IC Markets vs IG - Fees Review Included



Editorial Note: While we adhere to strict Editorial Integrity, this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here's an explanation for How We Make Money. None of the data and information on this webpage constitutes investment advice according to our Disclaimer.
Both IG and IC Markets are top choices for Forex and CFD trading, but their fee structures differ. IC Markets offers lower spreads, particularly for high-volume traders, while IG provides access to a broader range of assets with competitive commission-based pricing. Choosing the best broker between IG and IC Markets depends on individual trading styles and cost preferences.
For traders comparing IG and IC Markets, checking reviews can help them get a better idea of their pros and cons. IC Markets is known for its tight spreads and low trading costs, making it a solid choice for active Forex traders. It uses ECN execution to provide direct access to liquidity providers. Meanwhile, IG is a well-established broker with a diverse range of assets and both commission-free and commission-based accounts.
When looking at IG and IC Markets trading, it's important to consider spreads, commissions, and extra fees. IC Markets is a great option for those who focus on cost-efficient Forex trading, offering lower fees and fast execution. On the other hand, IG is better for traders looking for a wider selection of markets, including stocks, commodities, and indices. Both brokers provide solid options, depending on what traders are looking for — whether it's affordability or market variety.
IC Markets vs IG
This article provides a detailed comparison of IC Markets vs IG, covering essential factors like fees, platforms, trading assets, and regulation. It breaks down trading conditions, commission structures, spreads, and withdrawal fees to help traders choose the best broker IG and IC Markets. Additionally, it evaluates the pros and cons of each broker, their safety measures, and account types, making it easier to decide which platform suits individual trading needs.
The comparison also includes IG and IC Markets reviews, rating key aspects like research tools, customer support, and education resources. It highlights deposit and withdrawal options, trading instruments, and available promotions. Whether you're looking for IG and IC Markets trading conditions or investment opportunities, this article gives a clear breakdown of what each broker offers.
Feature | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
Overall | 4.7 | 4.4 |
Regulation | 5 | 4.7 |
Fees | 4.9 | 4.7 |
Trading assets | 4.6 | 5 |
Investment instruments | 4.9 | 3.9 |
Platforms and charting tools | 4.4 | 4.7 |
Deposit and withdrawal | 4.6 | 4.0 |
Research | 4.3 | 4.5 |
Education | 4.4 | 4.2 |
Support | 4.6 | 4.8 |
Bonuses | 2.5 | 3.4 |
Open an account | Open an account | Open an account |
IC Markets vs IG: pros and cons
When conducting an IC Markets and IG comparison, it’s important to consider their regulatory reach and market presence. IC Markets focuses on low spreads and deep liquidity, making it a popular choice among high-frequency traders and scalpers. Meanwhile, IG Markets offers a broader range of financial instruments and strong educational resources, catering to traders looking for a diverse trading experience. Both brokers provide access to Forex and CFDs, but their features and pricing structures differ significantly. making an IC Markets and IG comparison essential for traders seeking the best fit for their strategies. Evaluating the IC Markets and IG pros and cons helps traders determine which broker aligns better with their trading needs.
IC Markets | IG | |
---|---|---|
Overall pros |
|
|
Overall cons |
|
|
IC Markets vs IG: safety and regulation
Both IG and IC Markets are regulated brokers that hold Tier-1 licenses, ensuring strong security and compliance for traders. They offer investor protection of up to €20,000, but neither is regulated by top-tier authorities such as the FCA (UK), FINRA (U.S.), or BaFin (Germany). However, both are authorized by ASIC (Australia), a highly respected financial regulator.
While they do not have approvals from U.S. and European regulators, IG and IC Markets are regulated platforms that are also overseen by the FSA (Seychelles), allowing them to operate globally. Although additional investor protections are not available in certain regions, both brokers adhere to strict financial regulations, providing traders with fair and transparent trading conditions.
IC Markets | IG | |
---|---|---|
Max. regulation level | Tier-1 | Tier-1 |
Investor protection | €20,000 | €20,000 |
FCA UK regulation | No | No |
FINRA (U.S) | No | No |
BaFin (Germany) | No | No |
ASIC (Australia) | Yes | Yes |
CFTC (U.S) | No | No |
MAS | No | No |
FSCA SA | No | No |
BVI FSC | No | No |
VFSC | No | No |
FSA (Seychelles) | Yes | Yes |
IC Markets vs IG: trading conditions
The trading conditions at IG and IC Markets vary significantly, making each broker suited for different types of traders. While IC Markets offers a more cost-effective structure with tighter spreads and higher leverage options, IG focuses on extensive market access and advanced risk management tools.
