FXTM (ForexTime) vs IC Markets
Can't decide between FXTM (ForexTime) and IC Markets? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Executive Summary
FXTM (ForexTime) and IC Markets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. FXTM (ForexTime) scores 80/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, while IC Markets leads with 97/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 0.1 pips). FXTM (ForexTime) supports MT4, MT5, FXTM Trader App while IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader.
For regulation, FXTM (ForexTime) holds licenses from CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSC 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 FXTM (ForexTime) (80/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.1 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $10, FXTM (ForexTime) is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | FXTM (ForexTime) | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 80/100 | 97/100 ✓ |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.0 pips | 0.0 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.1 pips | 0.02 pips ✓ |
| Commission | $0.4-2/lot on Advantage | $7.00/lot |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | < 25ms | 18ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:2000 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 ✓ | $200 |
| Instruments | 1,100+ | 2,250+ |
| Account Types | Micro, Advantage Plus, Advantage | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, FXTM Trader App | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Top Regulators | CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSC | ASIC, CySEC, FSA |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $5/month after 6 months | $0 (No inactivity fee) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose FXTM (ForexTime) if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You value emerging markets and african traders
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
FXTM (ForexTime) Overview
Advantages
- ✓ CySEC and FCA regulated — strong Tier-1 regulatory backing
- ✓ Advantage account offers 0.0 pip spreads with ultra-low $0.4-2/lot commission
- ✓ Exceptional localized service for Africa, Middle East, and Asia — including M-Pesa payments
- ✓ Micro account with $10 minimum — extremely accessible for beginners
- ✓ Strong educational content with webinars, seminars, and localized learning materials
Drawbacks
- × Offshore entity (FSC Mauritius) has weaker regulation for some clients
- × 1:2000 leverage only available on offshore entity — risky for beginners
- × No cTrader or TradingView support
- × Stock CFD selection is limited to 250+ instruments
- × Spreads on Micro account are wider than ECN alternatives
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✗✗
FXTM (ForexTime) Execution
FXTM offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and the FXTM Trader mobile app. MT4 is available for the Micro account, while MT5 is the primary platform for Advantage accounts and offers depth of market, more timeframes, and better charting than MT4. The FXTM Trader app is a simplified mobile experience with one-tap execution — useful for beginners but limited for advanced traders. There's no cTrader, TradingView, or proprietary desktop platform. During testing, execution was stable with order fills averaging under 25ms on the Advantage account.
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: FXTM (ForexTime) vs IC Markets
- ✓ Emerging Markets
- ✓ African Traders
- ✓ Ultra-Low Commissions
- ✓ Localized Service
- ✓ Beginner Accessibility
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($10)
- ✓ 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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