FBS vs IC Markets
Can't decide between FBS and IC Markets? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
Executive Summary
FBS and IC Markets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. FBS scores 78/100 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). FBS supports MT4, MT5, FBS Trader while IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader.
For regulation, FBS holds licenses from CySEC, FSC, ASIC 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 FBS (78/100), 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 $1, FBS is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | FBS | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 78/100 | 97/100 ✓ |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.5 pips | 0.0 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.9 pips | 0.02 pips ✓ |
| Commission | $20/lot (Zero Spread) | $7.00/lot |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | < 40ms | 18ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:3000 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $1 ✓ | $200 |
| Instruments | 250+ | 2,250+ |
| Account Types | Cent, Standard, Zero Spread | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, FBS Trader | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Top Regulators | CySEC, FSC, ASIC | ASIC, CySEC, FSA |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 2-4 hours via local banks | 1-2 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $5/month after 180 days | $0 (No inactivity fee) |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, Email | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose FBS if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You value high leverage and cent accounts
Choose 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
FBS Overview
Advantages
- ✓ 1:3000 maximum leverage
- ✓ Cent accounts from $1
- ✓ Excellent local payment options
- ✓ Frequent deposit bonuses
Drawbacks
- × Very high commission on Zero Spread account ($20/lot)
- × Complex bonus terms
IC Markets Overview
Advantages
- ✓ 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
Drawbacks
- × No proprietary trading platform or TradingView integration
- × Education section is basic compared to competitors
- × No deposit bonus or welcome offers
Algorithmic Deep Dive
Data Updated: Aug 2026🛡️ Safety & Regulation
Tier-1 Licenses
💸 Pricing Economics
⚡ Technical Capabilities & Execution
Platform Support
- MT4✓✓
- MT5✓✓
- cTrader✗✓
- TradingView✗✗
FBS Execution
Standard MT4/MT5 offering alongside their proprietary FBS Trader mobile app.
IC Markets Execution
You get the standard suite: MT4, MT5, and cTrader. Our recommendation? Skip MetaTrader and use cTrader. The Level 2 pricing depth and advanced order management are vastly superior for scalping. We ran automated EAs 24/5 on MT5 without a single dropped connection or rejected order.
The Bottom Line: FBS vs IC Markets
- ✓ High Leverage
- ✓ Cent Accounts
- ✓ Beginners
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($1)
- ✓ 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.
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