IC Markets vs AvaTrade 2025
Our review of IC Markets and AvaTrade outlines the strengths and weaknesses of each broker to assist traders in making informed choices for their forex trading. Read on for more details.
Our broker reviews are reader supported and we may receive payment when you click on a partner site. For more information, visit our About Us page.
*Cryptocurrency CFDs are not available to retail traders in the UK due to FCA regulations
*CFD trading is not available in the USA due to NFA and CFTC regulations, American traders spot trade in place of CFDs.
Our full comparison covers the 10 most important trading factors. Here are five key differences between IC Markets and AvaTrade:
- AvaTrade only offers a standard account.
- AvaTrade recorded 440,000 user visits in February 2022, reflecting its growing popularity among traders.
- AvaTrade is more widely regulated with registrations across multiple global regulatory agencies.
- IC Markets averages approximately 3.3 million monthly visits, indicating a large, trusted user base.
- IC Markets provides both standard and STP-style accounts.
- IC Markets generally has lower spreads on their standard accounts
- IC Markets offers a straight-through-processing (STP) style account, giving traders access to extremely low spreads.
1. Lowest Spreads And Fees – IC Markets
For traders in the industry, before evaluating forex brokers, it’s essential to consider various factors such as spreads, commission levels, and standard account fees. These elements significantly impact the overall trading experience and profitability. In this review, we will compare IC Markets and AvaTrade, two prominent forex brokers, and provide insights into their offerings based on the latest forex trading trends and news.
Spreads
For spreads, IC Markets offers a competitive edge with an EUR/USD rate of 0.82 compared to AvaTrade’s 0.9, while the average industry spread is 1.2. For the AUD/USD pair, IC Markets provides a spread of 0.83, in contrast to AvaTrade’s 1.1, with the industry average being 1.5. These tighter spreads make IC Markets an attractive option for traders seeking cost-effective trading conditions.
| Standard Account | IC Markets Spreads | AvaTrade Spreads | Industry Spreads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Average | 1.09 | 1.44 | 1.6 |
| EUR/USD | 0.82 | 0.9 | 1.2 |
| USD/JPY | 0.94 | 1.3 | 1.4 |
| GBP/USD | 1.03 | 1.3 | 1.6 |
| AUD/USD | 0.83 | 1.1 | 1.5 |
| USD/CAD | 1.05 | 1.8 | 1.8 |
| EUR/GBP | 1.27 | 1.2 | 1.5 |
| EUR/JPY | 1.3 | 1.8 | 1.9 |
| AUD/JPY | 1.5 | 2.1 | 2.1 |
Commission Levels
IC Markets charges a commission fee of $3.50 per lot on its Raw Spread account, with variations based on currency—AUD $4.50/9.00, USD $3.50/7.00, GBP £2.75/5.50, EUR €3.25/6.50, and SGD $4.75/9.50 per standard lot traded. These fees scale proportionally for smaller trade sizes, such as mini lots. In contrast, AvaTrade does not impose additional commissions on trades but applies inactivity fees of $50 after three months of non-use and $100 after a year of inactivity. Both brokers offer free deposits and withdrawals, reflecting the industry’s shift toward cost-efficient and transparent trading conditions.
Our dedicated team has meticulously crafted the exclusive fee calculator below. This tool is designed to provide you with accurate and comprehensive calculations.
Standard Account Fees
In terms of standard account fees, IC Markets offers a rate of 0.62 for EUR/USD and 0.77 for AUD/USD. In comparison, AvaTrade’s rates are 0.90 for EUR/USD and 1.10 for AUD/USD. These lower fees from IC Markets provide a more cost-effective trading environment, particularly for traders who frequently trade these currency pairs.
