EasyMarkets vs IC Markets: Malta Trader Guide (2026)

For Malta traders, trading costs are often the deciding factor. IC Markets offers industry-leading low spreads – the Raw Spread account starts at 0.0 pips on EUR/USD with a $7 round-turn commission per lot. This heavily favours scalpers and high-volume traders. EasyMarkets uses a fixed spread model, typically 1.0–1.2 pips on EUR/USD with no commission. The fixed spread gives cost certainty but is significantly higher than IC Markets’ variable spreads during liquid hours. If you trade over 10 lots per month, IC Markets can save hundreds of dollars annually. Also note that IC Markets charges a small fee for withdrawals via Bank Transfer, while EasyMarkets offers one free withdrawal per month. Both brokers do not add hidden markups for Malta-based clients, but the spread difference alone makes IC Markets the cheaper choice for active traders.

EasyMarkets provides its own web-based platform, plus MT4 and MT5. Its proprietary platform features deal cancellation (free for 6 hours) and a user-friendly interface – great for beginners. IC Markets delivers the full MT4, MT5, and cTrader suite, plus a WebTrader. For Malta traders who rely on automated trading, algorithmic strategies, or advanced charting, IC Markets is superior (especially cTrader for depth of market). EasyMarkets’ platforms lack custom indicators and expert advisors compared to MT4/5. Both brokers support mobile trading via dedicated apps, but IC Markets’ platforms offer more order types and faster execution. Given Malta’s strong internet infrastructure, IC Markets’ ECN platforms provide the low-latency access that professional retail traders demand.

IC Markets uses an ECN/STP execution model with no dealing desk, offering ultra-fast order execution (under 40ms on average) and no requotes. EasyMarkets is a market maker with instant execution, meaning some trades may be rejected during high volatility. For Malta traders who scalp or use automated EAs, IC Markets provides superior fill rates and tighter spreads. EasyMarkets’ execution is reliable for standard retail strategies but can result in slippage on news events. In head-to-head tests, IC Markets consistently achieves lower slippage and faster fills, particularly on major forex pairs.

EasyMarkets is regulated by Cyprus’ CySEC (license no. 079/07) and the Australian ASIC – as an EU broker, it must adhere to MiFID II rules, offering negative balance protection and client fund segregation. IC Markets is authorized by CySEC (EU) and the Seychelles FSA. While neither broker is directly regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), both comply with EU financial regulations that allow cross-border services in Malta. For Malta traders, this means your funds are held in segregated accounts, and you have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service in Cyprus if disputes arise. IC Markets’ additional ASIC regulation (via its Australian entity) adds an extra layer of oversight. Overall, both offer a safe trading environment, but IC Markets’ larger regulatory footprint and higher capital requirements give it an edge for risk-conscious Malta traders.

Depositing and withdrawing funds in Malta is straightforward with both brokers. EasyMarkets and IC Markets accept Bank Transfer (SEPA or international), Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. EasyMarkets has a minimum deposit of $100, while IC Markets requires $200 (or equivalent USD). For e-wallets, deposits are instant and free; USDT TRC20 deposits are processed within minutes with no blockchain fees (though some network fees may apply). Withdrawals via Skrill and Neteller are fast (same day) for both brokers. Bank Transfers take 1–3 business days; IC Markets charges a small fee (around $10) for international wire transfers, while EasyMarkets offers one free withdrawal per month. USDT TRC20 withdrawals are typically processed within 24 hours. EasyMarkets does not charge deposit fees, but IC Markets may levy a 2% fee on credit card deposits (cash advance). For high-volume Malta traders, IC Markets’ unlimited free e-wallet withdrawals are a major plus.

Both EasyMarkets and IC Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Muslim traders in Malta who require Sharia-compliant trading. EasyMarkets requires you to contact support after opening a live account; they then remove swap fees permanently on forex, indices, and commodities. IC Markets provides Islamic accounts automatically upon request during registration, without any additional spread mark-up or hidden fees. Note that some brokers limit holding periods for swap-free accounts – EasyMarkets allows indefinite holding, while IC Markets may require a few months of active trading to maintain the status. For Malta-based Muslim traders, both options are viable, but IC Markets’ straightforward application process and lower spreads make it more cost-effective over the long term.

EasyMarkets offers 24/5 live chat, email, and phone support in English (including Maltese agents on request). IC Markets provides 24/7 multilingual support via live chat, email, and phone – with dedicated retail and institutional teams. For Malta traders, IC Markets’ round-the-clock availability is beneficial if you trade outside standard EU hours. Both brokers have comprehensive FAQ sections and educational resources, but IC Markets’ response times are typically faster (under 30 seconds via live chat). EasyMarkets’ support is knowledgeable but limited to business hours on weekends.