Let's start here

IC Markets is a respected and well-regulated broker, providing a wide range of trading instruments, including over 2250 options, with competitive spreads starting at 0.0 pips. You can start with a demo account to gain experience, and opening a live account only requires a $200 deposit. They offer advanced trading platforms like MT4, MT5, and cTrader. Let's now delve into this IC Markets review.

What type of broker is IC Markets？

IC Markets is a Market Making (MM) broker, which means that it acts as a counterparty to its clients in trading operations. That is, instead of connecting directly to the market, IC Markets acts as an intermediary and takes the opposite position to its clients. As such, it can offer faster order execution speed, tighter spreads and greater flexibility in terms of the leverage offered. However, this also means that IC Markets has a certain conflict of interest with their clients, as their profits come from the difference between the bid and ask price of assets, which could lead to them making decisions that are not necessarily in the best interests of their clients.

What is IC Markets

IC Markets is an Australian-based online forex and CFD broker that provides traders access to the global financial markets. The company was founded in 2007 and is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). IC Markets offers a range of trading instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, and provides traders with advanced trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader. The company also offers 24/7 customer support and a variety of educational resources for traders of all levels.

In the IC Markets review, we will analyse the characteristics of this broker in all its dimensions, providing you with easy and well-organised information. If you are interested, read on.

Is IC Market legit？

IC Markets maintains regulatory compliance in both Australia and Cyprus, adhering to the respective financial regulatory standards in these jurisdictions. Regulatory oversight by ASIC and CYSEC helps ensure transparency and accountability in the broker's operations, contributing to a safer trading environment for clients.

Regulated Country	Regulated Authority	Regulated Entity	License Type	License Number
	ASIC	INTERNATIONAL CAPITAL MARKETS PTY. LTD.	Market Making(MM)	335692
	CYSEC	IC Markets (EU) Ltd	Market Making(MM)	362/18

IC Markets' Australian entity, INTERNATIONAL CAPITAL MARKETS PTY. LTD., regulated by ASIC under license number 335692, holding a license for Market Making (MM).

IC Markets' enropean entity, IC Markets (EU) Ltd, regulated by CYSEC under regulatory number 362/18, holding a license for Maket Making ( MM) as well.

WikiFX's investigation team personally visited the registered address located at Omonoias, 141, The Maritime Centre, Block B, 1st floor, 3045, Limassol, Cyprus. Notably, the IC Markets logo was prominently displayed on billboards in the vicinity of the building. Hence, their visit to the location confirmed that IC Markets was indeed operating from the officially designated regulatory address.

Market instruments

IC Markets offers a wide range of over 2250 tradable instruments to trade, including forex pairs, commodities, stocks, cryptocurrencies, indices, bonds, and futures. This provides traders with the opportunity to diversify their investment portfolio and access multiple markets and assets. The company offers competitive spreads and low commissions on all instruments, making it a popular choice among traders. With such a diverse range of trading instruments, IC Markets caters to a wide range of trading strategies and investment goals.

IC Markets Minimum Deposit

IC Markets, a well-known forex broker, requires a minimum deposit of $200 for traders to open an account. In the industry, many established brokers frequently impose minimum deposit requirements that surpass $500 or even reach $1,000. In contrast, certain major players such as Avatrade and Aixtrader only mandate minimum deposits of $100 and $0, respectively. So, IC Markets's minimum deposit requirement seems to be in the “middle”.

Here is the comparison of IC Markets minimum deposit with Avatrade, Exness, and Axitrader:

Broker	Minimum Deposit
	$200
	$100
	$1 USD
	$100

IC Markets Account Types

C Markets offers traders a range of account types with different trading platforms, commissions, and spreads. The CTrader and Raw spread accounts charge a commission of $3 and $3.5 respectively but offer spreads from 0.0 pips, while the Standard account has no commission but wider spreads from 0.6 pips. A demo account and Islamic account are also available. Although the minimum deposit of $200 may be high for some traders, the variety of account types and competitive spreads on some accounts may make up for it. However, traders should note that commissions are charged on all other accounts apart from the Standard account, and there is limited information on account features.

IC Markets Demo Account

IC Markets offers a free advanced demo account for beginner traders to practice on, which lasts for 30 days.

Users who open a demo account can enjoy the following features:

• Access to Raw Pricing

• Spreads Starting at 0.0 Pips

• Fast Order Execution

• Available on MT4, MT5 and cTrader platforms

However, demo accounts aim to mimic real markets but function in a simulated environment. This means there are significant differences compared to real accounts, including not relying on real-time market liquidity, encountering price delays, and having access to certain products that may not be tradable on live accounts.

