IC Markets Review (2026)
High-volume raw-spread ECN broker popular with scalpers and EAs.
The 60-second verdict
IC Markets scores 88/100 on our method — best suited to low fees, scalping & eas, raw spreads traders, and a weaker fit if you want total beginners wanting simplicity.
Best for
- Low fees
- Scalping & EAs
- Raw spreads
Not best for
- Total beginners wanting simplicity
- US residents
Score breakdown
Affiliate commission is weighted 0% and never affects this score.
Regulation snapshot
| Regulators | ASIC — Australia, licence 335692 (Tier 1) CySEC — Cyprus, licence 362/18 (Tier 2) FSA — Seychelles, licence SD018 (Tier 3) |
| Segregated client fundsSegregated fundsClient money held in bank accounts kept separate from the broker's own funds, so it isn't used to run the business and is easier to return if the firm fails. | Yes |
| Compensation scheme | ICF up to €20,000 (CySEC clients) |
| Negative-balance protectionNegative-balance protectionA safeguard that stops your account going below zero, so you can't end up owing the broker more than you deposited. Mandatory for retail clients in some regions. | Yes |
Source: regulator registersConfirm licence numbers on the official register before depositing.
Fees & spreads
| Typical spreadSpreadThe gap between the buy (ask) and sell (bid) price. It's a core trading cost — tighter spreads are cheaper for you. (EUR/USD) | from 0 pips |
| CommissionCommissionA flat per-trade fee, common on raw/ECN accounts that show tighter spreads. Always compare spread + commission together as the all-in cost. | $7 per lot |
| Minimum deposit | $200 |
| Inactivity fee | None |
| All-in cost index | $···· (1/5) |
Pros
- Very low raw spreads with deep liquidity, suited to scalping and automated strategies
- ASIC + CySEC regulation with segregated client funds
- Wide platform choice (MT4/MT5/cTrader) and fast execution
Cons
- Many clients are onboarded under the offshore (Seychelles) entity — weaker protection
- No US clients; CFD-based share access, not real ownership
Complaints & track record
Long-established, high-volume broker with a strong reputation among active traders. Check which entity onboards you — protection differs by region.
IC Markets — common questions
Is IC Markets regulated?
IC Markets is regulated by ASIC (Australia), CySEC (Cyprus), FSA (Seychelles). Client funds are held in segregated accounts, with ICF up to €20,000 (CySEC clients).
What is the minimum deposit at IC Markets?
The minimum deposit is $200. Deposit methods include Card, Bank transfer, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller.
How long do withdrawals take at IC Markets?
Typical withdrawal time is Same – next day. Actual speed depends on your payment method and identity verification.
Is IC Markets good for beginners?
IC Markets is better suited to traders with some experience (beginner score 74/100). Beginners may prefer a simpler, lower-risk platform.
How does Clarytrade make money from this review?
If you open an account through our link, IC Markets pays us a commission at no extra cost to you. It does not affect our score — commission is weighted 0% in our method.
This is a research-based review. We use published broker information, regulatory registers, pricing disclosures and platform documentation, scored against our published 8-criteria method— we don't claim live account testing unless stated. Figures are indicative; verify current terms with IC Markets before depositing. We earn a commission if you open an account through our links — at no extra cost to you. It does not change our rankings. How we make money.
We earn a commission if you open an account through our links — at no extra cost to you. It does not change our rankings. How we make money.