|
Standard Account Spreads
|
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
0.62 | 0.77 | 1.27 | 0.83 | 0.74 |
|
0.90 | 1.10 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.00 |
|
1.13 | 1.01 | 1.71 | 1.66 | 1.12 |
|
1.20 | 0.90 | 1.50 | 1.80 | 1.80 |
|
1.20 | 1.40 | 1.50 | 1.60 | 1.50 |
|
1.10 | 1.20 | 1.30 | 1.30 | 1.30 |
|
1.20 | 1.80 | 1.90 | 1.90 | 1.60 |
|
1.32 | 1.95 | 1.37 | 1.70 | 1.40 |
Avg. spreads are taken from each broker's website and updated monthly. Last update on 04/01/2025
IC Markets stands out with its tighter spreads and lower standard account fees, making it a more cost-effective choice for traders. AvaTrade, while offering commission-free trading, imposes inactivity fees that may be a consideration for less active traders. Both brokers provide competitive trading conditions, but IC Markets’ pricing structure and fee transparency give it an edge in the current forex trading landscape. With the latest trends emphasizing cost-efficiency and trader-friendly policies, IC Markets and AvaTrade continue to adapt and offer valuable services to their clients.
Our Lowest Spreads and Fees Verdict
IC Markets come up trumps in this section due to lowest spreads and fees.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
2. Better Trading Platform – AvaTrade
Choosing the right trading platform is essential for a successful forex trading experience. In this review, we will compare IC Markets and AvaTrade, focusing on their MetaTrader offerings, advanced platforms, copy trading features, and overall conclusion based on the latest forex trading trends and news.
| Trading Platform | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 | Yes | Yes |
| cTrader | Yes | No |
| TradingView | Yes | No |
| Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes |
We have created a software questionnaire if you are unsure what platform best suits your trading style. Based on six simple questions, we can recommend the best trading software for your trading needs.
MetaTrader
Both IC Markets and AvaTrade offer MetaTrader 4 and 5, which are the most popular platforms used by forex traders worldwide. These platforms provide state-of-the-art software, in-depth technical analysis tools, and access to the largest community of traders. While both brokers support MetaTrader’s full functionality, IC Markets stands out by also offering cTrader and TradingView. IC Markets provides additional tools such as MetaTrader Advanced Trading Tools, a library of technical indicators and widgets, Myfxbook, ZuluTrade, and access to a Virtual Private Server (VPS) for running Expert Advisors (EAs). AvaTrade, on the other hand, offers the Guardian Angel tool for MT4 and MT5 users, which identifies and warns about high-risk trades.
Advanced Platforms
IC Markets enhances its platform offerings with cTrader, designed for high-speed execution and deep liquidity levels. cTrader includes three levels of ‘depth-of-market’ (DoM) and a VPS with latency under 1 ms, making it an excellent choice for scalpers and high-frequency traders. AvaTrade offers a range of exclusive platforms, including AvaTrade Go, a mobile app for trading financial instruments; WebTrader, a browser-based platform with access to AvaProtect; AvaSocial, a mobile app for copy trading; and AvaOptions for trading vanilla options.
Copy Trading
Both brokers support copy trading features. IC Markets offers MetaTrader Signals, ZuluTrade, Myfxbook, and cTrader Copy, along with EAs and the IC Markets Mobile App. AvaTrade provides MetaTrader Signals, AvaSocial, DupliTrade, EAs, AvaTrade Go, and AvaOptions. These features allow traders to replicate the strategies of experienced traders, enhancing their trading experience.
IC Markets and AvaTrade both offer robust trading platforms with a range of advanced features. IC Markets stands out with its additional cTrader and TradingView offerings, as well as a broader range of tools and EAs. AvaTrade provides a wide array of exclusive platforms, catering to different trading needs. Both brokers continue to adapt to the latest trends in forex trading, offering competitive and comprehensive trading solutions to their clients. Whether you prioritize high-speed execution and advanced tools or diverse platform options, IC Markets and AvaTrade have something to offer every trader.
Our Better Trading Platform Verdict
AvaTrade ranks highest in this portion owing to better trading platform.
