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Vantage vs IC Markets Comparison – 2024
By:
Reviewed By:
Updated: Dec 24, 2024
Vantage
4.5
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VS
IC Markets
4.5
Trading Forex and CFDs carries a high level of risk to your capital and you should only trade with money you can afford to lose. Trading Forex and CFDs may not be suitable for all investors, so please ensure that you fully understand the risks involved and seek independent advice if necessary.
Comparison Table
Vantage | IC Markets | |
|---|---|---|
Overall Rating | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Trust | 4.0 | 4.1 |
Fees | 4.4 | 4.6 |
Platforms and Tools | 4.4 | 4.4 |
Tradable Instruments | 4.7 | 4.7 |
Customer Support | 4.7 | 4.6 |
Research | 4.8 | 4.7 |
Deposit and Withdrawal | 4.9 | 4.9 |
Account Types and Terms | 4.9 | 4.9 |
Education | 4.9 | 4.4 |
Regulators & Max Leverage | 1:500 (FSCA), 1:250 (CIMA), 1:30 (ASIC), 1:500 (VFSC) | 1:30 (CySEC), 1:30 (ASIC), 1:500 (FSA) |
Foundation Year | 2009 | 2007 |
Fees Test | Low | Low |
Tradable Instruments | 935 | 2245 |
Trading Platforms | MT4, MT5, ProTrader | MT5, cTrader, MT4, TradingView, Zulutrade |
Minimum Deposit | $50 | $200 |
Read Reviews |
Top Reasons to Choose Vantage or IC Markets
After conducting extensive live tests, I found Vantage to be an excellent choice for beginner traders. The broker provides comprehensive educational content designed to teach the fundamentals of trading. Additionally, Vantage offers competitive trading fees, including commission-free stock trading. With a low minimum deposit requirement of just $50, the broker’s accounts are highly accessible for new traders.
In contrast, IC Markets stands out as the better option for technical traders. The broker supports a diverse range of platforms, including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and the advanced cTrader platform. IC Markets excels in advanced technical analysis, copy trading, and automated trading. Moreover, the broker provides free VPS hosting, ensuring low-latency trading for precision-driven strategies.
| Vantage Best for Beginner Traders |
IC Markets Best for Technical Traders |
| Extensive educational content | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView |
| Commission-free stocks | 2,200+ instruments |
| Diverse supporting tools (ProTrader Package) | Supports auto and copy trading |
| Very affordable fees | Feature-rich system |
| Tightly regulated | Fast order execution |
| Low minimum deposit | Free VPS hosting |
| Intuitive mobile app | Very low spreads |
Vantage: Snapshot
The Australia-based Vantage is an OTC derivatives broker founded in 2009. It offers more than 950 tradable instruments across different asset classes and multiple trading platforms. The broker stands out with its extensive educational materials, including an extensive collection of webinars. Vantage also offers highly competitive trading fees (both spreads and commissions).
Vantage: Who is it For?
My overall assessment of the broker is that it is a perfect choice for newbie traders looking to gain a solid trading background. Vantage has a vast collection of past webinars that cover essential trading topics like technical analysis, fundamental analysis, and trading psychology. With a low minimum deposit of just $50, Vantage’s accounts are accessible and beginner-friendly.
What Makes Vantage Stand Out?
What is quite rare about Vantage is that it does not charge a commission for trading share CFDs. This feature makes the broker an excellent choice for stock traders, especially when combined with its spreads that are significantly lower than the industry average.
| Recommended in 6 best broker guides: |
| Forex | CFD | Low Spreads | Crypto | Demo Account | Gold |
IC Markets: Snapshot
IC Markets is an Australian derivatives broker established in 2007. It provides access to over 2,200 trading instruments, ranging from lower-risk securities to higher-yield/risk assets. This diverse offering enables traders to adopt balanced trading strategies and capitalize on various market opportunities. In addition to MetaTrader 4 and 5, IC Markets features the seamless cTrader platform, known for its versatility and advanced features, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned traders.
IC Markets: Who is it For?
With its competitive pricing and advanced platforms, IC Markets has gained popularity among algorithmic traders. The broker offers raw spreads starting from 0.0 pips and a $6 round-turn commission, making it ideal for high-frequency trading strategies. Additionally, the cTrader platform is specifically designed to support algorithmic and low-latency trading. IC Markets boasts average execution speeds of approximately 40 milliseconds and offers VPS hosting for enhanced performance.
What Makes IC Markets Stand Out?
