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XTB vs IC Markets - Which Forex/CFD broker has better trading conditions?
Comparing the services of XTB and IC Markets. Which Forex broker has a better condition for traders?
XTB stands out with its user-friendly xStation 5 and xStation Mobile platforms, covering over 2200 CFD markets across six financial sectors. Their specialties lie in forex, with 48 currency pairs, and more than 10 crypto CFDs. They offer up to 500:1 leverage on select commodities and indices but lack offerings in Bonds, Futures CFDs, or Synthetic Indices. Account-wise, XTB provides Standard, Pro, and Islamic types, with UK/EU retail clients limited to 30:1 leverage. While they have diverse payment methods, charges apply for e-wallet transfers. They also emphasize features like negative balance protection, swap-free accounts, and cashback rebates.
IC Markets, on the other hand, provides a broader platform range, including WebTrader, MT4, cTrader, and ZuluTrade, covering seven financial markets. They’re particularly strong in forex and offer an array of commodities and indices. With leverage reaching up to 1:1000, they also incorporate Bonds and Futures CFDs into their offerings. While their leverage varies based on the platform, some platforms do charge per traded amount. Unlike XTB, IC Markets generally doesn’t charge for e-wallet transfers. Their standout features include not just negative balance protection and swap-free accounts but also a robust tech infrastructure ensuring rapid trade executions.
When choosing between the two, traders should consider their platform preferences, desired financial instruments, and the type of support they need.
Go to IC Markets Official Website
XTB vs IC Markets – Comparison of trading services
Navigating the complex world of online trading platforms can be a daunting task. Two names that frequently come up in the trading community are XTB and IC Markets. Both are established brokers offering a variety of services, but how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive into an in-depth comparison.
1. Trading Platforms
XTB
xStation 5, xStation Mobile: These platforms are known for being user-friendly and offer over 2200 CFD markets. They are accessible on multiple devices including Android and Apple products.
IC Markets
WebTrader, MT4, cTrader, IC Social, ZuluTrade: IC Markets offers more variety in trading platforms, including social trading via IC Social and automated trading through ZuluTrade.
2. Web Trader Options
XTB
MT5 Web Trade Platform: This is intuitive for new traders yet offers advanced tools for professionals. It’s compatible with multiple browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Opera.
IC Markets
cTrader Web & MetaTrader WebTrader: Both platforms offer fast order execution and are web-based, enabling trading from anywhere in the world.
3. Mobile Application
XTB
xStation mobile app: Offers a wide variety of CFD markets including FX, cryptocurrencies, and stocks among others.
IC Markets
Mobile Application: Provides access to forex, commodities, indices, stocks, and more. The app offers multilingual 24/7 support and features like a live chat and economic calendar.
4. Number of Markets Offered
XTB: 6 financial markets
IC Markets: 7 financial markets
5. Forex Trading
XTB
Offers 48 currency pairs with low spreads from 0.1 pips. Trading is available 24/5.
IC Markets
Provides access to a highly competitive forex market with raw spreads starting from 0.0 pips.
6. Cryptocurrency Trading
XTB
Offers 10+ Crypto CFDs including Bitcoin and Ethereum. Market is open 24/7, even on weekends.
IC Markets
Also offers cryptocurrency trading, emphasizing the volatile and unregulated nature of the market.
7. Commodities and Indices
Both platforms offer a range of commodities like gold, silver, and oil, as well as indices. However, XTB offers leverage up to 500:1 on these markets, while IC Markets offers leverage up to 1:100.
8. Additional Financial Instruments
XTB does not offer Bonds, Futures CFDs, and Synthetic Indices.
IC Markets offers Bonds and Futures CFDs but does not offer Synthetic Indices or ETFs.
9. Account Types and Costs
XTB offers Standard, Pro, and Islamic accounts. The spread and trading cost depend on the type of account. Leverage is restricted to 30:1 for retail clients in the UK/EU but can go up to 500:1 for non-EU residents.
IC Markets offers leverage up to 1:1000. The trading cost varies with the platform used; for example, cTrader charges a commission per 100,000 USD traded.