3. Superior Accounts And Features – Tie
Islamic traders encounter considerable limitations when engaging in forex and other financial instruments due to Sharia law, which forbids the payment or acceptance of interest. This creates hurdles for those wanting to use leverage, as holding positions overnight often incurs interest charges, known as swap fees. In response to these challenges, several brokers provide Islamic or swap-free accounts that align with Sharia principles, allowing traders to operate within the framework of their beliefs.
| IC Markets | AvaTrade | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Account | Yes | Yes |
| Raw Account | Yes | No |
| Swap Free Account | Yes | Yes |
| Active Traders | Yes | No |
| Spread Betting (UK) | No | Yes |
IC Markets and AvaTrade both offer Islamic accounts, but each presents unique challenges. IC Markets facilitates Islamic accounts alongside their standard and STP-style options, substituting the traditional swap fee with an overnight financing fee. This structure enables traders to adhere to Sharia law while reaping the benefits of leveraged trading. However, it’s important to note that the overnight financing fee could still be a point of concern for traders.
AvaTrade’s Islamic account stands out by not charging any additional administrative fees; however, traders should expect wider spreads than those found in standard accounts. Furthermore, AvaTrade limits the available trading instruments, excluding cryptocurrencies and certain exotic forex pairs. Despite these constraints, both brokers are committed to evolving their offerings to better serve Islamic traders, staying attuned to the latest trends and insights within the forex trading landscape.
Our Superior Accounts and Features Verdict
It’s a tie for both IC Markets and AvaTrade. They both are having their moment in the spotlight right now due to superior accounts and features.
4. Best Trading Experience And Ease: IC Markets
For brokers in the industry of forex trading, having a superior trading experience stems from the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, lightning-fast execution, and cost-effective trading conditions. Top brokers offer user-friendly platforms, ultra-narrow spreads, and dependable customer support to guarantee effortless market access. Equipped with advanced charting capabilities, comprehensive educational resources, and a range of trading enhancements, traders can sharpen their strategies, execute precision trades, and confidently navigate the forex market.
In the industry of forex trading, the experience and ease of use are truly important. We’ve spent countless hours testing various platforms and brokers to determine which offers the best user experience. From the data we’ve gathered, IC Markets stands out with its MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platform, offering a seamless and efficient trading experience. This platform is highly regarded for its advanced charting tools, automated trading capabilities, and user-friendly interface, making it a favorite among traders.
On the other hand, AvaTrade provides a range of exclusive platforms, each tailored to different trading needs. From mobile trading with AvaTrade Go to advanced risk management with AvaProtect, AvaTrade caters to both beginners and advanced traders. These platforms offer a comprehensive suite of tools and features designed to enhance the trading experience and provide traders with the flexibility they need to succeed.
IC Markets offers one of the best MT5 experiences in the industry, with competitive pricing, low spreads, and fast execution speeds. Our tests have shown that IC Markets also excels with its standard account, providing traders with optimal conditions for trading. The broker’s commitment to providing a high-quality trading environment is evident in its robust platform offerings and excellent customer support.
AvaTrade, while offering fixed spreads, ensures predictability, which is especially beneficial for new traders. The broker’s exclusive platforms, such as AvaTrade Go and AvaProtect, provide additional features and tools that enhance the trading experience. AvaTrade’s focus on providing a diverse range of platforms and tools makes it an attractive option for traders looking for flexibility and advanced risk management solutions.
Our dedicated team therefore conclude that both IC Markets and AvaTrade offer exceptional trading experiences, each with its unique strengths. IC Markets excels with its MT5 platform and competitive trading conditions, while AvaTrade stands out with its exclusive platforms and fixed spreads. As the forex trading landscape continues to evolve, both brokers remain committed to providing traders with the best possible tools and resources to succeed.
| Limit Order Speed | Limit Order Global Rank | Market Order Speed | Market Order Global Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC Markets | 134ms | 16/36 | 153ms | 22/36 |
| AvaTrade | 235ms | 32/36 | 145ms | 21/36 |
Our Best Trading Experience and Ease Verdict
Based on our extensive testing, IC Markets shines in this category on account of best trading experience and ease.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
5. Stronger Trust And Regulation – A Tie
For traders in the business of forex trading, a well-regulated broker is the foundation of a secure and transparent forex trading environment. Brokers operating under strict regulatory oversight follow industry standards designed to protect traders from fraud, unethical practices, and financial mismanagement. This level of security instills confidence, encouraging traders to engage more actively in the market. Trustworthy brokers with strong compliance measures not only enhance their credibility but also attract a wider client base, reinforcing their position as reliable partners in the competitive forex landscape.
