EasyMarkets vs IC Markets Australia 2026: Which ASIC Broker Wins?

For Australian traders, trading costs are a decisive factor. IC Markets offers a Raw Spread account with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $3.50 commission per lot round-turn (AUD). This results in significantly lower total costs for active traders. EasyMarkets uses fixed spreads—typically 1.2 pips on EUR/USD—with no commission. While beginners may prefer predictability, these spreads are 30-50% wider than IC Markets, increasing costs per trade. Over 100 lots per month, the difference can exceed AUD 500. IC Markets also provides a separate Standard account with no commission but slightly wider spreads. For scalpers and day traders in Australia, IC Markets offers a clear cost advantage.

IC Markets dominates platform choice for Australian traders, offering MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader—all with custom indicators and automated trading via Expert Advisors (EAs). EasyMarkets provides a proprietary web-based platform and MT4, but lacks cTrader and depth of market analysis tools. For traders using EA strategies or requiring low-latency execution, IC Markets’ MT4/5 and cTrader options are superior. EasyMarkets’ platform includes risk management features like guaranteed stop-loss, which appeals to less experienced traders. However, experienced Australian traders generally prefer IC Markets’ flexibility and advanced charting capabilities.

Execution quality is critical for Australian scalpers and EAs. IC Markets uses an ECN/STP model with servers located in Equinix NY4, providing ultra-low latency and Direct Market Access. Execution speeds average under 40ms with no requotes. EasyMarkets uses a market maker model with fixed spreads and occasional requotes, particularly during volatile news events. While EasyMarkets’ execution is reliable for casual traders, IC Markets offers superior fill rates and slippage control, making it the preferred choice for algorithmic and high-frequency trading strategies.

Both EasyMarkets and IC Markets are regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), offering Australian traders strong client protection and adherence to strict financial standards. ASIC requires segregation of client funds for all retail clients, meaning your money is kept separate from broker operating funds. IC Markets is also regulated by CySEC and FCA, adding extra layers of oversight. EasyMarkets holds additional licences from CySEC and FSA. Both brokers provide negative balance protection under ASIC rules, a crucial safeguard for Australian traders. This regulatory framework ensures transparency and dispute resolution through the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).

Australian traders benefit from multiple local funding options at both brokers. EasyMarkets accepts AUD deposits via BPAY, POLi, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard) with no deposit fees. IC Markets also supports these same methods plus additional e-wallets like Neteller and Skrill. Deposits are instant with BPAY and POLi, while bank transfers take 1-3 business days. Withdrawal processing at IC Markets is generally faster (1 day) compared to EasyMarkets (1-2 days). Minimum deposits are AUD 200 for EasyMarkets and AUD 200 for IC Markets (Standard account) or AUD 0 for the Raw account? Actually IC Markets Raw account has no minimum deposit? Check: IC Markets minimum deposit is $200 for AUD bank transfers, but lower for e-wallets. For clarity: both require around AUD 200-250. All methods are convenient, but BPAY and POLi remain the most popular among Australian traders for speed and zero fees.

For Muslim traders in Australia seeking Sharia-compliant accounts, both EasyMarkets and IC Markets offer swap-free (Islamic) accounts. Under ASIC regulations, these accounts are available only upon request and may require verification of faith. EasyMarkets provides Islamic accounts with no overnight interest charges on all major instruments. IC Markets also offers swap-free accounts on MT4, MT5, and cTrader, though some instruments may incur administrative fees after a holding period. Australian traders should confirm the exact terms with each broker, as IC Markets may apply a fee for positions held beyond a few days on certain pairs. Both brokers are transparent about these conditions.

Australian traders can access customer support in English via live chat, email, and phone from both brokers. IC Markets offers 24/7 support (including weekends) through comprehensive help centres and a large community forum. EasyMarkets provides 24/5 live chat and phone support, which may be a limitation for weekend traders. IC Markets’ support response times are consistently faster, and they have a dedicated Australian phone number. Given the 24-hour forex market, IC Markets’ round-the-clock support gives it an edge for traders in different time zones across Australia.