Global Prime vs IC Markets: Malta Traders' Comparison 2026

For Malta traders trading in USD, trading costs vary significantly between Global Prime and IC Markets. Global Prime offers spreads from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD with a commission of $3.50 per lot on its Razor account, translating to an average total cost of about 0.9 pips per round turn. In contrast, IC Markets provides spreads from 0.0 pips on its Raw Spread account with a commission of $3.50 per lot, resulting in a total cost near 0.6 pips per round turn. The difference becomes substantial for high-frequency traders or those trading multiple lots daily. Additionally, IC Markets' funding costs (swap rates) are competitive, and it offers negative balance protection for EU clients under CySEC, which Global Prime does not. Malta traders aiming to minimise expenses per trade will find IC Markets more cost-effective.

Malta traders require robust platforms that work seamlessly with local internet speeds and mobile devices. Both Global Prime and IC Markets offer MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, the industry standards. Global Prime additionally provides cTrader, which is popular among scalpers for its advanced order management and transparent depth of market. IC Markets also offers cTrader but is best known for its own low-latency infrastructure. IC Markets supports TradingView integration, which many Maltese retail traders prefer for charting. Both brokers have mobile apps for iOS and Android available in Malta. For algorithmic traders, both support Expert Advisors (EAs) with VPS options, but IC Markets' VPS is free for clients trading over a certain volume, a key advantage for Malta-based EA users.

Execution speed is vital for Malta traders, particularly those using scalping or EA strategies. Global Prime uses No Dealing Desk (NDD) execution with straight-through processing, averaging execution speeds of 20-50ms. IC Markets leverages Equinix data centres (LD5 in London, NY4 in New York) and offers execution speeds under 20ms on its Raw Spread account. Both brokers have no requotes in normal market conditions. IC Markets’ order execution is more consistent during high volativity, a key advantage for Malta-based EA traders relying on latency-sensitive strategies. Global Prime's execution is reliable but slightly slower in comparison.

Regulation is a critical factor for Malta traders, given the presence of the MFSA and EU investor protection laws. Global Prime is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) with an AFSL, which offers a strong reputation but does not provide the same level of protection as EU regulation. Malta traders using Global Prime are not covered by the €20,000 investor compensation scheme under the Investor Compensation Scheme (ICS) or negative balance protection mandated by ESMA. IC Markets operates through its CySEC-regulated entity (IFMRRC licence number 201/13), which is fully compliant with MiFID II. This means Malta traders benefit from negative balance protection, leverage limits (up to 1:30 for major pairs), and eligibility for the ICF compensation up to €20,000. Therefore, IC Markets provides a more secure regulatory environment for Maltese residents.

Depositing and withdrawing funds is straightforward for Malta traders thanks to the shared support for Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. Global Prime processes Bank Transfers within 1-3 business days with no fees, while e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller) and USDT are instant. Withdrawals via Skrill and Neteller are processed within 24 hours; USDT withdrawals are almost immediate. Minimum deposit is $200 or equivalent. IC Markets also accepts all four methods: Bank Transfer (SWIFT) takes 1-5 business days, e-wallets are instant, and USDT TRC20 is processed quickly. Minimum deposit is $200. Both brokers do not charge deposit fees, but MT4/MT5 withdrawal fees may apply for Bank Transfer (IC Markets charges $20). Notably, IC Markets' withdrawal process is fully automated, while Global Prime requires manual review for large amounts. Malta traders using USDT TRC20 benefit from low fees and rapid settlement on both platforms.

Malta's Muslim community can trade with peace of mind as both Global Prime and IC Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts compliant with Sharia law. Global Prime provides swap-free accounts upon request, removing overnight interest on all forex pairs, though some commodity and index CFDs may incur charges after a specified holding period. IC Markets offers swap-free accounts under its CySEC entity, with no swap charges on forex, metals, and indices. Both require account verification and may restrict trading on certain instruments to avoid abuse. For Malta traders, IC Markets' Islamic account is easier to obtain as it is offered by default for eligible clients, while Global Prime requires a manual request. Leverage and other conditions remain the same as standard accounts.

Customer support quality can make or break a trading experience for Malta traders. Global Prime offers 24/7 live chat and email support with a reputation for fast, knowledgeable responses. Support is available in English but not Maltese. IC Markets also provides 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support, with a larger team handling queries around the clock. Both brokers have comprehensive FAQ sections. For Malta traders, IC Markets' phone support may be more accessible for complex issues, while Global Prime's support is slightly more personalised. Both respond within minutes on live chat.