EXANTE
IC Markets
EXANTE vs IC Markets
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
EXANTE and IC Markets are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. EXANTE, founded in 2011 and headquartered in Valletta, Malta, is regulated by MiFID II (CySEC), FCA, SFC and offers spreads starting from 0.1 pips with a minimum deposit of $10000. IC Markets, established in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $200 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, IC Markets scored 8.8/10 overall compared to EXANTE's 8.2/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, EXANTE holds its own with more research tools and wider product range, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
IC Markets scores 8.8/10 overall vs 8.2/10 for EXANTE — a 0.6-point difference.
- 💵
IC Markets requires just $200 to start, while EXANTE needs $10000 — IC Markets is 50x more accessible.
- 📈
EXANTE offers 2,000,000+ instruments vs 2,200+ at IC Markets — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
EXANTE runs on EXANTE Platform, EXANTE Web, EXANTE Mobile, while IC Markets uses MT4, MT5, cTrader — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Trading Costs: IC Markets scores 9.5 vs 8.0 for EXANTE — a 1.5-point difference.
Our Verdict
EXANTE
Score: 8.2/10 · Wins 2 categories- You want access to a wider range of instruments
- You rely on in-depth research and analysis tools
- You prefer EXANTE's trading environment overall
IC Markets
Score: 8.8/10 · Wins 4 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Fast and flexible deposits & withdrawals are important
IC Markets takes the lead with an overall score of 8.8/10 compared to 8.2/10, winning in 4 out of 8 scoring categories. IC Markets stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while EXANTE fights back with more research tools and wider product range.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, IC Markets comes out ahead with a 8.8/10 overall rating, winning 4 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Trading Costs where it scores 9.5/10. IC Markets holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. EXANTE is not without merit — it scores 8.2/10 overall and excels in Product Range (9.5/10), winning 2 categories. Traders who value more research tools or wider product range may find EXANTE the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full IC Markets review and EXANTE review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
IC Markets wins by 1.5 points
IC Markets wins by 0.5 points
IC Markets wins by 1.0 points
EXANTE wins by 1.0 points
IC Markets wins by 1.5 points
EXANTE wins by 1.0 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $10000 | $200 ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:30 | 1:500 |
| Spreads From | 0.1 pips | 0.0 pips |
| Platforms | EXANTE Platform, EXANTE Web, EXANTE Mobile | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Regulation | MiFID II (CySEC), FCA, SFC | ASIC, CySEC, FSA |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2011 | 2007 ✓ |
| Markets | 2,000,000+ ✓ | 2,200+ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, IC Markets has the edge with a score of 9.5/10 versus 8/10 for EXANTE. EXANTE offers spreads starting from 0.1 pips, while IC Markets starts from 0.0 pips. The minimum deposit at EXANTE is $10000, compared to $200 at IC Markets. Both brokers operate primarily on a spread-based pricing model, though actual costs vary by account type and instrument. For high-volume traders, even small spread differences add up significantly over time, making this an important category to weigh carefully.
Trading Platforms
IC Markets scores 9/10 for platforms compared to 8.5/10 for EXANTE. EXANTE provides EXANTE Platform, EXANTE Web, EXANTE Mobile, while IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader. The choice of platform affects your charting, order execution speed, and available technical indicators. Traders who rely on MetaTrader's algorithmic trading capabilities should check which MT4/MT5 features each broker supports, including custom indicators and expert advisors.
Regulation & Safety
Regulation is crucial for fund safety. EXANTE is regulated by MiFID II (CySEC), FCA, SFC (Tier 1), while IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA (Tier 1). EXANTE scores 9/10 and IC Markets scores 9/10 in this category. Tier 1 regulators like FCA, ASIC, and CySEC offer the strongest investor protection, including segregated client funds and compensation schemes. Always verify your broker's specific license for your jurisdiction before opening an account.
Education & Research
For learning resources, IC Markets leads with 7/10 compared to 6/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. EXANTE and IC Markets both provide demo accounts for risk-free practice, but the depth of educational content varies. Beginners should prioritize this category when choosing between the two.
Customer Support
EXANTE offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 8/10, while IC Markets provides 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone with a score of 8/10. Reliable support becomes critical during market volatility or when you encounter account issues. Look for brokers with 24/5 or 24/7 availability, multiple contact channels, and support in your preferred language.
Deposit & Withdrawal
EXANTE scores 7/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while IC Markets scores 8.5/10. EXANTE accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, and IC Markets supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, UnionPay. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. EXANTE requires a minimum deposit of $10000 versus $200 for IC Markets. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose EXANTE if you...
- You want access to a wider range of instruments
- You rely on in-depth research and analysis tools
- You prefer EXANTE's trading environment overall
Choose IC Markets if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Fast and flexible deposits & withdrawals are important
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is EXANTE better than IC Markets?
IC Markets scores higher overall (8.8/10 vs 8.2/10), winning 4 of 8 categories. However, EXANTE is stronger in more research tools and wider product range. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, EXANTE or IC Markets?
IC Markets scores higher for trading costs. EXANTE offers spreads from 0.1 pips with a $10000 minimum deposit, while IC Markets starts from 0.0 pips with $200 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is EXANTE safe to trade with?
EXANTE is regulated by MiFID II (CySEC), FCA, SFC and scores 9/10 for regulation. IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FSA with a score of 9/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, EXANTE or IC Markets?
IC Markets scores 9/10 for platforms. EXANTE offers EXANTE Platform, EXANTE Web, EXANTE Mobile, while IC Markets provides MT4, MT5, cTrader. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for EXANTE vs IC Markets?
EXANTE requires a minimum deposit of $10000, while IC Markets requires $200. IC Markets has the lower entry barrier, making it more accessible for beginners or those testing with smaller amounts.
Ready to Start Trading?
Open a free account with either broker and start trading today.