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IC Markets vs FP Markets (2026): Which Broker Is Actually Better?
We compare IC Markets against FP Markets 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: It's a Tie
Both IC Markets and FP Markets offer exceptional trading environments with distinct strengths. IC Markets is ideal for scalpers, ea traders & low-latency algorithmic trading, while FP Markets excels for ecn traders, scalpers & australian clients. Your choice should depend entirely on whether you prioritize consistently deepest liquidity and tightest raw spreads (0.0) or true ecn pricing from 0.0 pips.
IC Markets vs FP Markets: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2007 | 2005 |
| Overall Rating | 4.6/5.0 | 4.5/5.0 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $100 |
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) | 0.0 pips (Raw) |
| Maximum Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| MetaTrader 4 | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 | Yes | Yes |
| cTrader | Yes | Yes |
| 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 | Same day to 1 business day |
| Execution Type | True ECN | ECN / DMA |
IC Markets vs FP Markets: Fee Breakdown
When comparing the trading costs between IC Markets and FP Markets, 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, FP Markets utilizes a model with $3/lot (Raw) and 0.0 pips (Raw) spreads. For active, high-volume traders, either broker provides the superior cost-efficiency curve.
| Fee Type | IC Markets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.0 pips (Raw) | 0.8 pips (Standard) | 0.0 pips (Raw) |
| Commission Defaults | $3.50/lot (Raw Spread) | $3/lot (Raw) |
| Execution Model | True ECN | ECN / DMA |
| Deposit Fees | None | None |
| Withdrawal Speed | 24-48 hours | Same day to 1 business day |
Safety & Regulation: Is IC Markets or FP Markets Safer?
Trust is paramount in forex trading. Both IC Markets and FP Markets 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. FP Markets, licensed since 2005, counters with 2 Tier-1 regulatory bodies overseeing its operations. They are evenly matched in terms of top-tier trust metrics. 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
FP Markets
Tier 1- Regulators:ASIC (Australia)CySEC (Cyprus)SVG FSA
- Investor Protection: Segregated client funds / €20,000 ICF
- Licensed Since: 2005
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. FP Markets, on the other hand, grants access to MT4, MT5, cTrader, IRESS. If you rely on TradingView charting, this section heavily dictates your broker choice.
| Feature | IC Markets | FP Markets |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 | ||
| MetaTrader 5 | ||
| cTrader | ||
| TradingView | ||
| Proprietary Environment | Yes (IRESS) | |
| Copy Trading Network |
Pros & Cons: IC Markets vs FP Markets
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
FP Markets
Pros
- True ECN pricing from 0.0 pips
- ASIC and CySEC regulated
- cTrader and IRESS platforms
- Over 10,000 tradable instruments
- Excellent execution speeds
Cons
- $100 minimum deposit
- IRESS platform has additional fees
- Limited educational content
Expert Verdict: IC Markets vs FP Markets
When we place IC Markets and FP Markets 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, FP Markets, operational out of Sydney, Australia, has architected its infrastructure predominantly for ecn traders, scalpers & australian clients. Their $3/lot (Raw) commission structure combined with 0.0 pips (Raw) 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 true ecn pricing from 0.0 pips and require MT4, FP Markets edges out the competition and earns our recommendation.
IC Markets vs FP Markets: 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