CMC Markets vs IC Markets 2026: Which Broker is Better?

Regulation & Safety

CMC Markets, established in 1989 and headquartered in London, operates under the regulatory oversight of top-tier bodies such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This robust regulatory framework ensures high standards of client fund protection, transparency, and operational integrity. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, offering an additional layer of safety to traders.

IC Markets, founded in 2007 and based in Sydney, is regulated by ASIC and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). These regulatory bodies are well-respected within the industry, offering a reasonable degree of assurance regarding the security of client funds. However, unlike CMC Markets, IC Markets does not have regulation from as many jurisdictions, potentially limiting its appeal for traders seeking broader international regulatory coverage.

Fees & Spreads

CMC Markets offers spreads starting from 0.7 pips with zero commission on trades, appealing to those looking for cost-effective trading without the burden of additional charges. Additionally, there is no minimum deposit requirement, making it accessible to traders of all levels. However, traders should be mindful of potential inactivity fees after 12 months of no trading activity.

In contrast, IC Markets provides ultra-low spreads starting from 0.0 pips, but charges a commission of $3.5 per lot. This pricing model is particularly attractive for high-volume traders who benefit from tighter spreads. The minimum deposit is $200, which may not suit beginners or low-capital traders. IC Markets does not impose any inactivity fees, offering a cost advantage for those who trade less frequently.

Trading Platforms

CMC Markets boasts a proprietary Web and Mobile platform known as Next Generation, which has won awards for its advanced features and usability. It also supports MT4, catering to traders who prefer the widely-used MetaTrader suite. IC Markets, on the other hand, offers MT4, MT5, and TradingView, providing a comprehensive array of choices for traders who value platform flexibility and functionality. However, it lacks a proprietary desktop platform, which could be a downside for traders seeking a differentiated trading experience.

Who Should Choose CMC Markets?

• Traders seeking access to over 10,000 instruments, including CFDs, forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and crypto.
• Beginners who prefer a broker with no minimum deposit requirement.
• Traders who value strong regulatory oversight from multiple jurisdictions.
• Users who appreciate award-winning proprietary platform features.

Who Should Choose IC Markets?

• High-frequency traders needing ultra-low spreads starting from 0.0 pips.
• Traders preferring the flexibility of MT4, MT5, and TradingView platforms.
• Individuals who prioritise fast execution speeds, averaging 40ms.
• Traders who do not mind a $200 minimum deposit for initial account funding.

Our Verdict

CMC Markets is the ideal choice for beginners due to its no minimum deposit and strong regulatory framework. For professionals, IC Markets stands out with its ultra-low spreads and fast execution. On fees, IC Markets offers a more cost-effective solution for high-volume traders, despite the $200 minimum deposit requirement.