10. Deposit and Withdrawal Methods
Both platforms offer a variety of payment methods like Bank Transfer, Mastercard, and VISA among others. XTB imposes charges starting from 2% for e-wallet transfers, while IC Markets offers more than 15 funding options without fees.
11. Additional Features
XTB
Negative Balance Protection: Yes
Swap-Free Account for Islamic Traders: Yes (Limited countries)
Cashback Rebate: Yes
IC Markets
Negative Balance Protection: Yes
Swap-Free Account for Islamic Traders: Yes
Conclusion
While both XTB and IC Markets offer comprehensive trading services, your choice may depend on specific requirements like the type of financial instruments you wish to trade, the trading platforms you prefer, and the kind of account you want to maintain. Always remember to consider factors like fees, leverage, and the availability of customer support when making your decision.
Go to IC Markets Official Website
Are you interested in trading with XTB?
| STANDARD Account | SWAP FREE Account | |
|---|---|---|
| Execution type | Market | Market |
| Available Instruments | Forex, Commodities, Indices, Cryptos, Stock CFDs, ETF CFDs | Forex, Commodities, Indices, Cryptos, Stock CFDs, ETF CFDs |
| Instruments | 2200+ | 2200+ |
| Maximum Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Minimum spread | 0.5 | 0.7 |
| Segregated account’s funds | Yes | Yes |
| Minimal Order | 0.01 | 0.01 |
| Automated trading | Allowed | Allowed |
| Account setup | Free | Free |
| Trading platform | xStation WEB, DESKTOP, MOBILE, TABLET | xStation WEB, DESKTOP, MOBILE, TABLET |
| Account setup & management | Free | Free |
| Forex, Indices, Commodities | No commission | No Commission |
| Cash Stocks | N/A | N/A |
| Stock CFDs and ETF CFDs | No commission | No commission |
| Swap | Charged | Swap Free |
| Cryptocurrencies | No commission | No commission |
| Sign Up | Open STANDARD Account | Open SWAP FREE Account |
XTB is a global leader in FX & CFD trading and is known for offering retail traders access to a wide array of markets. Boasting almost two decades of experience, this company has solidified its standing as one of the largest stock exchange-listed FX & CFD brokers worldwide. They have a robust presence in over 13 countries, with offices in major financial hubs such as the UK, Poland, Germany, and France.
Account Options
When it comes to trading accounts, XTB provides two primary options:
STANDARD Account:
- Execution Type: Market execution ensures that orders are filled at the prevailing market price.
- Instruments: Traders can access a variety of instruments – Forex, Commodities, Indices, Cryptocurrencies, Stock CFDs, and ETF CFDs.
- Instrument Count: There are over 2200 instruments to choose from, ensuring diverse trading opportunities.
- Leverage: Up to 1:500, providing ample opportunity for traders to magnify potential returns.
- Spreads: Competitive spreads start from as low as 0.5.
- Swap: Swaps, or overnight interest rates, are charged on positions that remain open overnight.
- Trading Platforms: Traders can access the markets using the multi-device xStation platform – available on WEB, DESKTOP, MOBILE, and TABLET.
SWAP FREE Account
Designed especially for traders who require a swap-free trading environment, such as some Muslim traders adhering to Sharia law.
Offers nearly identical features to the STANDARD account but with a slightly higher starting spread of 0.7.
As the name suggests, this account is swap-free.
Regulation & Safety
XTB operates under the regulatory purview of some of the world’s foremost financial supervisory bodies, including the FCA, KNF, CySEC, and FSC. Such stringent oversight ensures that client interests are always protected, and best practices are followed. Furthermore, the safety of client funds is paramount at XTB; all retail client funds are segregated, meaning they’re kept separate from the company’s operating funds, adding an extra layer of safety.
Trading Platforms
- xStation 5:
- This platform, which was voted ‘Best Trading Platform 2016’ by Online Personal Wealth Awards, is a testament to XTB’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art technology to its users. It’s user-friendly, fully customizable, and packed with features like live performance statistics, advanced charting, and market order depth.
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4):
- MT4 remains a favorite among traders worldwide. Its strengths lie in its simplicity, a vast array of analytical tools, and a growing community that contributes indicators and automated strategies.
