IC Markets vs HFM 2026: Which Broker is Better?
Choosing between IC Markets and HFM depends on your trading style, preferred markets, and budget. IC Markets is headquartered in Sydney, Australia, while HFM operates from Limassol, Cyprus. IC Markets has the longer track record, established in 2007, compared to HFM which was founded in 2010. This in-depth comparison covers regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and overall ratings to help you decide which broker is the better fit in 2026.
IC Markets
HFM
| IC Markets | HFM | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 3.9/5 ✓ | 3.8/5 |
| Min. Deposit | $200 ✓ | $5 |
| Spread from | 0 pips | 0 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:2000 ✓ |
| Regulation | ASIC, CySEC | FCA, CySEC, FSCA ✓ |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile |
IC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 3.9/5 vs 3.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, IC Markets offers lower spreads (0 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowIC Markets vs HFM: Key Differences
IC Markets
HFM
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Fees Comparison
IC Markets
HFM
Lower feesRegulation & Trust
IC Markets holds licences from ASIC, CySEC. HFM is regulated by FCA, CySEC, FSCA.
Markets & Assets
Both brokers offer access to Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices markets. IC Markets additionally covers Crypto. HFM adds Commodities.
Trading Platforms
IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile. HFM offers MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile. Both brokers are available on MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile.
Minimum Deposit
IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200, while HFM sets a minimum deposit of $5. Both are suitable for traders with moderate starting capital.
Overall Ratings
BrokerRank scores IC Markets at 3.87/5 and HFM at 3.78/5, based on 50+ data points covering regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and user experience. IC Markets leads overall with a clear advantage.
BrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
IC Markets
3.9/5
Choose IC Markets if you want…
- Higher overall rating (3.9/5)
- More established (est. 2007)
- More platforms (4 supported)
HFM
3.8/5
Choose HFM if you want…
- Lower minimum deposit ($5)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:2000)
- More regulatory licences (3)
Also consider
We earn a commission when you open an account through these links, at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are scored independently — see the full independent ranking.
Both IC Markets & HFM are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is IC Markets better than HFM?
IC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. IC Markets holds a 3.9/5 rating vs HFM's 3.8/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.
2Which has lower fees, IC Markets or HFM?
IC Markets offers spreads from 0 pips, while HFM starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for IC Markets vs HFM?
IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200. HFM requires $5.
4Which broker is safer, IC Markets or HFM?
IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, while HFM holds licences from FCA, CySEC, FSCA.
5What trading platforms do IC Markets and HFM support?
IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile. HFM supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile.
6Can I use both IC Markets and HFM?
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
Key Trading Terms
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Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.
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