FBS vs IC Markets for Malta Traders (2025)

When comparing trading costs for Malta traders, IC Markets clearly outperforms FBS. IC Markets offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips on its Raw Spread account, with a commission of $7 per lot round turn. FBS, on the other hand, has spreads starting from 0.7 pips on its ECN account with no commission. For a Malta trader executing 10 standard lots per month, IC Markets can save up to $100 in spread costs compared to FBS. Additionally, IC Markets has no hidden fees on deposits via Bank Transfer or e-wallets, while FBS may charge a small fee for certain withdrawal methods. Overall, high-volume traders in Malta will benefit more from IC Markets' lower trading costs.

Both FBS and IC Markets offer robust trading platforms tailored to Malta traders. IC Markets provides MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, all with advanced charting tools and automated trading capabilities. This variety suits Malta traders who use expert advisors (EAs) or algorithmic strategies. FBS also offers MT4 and MT5, but lacks cTrader, which may limit options for scalpers. For Malta traders on mobile, both brokers have well-rated apps, but IC Markets' platforms are faster and more feature-rich. If you value platform diversity and speed, IC Markets is the better choice.

Execution quality is a key differentiator for Malta traders. IC Markets boasts ultra-low latency execution with servers in Equinix LD4 and NY4 data centers, offering average execution speeds of 40 milliseconds. FBS execution is slower, averaging 100 milliseconds, which can impact scalpers and high-frequency traders. IC Markets also has no requotes and minimal slippage, while FBS may experience occasional slippage during news events. For Malta traders focused on precision and speed, IC Markets provides superior execution.

Regulation is critical for Malta traders, and both FBS and IC Markets are authorized by the local financial regulator. This means they must adhere to strict capital adequacy, client fund segregation, and reporting standards. IC Markets is also regulated by top-tier bodies like ASIC and CySEC, adding an extra layer of security. FBS is primarily regulated by the local financial regulator and IFSC, which offers adequate but less stringent oversight. For Malta traders, IC Markets' multi-regulatory status provides greater confidence, especially for larger deposits. Both brokers offer negative balance protection and compensation schemes, ensuring a safe trading environment.

Malta traders can easily fund their accounts at both FBS and IC Markets using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. IC Markets processes deposits instantly for e-wallets and USDT TRC20, with no fees, while bank transfers take 1-2 business days. FBS also supports these methods, with instant processing for Skrill and Neteller, but may charge a small fee for USDT TRC20 withdrawals. Minimum deposits are low: IC Markets requires $200 for bank transfers and $50 for e-wallets, while FBS starts from $10. Withdrawals at IC Markets are processed within 24 hours for e-wallets, while FBS takes 1-3 days. For Malta traders prioritizing speed and low fees, IC Markets is more efficient.

Both FBS and IC Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Malta Muslim traders, complying with Sharia law by eliminating interest on overnight positions. IC Markets provides Islamic accounts on its Standard and Raw Spread accounts, with no additional fees or restrictions on trading styles. FBS also offers swap-free accounts on most account types, but requires a minimum deposit of $50. For Malta traders, IC Markets' Islamic accounts are more flexible, allowing scalping and hedging, while FBS may have some limitations. Both brokers require a simple request to activate the Islamic account, making it accessible for eligible traders.

Customer support is vital for Malta traders, and IC Markets excels with 24/7 multilingual support via live chat, email, and phone. FBS also offers 24/7 support but has longer response times during peak hours. IC Markets' support team is more knowledgeable about local payment methods like Bank Transfer and USDT TRC20, and can assist in English, Maltese, or Italian. FBS support is adequate but less responsive for technical issues. For Malta traders needing prompt assistance, IC Markets is the better option.