My research shows that IC Markets successfully combines fast execution speeds with low trading costs. While many brokers tend to excel in just one of these areas, IC Markets stands out by delivering both, offering clients exceptional execution standards at below-average costs.
| Recommended in 8 best broker guides: |
| Forex | CFD | Platforms | Low Spreads | Crypto | Regulated | MT5 | Automated Trading |
Trust
Vantage vs IC Markets Trust and Regulation Comparison
Trust Rank | 4.0 | 4.1 |
Regulators & Max Leverage | 1:500 (FSCA), 1:250 (CIMA), 1:30 (ASIC), 1:500 (VFSC) | 1:30 (CySEC), 1:30 (ASIC), 1:500 (FSA) |
Foundation Year | 2009 | 2007 |
Publicly Traded |
Vantage operates through four entities regulated across different jurisdictions: ASIC (Tier-1) in Australia, the FSCA (Tier-2) in South Africa, and CIMA and VFSC (both Tier-3) in the Cayman Islands and Vanuatu, respectively. The broker is fairly transparent. It also adheres to a ‘best execution policy’ and a ‘client categorization policy.’ Additionally, as a member of the Financial Commission, Vantage is also subject to regular audits.
Three entities operate under the IC Markets’ trade name. Two are authorized by Tier-1 regulators: CySEC in Cyrpus and ASIC in Australia. The third entity is regulated offshore by the FSA of Seychelles. The broker is notably transparent and takes extra measures to protect client funds. What impressed me is that IC Markets provides private indemnity insurance through Lloyd’s of London, covering up to $1,000,000.
If you want to learn more about brokers’ regulations, be sure to check out our article on the top regulated forex brokers.
Fees
Vantage vs IC Markets Spreads, Fees and Commissions Comparison
Fees Rank | 4.4 | 4.6 |
Inactivity Fee |
Vantage offers competitive fees below the industry average. Its Standard account provides commission-free trading with floating spreads starting at 1.0 pips. For traders seeking tighter spreads, the Raw account features raw spreads starting from 0.0 pips and a $6 round-turn commission per lot traded (100,000 units). The broker does not charge inactivity fees for dormant accounts, and deposits and withdrawals are free, though third-party banking fees may still apply.
IC Markets also delivers industry-leading pricing, with raw spreads starting from 0.0 pips and a $6 round-turn commission per lot traded (100,000 units) on its cTrader Raw account. This fee structure is ideal for high-frequency traders. However, its swap rates are slightly above the industry average, which may make it less suitable for longer-term trading strategies.
Platforms and Tools
Vantage vs IC Markets Trading Platforms Comparison
Platform Rank | 4.4 | 4.4 |
Trading Platforms | MT4, MT5, ProTrader | MT5, cTrader, MT4, TradingView, Zulutrade |
Mobile Apps | Android, iOS | Android, iOS |
Vantage incorporates MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and ProTrader. MetaTrader supports essential technical analysis and order execution and enables automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs). ProTrader, on the other hand, is better suited for advanced technical analysis, offering enhanced charting capabilities and more tools for in-depth market studies.
IC Markets provides access to MetaTrader 4 and 5, alongside the advanced cTrader and TradingView platforms. cTrader is recognized for its fluid interface, robust analytical tools, and seamless integration with algorithmic trading strategies. TradingView enhances the experience with its superior charting tools, social trading features, and real-time market data, making it a favorite among traders seeking community-driven insights and comprehensive technical analysis.
Tradable Instruments
Vantage vs IC Markets Instruments Selection Comparison
Tradable Instruments Rank | 4.7 | 4.7 |
# Tradable Instruments | 935 | 2245 |
# Currency Pairs | 61 | 61 |
# Commodities | 20 | 25 |
# Crypto | 47 | 21 |
# Stocks | 721 | 2100 |
# Indices | 16 | 25 |
Vantage offers nearly 1,000 tradable instruments, including a mix of higher-yield/risk assets such as currency pairs, commodities, share CFDs (which can be traded commission-free), indices, and cryptocurrencies. For traders seeking lower-risk options, the broker also provides ETFs. Additionally, Vantage stands out by offering futures contracts as an alternative to CFDs. I found this balanced offering suitable for the implementation of a wide range of trading strategies.
IC Markets provides access to over 2,200 instruments, with a significant portion comprising share CFDs. The broker also offers a solid selection of FX pairs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. However, it does not include lower-risk securities like ETFs or bonds. Furthermore, all instruments are structured exclusively as CFDs, without alternative contract types, which may limit options for diversification.
Customer Support
Vantage vs IC Markets Customer Support Comparison
Customer Support Rank | 4.7 | 4.6 |
Availability | Available 24/5 | Available 24/7 |
Live Chat |
Vantage provides customer support 24/5 through live chat, email, and phone. When using the live chat option, traders are first connected to the VIVA chatbot, which handles general queries. For more specific or complex issues, traders can request to speak with an agent. While Vantage’s support agents are knowledgeable, response times can be as long as 20 minutes.
IC Markets offers 24/7 multilingual customer support via live chat and email. During our tests, the support agents were polite, well-informed, and consistently delivered prompt responses, typically within minutes. Traders can trust IC Markets to deliver fast and reliable support.