Opening a demo account is simple:

Step 1: click the “Try a Free DEMO” button on the homepage of IC Markets.

Step 2: Fill in your personal info, including your country of residence, name, email, phone number to get a verification code.

Step 3: Choose to demo accounts on your preferrable trading platform, MT4, MT5, or cTrader. Then choose your account currency, virtual funds, starting from $200 to $5,000,000, your desired leverage level.

Step 4: Log into your demo account and start trading.

Spreads and commissions

IC Markets is known for its tight spreads and low commissions, making it a popular choice among traders. The broker offers a variety of account types to choose from, including the Raw Spread account with spreads starting from 0.0 pips and a $3.5 commission per lot traded, and the Standard account with spreads starting from 0.6 pips and no commission. The cTrader account also offers low spreads starting from 0.0 pips, with a $3 commission per lot traded. It's important to note that while some account types may have higher commissions, the broker is transparent about its commission structure and there are no hidden fees or charges. The broker also allows scalping and hedging strategies. However, there are inactivity fees after 12 months of no activity. Additionally, some withdrawal methods may have fees.

Trading platforms

IC Markets offers its clients a variety of trading platforms, including the popular MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5 platforms as well as the cTrader platform. Each platform offers unique advantages and disadvantages, and traders can choose the platform that best suits their needs. The MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5 platforms are similar and offer a range of trading tools and indicators, as well as the ability to use Expert Advisors (EAs) and automate trading strategies. The cTrader platform, on the other hand, offers advanced charting capabilities and a variety of order types. However, it has a steeper learning curve and limited customization options compared to the MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5 platforms. Additionally, traders should note that IC Markets has a limited selection of platforms compared to some other brokers in the industry. Overall, IC Markets offers a solid selection of trading platforms that should satisfy the needs of most traders.

Maximum leverage of IC Markets

IC Markets' maximum leverage offering of up to 1:500 can be beneficial for experienced traders who know how to manage their risks well. The high leverage can potentially magnify the profits of a successful trade, enabling traders to take advantage of larger positions in the market. However, it is crucial for traders to exercise caution when using high leverage as it also increases the potential for significant losses. Inexperienced traders may not be suited for high leverage as it requires a thorough understanding of risk management. It is important to note that certain jurisdictions may have regulatory restrictions on high leverage, and traders should comply with the relevant regulations.

Deposit and Withdrawal: methods and fees

IC Markets offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal options, including neteller, skrill, bank transfer, VISA, Mastercard, paypal, credit card, debit card, unionpay, poli, wire transfer, rapidpay, and klarna. IC Markets does not charge any additional fees for deposits and withdrawals, however, additional fees may occur at some banking institutions. Withdrawal requests have a cut off time at 12:00 AEST/AEDT, and may take up to 10 business days to process depending on the bank. International bank wire transfers may take up to 14 days and incur additional intermediary and/or beneficiary fees. Credit/debit card withdrawals are processed free of charge and may take 3-5 business days to reach your credit card. Paypal/Neteller/Skrill withdrawals are processed instantly and free of charge, but must be made from the same account as the initial funds were sent from.

Educational resources in IC Markets

IC Markets offers a comprehensive range of educational resources that cater to traders of all levels. These resources include an economic calendar, market reports, video tutorials, a glossary, blogs, and calculators. The educational resources are updated regularly to ensure the information is relevant and up-to-date. The glossary is particularly useful for understanding forex terms and concepts, while the video tutorials cover a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced strategies. The blogs provide insights into the forex market, which can be useful for making informed trading decisions. The calculators are also helpful tools for calculating risk, margin, and position size. However, some of the educational resources may not be suitable for beginners and may require prior knowledge of forex trading. Additionally, the educational resources may not be as comprehensive or interactive as those offered by some other brokers.

You may also watch videos on their official YouTube channel. For example, this is a video named 7 Common Mistakes New Traders Make, which would be useful for newbies.

Customer service of IC Markets

IC Markets provides a strong customer care dimension with 24/7 availability for customer support. Clients can reach out to the support team via phone or email, and can expect prompt response times to email inquiries. However, there is no live chat option available for immediate assistance, and phone support may have international charges, which could be a disadvantage for some clients. Overall, IC Markets provides a reliable and responsive customer support experience.

