IC Markets vs AvaTrade – Which Broker Is the Best Choice in 2025?
In the competitive world of Forex and CFD trading, choosing a reliable broker is the key factor determining a trader’s success. Two well-established names in the industry — IC Markets and AvaTrade — stand out for their credibility, trading platforms, and customer service quality.
So, which one is the optimal choice for traders in 2025? Let’s explore this detailed comparison from True FX Review below.
Overview of IC Markets
IC Markets is one of the most reputable brokers from Australia, founded in 2007. The broker focuses on providing a transparent ECN trading environment with ultra-fast execution speed and low trading costs.
Regulations:
- ASIC (Australia)
- CySEC (Cyprus)
- FSA (Seychelles)
Popular Account Types:
- Raw Spread (ECN): Spreads from 0.0 pip, low commissions
- Standard: Spreads from 1.0 pip, no commissions
IC Markets is particularly suitable for scalpers, day traders, and those who value fast execution to maximize profit opportunities.
Overview of AvaTrade
Founded in 2006 in Ireland, AvaTrade is one of the oldest brokers in the industry, known for its philosophy: “Trade with Confidence.” The broker is regulated by several top-tier authorities:
- Central Bank of Ireland (CBI)
- ASIC (Australia)
- FSCA (South Africa)
- ADGM (UAE)
- FSA (Japan)
AvaTrade offers more than 1,000 trading instruments, including Forex, commodities, indices, stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, and bonds.
Its standout strengths are a user-friendly interface, diverse platforms, and multi-language global customer support.
Regulations & Trust Level Comparison
| Criteria | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Year Established | 2007 | 2006 |
| Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | CBI, ASIC, FSCA, ADGM, FSA Japan |
| Trust Level | Very High | Very High |
| Client Coverage | 180+ countries | 150+ countries |
👉 Both are highly trusted brokers, but AvaTrade has broader global coverage and more regulatory licenses.
Trading Platforms
| Criteria | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions |
| Copy Trading | Myfxbook, ZuluTrade, Signal Start | AvaSocial, DupliTrade |
| Execution Speed | < 0.02 seconds | < 0.3 seconds |
| Interface | Professional, ECN-style | Simple, beginner-friendly |
👉 IC Markets excels in execution speed and market depth, while AvaTrade is ideal for beginners who prefer automation or social trading.
Trading Instruments
| Asset Class | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Forex | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Indices | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Commodities | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Stock CFDs | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Cryptocurrencies | ✔️ | ✔️ (includes real crypto) |
| ETFs / Bonds | ❌ | ✔️ |
👉 AvaTrade offers a wider product range — perfect for long-term investors interested in ETFs and real crypto trading.
Meanwhile, IC Markets dominates in short-term Forex and CFD trading.
Trading Costs & Spreads
| Criteria | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Spread (EUR/USD) | From 0.0 – 0.2 pip | From 0.9 pip |
| Commission | $3.5 per lot/side | None |
| Withdrawal Fee | Free | Free |
| Swap Fee | Yes | Yes |
👉 IC Markets offers significantly lower costs, ideal for scalpers or high-volume traders.
AvaTrade, on the other hand, suits beginners who prefer a no-commission, transparent pricing structure.
Leverage & Minimum Deposit
| Criteria | IC Markets | AvaTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Max Leverage | 1:1000 (FSA) / 1:30 (ASIC) | 1:400 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $100 |
👉 AvaTrade is more accessible for small-cap traders.
IC Markets provides more flexible leverage, maximizing returns for experienced traders.
Customer Support & Education
IC Markets
- 24/7 support via live chat & email
- Dedicated Vietnamese support team
- Advanced video tutorials & technical resources for pro traders
AvaTrade
- 24/5 multilingual support
- “Ava Academy” learning center for beginners
- Large global trading community via AvaSocial
👉 IC Markets is strong in technical depth and expert support, while AvaTrade provides comprehensive educational content for beginners.
Pros & Cons
✅ IC Markets Advantages
- Ultra-low spreads & lightning-fast execution
- Stable MT4, MT5, cTrader platforms
- Perfect for scalpers and day traders
- Excellent Vietnamese support
❌ IC Markets Drawbacks
- No real cryptocurrency trading
- Few promotional bonuses
✅ AvaTrade Advantages
- Regulated by multiple top-tier authorities
- Beginner-friendly interface
- Strong Copy Trading (AvaSocial)
- Wide range of assets including ETFs & real crypto
❌ AvaTrade Drawbacks
- Higher spreads
- Less suitable for scalping strategies
Which Broker to Choose in 2025?
| Trader Type | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Professional traders, ECN lovers, low-fee trading | ⭐ IC Markets |
| Beginners, social copy trading fans | ⭐ AvaTrade |
| Scalpers or high-volume traders | ⭐ IC Markets |
| Long-term investors (ETF, crypto) | ⭐ AvaTrade |
Both IC Markets and AvaTrade are top-tier brokers worth considering in 2025.
If you are a professional trader seeking low fees, ECN speed, and top-tier execution, IC Markets is the go-to choice.
If you are new to trading, prefer copy trading, or want a diverse, beginner-friendly investment environment, AvaTrade is your ideal destination.
➡️ IC Markets – Perfect for experienced traders optimizing cost and speed.
➡️ AvaTrade – Ideal for new investors seeking safety, ease of use, and diversified opportunities.
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