Which broker is better for Argentina traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Argentina traders face unique challenges: high inflation, strict capital controls, and a volatile ARS. Seeking USD-denominated trading accounts is a common hedge. In this comparison of EasyMarkets vs IC Markets, we evaluate which broker better serves Argentina’s USD-seeking traders. EasyMarkets scores 3.4/5 and offers fixed spreads and a simple platform, while IC Markets scores 4.8/5 with ECN execution and razor-thin spreads. Both support local deposits via Bank Transfer and USDT (USD hedge), crucial for bypassing Argentine currency restrictions. Whether you are a beginner or a high-volume trader, this guide covers spreads, platforms, regulation, and local payment methods to help you decide.
| Instrument | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | IC Markets |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | IC Markets |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | IC Markets |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | IC Markets |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $25 | $200 | IC Markets |
For Argentina traders, cost efficiency is vital. IC Markets offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips on its Razor account (commission ~$3.50 per lot), ideal for scalpers and those trading high volumes. EasyMarkets charges wider fixed spreads (e.g., 1.2 pips on EUR/USD), which can erode profits on frequent trades. Because Argentine traders often trade smaller lot sizes due to income constraints, IC Markets’ lower per-lot cost can save significantly over time. EasyMarkets’ fixed spreads provide predictability, but the difference compounds with volume.
| Account Type | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $25 | $200 |
| Entity / Asset | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina (offshore) | Up to 1:2000 | Up to 1:5000 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:2000 | 1:5000 |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:200 | 1:200 |
| Indices | 1:100 | 1:100 |
| Cryptocurrencies | 1:2 to 1:10 | 1:2 to 1:10 |
| Asset Class | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | EasyMarkets |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | EasyMarkets |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | EasyMarkets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | ✗ | IC Markets |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✗ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✗ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✓ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✗ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
Both brokers offer MetaTrader 4 and 5, but IC Markets adds cTrader – a favorite for advanced charting and algorithmic trading. EasyMarkets’ proprietary web platform is beginner-friendly and includes risk management tools like dealCancellation. For Argentina traders, platform reliability is key. IC Markets’ MT5 supports automated hedging strategies, while EasyMarkets’ mobile app ensures trading on the go with no hidden fees. Choose IC Markets if you need advanced ECN access; choose EasyMarkets for simplicity.
| Factor | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | IC Markets |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | EasyMarkets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
IC Markets is an ECN broker with ultra-fast execution (average <40ms) and no dealing desk intervention, ideal for scalping and algorithmic trading. EasyMarkets uses a market maker model with fixed spreads and may requote during volatile periods. For Argentina traders who need reliable fills during economic news releases (like BCRA decisions), IC Markets offers more consistent execution with less slippage. EasyMarkets’ execution is adequate for casual traders but may frustrate high-frequency strategies.
| Safety Factor | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | ASIC |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Neither broker is regulated by CNV Argentina, but both operate under strong international oversight. EasyMarkets is licensed by CySEC (Cyprus) and complies with ESMA rules, offering negative balance protection. IC Markets is regulated by ASIC (Australia) and SCB (Seychelles). For Argentina traders, this means funds are held in segregated accounts, but capital controls apply to ARS deposits. International regulation provides an extra layer of security, though you must manage tax reporting locally. IC Markets’ ASIC license is considered more stringent.
| Payment Method | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✗ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | Cards 1-2 business days; e-wallets instant-1 business day; bank wire 3-10 business days; overall back-office processing within 1 business day (24h) | E-wallets instant-24hrs; Cards 3-5 business days (up to 10); Int'l bank wire up to 14 days |
Argentina traders can fund accounts via Bank Transfer (ARS or USD) and USDT (USD hedge). USDT is especially useful: it bypasses Argentina’s 30% PAIS tax on foreign currency purchases and protects against inflation. Bank Transfer deposits may take 1-3 business days and incur conversion fees. EasyMarkets supports USDT deposits direct to your trading account, while IC Markets accepts USDT via its integrated crypto gateway. Withdrawals are processed within 1-2 days for USDT, faster than bank wires. Both brokers charge no internal fees, but bank intermediaries may apply charges for ARS conversions. For quick, low-cost funding, use USDT.
| Islamic Account Feature | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Swap-free available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Admin fee instead of swap | On some instruments | On some instruments |
| MT4 / MT5 supported | ✓ | ✓ |
| How to apply | Contact support | Contact support |
Both EasyMarkets and IC Markets offer swap-free Islamic accounts for Muslim traders in Argentina who need to comply with Sharia law. EasyMarkets provides automatic waiver of swap fees upon request, no extra documentation required. IC Markets requires a formal application and verification of Islamic faith (usually a declaration). On both platforms, all trading instruments are available without overnight interest. This is important for Argentina’s Muslim community seeking forex trading without riba.
| Support Feature | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | EasyMarkets |
Customer support in Spanish is available for both brokers. EasyMarkets offers 24/5 live chat and email, with phone support during business hours. IC Markets provides 24/7 multilingual live chat, email, and a comprehensive FAQ section. For Argentina traders, response times are similar, but IC Markets’ round-the-clock support is advantageous for late-night sessions. EasyMarkets’ staff are known for friendly, patient assistance – ideal for beginners.
| Mobile Feature | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Resource | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | ✗ | EasyMarkets |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | EasyMarkets |
Choose EasyMarkets if you...
Choose IC Markets if you...
For Argentina traders, IC Markets is the clear winner overall with its 4.8 rating, ultra-low spreads, and excellent execution. It supports USDT deposits perfectly for hedging against ARS inflation, and its ECN model suits both volume traders and those new to forex. EasyMarkets is a viable alternative for complete beginners or traders who prioritize fixed costs and risk-management tools. However, given Argentina’s economic volatility and the need to preserve USD value, IC Markets’ cost efficiency and reliability make it the recommended choice for 2025. Always verify local tax obligations with an advisor and leverage USDT deposits to maximize value.