IC Markets vs FXTM for Suriname Traders (2026)
Which broker is better for Suriname traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
For Suriname traders looking to enter the forex market, choosing between IC Markets and FXTM is a critical decision. IC Markets, with a trustpilot score of 4.8/5, is renowned for its ultra-low spreads and institutional-grade execution, making it ideal for active retail traders in Paramaribo and beyond. FXTM, scoring 4.3/5, offers a more beginner-friendly experience with extensive educational tools and a lower minimum deposit of just $10. Both brokers accept Suriname clients and support local payment methods like Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT, ensuring seamless deposits and withdrawals. The Suriname dollar (SRD) is not widely traded, so accounts are denominated in USD, which is stable for local traders. While the local financial regulator does not directly oversee forex brokers, both firms operate under reputable international licenses, providing a safe trading environment. This comparison will help you decide which broker aligns with your trading style, budget, and goals in 2026.
| Instrument | IC Markets | FXTM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | FXTM |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | FXTM |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | FXTM |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | FXTM |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $200 | $10 | FXTM |
| Inactivity fee | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
When comparing trading costs for Suriname traders, IC Markets offers a clear advantage with spreads from 0.0 pips on its Raw Spread account and a commission of $7 per lot round-turn. FXTM's spreads start at 0.1 pips on its ECN account with a $5 commission, but its Standard account has spreads from 1.3 pips with no commission. For high-volume Suriname traders, IC Markets reduces overall costs significantly, especially when trading major pairs like EUR/USD. FXTM's fixed spreads on its Standard account can be more predictable for those who prefer no surprises. Both brokers offer competitive swap rates, but IC Markets' raw pricing model is better for scalpers and day traders in Suriname.
| Account Type | IC Markets | FXTM |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✓ | ✓ |
| Zero spread account | ✓ | ✗ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✓ |
| VPS trading | ✓ | ✓ |
| Min deposit | $200 | $10 |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Entity / Asset | IC Markets | FXTM |
|---|---|---|
| Suriname (offshore) | Up to 1:500 | Up to 1:2000 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:500 | 1:2000 |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:200 | 1:200 |
| Indices | 1:100 | 1:100 |
| Cryptocurrencies | 1:2 to 1:10 | 1:2 to 1:10 |
| Margin call level | 80% | 80% |
| Stop out level | 50% | 50% |
| Asset Class | IC Markets | FXTM | 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+ | ✗ | IC Markets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | ✗ | FXTM |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Options | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Futures | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | IC Markets | FXTM |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✓ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✓ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✓ | ✗ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fixed spreads | ✗ | ✗ |
| Variable spreads | ✓ | ✓ |
IC Markets provides MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, all optimized for fast execution and advanced charting—ideal for Suriname traders who need robust tools for technical analysis. FXTM also offers MT4 and MT5, plus its proprietary FXTM Trader app, which is more intuitive for beginners. Both platforms are available on desktop, web, and mobile, ensuring you can trade from anywhere in Suriname. IC Markets' cTrader is particularly popular for its custom indicators and depth of market, while FXTM's app includes built-in education and market analysis. For Suriname traders with limited internet bandwidth, both platforms offer lightweight versions that work well on mobile data.
| Factor | IC Markets | FXTM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | FXTM |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | IC Markets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Dealing desk | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| News trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
IC Markets provides ultra-fast execution with an average speed of 40ms and no requotes, thanks to its Equinix NY4 data centers. This is ideal for Suriname traders using scalping or automated strategies. FXTM offers execution speeds of around 100ms, which is still competitive but slightly slower. IC Markets' raw spreads and low latency make it superior for high-frequency trading, while FXTM is sufficient for most retail traders in Suriname.
| Safety Factor | IC Markets | FXTM |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | ASIC | FCA |
| Reg number | #335692 | #600475 |
| Verify registration | Verify ↗ | Verify ↗ |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
IC Markets is regulated by top-tier authorities like ASIC (Australia) and CySEC (Cyprus), while FXTM holds licenses from FSCA (South Africa) and CySEC. For Suriname traders, these international licenses provide a layer of protection, though the local financial regulator does not directly oversee forex brokers. IC Markets' ASIC regulation ensures strict client fund segregation and negative balance protection, which is crucial for retail traders. FXTM's FSCA license offers similar safeguards but with a lower compensation scheme. Both brokers comply with global anti-money laundering standards, making them safe choices for Suriname residents. Always verify the broker's current license status before depositing funds.