XTB’s Vision & Values
- Technology: In an age where technology dictates the pace of change, XTB continually refines its trading application, ensuring it’s aligned with the latest market trends. Their ambition is clear – to make xStation the most reliable and functional trading app out there.
- Trust: Over nearly 20 years, XTB has cultivated the trust of over 657,000 global customers. Such trust stems not just from its regulatory environment but also from the company’s unwavering commitment to its clients.
- Support: With the trader’s success in mind, XTB offers round-the-clock customer service five days a week. This is complemented by a rich repository of educational resources, from videos and webinars to advanced courses.
Trading Instruments
- Forex: Trade 48 currency pairs round the clock with low spreads.
- Indices: Gain exposure to global economies by trading indices like the S&P 500 and NASDAQ.
- Commodities: Commodities like Gold, Silver, and Oil are staples in many trading portfolios.
- Stock CFDs: With more than 2100 equities to choose from, traders can take positions on major companies without owning the actual stock.
- ETF CFDs: These offer a way to diversify your portfolio by trading on a collection of assets.
- Cryptocurrencies: XTB offers CFDs on major cryptocurrencies, providing a secure way to gain exposure to these volatile assets.
Special Features
- Cashback Offers: XTB rewards its traders with a cashback scheme, a unique way to earn back a portion of the trading costs.
- Mobile App: XTB’s mobile app allows traders to manage their portfolio on-the-go, ensuring they never miss a market opportunity.
For traders seeking a reliable, feature-rich, and customer-centric trading environment, XTB emerges as a top choice. Their commitment to technology, trust, and trader support, coupled with their extensive market offerings, makes them a force to reckon with in the trading world. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced trader, XTB’s services are tailored to foster trading success.
Are you interested in trading with IC Markets?
| Account Type | cTrader | Raw Spread | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commission (per lot) | $3.0 ($6.0 per lot roundturn) | $3.5 ($7.0 per lot roundturn) | $0.0 |
| Spreads from (pips) | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.6 |
| Starting Deposit (USD) | $200 | $200 | $200 |
| Leverage | 1:1000 | 1:1000 | 1:1000 |
| Max. Position Orders per Account | 2000 | 200 | 200 |
| Server Location | London | New York | New York |
| Micro Lot Trading (0.01) | Available | Available | Available |
| Currency Pairs | 61 | 61 | 61 |
| Index CFD Trading | Available | Available | Available |
| Stop Out Level | 50% | 50% | 50% |
| One Click Trading | Available | Available | Available |
| Islamic Accounts | Available | Available | Available |
| Trading Styles Allowed | All | All | All |
| Order Distance Restriction | None | None | None |
| Programming Language | C# | MQL4 | MQL4 |
| Suitable For | Day Traders & Scalpers | EAs & Scalpers | Discretionary Traders |
| Account Type | Open cTrader Account | Open Raw Spread Account | Open Standard Account |
Go to IC Markets Official Website
IC Markets is known for offering three of the industry’s best trading platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader. This gives traders a variety of interfaces and tools to conduct their trades, suitable for both beginners and professionals.
Unmatched Technology and Execution Speed
IC Markets has invested significantly in technology and infrastructure. With enterprise-grade hardware and data centers located in New York and London, IC Markets promises fast trade execution. These data centers are connected via dedicated fiber optic links to ensure the lowest latency possible, thereby making the trading process smoother and quicker.
Range of Trading Conditions
IC Markets offers an environment where trading strategies like scalping, hedging, and automated trading are all allowed. It provides a Raw Spread account with spreads starting from as low as 0.0 pips. Leverage options are also flexible, going up to 1:1000, giving traders a lot of room to maneuver.
Advanced Trading Tools
Traders have access to a host of advanced tools that integrate with the MetaTrader 4 platform. These include features like a one-click trade module, market depth, trade risk calculators, and more, which help traders make more informed decisions.
Go to IC Markets Official Website
Regulatory Compliance and Security
IC Markets Global is regulated by the Financial Services Authority of Seychelles, adhering to stringent capital requirements. All client funds are held in segregated accounts with international banks, ensuring safety and compliance.
