IC Markets vs FXTM: Complete Comparison for Kuwait Traders (2026)

For Kuwait traders, trading costs are a key factor, especially when trading frequently. IC Markets offers a Raw Spread account with spreads from 0.0 pips and a commission of $3.50 per lot per side, while FXTM’s standard account has spreads starting from 1.3 pips with no commission. For a Kuwait trader executing 50 lots per month on EUR/USD, IC Markets costs approximately $175 in commissions versus FXTM’s $650 in spread costs, saving $475 monthly. FXTM’s Zero Account is more competitive with spreads from 0.0 pips but a higher commission of $4 per lot. Overall, IC Markets is more cost-effective for volume traders in Kuwait, while FXTM suits those who prefer no-commission simplicity.

Both brokers offer MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which are popular among Kuwait traders for their advanced charting and automated trading capabilities. IC Markets also provides cTrader, a platform with enhanced order execution and depth of market, appealing to scalpers and algorithmic traders in Kuwait. FXTM offers its proprietary FXTM Trader app, which is mobile-friendly and includes social trading features, ideal for Kuwait traders who want to copy experts. For Kuwait retail traders, IC Markets’ cTrader offers superior speed, while FXTM’s app provides ease of use and educational integration.

IC Markets is known for its ultra-fast execution speeds, averaging under 40 milliseconds, thanks to its Equinix NY4 data center and low-latency infrastructure. This is ideal for Kuwait scalpers and high-frequency traders. FXTM offers reliable execution with speeds around 100 milliseconds, which is still competitive for most retail traders. For Kuwait traders who prioritize speed and minimal slippage, IC Markets is the superior choice, while FXTM provides sufficient execution for swing and position traders.

IC Markets is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), while FXTM holds licenses from CySEC, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, and the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Mauritius. Neither broker is directly regulated by a local Kuwaiti financial regulator, but both comply with international standards that protect client funds through segregation and negative balance protection. For Kuwait traders, this means their funds are secure, though they should verify the specific entity they trade with to ensure appropriate investor compensation coverage.

Kuwait traders can fund their accounts at both IC Markets and FXTM using Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, and USDT. For Bank Transfer, IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200, while FXTM accepts as low as $10, making FXTM more accessible for beginners. Skrill and Neteller deposits are processed instantly with no fees from the broker, though payment providers may charge a small fee. USDT (Tether) deposits are supported on both platforms, offering a fast and low-cost alternative for Kuwait traders who prefer cryptocurrency. Withdrawals are typically processed within 24 hours for e-wallets and USDT, while bank transfers take 1-3 business days. Both brokers do not charge withdrawal fees, but Kuwait traders should check with their local bank for any incoming transfer charges.

Both IC Markets and FXTM offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Kuwaiti Muslim traders who need to comply with Sharia law, which prohibits earning or paying interest (Riba). These accounts eliminate overnight swap charges on positions held beyond a day. IC Markets provides Islamic accounts on all account types, while FXTM offers them on standard and cent accounts. Kuwait traders can request an Islamic account during registration by contacting support, and both brokers maintain the same trading conditions without additional fees. This ensures that Kuwait traders can trade forex ethically without compromising on spreads or execution quality.

IC Markets provides 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and phone, with agents available in English and Arabic, which is beneficial for Kuwait traders. FXTM also offers 24/5 support with live chat and phone, plus a dedicated Arabic-speaking team. Both brokers have comprehensive FAQ sections and educational resources. For Kuwait traders, IC Markets’ 24/7 availability is an advantage for round-the-clock trading, while FXTM’s localized support is helpful for beginners.