Conclusion

IC Markets is a reputable forex broker that offers traders a wide range of instruments, account types, and trading platforms to choose from. With low spreads, competitive commissions, and high leverage options of up to 1:500, traders can enjoy a flexible and customizable trading experience. The company's educational resources, including market reports, video tutorials, and a glossary, are extensive and informative, providing traders with valuable insights into the forex market. Additionally, IC Markets' customer support is available 24/7, ensuring that traders can always receive timely assistance. The company's variety of deposit and withdrawal methods also makes it easy for traders to manage their accounts efficiently. Overall, IC Markets is a reliable and trustworthy broker for both novice and experienced traders alike.

Frequently asked questions about IC Markets

• Q1. What is the minimum deposit required to open an account with IC Markets？

• A1. The minimum deposit required to open an account with IC Markets is $200.

• Q2. What are the available deposit and withdrawal methods on IC Markets？

• A2. IC Markets offers various deposit and withdrawal methods, including neteller, skrill, bank transfer, VISA, Mastercard, paypal, credit card, debit card, unionpay, poli, wire transfer, rapidpay, and klarna.

• Q3. What trading platforms are available on IC Markets？

• A3. IC Markets offers three trading platforms: MetaTrader4, MetaTrader5, and cTrader.

• Q4. What is the maximum leverage offered by IC Markets？

• A4. IC Markets offers a maximum leverage of up to 1:500.

• Q5. Does IC Markets charge any additional fees for deposits and withdrawals？

• A5. IC Markets does not charge any additional fees for deposits and withdrawals. However, additional fees may occur at some banking institutions.

• Q6. What educational resources are available on IC Markets？

• A6. IC Markets offers various educational resources, including an economic calendar, market reports, video tutorials, glossary, blogs, and calculators.

• Q7. What is the customer support available on IC Markets？

• A7. IC Markets offers 24/7 customer support via phone and email, and they have an online chat feature available during trading hours.

Risk Warning

Online trading involves significant risk, and you may lose all of your invested capital. It is not suitable for all traders or investors. Please ensure that you understand the risks involved and note that the information contained in this article is for general information purposes only.

Overview of FXCC

FXCC (Forex Central Clearing Ltd) is a brokerage firm specializing in foreign exchange (forex) trading. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, FXCC is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under license number 121/10, ensuring compliance with financial and operational standards to safeguard client interests.

With a focus on providing a robust trading experience, FXCC offers a diverse range of tradable assets, including forex pairs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access major, minor, and exotic currency pairs, enabling them to diversify their portfolios and explore various market opportunities.

FXCC caters to different trading preferences by offering multiple account types. These include standard accounts, ECN (Electronic Communication Network) accounts, and Islamic accounts suitable for traders adhering to Shariah principles. Each account type may have specific features and trading conditions tailored to meet the needs of different traders.

Is FXCC regulated？

FXCC (Forex Central Clearing Ltd) is a regulated brokerage firm. It is authorized and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under license number 121/10 and Nevis with registration number C 55272. Being regulated by CySEC signifies that FXCC operates in compliance with the regulatory framework and standards set forth by the CySEC.

Regulation by CySEC is significant as it ensures that the company adheres to strict financial and operational guidelines designed to protect the interests of clients. It includes measures such as segregation of client funds, ensuring transparency in pricing and execution, and implementing risk management protocols.

The regulatory oversight provided by CySEC aims to maintain the integrity of the financial markets and foster a fair and secure trading environment for investors. It also offers a certain level of recourse for clients in case of disputes or issues that may arise during the course of their trading activities.

Pros and Cons

FXCC, a regulated broker authorized by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), offers several advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, FXCC provides a wide range of tradable assets, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversification and trading opportunities. The broker also offers competitive leverage ratios, multiple trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and various channels of customer support, ensuring prompt assistance.

However, some drawbacks include limited account types, a non-transparent fee structure that may make it challenging for traders to understand costs, limited educational resources compared to other brokers, limited bonus offerings, and the possibility of withdrawal fees. Traders should carefully consider these factors and conduct their own research to determine if FXCC aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

Market Instruments

FXCC offers a range of market instruments for trading. Here are some common market instruments that the company typically provides:

Forex Currency Pairs: FXCC specializes in forex trading and offers a wide selection of currency pairs. This includes major currency pairs like EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY, as well as minor and exotic currency pairs such as USD/ZAR or AUD/NZD. These currency pairs allow traders to participate in the global foreign exchange market and take advantage of currency fluctuations.

Commodities: FXCC may provide trading opportunities in various commodities such as gold, silver, crude oil, natural gas, and agricultural products. Trading commodities allows investors to speculate on the price movements of these tangible assets, which are influenced by factors such as supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical events, and economic indicators.

