IC Markets Review

Last updated: October 2026

Choosing a forex broker is an important decision for every trader. In this IC Markets Review, we examine account types, trading platforms, spreads, commissions, gold trading conditions and key factors to consider before opening a live account.

This review provides general information to help readers compare trading services. Account conditions can vary by legal entity and country, so verify the current terms on the official website before depositing funds.

What Is IC Markets?

IC Markets is a forex and CFD broker offering access to various financial markets through supported trading platforms. Depending on your account and jurisdiction, available instruments may include forex, precious metals, indices, commodities, shares and other CFDs.

IC Markets Account Types

IC Markets offers different pricing structures depending on the trading platform. The following table summarizes commonly advertised conditions for its global offering. Check your own entity for the applicable terms.

Important: These are advertised starting conditions, not guaranteed live spreads. Commissions may depend on account currency, platform and instrument. Minimum deposits and leverage also vary by entity and region.

1. Standard Account

The Standard account uses spread-based pricing without a separate trading commission. It may appeal to traders who prefer a simpler fee structure. However, the spread markup means it is important to compare the total cost of each trade.

2. Raw Spread Account

The Raw Spread account passes through raw pricing from liquidity providers, with a separate commission. IC Markets advertises spreads starting from 0.0 pips. The actual spread changes with market conditions, and the commission must be included when calculating trading costs.

3. Raw Spread on cTrader

The cTrader Raw Spread account uses a platform-specific commission structure. It may suit traders who prefer cTrader's interface and tools. Compare the commission basis, supported instruments and platform features before selecting it.

Trading Gold (XAUUSD) on IC Markets

Gold is a popular instrument among forex traders because its price can move sharply during economic announcements, changes in interest-rate expectations and periods of market uncertainty. These movements also create significant risk.

Before trading XAUUSD, check:

• The current gold spread and any applicable commission
• Contract size, tick size and tick value
• Margin requirements and leverage limits
• Swap or overnight financing charges
• Execution conditions during volatile sessions

Advantages and Disadvantages

Is IC Markets Regulated?

IC Markets operates through different legal entities in various jurisdictions. The applicable regulator, leverage limits and client protections depend on the entity that accepts your account.

Before registering, verify:

• The exact legal company name in your account agreement
• The licence number in the relevant regulator's official register
• The protections available to clients in your country
• The applicable complaint and dispute-resolution procedures

Useful official resources:

• IC Markets Official Website ↗
• Company Entities and Regulatory Information ↗
• Official Account Comparison ↗

Do not assume that every legal entity offers the same leverage, account conditions or regulatory protection.

Deposits and Withdrawals

Payment methods, minimum amounts, processing times and applicable fees can vary by country, payment provider and account entity. Check the funding options available in your client area before transferring money.

• Complete the required identity verification.
• Review payment limits and applicable fees.
• Read the current withdrawal and processing terms.
• Keep transaction confirmations and account records.

Never assume a payment method advertised in another country will be available for your account.

Who May Consider IC Markets?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IC Markets suitable for beginners?

Its demo accounts and different pricing options may help beginners practise. Suitability depends on your experience, financial circumstances and understanding of trading risk.

Does IC Markets offer zero spreads?

Its Raw Spread accounts advertise spreads starting from 0.0 pips. Actual spreads fluctuate, and applicable commissions still contribute to total trading costs.

What is the minimum deposit?

Minimum funding requirements can depend on the legal entity, payment method and account conditions. Confirm the current requirement in your own registration process rather than relying on a universal figure.

Can I use an MT5 Expert Advisor?

Expert Advisors can be used on compatible MT5 accounts. Check the current platform conditions and test your EA on demo before using real funds.

Is IC Markets available in every country?

No. Account eligibility and available services depend on residency, local restrictions and the legal entity serving you. Check the official eligibility requirements before registering.

Is Raw Spread always cheaper than Standard?

Not necessarily. Raw Spread charges a separate commission, while Standard includes a markup in the spread. Compare both models using your typical trade size, instrument and holding period.

Final Verdict

IC Markets offers Standard and Raw Spread pricing models alongside several trading platform options. The right choice depends on your preferred instruments, trading frequency, total costs and the legal entity available in your country.

Before opening a live account, verify regulatory details, spreads, commissions, funding terms and platform compatibility. Start with a demo account if you are new to trading, and remember that a broker's features do not guarantee profitable results.