Research
Vantage vs IC Markets Research Tools Comparison
Research Rank | 4.8 | 4.7 |
News (Top-Tier Sources) | ||
Economic calendar | ||
Videos/Webinars | ||
Trading Central (Recognia) | ||
Autochartist |
Vantage provides a combination of in-house research materials and content from trusted third-party providers. Clients have access to detailed market news, analyses, trading signals, and sentiment tools, helping them stay informed about market trends and identify potential trading opportunities.
IC Markets delivers insightful research content developed in-house, complemented by materials from highly trusted third-party providers like Trading Central and Autochartist. These resources offer clients a nuanced perspective on current market trends and trading opportunities.
Deposits & Withdrawals
Vantage vs IC Markets Deposit and Withdrawal Methods Comparison
Deposit and Withdrawal Rank | 4.9 | 4.9 |
Deposit Options | Wire Transfer, Cryptocurrencies, Neteller, FasaPay, Skrill, Broker to Broker, Credit Card, AstroPay, ApplePay, GooglePay, Debit Card, China UnionPay, AdvCash, PerfectMoney, SticPay, JCB, BitWallet | Poli, PayPal, Wire Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, Credit Card, Union Pay, Klarna, Rapid Transfer, Bpay, Broker to Broker, Debit Card, Local Banks |
Withdrawal Options | Wire Transfer, Cryptocurrencies, Neteller, FasaPay, Skrill, Credit Card, AstroPay, Debit Card | Wire Transfer, Neteller, Skrill, Credit Card, PayPal, Klarna, Rapid Transfer, Union Pay, Bpay, Broker to Broker, Poli, Local Banks, Debit Card |
Withdrawal Fee |
Vantage accepts payments via bank wire transfers, credit/debit cards, various e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies. The broker does not charge handling fees for deposits or withdrawals, though third-party processing fees may apply. Most payment requests are processed instantly, with transaction times varying depending on the chosen method.
IC Markets provides more than a dozen cost-free deposit and withdrawal options. All payments are processed internally within 24 hours, though actual transaction times may vary. Clients can fund their accounts or withdraw using bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and multiple e-wallets.
Account Types and Terms
Vantage vs IC Markets Account Types Comparison
Account Types and Terms | 4.9 | 4.9 |
# Base Currencies | 61 | 61 |
Islamic Account | ||
Demo Account | ||
Minimum Deposit | $50 | $200 |
Vantage offers three account types for retail traders: Standard, Raw, and Pro. The Standard and Raw accounts feature competitive pricing, while the Pro account offers raw spreads starting at 0.0 pips and a $3 round-turn commission, available with a minimum deposit of $10,000. I found Vantage’s accounts particularly beginner-friendly due to their tight margin configurations (margin call at 80% and stop out at 50%).
IC Markets provides three retail account types: Standard, Raw Spreads, and cTrader. It also accommodates swap-free trading through its Islamic Accounts. With a low minimum deposit of $200, IC Markets caters to a range of traders. I concluded that the cTrader account offers the most favorable conditions, especially suited for high-frequency trading strategies.
Education
Vantage vs IC Markets Educational Content Comparison
Education Rank | 4.9 | 4.4 |
Videos | ||
Webinars |
Vantage excels in the Education category. Traders of all experience levels can access a vast collection of several hundred educational webinars that delve deeply into key trading topics. The broker also provides comprehensive trading courses covering foundational trading concepts and stock trading, complemented by several dozen written articles.
IC Markets offers a range of educational materials, including articles, video tutorials, webinars, and a podcast. The podcast provides a hands-free way to learn, offering insights into the trading world that traders can explore on the go. I found IC Markets’ educational content to be an excellent starting point for novice traders looking to build their knowledge base.
Our Methodology
Since 2011, FX Empire has developed a detailed methodology for evaluating CFD brokers, involving over 250 variables across nine crucial categories. Our team of experts, with deep industry knowledge, conducts live testing and research by interacting with the brokers directly. We check regulations, open accounts, test spreads, account costs, platform functionality, instrument variety, customer support reliability, and the quality of research and educational content. This granular analysis helps us identify each broker’s strengths and weaknesses, keeping our comparisons current with market trends and ensuring our guides meet traders’ needs.
We strive to evaluate each broker objectively, considering how their offerings align with the diverse trading goals and preferences of our readers. Our focus is on providing a balanced overview of each broker’s strengths and weaknesses. This method ensures that our readers receive clear, insightful comparisons to aid in making well-informed trading decisions.
We employ a comprehensive rating system across nine key categories:
- Trust
- Fees
- Platforms and Tools
- Tradable Instruments
- Customer Support
- Research
- Deposits and Withdrawals
- Account Types and Terms
- Education
In each category, we conduct an in-depth analysis for both brokers, outlining features, advantages, and disadvantages and determining their suitability for different trader profiles. By blending insights from our extensive reviews with first-hand experiences and observations, we ensure each comparison is balanced, informative, and tailored to the trader’s unique needs. You can read more about our review process here.