IC Markets Trust Score
AvaTrade Trust Score
Basing on the trust score, IC Markets comes up with a score of 61 while AvaTrade has a great score of 77.
When trading in the industry of forex trading, prioritizing your safety and security is essential. Whether you choose to trade with IC Markets or AvaTrade, rest assured that both brokers are overseen by prestigious financial authorities, ensuring a trustworthy trading environment. To further enhance your protection, it is advisable to select a broker regulated in your specific country or region.
Regulation and Safety
Regulation is the cornerstone of protection when trading forex or other CFDs. AvaTrade is more widely regulated than IC Markets, holding licenses from multiple global regulatory agencies. Both brokers are regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). However, AvaTrade goes above and beyond with an expanded regulatory framework, holding additional licenses from the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC), the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa, the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), the Financial Services Agency (FSA) in Japan, the Polish Financial Supervision Agency (KNF), and the Israel Securities Authority (ISA). This extensive range of regulatory oversight positions AvaTrade as a significantly more comprehensively regulated broker than IC Markets.
Popularity and User Base
A large user base often indicates a broker’s trustworthiness and reliability. IC Markets is a highly popular broker, averaging around 3.3 million visits per month in 2022. In comparison, AvaTrade received 440 thousand visits in February 2022. Though AvaTrade holds a notable position among its competitors, it significantly falls short when compared to the vast user base of IC Markets. This widespread appeal indicates that IC Markets is a reliable and preferred option for numerous traders.
Risk Management Tools
AvaTrade offers an exclusive risk management tool called AvaProtect, which provides guaranteed protection against losses for a modest fee. This innovative tool empowers traders to hedge their positions, providing protection worth up to $1 million. AvaProtect is featured on AvaTrade’s proprietary platforms, delivering an extra layer of risk management that is absent from MetaTrader 4 and 5. Additionally, both AvaTrade and IC Markets offer negative balance protection, guaranteeing that traders will never lose more than their initial deposit.
Both IC Markets and AvaTrade offer robust regulatory frameworks and user-friendly trading environments. AvaTrade’s broad regulatory framework and unique risk management tools, like AvaProtect, enhance security and flexibility for traders. Meanwhile, IC Markets, known for its vast user base and competitive trading conditions, remains a favored option among traders. As the forex trading landscape progresses, both brokers are dedicated to offering secure and trustworthy trading experiences for their clients.
| IC Markets | AvaTrade | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 Regulation | ASIC (Australia) CYSEC (Cyprus) | ASIC (Australia) CIRO (CANADA) CYSEC (Cyprus) |
| Tier 2 Regulation | ADGM (UAE) ISA (Israel) JFSA (Japan) CBI KNF (Poland) |
|
| Tier 3 Regulation | FSA-S (Seychelles) SCB (Bahamas) | FSC- BVI FSCA (South Africa) |
Our Stronger Trust and Regulation Verdict
It’s a stalemate for both IC Markets and AvaTrade due to stronger trust and regulation.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
6. Top Product Range And CFD Markets: IC Markets
When it comes to forex trading, for brokers specifically, having access to a diverse range of markets can be a game-changer. A broker with a wide CFD offering—including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies—allows traders to diversify portfolios and leverage market conditions. This variety helps in risk hedging, exploring strategies, and maximizing opportunities, making the trading experience more adaptable and profitable.
