IC Markets vs IG Markets: Comparison and Analysis

IC Markets vs IG Markets: A Comparison Summary

When comparing IC Markets vs IG Markets, both brokers offer a wide range of markets, but there are differences in terms of fees, trading platforms, and customer care. Let’s take a closer look.

Security:

IC Markets is regulated by CySEC, ASIC, FSA, and SCB, while IG Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, FMA, FSCA, NFA, MAS, DFSA, JFSA, FINMA, and BMA. IG Markets has a higher security rating of 98, compared to IC Markets’ rating of 93.

Demo Accounts:

Both brokers offer unlimited demo accounts. IC Markets allows traders to choose the virtual funds amount (up to $5,000,000) and offers account restoration via customer support. IG Markets provides a fixed $30,000 virtual funds amount and offers account restoration through customer support.

Account Opening:

IC Markets has no minimum deposit in place but suggests a minimum deposit of $200. It offers over 10 base currencies and a wide range of payment methods. It offers three account types: Standard account, RAW Spread account, and Professional account. IG Markets has a minimum deposit of $300 for most countries and offers various account types, including a Spread Betting account for UK traders and an Islamic account. It offers fewer base currencies than IC Markets, and its payment methods are more limited.

Social-Copy Trading:

IC Markets offers third-party platforms for copy trading, while IG Markets does not offer social or copy trading features.

Markets:

IC Markets offers 63 forex pairs, 21 commodities, 25 indices, 63 crypto assets, and 1600+ stocks. It only offers CFD trading. IG Markets offers 90 forex pairs, 35 commodities, 80+ indices, 12 crypto assets, 16,000+ stocks, 5,400+ ETFs, and 30+ futures and options. It offers both CFD and real asset trading, making it suitable for both short-term and long-term investments.

Trading Fees:

IC Markets has lower spreads, with a spread type of variable, starting from 0 pip on forex. It charges up to $7 per lot traded, and its stock commissions vary. IG Markets has variable spreads starting from 0.6 pips on forex, in line with market average. It charges zero commission on real US stocks for FCA, ASIC, DFSA, and JFSA traders.

Trading Platforms:

IC Markets offers MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and cTrader, all available via webtrader, desktop, and mobile. It also offers VPS services. IG Markets offers a proprietary platform available via web and desktop, L2 Dealer designed for stockbroking, ProRealTime advanced chart analysis software, and MT4.

Education/Customer Care:

Both brokers offer educational materials and a wide range of customer care options. IC Markets offers webinars and podcasts, while IG Markets has an extensive section suitable for every trader and a dedicated Academy App. Both offer easy-to-contact customer support via email, live chat, and phone, with multiple language options available.

Conclusion:

Overall, IC Markets and IG Markets are both reputable brokers with a strong focus on security, customer care, and education. IC Markets is more suitable for short-term investing, while IG Markets offers both short-term and long-term investment options. IC Markets offers lower spreads, while IG Markets offers a wider range of markets and account types. The choice between these two brokers ultimately depends on individual trading preferences, such as trading style, asset preferences, and fee structures.