IC Markets vs Hantec Markets for Cyprus Traders (2026)

IC Markets offers significantly lower trading costs for Cyprus traders, with spreads starting at 0.0 pips on the Raw Spread account plus a $3.50 commission per lot round turn. Hantec Markets has wider spreads, typically 1.2 pips on EUR/USD with no commission. For a Cyprus trader trading 10 standard lots per month, IC Markets can save hundreds of dollars in spread costs. Hantec Markets may be suitable for lower-volume traders who prefer a simpler fee structure. Both brokers charge no deposit or withdrawal fees, making them cost-effective for local traders.

IC Markets provides the full MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader platforms, all popular among Cyprus traders for their advanced charting and algorithmic trading capabilities. Hantec Markets offers MT4 and a proprietary web platform, which may lack some advanced features. For Cyprus traders who rely on automated strategies or scalping, IC Markets is the better choice due to its superior execution speed and platform diversity. Both brokers support mobile trading, but IC Markets offers a more robust experience.

IC Markets delivers superior execution with average speeds under 40ms on its Raw Spread account, ideal for scalpers and high-frequency traders in Cyprus. Hantec Markets offers standard execution with speeds around 100-200ms, which may cause slippage during volatile markets. For Cyprus traders who prioritize speed and low latency, IC Markets is the clear winner. Both brokers use No Dealing Desk (NDD) execution, but IC Markets’ infrastructure is more advanced.

Both IC Markets and Hantec Markets are regulated by CySEC, the local financial regulator in Cyprus, providing client fund segregation and negative balance protection under EU law. IC Markets also holds licenses from ASIC and FCA, offering additional oversight. Hantec Markets focuses on its CySEC regulation. For Cyprus traders, this means both brokers are safe, but IC Markets’ multiple licenses add an extra layer of security. Leverage is limited to 30:1 for major forex pairs per ESMA rules, which applies equally to both brokers.

Cyprus traders can fund their accounts at both brokers using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT TRC20. IC Markets also accepts credit/debit cards and PayPal, while Hantec Markets offers additional local bank transfers. Minimum deposits are $200 for IC Markets and $500 for Hantec Markets. Withdrawals are processed within 24 hours for e-wallets and crypto, while bank transfers take 1-3 business days. Both brokers charge no fees for deposits or withdrawals, making them cost-effective for local traders. USDT TRC20 deposits are particularly useful for Cyprus traders who prefer crypto-based funding.

Both IC Markets and Hantec Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Cyprus Muslim traders who require Sharia-compliant trading. IC Markets provides swap-free accounts automatically on request, with no additional fees or restrictions on holding periods. Hantec Markets offers Islamic accounts but may require a manual request and could apply a small administrative fee. Cyprus traders should contact each broker’s support team to confirm eligibility and any specific terms before opening an account.

IC Markets offers 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support in English, with fast response times. Hantec Markets provides support during market hours via phone and email, but lacks 24/7 live chat. For Cyprus traders, IC Markets’ round-the-clock support is more convenient, especially for those trading global markets outside local hours. Both brokers have local Cyprus phone numbers for direct assistance.