Indices: FXCC may offer trading on popular stock market indices like the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, FTSE 100, or Nikkei 225. Trading indices allows investors to gain exposure to a basket of stocks representing a particular market or sector, providing opportunities to profit from the overall performance of the index.

Cryptocurrencies: As cryptocurrencies gain popularity, FXCC may provide trading opportunities in digital currencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and others. Trading cryptocurrencies allows investors to speculate on their price movements without owning the underlying assets.

Main Account Types

FXCC typically offers multiple account types to cater to different trading preferences, including ECN XL Accounts in either Standard Account type Islamic Account type. While the specific account types may be subject to change or updates, the website primarily provides information on the ENC XL Account type. Here is a short description of ENC XL Accounts and each common account type that FXCC may provide:

ECN XL Accounts: ECN (Electronic Communication Network) XL accounts are known for providing direct market access. These accounts typically offer tighter spreads and faster order execution since they connect traders directly to liquidity providers, such as banks and financial institutions. ECN accounts may have variable spreads and charge a commission per trade.

Standard Accounts: Standard accounts are designed for traders who prefer a straightforward trading experience. These accounts typically have fixed or variable spreads and may require a minimum deposit to open. They offer access to the available tradable instruments and basic trading features.

Islamic Accounts: FXCC may offer Islamic accounts for traders who adhere to Shariah principles. Islamic accounts operate in compliance with Islamic finance principles, ensuring that no interest (swap) charges are applied on overnight positions. These accounts may have specific terms and conditions to meet Shariah requirements.

According to their website, the main type of account launched is the ECN XL type. The ECN XL type is described as including no minimum deposit with a 100% first deposit bonus, a Lot Size of 0.01 and a 1:500 max leverage. The ECN XL account also allows hedging as well as gives the option between a Standard Account and an Islamic Account.

In conclusion, FXCCs offered ECN XL account gives primary deposit incentive, the ability to hedge funds, and a choice between two account types.

Set-by-set on opening an account

1. Visit the FXCC official website: Use a web browser to navigate to the official website of FXCC. (https://www.fxcc.com/)

2. Locate the “Open Account” button: Look for a prominent button or link on the website's homepage that leads to the account registration process. It's often located in the top right corner or the main navigation menu.

3. Choose the account type: Select the desired account type based on your trading preferences and requirements. FXCC may offer different account options, such as standard accounts, ECN accounts, or Islamic accounts. Review the account types available and choose the one that suits you best.

Leverage

FXCC typically provides leverage ratios ranging from 1:1 up to 1:500. However, it's important to note that leverage requirements can be subject to change and may be adjusted based on regulatory guidelines and market conditions.

Spreads & Commissions (Trading Fees)

The specific trading fees charged by FXCC can vary depending on various factors such as the type of account, trading instruments, and market conditions. A spread commission, also known as a spread markup, is a fee charged by a broker for executing trades on behalf of traders. It is a common pricing model used in financial markets, particularly in forex trading. FXCC typically charges spreads, which is the difference between the bid and ask price of a trading instrument. Spreads can vary based on market liquidity, volatility, and the type of account. ECN accounts usually have tighter spreads compared to standard accounts but may charge a commission per trade. ECN accounts at FXCC may have a commission structure where a fixed fee is charged per lot traded. This commission is separate from the spreads and is applicable to trades executed in ECN account types. The specific spread and commission rates can vary based on the account type, trading instrument, and market conditions. Traders should carefully review the details provided by FXCC to understand the applicable spreads and commissions for their trading activities. It's important to consider the spread and commission model, along with other factors such as execution speed and overall trading conditions, when assessing the cost of trading with FXCC.

Bonuses

Typically, FXCC offers bonuses which may include welcome bonuses for new clients, deposit bonuses that provide additional funds based on the amount deposited, and loyalty or referral bonuses for existing clients who refer new traders or maintain a long-term relationship with the broker. These bonuses can provide traders with additional trading capital or rewards, potentially enhancing their trading experience.

It's important for traders to thoroughly review the terms and conditions associated with any bonuses offered by FXCC, as there are usually requirements that need to be fulfilled before the bonus can be withdrawn. Such requirements may include minimum trading volumes, specific timeframes, or other criteria set by the broker.

