AvaTrade vs IC Markets
Can't decide between AvaTrade and IC Markets? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Executive Summary
AvaTrade and IC Markets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. AvaTrade scores 94/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, while IC Markets leads with 97/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 0.9 pips). AvaTrade supports MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, WebTrader while IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, giving AvaTrade an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, AvaTrade holds licenses from CBI, ASIC, FSA, FSCA, CySEC while IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FSA. Both brokers offer segregated client funds and are considered safe for retail trading.
The Verdicts
Most Trusted
IC Markets scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (97/100) compared to AvaTrade (94/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.9 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $100, AvaTrade is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | AvaTrade | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 94/100 | 97/100 |
| Spreads From | 0.9 pips | 0.0 pips |
| Avg EUR/USD Spread | 0.9 pips | 0.02 pips |
| Commission | $0 | $7.00/lot |
| Execution Speed | 45ms | 18ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:400 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 | $200 |
| Instruments | 1,250+ | 2,250+ |
| Account Types | Standard, Options | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, WebTrader | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Top Regulators | CBI, ASIC, FSA, FSCA, CySEC | ASIC, CySEC, FSA |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-3 business days | 1-2 business days |
| Inactivity Fee | $50 per quarter (after 3 months of inactivity) | $0 (No inactivity fee) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
AChoose AvaTrade if...
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
- ✓You value regulatory safety and options trading
IChoose IC Markets if...
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You prefer cTrader's advanced order management
- ✓You are a scalper or algorithmic trader
AvaTrade Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Incredible regulatory security across 5 continents
- ✓ AvaProtect allows you to insure specific trades against losses
- ✓ Offers vanilla forex options trading (AvaOptions)
- ✓ Fixed spread options available
Cons
- × Spreads are wider than the industry average
- × High inactivity fees ($50 after 3 months)
- × Execution speed is slightly slower than ECN competitors
IC Markets Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ True 0.0 pip spreads during London and NY sessions
- ✓ Industry-leading 18ms execution speed
- ✓ Free Equinix NY4 VPS for active traders
- ✓ No trading restrictions (perfect for EAs)
- ✓ Transparent $6/lot commission on cTrader
Cons
- × No proprietary trading platform or TradingView integration
- × Education section is basic compared to competitors
- × No deposit bonus or welcome offers
The Bottom Line: AvaTrade vs IC Markets
- ✓ Regulatory Safety
- ✓ Options Trading
- ✓ AvaProtect
- ✓ Fixed Spreads
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($100)
- ✓ Scalping
- ✓ Algorithmic Trading
- ✓ Low Spreads
- ✓ ECN Trading
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips)
Both brokers are featured in our top broker rankings. Your choice should depend on your specific trading style, preferred platform, and geographical location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is safer: AvaTrade or IC Markets?
IC Markets scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (97/100) compared to AvaTrade (94/100), making it the safer choice.
Who has lower spreads: AvaTrade or IC Markets?
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.9 pip average of its competitor.
Which has a lower minimum deposit: AvaTrade or IC Markets?
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $100, AvaTrade is the more accessible option for new traders.
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