| Regulation | ASIC (Australia), CySEC (Cyprus), FSA (Seychelles) |
| Founded | 2007 |
| Min. Deposit | USD 200 |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView |
| Spread From | 0.0 pips (Raw) |
Overview
IC Markets is an Australian ECN broker founded in 2007, widely regarded as one of the best raw spread brokers globally. Based in Sydney, it serves over 180,000 clients across 200 countries and processes over USD 21 billion in daily trading volume.
Regulation and Safety
IC Markets holds licences from ASIC (AFSL 335692), CySEC, and FSA Seychelles. The ASIC licence is Tier 1 and provides strong client protections including negative balance protection and segregated client funds held in Australian banks. Client funds in Australia are covered by the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort.
Trading Conditions
Raw spread accounts offer EUR/USD spreads from 0.0 pips with USD 3.50 per side commission. Standard accounts have spreads from 0.6 pips with no commission. Leverage reaches 1:500 for international clients and 1:30 for ASIC-regulated accounts. Execution is consistently fast, averaging under 40ms.
Pros and Cons
- Exceptionally low raw spreads
- ASIC and CySEC regulated
- Supports MT4, MT5 and cTrader
- 24/7 live chat support
- Suitable for algorithmic and scalping traders
- Seychelles entity has weaker regulation
- No fixed spread accounts
- Limited educational content for beginners
- High minimum for Islamic accounts
Verdict
IC Markets is one of the most competitive and trustworthy ECN brokers available. The combination of ASIC regulation, ultra-low raw spreads, fast execution, and broad platform support makes it a top choice for intermediate and professional traders. Beginners may find more beginner-friendly options elsewhere.
