IC Markets vs Pepperstone
Can't decide between IC Markets and Pepperstone? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Executive Summary
IC Markets and Pepperstone are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IC Markets scores 97/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of Pepperstone's 95/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 0.08 pips). IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, cTrader while Pepperstone offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, giving Pepperstone more platform options.
For regulation, IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA while Pepperstone is regulated by FCA, ASIC, CySEC, BaFin, DFSA. 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 Pepperstone (95/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.08 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, Pepperstone is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IC Markets | Pepperstone |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 97/100 | 95/100 |
| Spreads From | 0.0 pips | 0.0 pips |
| Avg EUR/USD Spread | 0.02 pips | 0.08 pips |
| Commission | $7.00/lot | $7.00/lot |
| Execution Speed | 18ms | 24ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $0 |
| Instruments | 2,250+ | 1,200+ |
| Account Types | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw | Standard, Razor |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView |
| Top Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | FCA, ASIC, CySEC, BaFin, DFSA |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-2 business days | Same day - 1 business day |
| Inactivity Fee | $0 (No inactivity fee) | $0 (No inactivity fee) |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
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
PChoose Pepperstone if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You want to trade directly from TradingView charts
- ✓You prefer cTrader's advanced order management
- ✓You are a scalper or algorithmic trader
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
Pepperstone Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Direct integration with TradingView for seamless charting and execution
- ✓ Active Trader rebate program saves up to $2.50/lot
- ✓ Five Tier-1/Tier-2 regulatory licenses provide immense security
- ✓ No official minimum deposit requirement
- ✓ Razor account delivers highly stable spreads during news events
Cons
- × Customer support is not available on weekends
- × No proprietary copy trading platform (relies on third parties like DupliTrade)
- × Standard account spreads are average (1.1 pips)
The Bottom Line: IC Markets vs Pepperstone
- ✓ Scalping
- ✓ Algorithmic Trading
- ✓ Low Spreads
- ✓ ECN Trading
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips)
- ✓ TradingView Users
- ✓ Multi-Platform Trading
- ✓ Active Traders
- ✓ Beginners
- ✓ No minimum deposit
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: IC Markets or Pepperstone?
IC Markets scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (97/100) compared to Pepperstone (95/100), making it the safer choice.
Who has lower spreads: IC Markets or Pepperstone?
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.08 pip average of its competitor.
Which has a lower minimum deposit: IC Markets or Pepperstone?
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, Pepperstone is the more accessible option for new traders.
Related Articles
IC Markets vs Pepperstone: The Ultimate Comparison 2026
Choosing between the two biggest brokers? We compare IC Markets and Pepperstone across spreads, execution speed, platforms, and regulation.
IC Markets Review 2026 — The World's Largest ECN Broker Tested
We tested IC Markets for 30 days with a live Raw Spread account. Full analysis of 0.0 pip spreads, 18ms execution, cTrader vs MT4, and server infrastructure.
Best Forex Brokers for Scalping 2026 — Tested for Low Latency
Scalping requires ultra-low spreads and lightning-fast execution. We tested 14 brokers to find the absolute best options for high-frequency traders and scalpers in 2026.
Best High Leverage Forex Brokers 2026 — 1:500 to Unlimited
Looking for maximum buying power? We rank the best high-leverage forex brokers that offer up to 1:2000 and unlimited leverage while maintaining safety.