When it comes to technology and usability, the IG and IC Markets platform offerings differ. IC Markets supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, providing traders with multiple execution options and a customizable trading experience. Meanwhile, IG offers its proprietary IG Trading Platform and L2 Dealer, which cater to advanced traders who require direct market access and enhanced analytical tools.
For those looking at initial funding requirements, the IG and IC Markets minimum deposit amounts set them apart. IC Markets has a lower entry requirement of $200, making it accessible to a broader range of traders. In contrast, IG requires a higher deposit of $450, which may be better suited for traders looking to access its extensive market offerings. The difference in minimum deposit structures can influence a trader’s choice depending on their available capital and investment goals.
Trading Conditions | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
Minimum deposit | $200 | $450 |
Trading platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | MT4, IG Trading Platform, L2 dealer |
Max leverage (futures) | 1-500 | 1-200 |
Supported markets | Forex, futures, CFDs on indices, commodities, metals, stocks and bonds | Forex, Crypto, commodities |
Trading assets | 2000+ | 16000+ |
Trading accounts | cTrader, Raw Spread, Standard | Demo, Standard |
Base account currencies | USD, AUD, GBP, CHF, JPY, NZD, SGD, CAD, HKD, BTC | USD |
IC Markets vs IG: fees
Both IC Markets and IG offer competitive pricing structures, making them appealing choices for Forex traders. When analyzing IC Markets and IG fees, traders should consider key factors such as spreads, commissions, and any additional charges. While both brokers provide a cost-effective trading experience, their fee models differ slightly, making it essential to compare them based on individual trading needs.
For those looking to open an IC Markets or IG account, the decision comes down to trading conditions and platform features. IC Markets is well-known for its ECN execution, offering raw pricing with tight spreads, whereas IG provides a broader range of account types suited for different trading styles. Both brokers cater to retail and professional traders, but selecting the right account depends on whether a trader prioritizes lower costs or more diverse market access.
When evaluating IC Markets and IG spreads, traders will find that both brokers offer highly competitive rates. Their standard account spreads start at 0.8 pips for EUR/USD, with a maximum of 1.0 pips. For ECN trading, spreads can go as low as 0.1 pips, with a commission of $3.50 per lot. These tight spreads, combined with the absence of deposit and withdrawal fees, make both brokers attractive options for cost-conscious traders. Compare IC Markets, IG, and Forex.com based on fees, spreads and features to help you choose the best broker for your trading needs and strategy.
IC Markets | IG | |
---|---|---|
Standard acc. spread EUR/USD, min pips | 0,8 | 0,8 |
Standard acc. spread EUR/USD, max pips | 1,0 | 1,0 |
ECN commission | 3,5 | 3,5 |
ECN spread EUR/USD | 0,1 | 0,1 |
Deposit fee, % | No | No |
Withdrawal fee, % | No | No |
Withdrawal fee, USD | No | No |
Inactivity fee, $ | No | No |
A conversion fee may be applied as withdrawals and deposits are conducted in USD. Any other currency will have to be converted.
IC Markets vs IG: trading assets
When exploring Forex, both IG and IC Markets offer a broad selection of trading instruments, though their range differs significantly. IC Markets provides access to over 2,000 assets, whereas IG has a much larger portfolio with more than 16,000 instruments.
When evaluating IG and IC Markets trading, their offerings vary based on asset classes. IC Markets includes CFDs on stocks, indices, bonds, and futures, providing greater diversity for CFD traders, while IG focuses more on broader market exposure. This means traders choosing between IG and IC Markets trading platforms should consider whether they prioritize a wider asset selection or a platform tailored to CFD strategies.
Asset Name | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
Overall | 2000+ trading assets | 16000+ |
Forex | Yes | Yes |
Stocks | Yes (CFD) | No |
Metals | Yes (CFD) | Yes (CFD) |
Cryptocurrencies | Yes (CFD) | Yes (CFD) |
Energy | Yes (CFD) | Yes (CFD) |
Indices | Yes (CFD) | No |
ETFs | Yes (CFD) | Yes |
Bonds | Yes (CFD) | No |
Mutual funds | No | No |
Stock options | No | No |
Futures trading | Yes (CFD) | No |
Binary options | No | No |
IC Markets or IG: investment programs
The IC Markets and IG investment programs differ in their approach to portfolio management and trading automation. IC Markets offers copy trading and MAM/PAMM accounts, enabling traders to follow experienced investors or efficiently manage multiple accounts. In contrast, IG does not provide these features but offers investment opportunities in IPOs, giving traders access to new stock offerings.
