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IC Markets vs Axi (2026): Which Broker Is Actually Better?
We compare IC Markets against Axi across spreads, regulations, platforms, and trading costs. Read our algorithmic breakdown and expert verdict to find out which broker suits your trading style in 2026.
Verdict: IC Markets Wins
After exhaustive side-by-side testing, **IC Markets** emerges as the overall winner in this matchup. While Axi remains an excellent choice for scalpers, copy traders & australian ecn clients, IC Markets proves superior due to its consistently deepest liquidity and tightest raw spreads (0.0) and servers located in ny4 & ld5 datacenters for <40ms latency.
IC Markets vs Axi: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2007 | 2007 |
| Overall Rating | 4.6/5.0 | 4.3/5.0 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $0 |
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) | 0.0 pips (Pro) |
| Maximum Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| MetaTrader 4 | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 | Yes | No |
| cTrader | Yes | No |
| TradingView | Yes | No |
| Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| Forex Pairs | 61 | 70+ |
| Deposit Methods | Card, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Wire, Broker-to-Broker | Card, Bank, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto |
| Withdrawal Speed | 24-48 hours | 1-2 business days |
| Execution Type | True ECN | STP / ECN |
IC Markets vs Axi: Fee Breakdown
When comparing the trading costs between IC Markets and Axi, it's essential to look beyond just the advertised spreads. We must factor in commissions, swap rates, and non-trading fees like deposit or inactivity charges. IC Markets offers pricing characterized by $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) alongside 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) spreads. In contrast, Axi utilizes a model with $3.50/lot (Pro) and 0.0 pips (Pro) spreads. For active, high-volume traders, either broker provides the superior cost-efficiency curve.
| Fee Type | IC Markets | Axi |
|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) | 0.0 pips (Pro) |
| Commission Defaults | $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) | $3.50/lot (Pro) |
| Execution Model | True ECN | STP / ECN |
| Deposit Fees | None | None |
| Withdrawal Speed | 24-48 hours | 1-2 business days |
Safety & Regulation: Is IC Markets or Axi Safer?
Trust is paramount in forex trading. Both IC Markets and Axi are highly regulated entities, but their jurisdictional footprints differ. IC Markets is armed with 2 Tier-1 licenses and has been securing client funds since 2007. Axi, licensed since 2007, counters with 3 Tier-1 regulatory bodies overseeing its operations. Axi holds a slight edge with more top-tier authorities. Both brokers employ strict client fund segregation.
IC Markets
Tier 1- Regulators:ASIC (Australia)CySEC (Cyprus)Seychelles FSASCB (Bahamas)
- Investor Protection: ASIC client money rules & European ICF
- Licensed Since: 2007
Axi
Tier 1- Regulators:ASIC (Australia)FCA (UK)FMA (New Zealand)DFSA (Dubai)
- Investor Protection: Segregated client funds / FSCS £85k (UK)
- Licensed Since: 2007
Platform & Tools Comparison
The software you trade on dictates your execution speed and analytical depth. Both brokers provide industry stalwarts, but divergencies exist. IC Markets equips its clients with MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView. Axi, on the other hand, grants access to MT4, Axi App, AxiTrader. If you rely on TradingView charting, this section heavily dictates your broker choice.
| Feature | IC Markets | Axi |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 | ||
| MetaTrader 5 | ||
| cTrader | ||
| TradingView | ||
| Proprietary Environment | Yes (Axi App) | |
| Copy Trading Network |
Pros & Cons: IC Markets vs Axi
IC Markets
Pros
- Consistently deepest liquidity and tightest raw spreads (0.0)
- Servers located in NY4 & LD5 datacenters for <40ms latency
- No restrictions on scalping, hedging, or EAs
- Excellent support for cTrader and TradingView
- Massive global trading volume
Cons
- Customer service can be slower during peak times
- $200 minimum deposit is slightly higher than competitors
- Basic research and educational material
Axi
Pros
- No minimum deposit
- ASIC, FCA and FMA regulated
- Axi Copy Trading platform
- Autochartist and PsyQuation tools
- Free VPS for qualifying clients
Cons
- No MT5 or cTrader
- Limited product range vs larger brokers
- No TradingView integration
Expert Verdict: IC Markets vs Axi
When we place IC Markets and Axi side-by-side, we observe two distinct philosophies in client servicing. IC Markets, licensed since 2007, has carved out a massive niche focusing on scalpers, ea traders & low-latency algorithmic trading. Their execution model heavily leans into True ECN, and their platform environment highlights MT4.
Conversely, Axi, operational out of Sydney, Australia, has architected its infrastructure predominantly for scalpers, copy traders & australian ecn clients. Their $3.50/lot (Pro) commission structure combined with 0.0 pips (Pro) spreads makes them a formidable competitor.
The Bottom Line: If your primary directive is consistently deepest liquidity and tightest raw spreads (0.0), and you intend to start with a minimum of $200, IC Markets is the logical path forward. If, however, you value no minimum deposit and require MT4, Axi edges out the competition and earns our recommendation.
IC Markets vs Axi: Frequently Asked Questions
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Risk Warning: Forex and CFD trading involves significant risk of loss. 68–80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.|Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive compensation from the brokers listed on this page. This does not influence our rankings or reviews, which are based on independent analysis.
Comparison data updated February 2026. Broker terms, spreads, and conditions vary by region and account type. See our methodology | Full Disclaimer | Privacy Policy