Which broker is better for Cyprus traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
When comparing IC Markets vs FxPro for Cyprus traders in 2026, the choice comes down to trading style and cost preferences. IC Markets, with a 4.8/5 rating, is known for its ultra-low spreads and fast execution, making it ideal for active retail traders. FxPro, rated 4.1/5, offers a more accessible platform with strong educational resources and local support. Both brokers are regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), ensuring compliance with EU financial laws. Cyprus traders benefit from local payment options including Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT, allowing seamless deposits and withdrawals in USD. Whether you are a scalper or a long-term investor, this comparison highlights key differences to help you decide.
| Instrument | IC Markets | FxPro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | FxPro |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | FxPro |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | FxPro |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | FxPro |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $200 | $100 | FxPro |
For Cyprus traders, IC Markets offers significantly lower trading costs, especially on its Raw Spread account where spreads start from 0.0 pips with a $3.50 commission per lot. FxPro's spreads average 0.6 pips on EUR/USD with no commission on standard accounts. Over 100 trades per month, IC Markets can save you $50–$100 in spreads alone. This makes IC Markets more cost-effective for high-volume traders in Cyprus.
| Account Type | IC Markets | FxPro |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✓ | ✗ |
| Zero spread account | ✓ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $200 | $100 |
| Entity / Asset | IC Markets | FxPro |
|---|---|---|
| Cyprus (offshore) | Up to 1:5000 | Up to 1:500 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:5000 | 1:500 |
| 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 | IC Markets | FxPro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | IC Markets |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | IC Markets |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | IC Markets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | 1,700+ | FxPro |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | IC Markets | FxPro |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✓ | ✓ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
IC Markets provides MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, all popular among Cyprus traders for advanced charting and automated trading. FxPro offers MT4, MT5, and its proprietary platform, which is easier for beginners. For Cyprus retail traders who value customization and speed, IC Markets' platform suite is superior. FxPro's platforms are more intuitive for those new to forex.
| Factor | IC Markets | FxPro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | FxPro |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | IC Markets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
IC Markets uses Equinix NY4 servers for ultra-low latency execution, averaging under 40ms for Cyprus traders. FxPro's execution is reliable but slightly slower at around 60ms. For scalpers and high-frequency traders in Cyprus, IC Markets' speed advantage can reduce slippage and improve trade outcomes.
| Safety Factor | IC Markets | FxPro |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | ASIC | FCA |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Both IC Markets and FxPro are regulated by CySEC, the local financial regulator in Cyprus. This means Cyprus traders are protected under MiFID II, with access to the Investor Compensation Fund (ICF) covering up to €20,000 per client. IC Markets also holds additional licenses from ASIC and FCA, while FxPro is regulated by FCA and SCB. For Cyprus residents, CySEC oversight ensures local dispute resolution and segregated client funds.
| Payment Method | IC Markets | FxPro |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✗ |
| Withdrawal time | E-wallets instant-24hrs; Cards 3-5 business days (up to 10); Int'l bank wire up to 14 days | 1 business day |
Cyprus traders can fund their accounts at both IC Markets and FxPro using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT. IC Markets processes e-wallet deposits instantly with no fees, while bank transfers may take 1-2 business days. FxPro supports the same methods, though some bank transfers can take up to 3 days. Withdrawals at IC Markets are processed within 24 hours for e-wallets, while FxPro typically takes 1-2 business days. Both brokers allow USD accounts, avoiding conversion costs for Cyprus traders. USDT deposits are a modern option for crypto-friendly traders, offering fast and low-cost transfers.
| Islamic Account Feature | IC Markets | FxPro |
|---|---|---|
| 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 IC Markets and FxPro offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Cyprus Muslim traders. IC Markets provides these accounts automatically on request across all account types, with no additional fees. FxPro offers swap-free accounts but may require a declaration of faith. Cyprus traders should note that Islamic accounts are available for all currency pairs and commodities, ensuring compliance with Sharia law without compromising trading flexibility.
| Support Feature | IC Markets | FxPro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | IC Markets |
IC Markets offers 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support in multiple languages, including Greek. FxPro provides similar support with a dedicated Cyprus office for local queries. Both brokers are responsive, but IC Markets' round-the-clock availability is better for active traders. FxPro's local presence can be reassuring for Cyprus beginners.
| Mobile Feature | IC Markets | FxPro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | IC Markets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | IC Markets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Resource | IC Markets | FxPro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | ✗ | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | IC Markets |
Choose IC Markets if you...
Choose FxPro if you...
For Cyprus retail traders, IC Markets is the better choice if you prioritize low costs and fast execution. With a 4.8/5 rating, it excels in spreads, platform variety, and deposit speed via Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT. FxPro (4.1/5) is a solid alternative for beginners who value simplicity and local support. Both are regulated by CySEC, ensuring your funds are safe. If you trade actively and want to minimize costs, IC Markets wins. For a more guided experience, FxPro is a reliable option. Test both with a demo account to see which fits your style.