When it comes to the range of products and CFD markets, both IC Markets and AvaTrade have their strengths, each catering to different trading needs. IC Markets excels with its extensive offering of forex pairs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, providing traders with a diverse array of instruments to choose from. Their competitive spreads and fast execution speeds make them a preferred choice for many traders. AvaTrade distinguishes itself with an impressive array of trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4 and 5, AvaTrade Go, and AvaOptions, designed to meet the needs of both novice and experienced traders. Notably, AvaTrade features AvaProtect, a unique risk management tool that guarantees protection against losses for a nominal fee. This innovative offering is especially advantageous in today’s volatile market landscape, characterized by uncertainty. Both AvaTrade and IC Markets are regulated by reputable financial authorities, ensuring a safe trading environment for their users. In an era where advanced trading tools, effective risk management, and regulatory adherence are paramount, both brokers remain committed to evolving and providing attractive trading conditions for their clients.
| CFDs | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Forex Pairs | 61 | 55 |
| Indices | 25 | 33 |
| Commodities | 4 Metals (Gold vs 6 currencies) (Silver vs 3 currencies) 8 Softs 5 Energies | 5 Metals 5 Energies 7 Softs |
| Cryptocurrencies | 23 | 17 (+ Crypto10 Index) |
| Share CFDs | 2100+ | No |
| ETFs | No | 59 |
| Bonds | 9 | 2 |
| Futures | Yes | Yes |
| Treasuries | 9 | 2 |
| Investments | Yes | Yes |
Our Top Product Range and CFD Markets Verdict
Based on our team’s in-depth research, IC Markets dominates this section due to top product range and CFD markets.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
7. Superior Educational Resources – IC Markets
For brokers in the industry of forex trading, when it comes to forex trading, having top-notch educational resources can make all the difference. Top brokers offer more than platforms; they provide essential learning tools like webinars, articles, and courses to help traders improve their strategies. Quality education is crucial for both beginners and experienced traders, leading to smarter trades and long-term success in forex.
In the ever busy and complicated world of forex trading, brokers having access to top-tier educational resources is crucial for both fresh and experienced traders. IC Markets and AvaTrade stand out by offering comprehensive and continually updated educational sections on their platforms. IC Markets provides a wealth of materials, including webinars, video tutorials, and market analysis, all designed to enhance trading skills. AvaTrade, on the other hand, offers free webinars, online courses, and a detailed trading glossary, ensuring traders can learn and grow on the go. Both brokers prioritize user-friendly interfaces and hands-on learning tools, such as demo accounts, to help traders confidently navigate the forex market.
IC Markets:
- Offers a comprehensive educational section on their website.
- Provides webinars, video tutorials, and market analysis.
- Features a dedicated FAQ section for beginners.
- Includes advanced trading tools and strategies for experienced traders.
- Regularly updates its educational content.
- Has a user-friendly interface that makes learning easier.
AvaTrade:
- Provides a wide range of educational materials.
- Offers free webinars and online courses.
- Features a detailed FAQ section and trading glossary.
- Includes a section on market news and analysis.
- Offers a demo account for hands-on learning.
- Has a dedicated mobile app for on-the-go learning.
Our Superior Educational Resources Verdict
Based on our team’s testing, IC Markets is riding high in this category due to superior educational resources.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
8. Superior Customer Service – IC Markets
In forex trading, brokers with top-tier customer support services are not just a bonus, it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re executing high-stakes trades or just getting started, quick and reliable assistance can make all the difference. Top brokers provide 24/7 support via live chat, phone, and email in multiple languages, ensuring traders receive timely help. Quick responses and knowledgeable staff enhance the trading experience and foster trust.
Customer service is an important factor when choosing a broker, as it forms the backbone of any trading experience by ensuring traders can get the help they need when they need it. From our extensive testing, both IC Markets and AvaTrade have demonstrated a strong commitment to offering top-notch customer support. IC Markets excels with its 24/7 customer support system, providing assistance to traders worldwide regardless of their time zone. This round-the-clock availability ensures that traders can resolve issues promptly and continue trading without interruptions.