Asset Name | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
Copy trading | Yes | No |
MAM/PAMM | Yes | No |
Managed accounts | No | No |
Other | No | Investing in IPOs |
Trading platforms: IG or IC Markets
The IG and IC Markets platform options cater to different trading styles, offering flexibility based on trader preferences. IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, and cTrader, making it ideal for those who rely on advanced charting, algorithmic trading, and diverse execution methods. IG, on the other hand, provides MT4 along with its proprietary IG Trading Platform and L2 Dealer, designed for professional traders.
The right choice between IG and IC Markets trading platforms depends on individual needs. IC Markets is better suited for traders who prefer multiple third-party platforms, while IG focuses on its own platform for a more streamlined experience. Both brokers provide robust trading environments, but IC Markets offers greater flexibility for those using automated strategies and custom execution tools.
IC Markets | IG | |
---|---|---|
MT4 | Yes | Yes |
MT5 | Yes | No |
cTrader | Yes | No |
Appropriate platform | IC Markets terminal | IG Trading Platform |
Others | No | L2 dealer |
IC Markets vs IG: deposit and withdrawal methods
Both IG and IC Markets provide secure and widely accepted payment methods for deposits and withdrawals, making account funding accessible for traders. Supported options include bank wire transfers, bank cards, and Neteller. However, neither broker allows funding via BTC, Wise, Payoneer, or USDT, which may be inconvenient for traders who prefer cryptocurrency transactions. Despite this, the IG and IC Markets withdrawal process remains smooth, with most transactions processed without fees, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
For traders comparing initial funding requirements, the IG and IC Markets minimum deposit amounts vary significantly. IC Markets has a relatively lower requirement of $200, making it more accessible, while IG sets a higher entry point at $450. This difference is crucial for traders deciding between the two, depending on their budget and trading preferences.
When looking at IG and IC Markets deposit methods, both brokers offer similar options, ensuring ease of funding. Whether using bank wire, card payments, or Neteller, traders can securely add funds to their accounts. While the deposit process is seamless, choosing between the two brokers ultimately depends on individual preferences and trading capital.
IC Markets | IG | |
---|---|---|
Bank Wire | Yes | Yes |
Bank Card | Yes | Yes |
Neteller | Yes | Yes |
BTC | No | No |
Wise | No | No |
Payoneer | No | No |
USDT | No | No |
IC Markets vs IG: research
Both IG and IC Markets research types help traders make informed decisions. They offer news feeds, fundamental data, and chart analysis, equipping traders with essential market insights for technical and fundamental research. These tools are beneficial for those refining their strategies based on real-time data and trends.
However, IC Markets has an edge by offering trading ideas and email reports, which IG does not provide. This makes IC Markets a stronger choice for traders seeking direct market recommendations.
Research Type | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
News feed | Yes | Yes |
Fundamental data | Yes | Yes |
Chart analysis | Yes | Yes |
Trading ideas | Yes | No |
E-Mail reports | Yes | No |
IC Markets vs IG: education
Both IG and IC Markets offer strong education resources designed to help traders at all levels. Their educational content includes demo accounts, webinars, articles, and videos that cover everything from trading strategies to market insights and technical analysis. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced trader, the IG and IC Markets education materials can help improve your skills and decision-making.
For those just starting out, IG and IC Markets content for beginners provide structured learning opportunities. New traders can practice using demo accounts before moving to live trading, while webinars and articles introduce essential concepts in market analysis and trading techniques. Although neither broker offers cent accounts, their beginner-friendly approach ensures that newcomers have access to the right tools and educational support.
Education Type | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
Demo-account/paper trading | Yes | Yes |
Webinars | Yes | Yes |
Articles | Yes | Yes |
Videos | Yes | Yes |
Cent account | No | No |
IG vs IC Markets: support
IC Markets and IG support are reliable customer service with multiple communication channels, including email, phone, and online chat. However, a key difference lies in availability — IC Markets provides support 24/5, while IG offers 24/7 assistance, making it more accessible for traders who need help outside market hours.