Trading Platform

FXCC typically offers popular trading platforms to its clients. While the specific platforms provided may vary or evolve over time, here are some common trading platforms that FXCC may offer:

MetaTrader 4 (MT4): MT4 is a widely used and highly regarded trading platform in the industry. It offers a user-friendly interface, advanced charting tools, a wide range of technical indicators, and automated trading capabilities through Expert Advisors (EAs). MT4 is known for its stability, customization options, and extensive community support.

Multi Account Manager (MAM): MAM is a money manager that can execute trades on the master account, and those trades are automatically replicated in the connected client accounts. This allows for efficient management and execution of trades across multiple accounts without the need to individually place trades for each client.

Deposit & Withdrawal

FXCC's minimum deposit requirement typically starts from $100 or its equivalent in other currencies. However, it's important to note that the minimum deposit amount can vary based on the chosen account type and the payment method used. Different account types may have different minimum deposit requirements, and certain payment methods may have their own minimum deposit limits imposed by the respective payment processors.

FXCC may charge withdrawal fees, but the exact fees and conditions can vary depending on several factors, including the withdrawal method, the account type, and the amount being withdrawn. It's advisable to review the information provided on the official FXCC website or contact their customer support directly for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding withdrawal fees.

Customer Support

FXCC offers customer support to assist their clients with inquiries, technical issues, and other concerns. The company provides various channels through which customers can reach their customer support team. Here are some common customer support options provided by FXCC:

Phone Support: FXCC may offer phone support, allowing customers to directly speak with a representative. The contact numbers for phone support are typically provided on their website or in the client portal. Customers can call the provided phone numbers during the specified working hours to seek assistance.

Email Support: Customers can contact FXCC's customer support team via email. This method allows customers to describe their queries or issues in detail and receive a response from the support team. The email address for support is typically available on the FXCC website.

Live Chat: FXCC may offer a live chat feature on their website. This enables customers to engage in real-time text-based conversations with a support representative. Live chat is often preferred for its convenience and quick response times.

Online Contact Form: Some brokers, including FXCC, may provide an online contact form on their website. Customers can fill out the form with their details and submit their queries or concerns. The support team will then respond via email or the preferred communication method.

Educational Resources

FXCC may offer a range of educational resources to assist traders in enhancing their knowledge and skills. Here are some potential education resources that FXCC may provide:

Video Tutorials: FXCC may offer video tutorials covering various trading topics, including platform tutorials, trading strategies, technical analysis, and risk management. These videos can provide visual and step-by-step guidance for traders.

Webinars: FXCC may conduct webinars on a regular basis, featuring market experts and experienced traders. Webinars can cover a wide range of topics, including market analysis, trading techniques, and risk management. Participating in webinars allows traders to gain insights and interact with industry professionals.

Trading Tools: FXCC may provide traders with access to trading tools, such as economic calendars, market analysis tools, and indicators. These tools can help traders make informed trading decisions and analyze market trends.

eBooks: FXCC may offer educational eBooks covering various aspects of trading, including trading psychology, technical analysis, fundamental analysis, and risk management. eBooks provide in-depth information and can be a valuable resource for traders of different experience levels.

Glossaries: FXCC may provide a glossary of trading terms and definitions. This can be helpful for new traders or those who want to clarify specific trading terminology.

Trading Academies: FXCC may have a dedicated trading academy or educational section on their website. These academies often provide structured learning materials, courses, quizzes, and interactive learning resources to help traders develop their skills.

Market Insights: FXCC may offer regular market insights, including market analysis, daily/weekly market summaries, and economic news updates. These insights can provide traders with a better understanding of market trends and potential trading opportunities.

Conclusion

FXCC is a regulated forex broker headquartered in Cyprus. They offer a wide range of financial services, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access these markets through popular platforms like MT4 and MT5. With multiple account types and competitive leverage ratios, FXCC caters to different trading preferences. They provide customer support via phone, email, live chat, and online forms. FXCC also offers educational resources such as tutorials, webinars, and market insights.

FAQs

Q: Is FXCC a regulated broker？

A: Yes, FXCC is a regulated broker authorized and supervised by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

Q: What is the minimum deposit requirement at FXCC？

A: The minimum deposit requirement at FXCC typically starts from $100 or its equivalent in other currencies, although it may vary based on the chosen account type.

Q: What trading platforms does FXCC offer？

A: FXCC offers popular trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), providing traders with a reliable and feature-rich trading environment.

Q: Can I trade multiple asset classes with FXCC？

A: Yes, FXCC offers a range of tradable assets including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to diversify their portfolios.

Q: How can I contact FXCC's customer support？

A: You can reach FXCC's customer support through various channels, including phone support, email support, live chat on their website, or by filling out an online contact form.