Which broker is better for Singapore traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
Singapore traders have two popular forex broker choices: EasyMarkets (overall score 3.4/5) and IC Markets (overall score 4.8/5). Both accept SGD deposits via PayNow, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card, making them accessible for local traders. While IC Markets dominates for sophisticated investors with ultra-low spreads and institutional-grade execution, EasyMarkets appeals to those who prefer fixed spreads and a simplified trading environment. In Singapore's fast-paced financial hub, traders often prioritize cost efficiency and reliability—areas where IC Markets excels. However, EasyMarkets' user-friendly platform and guaranteed stop-loss orders attract risk-averse traders. This comparison breaks down key differences in fees, platforms, regulation, and local payment methods to help you decide which broker suits your trading style.
| 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 Singapore traders, trading costs are a decisive factor. IC Markets offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips on major pairs (e.g., EUR/USD) with a small commission per lot, making it highly cost-effective for high-volume traders. EasyMarkets employs fixed spreads that are wider—often 1–2 pips on majors—but with no commission. The impact is clear: active traders who execute large volumes will save significantly with IC Markets. EasyMarkets' fixed spreads can be safer during volatile news events but are less competitive for routine trading. Singapore traders should consider their average trade size and frequency when choosing.
| 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Singapore (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 support MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), the industry standards preferred by Singapore traders. IC Markets additionally offers cTrader, a platform known for advanced charting and partial fill capabilities—ideal for algorithmic traders. EasyMarkets provides its proprietary web trader platform with unique risk management tools like deal cancellation, which appeals to less experienced traders. For Singapore's tech-savvy audience, IC Markets' broader platform selection and superior automation support are clear advantages. Both brokers also offer mobile apps for iOS and Android, ensuring on-the-go trading.
| 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 |
Execution quality is paramount for Singapore's fast-paced traders. IC Markets uses Equinix NY4 and LD5 data centers for low-latency execution, offering true ECN/STP with no dealing desk. Average execution speed is under 40ms. EasyMarkets is a market maker with fixed spreads and instant execution, but requotes and slippage can occur during volatility. For scalpers and algorithmic traders, IC Markets' execution is superior. EasyMarkets' execution is reliable for standard trading but not optimized for high-frequency strategies.
| Safety Factor | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | ASIC |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Regulation is critical for Singapore traders who rely on MAS oversight for confidence. Neither EasyMarkets nor IC Markets is directly regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). EasyMarkets is regulated by CySEC (Cyprus) and ASIC (Australia), while IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC and CySEC as well. This means traders are protected under foreign regulatory frameworks but not by the MAS' SFF or FSCS. Both brokers segregate client funds and offer negative balance protection, but Singapore traders should be aware that dispute resolution would involve overseas authorities. For those valuing MAS-level oversight, this is a factor to weigh.
| 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 |
Singapore traders can fund their accounts easily using local payment methods. Both EasyMarkets and IC Markets accept PayNow, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card (Visa/Mastercard) for SGD deposits. EasyMarkets processes PayNow transfers instantly with no fees, while IC Markets also offers zero-fee PayNow deposits (minimum SGD 100). Credit card deposits are instant but may incur a small charge (IC Markets charges 0.5% for cards; EasyMarkets does not). Bank transfers are free but slower (1–3 business days). Withdrawals are typically processed within 24 hours and returned via the same method. PayNow push withdrawals are available from both brokers, making it convenient for Singapore traders to access funds quickly.
| 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 brokers provide swap-free Islamic accounts for Muslim traders in Singapore who need to comply with Sharia law. EasyMarkets offers Islamic accounts without additional documentation—just request it upon registration. IC Markets also offers swap-free accounts but may require a declaration of faith or proof of religion. Neither broker charges hidden fees on these accounts, though spreads may be slightly wider to compensate. For Singapore's Muslim trading community, both options are viable, with EasyMarkets being slightly easier to obtain.
| 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 for Singapore traders is available 24/5 from both brokers. IC Markets provides live chat, email, and phone support in English and multiple languages, with quick response times. EasyMarkets also offers 24/5 support via live chat and phone, plus a dedicated account manager for higher-tier clients. For Singapore's time zone (UTC+8), both brokers cover the Asian trading session well. IC Markets' larger team generally yields faster resolution for complex issues.
| 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 most Singapore traders, IC Markets is the clear winner with its 4.8/5 rating, lower spreads, and faster execution. It supports PayNow, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card deposits, making it easy for local users. The broker's strong regulatory framework and advanced platforms suit sophisticated investors in Singapore's financial hub. EasyMarkets (3.4/5) remains a decent choice for beginners or those who prefer fixed spreads and simple risk management tools. However, its higher costs and market maker model make it less competitive for serious trading. Neither broker has direct MAS regulation, but IC Markets' track record and institutional-grade infrastructure give it the edge. Ultimately, IC Markets aligns better with the needs of Singapore's discerning trader community.