AvaTrade, on the other hand, stands out with its multilingual support, catering to a global audience and ensuring that language barriers do not hinder effective communication. AvaTrade’s customer service is available 24/5, offering various channels of communication, including live chat, email, and phone support. This comprehensive support system is particularly beneficial in the current forex trading landscape, where traders from diverse regions require reliable and accessible assistance. Both brokers’ dedication to customer service reflects the latest trends in forex trading, emphasizing the importance of responsive and multilingual support to enhance the overall trading experience.
| Feature | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat Support | Yes | Yes |
| Email Support | Yes | Yes |
| Phone Support | Yes | Yes |
| Support Hours | 24/7 | 16/5 |
| Multilingual Support | Yes | Yes |
Our Superior Customer Service Verdict
IC Markets outperforms the challenger in this category due to superior customer service.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
9. Better Funding Options – IC Markets
In the ever busy world of forex trading, the ability to access flexible and convenient funding options can significantly enhance traders’ experiences.Whether you’re depositing or withdrawing funds, seamless transactions can greatly enhance your efficiency. Imagine choosing from various payment methods—bank transfers, credit/debit cards, digital wallets like PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies—with minimal fees. This flexibility enhances trading efficiency, giving you an edge in the competitive forex market.
When it comes to funding options, both IC Markets and AvaTrade have made significant efforts to provide traders with a variety of choices, ensuring flexibility and catering to the diverse needs of traders globally. IC Markets provides an impressive selection of over 15 flexible funding options, encompassing traditional bank transfers, credit and debit cards, and contemporary e-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. Additionally, they embrace cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to make instant, fee-free deposits in various base currencies. This wide array of funding methods empowers traders to efficiently manage their accounts and significantly enhances their overall trading experience.
AvaTrade, on the other hand, offers a wide selection of convenient payment methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. They prioritize the ease of making deposits and the swift processing of withdrawals, guaranteeing a seamless experience for their clients. AvaTrade’s dedication to creating a secure and user-friendly platform is reflected in their stringent adherence to regulatory standards and compliance protocols. As the latest trends in forex trading highlight the necessity of cutting-edge trading tools, robust risk management features, and strong regulatory compliance, both IC Markets and AvaTrade are committed to evolving and providing their clients with competitive trading conditions.
| Funding Option | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Credit Card | Yes | Yes |
| Debit Card | Yes | Yes |
| Bank Transfer | Yes | Yes |
| PayPal | Yes | No |
| Skrill | Yes | Yes |
| Neteller | Yes | Yes |
| Crypto | Yes | Yes |
| Rapid Pay | No | No |
| POLi / bPay | Yes | Yes |
| Klarna | No | No |
Our Better Funding Options Verdict
IC Markets is on top of the world right now due to better funding options.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
10. Lower Minimum Deposit – IC Markets
In forex trading, a lower minimum deposit can truly transform the experience. It creates opportunities for a broader range of traders, whether you’re a novice exploring the market or an experienced trader seeking to reduce your initial financial commitment. By lowering the deposit barrier, brokers alleviate pressure and enhance flexibility, enabling traders to gain practical experience, sharpen their strategies, and steadily build their confidence. In a landscape where every dollar matters, brokers that maintain affordable entry costs significantly enhance accessibility and inclusivity within the forex trading community.
IC Markets and AvaTrade provide a wide range of funding options to accommodate the unique requirements of traders worldwide. IC Markets has no minimum deposit requirement, although it recommends initiating your account with at least $200 in your preferred currency to satisfy margin requirements for opening trades. In contrast, AvaTrade mandates a minimum deposit of $100 in your selected base currency. Nevertheless, similar to IC Markets, AvaTrade advises depositing between $1,000 and $2,000 to guarantee adequate margin coverage.