IC Markets and IG live chats ensure quick responses to trading-related queries. Whether traders need technical assistance or account support, both brokers provide a seamless customer service experience, with IG having a slight advantage due to its round-the-clock availability.
Support Features | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
Working days | 24/5 | 24/7 |
Yes | Yes | |
Phone | Yes | Yes |
Online chat | Yes | Yes |
Other | No | No |
IC Markets vs IG: Forex bonuses and promo
Both IG and IC Markets have limited promotional incentives, meaning traders won’t find traditional Forex bonuses on either platform. Unlike some brokers that offer deposit-based rewards, neither provides a bonus, so traders must rely on their standard trading conditions rather than promotional perks. However, when it comes to partner programs, there are IG and IC Markets offers that allow users to earn through referrals and commissions.
For those interested in alternative earning opportunities, IC Markets and IG bonus programs focus on partnerships rather than trading promotions. IC Markets operates an affiliate program where partners earn commissions based on trading activity, while IG runs a "Refer a Friend" program that offers $100 per referral, provided specific trading conditions are met. While these brokers don’t provide direct trading bonuses, their partnership programs offer additional ways to generate income.
Promo | IC Markets | IG |
---|---|---|
Forex bonus | Not offered | No |
Affiliate program | % of trading commissions | "Invite a friend". The partner receives $100 for each attracted referral who must carry out 5 transactions of the corresponding volume (possibly, 5 lots are implied) within 6 months. |
Other promos | No | No |
Conclusion
This article provides a detailed comparison of IC Markets vs IG, focusing on key aspects like fees, trading platforms, regulation, and investment options. It highlights differences in spreads, commission structures, and account types, helping traders choose the best broker based on their needs. IC Markets stands out with lower spreads and multiple platform choices (MT4, MT5, cTrader), while IG offers a broader range of trading assets (16,000+) and its proprietary platform. Both brokers ensure secure trading with Tier-1 regulation but differ in investor protection and available financial instruments.
Additionally, the article covers deposit and withdrawal methods, research tools, customer support, and educational resources. IC Markets IG support includes live chat, email, and phone, with IG providing 24/7 assistance. Neither broker offers Forex bonuses, but they have referral programs. IC Markets IG trading conditions cater to both new and experienced traders, making it essential to evaluate spreads, leverage, and platform features before choosing the right broker.
FAQs
What should I start Forex trading with?
It is desirable for novice traders to explore trading using a demo account to learn the market and how to work on the trading platform without the risk of suffering losses. At the same time, it is advisable to review the educational materials of the broker, learn trading basics. Then you can deposit the minimum required amount to perform a small number of transactions. If you manage to close several months in a row in the black, without substantial drawdowns on the account, then you can try increasing your deposit. Also trying to copy trades automatically is a good option for a start.
What amount should I start trading with?
The minimum deposit of $10 may be enough to trade on the cent account. However, for trading on Standard/ECT accounts, experts recommend starting with at least $200-500. With this amount, you can use not a very big leverage. Remember, getting carried away with the margin is the main cause of losses among beginners.
What should I take into consideration when choosing a broker?
Experts recommend looking at the broker’s reliability first and foremost. The other important features include basic trading conditions, commissions and fees, customer reviews. If brokers are approximately the same in terms of basic criteria, you need to choose based on your experience and tasks. One broker may be good for professionals and another – for novice traders.
Is it possible to be scammed by a broker with a license from a reputable regulator?
In theory, yes. But in practice, it takes so much time and money to comply with the requirements of reputable regulators that it is not worth it for scammers to bother obtaining a legitimate license.
Related Articles
Team that worked on the article
Rinat Gismatullin is an entrepreneur and a business expert with 9 years of experience in trading. He focuses on long-term investing, but also uses intraday trading. He is a private consultant on investing in digital assets and personal finance. Rinat holds two degrees in Economy and Linguistics.
Chinmay Soni is a financial analyst with more than 5 years of experience in working with stocks, Forex, derivatives, and other assets. As a founder of a boutique research firm and an active researcher, he covers various industries and fields, providing insights backed by statistical data. He is also an educator in the field of finance and technology.
As an author for Traders Union, he contributes his deep analytical insights on various topics, taking into account various aspects.
Mirjan Hipolito is a journalist and news editor at Traders Union. She is an expert crypto writer with five years of experience in the financial markets. Her specialties are daily market news, price predictions, and Initial Coin Offerings (ICO).