IC Markets vs FP Markets: In-Depth Comparison for China Traders (2026)

When comparing trading costs for China traders, IC Markets holds a slight edge over FP Markets. IC Markets offers spreads from 0.0 pips on EUR/USD with a $3.5 commission per lot on its Raw Spread account, while FP Markets starts from 0.0 pips with a $3 commission per lot but slightly wider spreads on some pairs. For active traders trading 10+ lots daily in China, IC Markets' lower overall cost can save hundreds of dollars monthly. FP Markets compensates with no deposit fees and lower swap rates for long-term positions, but for scalpers and high-frequency traders, IC Markets is the more cost-effective choice.

Both brokers support MT4, MT5, and cTrader, which are popular among China traders. IC Markets offers cTrader with advanced charting and algorithmic trading capabilities, ideal for technical traders. FP Markets provides the same platforms but also includes IRESS for professional traders. For China-based retail traders, IC Markets' cTrader integration gives it a slight advantage due to superior order execution and customization. Both brokers offer mobile apps compatible with iOS and Android, ensuring trading on the go.

Execution quality is critical for China traders, especially scalpers. IC Markets boasts an average execution speed of 40ms and no requotes on its Raw Spread account. FP Markets offers similar speeds at 50ms with minimal slippage. Both use ECN/STP models for direct market access, but IC Markets' lower latency and deeper liquidity give it a slight edge for high-frequency trading.

IC Markets is regulated by ASIC (Australia) and CySEC (Cyprus), while FP Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, and the FSA (Seychelles). For China traders, both brokers offer negative balance protection and segregated client funds. The local financial regulator in China does not directly oversee these brokers, but their international licenses ensure high standards of transparency and security. IC Markets' ASIC regulation provides a stronger safety net for Chinese clients due to Australia's strict financial oversight, making it a more trusted choice.

Depositing and withdrawing funds is straightforward for China traders with both IC Markets and FP Markets. Both accept Bank Transfer (1-3 business days), Skrill (instant), Neteller (instant), and USDT (instant). IC Markets also supports UnionPay and WeChat Pay for local convenience, while FP Markets offers similar options. Minimum deposits are low—$200 for IC Markets and $100 for FP Markets. Withdrawals are processed within 24 hours for e-wallets and USDT, and 2-5 days for Bank Transfers. No deposit fees are charged by either broker, making them cost-effective for Chinese clients.

Both IC Markets and FP Markets offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Muslim traders in China. These accounts eliminate overnight swap fees on positions, complying with Sharia law. IC Markets requires a request via email after account opening, while FP Markets allows selection during registration. Both brokers provide these accounts without additional charges, though some restrictions apply to certain instruments. For China's Muslim community, both brokers offer equal access to ethical trading solutions.

Customer support is available 24/5 via live chat, email, and phone for both brokers. IC Markets offers multilingual support including Mandarin, which is a significant advantage for China traders. FP Markets also provides Chinese-language support but with slightly longer response times. IC Markets' live chat is particularly responsive, with average wait times under 30 seconds.