| Payment Method | IC Markets | FXTM |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✓ | ✓ |
| Deposit fee | None | None |
| Withdrawal time | E-wallets instant-24hrs; Cards 3-5 business days (up to 10); Int'l bank wire up to 14 days | Cards instant (up to 2h EU); e-wallets instant-2h; bank/local transfer 1 business day; crypto up to 24h |
| Min withdrawal | $50 | $50 |
Suriname traders can deposit and withdraw funds using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT at both IC Markets and FXTM. IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200, while FXTM starts at just $10, making FXTM more accessible for beginners. Deposits via Skrill and Neteller are instant, while USDT (Tether) is processed within minutes on both brokers. Bank transfers may take 1-3 business days and incur intermediary fees. Withdrawals are processed within 24 hours for e-wallets and crypto at IC Markets, and up to 48 hours at FXTM. Both brokers do not charge internal fees, but your bank or payment provider may apply charges. For Suriname traders, using USDT or Skrill is the fastest and most cost-effective method.
| Islamic Account Feature | IC Markets | FXTM |
|---|---|---|
| Swap-free available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Admin fee instead of swap | On some instruments | On some instruments |
| MT4 / MT5 supported | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gold swap-free | ✓ | ✓ |
| Crypto swap-free | ✓ | — |
| How to apply | Contact support | Contact support |
Both IC Markets and FXTM offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Suriname Muslim traders who need to comply with Sharia law. IC Markets provides swap-free accounts on request, with no interest charged on overnight positions, but you must contact support to activate it. FXTM offers Islamic accounts directly during registration, making it easier to set up. Both brokers apply swap-free status on all trading instruments, though some may have a holding period limit. For Suriname traders, this feature ensures ethical trading without riba (interest), and both brokers are transparent about their policies. IC Markets' swap-free account is available on its Raw Spread account, while FXTM offers it on Standard and ECN accounts.
| Support Feature | IC Markets | FXTM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| 24/5 support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | IC Markets |
IC Markets offers 24/7 multilingual customer support via live chat, email, and phone, with agents fluent in English and Dutch—beneficial for Suriname traders who speak Dutch. FXTM also provides 24/5 support with similar channels, plus a comprehensive FAQ section. IC Markets' response time is faster, averaging under 30 seconds for live chat. For Suriname traders, both brokers offer reliable support, but IC Markets' Dutch language option is a distinct advantage.
| Mobile Feature | IC Markets | FXTM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5★ | 4.3★ | IC Markets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3★ | 4.2★ | IC Markets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Mobile deposit/withdrawal | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Dark mode | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Resource | IC Markets | FXTM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | IC Markets |
| Webinars (live) | ✗ | Monthly | Tie |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | IC Markets |
| Beginner resources | Excellent | Basic | IC Markets |
Choose IC Markets if you...
- Are an experienced retail trader seeking ultra-low spreads and raw pricing.
- Use scalping or algorithmic trading strategies requiring fast execution.
- Prefer cTrader or advanced MetaTrader tools for technical analysis.
- Have a higher deposit budget ($200+) and trade high volumes.
Choose FXTM if you...
- Are a beginner or intermediate trader needing educational resources.
- Want a lower minimum deposit of $10 to start trading.
- Prefer a user-friendly platform with built-in market analysis.
- Value a straightforward Islamic account setup without extra steps.
For Suriname traders, IC Markets is the overall winner with its 4.8/5 score, lower costs, and faster execution—ideal for active traders who prioritize spreads and speed. However, FXTM's 4.3/5 score and lower minimum deposit of $10 make it a strong contender for beginners or those with limited capital. Both brokers support local payment methods like Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT, ensuring easy funding and withdrawals. The local financial regulator does not restrict forex trading, so you can choose based on your needs. If you trade frequently and want the best value, go with IC Markets. If you're just starting out and need guidance, FXTM is a solid choice. Consider your trading volume, experience, and budget to make the final decision.