Both brokers eliminate deposit and withdrawal fees, although you may encounter external transaction charges, particularly when using an international bank. IC Markets presents more than 15 flexible funding methods, including Visa/Mastercard, bank transfers, and eWallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. Additionally, they cater to specific regions with options like POLi and BPAY for Australian traders, Union Pay for Chinese clients, and FasaPay or RapidPay for Indonesian users. Meanwhile, AvaTrade offers a diverse array of payment solutions, encompassing credit cards, wire transfers, and eWallets like Skrill and Neteller. This broad selection of funding options empowers traders to efficiently manage their accounts, significantly enhancing their overall trading experience.
| Minimum Deposit | Recommended Deposit | |
| IC Markets | $200 | $200 |
| AvaTrade | $100 | - |
Our Lower Minimum Deposit Verdict
Without a doubt, IC Markets secures first place in this section thanks to their lower minimum deposit.
IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets
*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’
Our Final Verdict On Which Broker Is The Best: AvaTrade or IC Markets?
IC Markets ranks highest in this niche owing to excellence in most key areas when compared to AvaTrade. The table below summarises the key information leading to this verdict.
| Categories | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest Spreads And Fees | Yes | No |
| Better Trading Platform | No | Yes |
| Superior Accounts And Features | Yes | Yes |
| Best Trading Experience And Ease | Yes | No |
| Stronger Trust And Regulation | Yes | Yes |
| Top Product Range And CFD Markets | Yes | No |
| Superior Educational Resources | Yes | No |
| Superior Customer Service | Yes | No |
| Better Funding Options | Yes | No |
| Lower Minimum Deposit | Yes | No |
AvaTrade: Best For Beginner Traders
AvaTrade is better suited for beginner traders due to its user-friendly platform and comprehensive educational resources.
IC Markets: Best For Experienced Traders
IC Markets stands out as the preferred choice for experienced traders because of its advanced trading tools, tight spreads, and diverse product range.
FAQs Comparing IC Markets Vs AvaTrade
Does AvaTrade or IC Markets Have Lower Costs?
IC Markets generally offers lower costs compared to AvaTrade. They are renowned for their tight spreads, especially during peak trading hours. For instance, their average EUR/USD spread is just 0.1 pips. For a deeper dive into low-cost brokers, you can explore this guide on the lowest spread forex brokers in the UK.
Which Broker Is Better For MetaTrader 4?
Both AvaTrade and IC Markets offer MetaTrader 4, but IC Markets is often preferred for its advanced tools and faster execution speeds on this platform. Their integration with MT4 provides traders with a seamless experience. If you’re keen on exploring more about MT4 brokers, check out this comprehensive list of the best MT4 brokers.
Which Broker Offers Social Trading?
AvaTrade stands out when it comes to social trading, offering platforms like ZuluTrade and DupliTrade for copy trading. These platforms allow traders to mimic the strategies of experienced traders. For those interested in diving deeper into social trading platforms, here’s a detailed overview of the best social trading platforms.
Does Either Broker Offer Spread Betting?
IC Markets does not offer spread betting, while AvaTrade provides this service to its UK clients. Spread betting is a popular form of trading in the UK due to its tax benefits. For those interested in exploring more about spread betting brokers, here’s a comprehensive guide on the best spread betting brokers in the UK.
What Broker is Superior For Australian Forex Traders?
In my opinion, IC Markets is the superior choice for Australian forex traders. It’s not only ASIC regulated but also proudly founded in Australia. AvaTrade, on the other hand, is an international broker with a significant presence in Australia. Both brokers offer a range of trading instruments, but IC Markets’ deep roots in the Australian market give it an edge. If you’re keen on exploring more about Australian forex brokers, you can check out this list of the Best Forex Brokers In Australia.
What Broker is Superior For UK Forex Traders?
For UK traders, I personally believe AvaTrade has a slight edge. While both brokers are FCA regulated, AvaTrade’s global reach and diverse platform offerings make it a top choice for many in the UK. IC Markets, although not founded in the UK, has made significant inroads in the market. For those looking to dive deeper into the best brokers for UK traders, here’s a detailed overview of the Best Forex Brokers In UK.
Other Broker vs Broker Comparisons
Ask an Expert