IC Markets vs XM Group
Can't decide between IC Markets and XM Group? 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 XM Group 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 XM Group's 91/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 0.8 pips). IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, cTrader while XM Group offers MT4, MT5, XM App.
For regulation, IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA while XM Group is regulated by CySEC, ASIC, DFSA, FSC. 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 XM Group (91/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.8 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $5, XM Group is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IC Markets | XM Group |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 97/100 | 91/100 |
| Spreads From | 0.0 pips | 0.6 pips |
| Avg EUR/USD Spread | 0.02 pips | 0.8 pips |
| Commission | $7.00/lot | $0 |
| Execution Speed | 18ms | 35ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:1000 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $5 |
| Instruments | 2,250+ | 1,000+ |
| Account Types | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw | Micro, Standard, Ultra Low |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | MT4, MT5, XM App |
| Top Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | CySEC, ASIC, DFSA, FSC |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-2 business days | 1-3 business days |
| Inactivity Fee | $0 (No inactivity fee) | $5 per month (after 90 days of inactivity) |
| 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
XChoose XM Group if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You are a beginner and value education and simplicity
- ✓You value beginners and education
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
XM Group Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Industry-leading education with 50+ live webinars per week
- ✓ Extremely low $5 minimum deposit across all accounts
- ✓ Micro accounts allow trading with 10-cent risk
- ✓ Excellent localized payment methods for emerging markets
- ✓ 100% execution rate with no requotes or rejections
Cons
- × Spreads are wider than true ECN competitors (0.8 pip EUR/USD avg)
- × No cTrader or TradingView platforms
- × Inactivity fee of $5/month after 90 days of no trading
The Bottom Line: IC Markets vs XM Group
- ✓ Scalping
- ✓ Algorithmic Trading
- ✓ Low Spreads
- ✓ ECN Trading
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips)
- ✓ Beginners
- ✓ Education
- ✓ Low Minimum Deposit
- ✓ Micro Lot Trading
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($5)
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 XM Group?
IC Markets scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (97/100) compared to XM Group (91/100), making it the safer choice.
Who has lower spreads: IC Markets or XM Group?
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.8 pip average of its competitor.
Which has a lower minimum deposit: IC Markets or XM Group?
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $5, XM Group is the more accessible option for new traders.
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