EasyMarkets vs IC Markets: A Comprehensive Comparison for Taiwan Traders

For Taiwan traders, trading costs are a key differentiator. IC Markets offers Raw Spread accounts with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $7 round-turn commission per lot, resulting in lower total costs for frequent traders. EasyMarkets charges wider fixed spreads (e.g., 1.0–1.5 pips on EUR/USD) but no commission. A Taiwan trader executing 50 lots per month would pay significantly less with IC Markets (approx. $350 in commission plus minimal spread) compared to EasyMarkets (approx. $750 in spread cost). IC Markets also offers lower swap rates, which matters for overnight positions. For scalpers and day traders in Taiwan, IC Markets is the clear winner on cost.

IC Markets provides MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, all popular among experienced Taiwan traders for advanced charting, algorithmic trading, and fast order execution. EasyMarkets offers its proprietary web-based platform plus MT4 and MT5, but its platforms are more basic. For Taiwan traders who rely on Expert Advisors (EAs) or cTrader’s depth of market, IC Markets is superior. EasyMarkets’ platform includes risk management tools like DealCancellation and Freeze Rate which may appeal to less experienced traders, but for experienced retail traders in Taiwan, IC Markets’ platform flexibility wins.

IC Markets uses True ECN/STP execution with no dealing desk, offering ultra-fast order processing and minimal slippage. Average execution speed is under 40ms. EasyMarkets uses a market maker model with fixed spreads, which can lead to requotes and slower execution during volatile periods. For experienced Taiwan traders who rely on precise entries, IC Markets’ execution quality is far superior.

Neither EasyMarkets nor IC Markets is regulated by the FSC Taiwan, meaning Taiwan traders do not have local regulatory protection. EasyMarkets holds licenses from CySEC (Europe) and ASIC (Australia); IC Markets is licensed by CySEC, FSA (Seychelles), and ASIC. For Taiwan traders, the practical implication is that dispute resolution must go through overseas bodies. IC Markets’ ASIC regulation provides a higher tier of oversight than EasyMarkets’ CySEC license. However, both brokers have long track records. Traders should consider the lack of Taiwan-specific investor compensation when choosing.

Taiwan traders can fund accounts using Bank Transfer and Credit Card at both brokers. IC Markets processes Bank Transfers in TWD through local banks, with deposits usually credited within 1 business day. Credit card deposits are instant but may incur a 2-3% fee depending on the issuer. EasyMarkets also supports Bank Transfer and Credit Card, plus popular e-wallets like PayPal. Withdrawals at both brokers are processed within 1-3 business days. EasyMarkets may charge a withdrawal fee, while IC Markets offers free withdrawals for bank transfers. For Taiwan traders, the availability of Bank Transfer in TWD is a key convenience, making both brokers accessible.

Both EasyMarkets and IC Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Muslim traders in Taiwan, in compliance with Sharia law. No overnight interest is charged or paid on positions held beyond a single day. IC Markets provides swap-free accounts on all account types, while EasyMarkets restricts its Islamic account to certain products. Taiwan traders must request this account during the registration process, and both brokers may require documentation to confirm eligibility. EasyMarkets’ Islamic account includes a longer holding period before swap fees are waived, which is less flexible than IC Markets’ policy.

IC Markets offers 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support in English, with response times under 5 minutes for chat. EasyMarkets provides 24/5 support via live chat, phone, and email, with slightly slower response times. For Taiwan traders, language may be a barrier since neither broker offers dedicated Mandarin support, but IC Markets’ 24/7 availability is an advantage for active overnight traders.