Open an account with IC Markets
Product Offerings
- Forex CFDs
- The forex market with IC Markets offers deep liquidity and tight spreads, going as low as 0.0 pips. They offer a wide range of 61 currency pairs and leverage up to 1:1000.
- Indices CFDs
- IC Markets offers 25 global Indices to trade from, providing exposure to major equity markets. They offer up to 1:200 leverage and commission-free trading on these Indices.
- Commodities CFDs
- Traders can deal with over 20 different commodities including energy, agriculture, and metals. Spreads are competitive and lot sizes are flexible, allowing for a diverse trading strategy.
- Stocks CFDs
- There are more than 2100 large-cap Stocks CFDs across various stock exchanges like ASX, NYSE, and NASDAQ. Leverage goes up to 1:20.
- Bonds CFDs
- You can choose from a range of government-issued bonds to diversify your portfolio. Leverage is available up to 1:200.
- Cryptocurrency CFDs
- IC Markets offers 21 popular cryptocurrencies for trading 7 days a week with leverage up to 1:200.
- Futures CFDs
- Four global futures are available for trading without commission fees and with up to 1:200 leverage.
Customer Service and Support
IC Markets provides an exceptional customer service experience with 24/7 support, knowledgeable staff experienced in the forex industry, and a live support team committed to helping you.
Go to IC Markets Official Website
Raw Trader Plus Benefits
For high-volume traders, the Raw Trader Plus program offers exclusive rebates on trading commissions. These rebates are calculated based on the trading volume and are provided daily once certain criteria are met.
Mobile Trading
IC Markets also offers a robust mobile application for both Android and iOS platforms. The app allows for quick and easy trading on the go, with the same features and functionalities as the desktop platforms. You can make deposits and withdrawals directly through the app and have access to 24/7 customer support.
Trading Conditions
The trading conditions are designed to offer maximum flexibility and the lowest spreads in the industry. IC Markets’ execution speed averages under 40ms, making it one of the fastest in the industry. With leverage up to 1:1000, they provide a gateway to the forex market for retail traders.
In summary, IC Markets aims to provide a comprehensive, transparent, and efficient trading environment for all kinds of traders, backed by robust technology and customer support.
Go to IC Markets Official Website
FAQs to summarize the article
- Which trading platforms do XTB and IC Markets offer?
- XTB offers xStation 5, xStation Mobile, and MT5 Web Trade Platform. IC Markets offers WebTrader, MT4, cTrader, IC Social, ZuluTrade, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader Web.
- How do the mobile applications of XTB and IC Markets compare?
- XTB’s xStation mobile app offers CFD markets including FX, cryptocurrencies, and stocks. IC Markets’ mobile application provides access to forex, commodities, indices, and stocks with features like live chat and an economic calendar.
- Which financial markets can traders access with each platform?
- XTB offers six financial markets, while IC Markets provides seven.
- How do their forex trading offerings differ?
- XTB offers 48 currency pairs with spreads from 0.1 pips. IC Markets offers raw spreads starting from 0.0 pips.
- What about cryptocurrency trading?
- XTB offers 10+ Crypto CFDs, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, available 24/7. IC Markets also offers cryptocurrency trading but emphasizes the market’s volatile and unregulated nature.
- Are there differences in the commodities and indices leverages?
- XTB offers leverage up to 500:1, while IC Markets offers leverage up to 1:100 on these markets.
- Do they offer additional financial instruments?
- XTB does not provide Bonds, Futures CFDs, and Synthetic Indices. IC Markets offers Bonds and Futures CFDs but not Synthetic Indices or ETFs.
- What account types and associated costs can traders expect?
- XTB offers Standard, Pro, and Islamic accounts with varying leverages and spreads. IC Markets offers up to 1:1000 leverage, and trading costs vary depending on the platform used.
- How do deposit and withdrawal methods compare?
- Both platforms accept methods like Bank Transfer, Mastercard, and VISA. XTB charges from 2% for e-wallet transfers, whereas IC Markets offers over 15 funding options without fees.
- What are some unique features of each platform?
- XTB provides negative balance protection, swap-free accounts for certain countries, and cashback rebates. IC Markets also offers negative balance protection and swap-free accounts, along with rapid trade executions due to advanced technology infrastructure.
