities. It enables you to manage a greater position than your account balance indicates. For example, with 1:100 leverage, you may control $10,000 in USD/EUR for every $100 in your account. This boosts your potential gains while also increasing your losses.

Margin Explained

Margin is the amount necessary to initiate and sustain a leveraged position. It serves as a security deposit, covering future losses. The greater the leverage, the smaller the required margin per position. However, a lower margin implies that your account equity may drain more quickly if the market swings against you.

Leverage Levels

IC Markets provides a range of leverage choices, from 1:1 to 1:500. This caters to traders of all skill levels and risk tolerances. However, choosing a leverage amount suitable for your risk tolerance and trading style is critical. Higher leverage is not automatically better; it merely provides more control while increasing potential losses.

Calculating Margin

Margin requirements vary depending on your account currency, the currency pair you are trading, and the leverage you choose. On its website, IC Markets gives detailed explanations and formulae for calculating the precise margin required for each deal.

Stop-Out Level

The stop-out level is an important risk-management strategy. If your account equity falls below this threshold (50% in the case of IC Markets), your broker will immediately cancel your open trades to save your account from becoming negative.  

Can I change my leverage level?

Yes, you can adjust your leverage level at IC Markets, although approval may be based on your trading experience and account type.  

What happens if I get a margin call?

If you approach a margin call at IC Markets, you will be alerted to deposit more cash or cancel positions to avoid further losses and account closure.  

IC Markets Deposit and Withdrawal

Here is an overview of how to deposit to IC Markets via the most popular Deposit Options:

 Bank Wire

• Log into your IC Markets Secure Client Area.
• Navigate to the ‘Funds‘ page and then ‘Deposit‘.
• Select ‘Bank Wire Transfer’ from the list of deposit methods.
• You will be given the bank information needed to make the transfer.
• Record these data and continue to your bank’s platform or in person to conduct a wire transfer.
• When making the transfer, put your IC Markets trading account number in the reference section.
• Complete the transfer via your bank.
• Once the funds are received, IC Markets will credit them to your trading account and send you a confirmation email.

Credit or Debit Card

• Log in to your IC Markets Secure Client Area.
• Navigate to the ‘Funds’ page and choose ‘Deposit‘.
• Choose ‘Credit/Debit Card‘ from the available deposit options.
• Enter the amount you want to deposit.
• Fill down your card information, including the number, expiry date, and CVV code.
• You will get a deposit confirmation email from IC Markets.

Cryptocurrency Wallets

• Access the IC Markets Secure Client Area.
• Select ‘Funds‘, then ‘Deposit‘.
• Select ‘Cryptocurrency Wallet‘ from the deposit method selection.
• Choose your favorite coin for deposit.
• Enter the deposit amount in your account currency, and the site will instantly convert it to its cryptocurrency equivalent.
• You will be given an address and QR code for the IC Markets crypto wallet.
• To begin the transfer, go into your cryptocurrency wallet and enter the IC Markets wallet address.
• Confirm and approve the transaction from your crypto wallet.
• Once validated, the cash will be credited to your trading account, and you will be informed via email.

e-wallets or Payment Gateways

• Log in to your IC Markets Secure Client Area.
• Go to the ‘Funds‘ area and choose ‘Deposit‘.
• Choose from available e-wallets or payment gateways, including PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller.
• You will be routed to the login page for the selected e-wallet service.
• Log in to your eWallet account.
• Enter the amount you want to deposit and confirm the information.
• Approve the transaction with your e-Wallet account.
• Some services may need extra security measures, such as OTPs.
• You will get an email confirmation of your deposit from IC Markets.

Here is an overview of how to make a Withdrawal from IC Markets via the most popular Withdrawal Options:

Bank Wire

• Log in to your IC Markets Secure Client Area.
• Navigate to the ‘Funds‘ page and click ‘Withdraw‘.
• Select ‘Bank Wire Transfer’ as your withdrawal option.
• Fill out the withdrawal form with your bank account information.
• State the Withdrawal Amount.
• Submit a withdrawal request.
• Once your withdrawal has been completed, you will get an email confirmation.

Credit or Debit Card

• Navigate to the ‘Funds‘ area and choose ‘Withdraw‘.
• Select ‘Credit/Debit Card‘ as your withdrawal method.
• Enter the amount that you want to withdraw.
• Choose the card to which you want the funds credited.
• Confirm the withdrawal information and submit your request.
• The withdrawal may take several business days to display on your card statement.
• You will be contacted by email when the withdrawal is complete.

Cryptocurrency Wallets

• Access the IC Markets Secure Client Area.
• Click the ‘Funds‘ option and then ‘Withdraw‘.
• Select the ‘Cryptocurrency Wallet’ withdrawal method.
• Enter the amount you want to withdraw in the account’s currency.
• Enter your cryptocurrency wallet address.
• Double-check the address to prevent any errors.
• Confirm the withdrawal request.
• Once the money is transferred, you will get a confirmation email.

e-wallets or Payment Gateways

• Sign in to the IC Markets Secure Client Area.
• Select the ‘Funds‘ option, then ‘Withdraw.’
• Choose your favorite e-wallet or payment method from the withdrawal choices.
• Enter your withdrawal amount.
• To validate the account information, check your e-Wallet account.
• Confirm the withdrawal information on the IC Markets website.
• Submit your withdrawal request.
• You will be contacted by email once your withdrawal has been finalized.

Are deposits or withdrawal fees charged?

IC Markets does not impose fees for deposits or withdrawals, although fees from financial institutions processing the transfer may apply.  

Can I withdraw my funds to a different payment method than my deposit?

No, you cannot. For security concerns, IC Markets normally processes withdrawals back to the source of funds while following anti-money laundering regulations.  

Educational Resources

The Trading Knowledge provides a knowledge resource for all elements of trading, such as market analysis, trading techniques, risk management, and platform lessons the Advantages of Forex examine the benefits of trading in Forex compared to other marketplaces. Furthermore, IC Markets has a collection of video lessons on various subjects, including platform foundations, order types, and particular analytical methods and trading strategies. Finally, the beginner-friendly course includes ten organized lectures to walk novice traders through the foundations of FX and CFD trading.  

What types of educational resources are provided?

IC Markets provides various instructional tools, including trading knowledge articles, video tutorials, webinars, podcasts, and a ‘Getting Started’ area with ten in-depth courses for novices.  

Are educational resources accessible to all traders?

Yes, IC Markets’ instructional materials are available to all traders and are intended to help their learning journey, regardless of experience level.  

Pros and Cons

 

In Conclusion

According to our research, IC Markets stands out as a powerful forex and CFD broker, providing a combination of low pricing, several platforms, and a wide range of trading products.  Its low-latency trading environment, along with a strong technology infrastructure, makes it an appealing option for both new and experienced traders.