Broker comparison
IC Markets vs Tickmill
IC Markets and Tickmill both appear on many traders' shortlists, but the sensible way to compare them is with a verification checklist rather than a verdict handed down by a third party. Which broker fits you depends on the entity available in your country, the current cost of trading your specific instruments, and whether each platform supports your workflow. Use the steps below to collect and confirm facts directly from both brokers' official documents before you open or fund an account.
IC Markets
Current broker data
- Rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Minimum deposit
- $200
- Regulator labels
- ASIC, CySEC, FSA, CMA
- Markets listed
- Forex, Commodities, Indices, Cryptocurrencies, Stocks
- Editorial status
- No current notice
Tickmill
Current broker data
- Rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Minimum deposit
- $100
- Regulator labels
- CySE, FSA, FCA, DFSA UAE +3
- Markets listed
- Forex, Commodities, Share CFDs, ETFs, Indices +2
- Editorial status
- No current notice
How to read this comparison
The facts below come from InvestorTrip's current broker database and linked review pages. They are a screening aid, not a claim that a broker is available, cheaper or safer for every country, account type or legal entity.
Step 1: Verify entities, licences and applicable protections
Both brokers may operate several legal entities, and the one that serves your country sets your regulatory framework. Identify the entity named in the account terms offered to you, then confirm its licence directly on the regulator's public register. Check what happens to client money under that entity, whether negative balance protection applies to your client category, and what complaint or dispute channels exist. If you hold professional client status, note that some retail protections may not apply.
Key checks: Find the exact entity in the client agreement, not just the brand name on the homepage.; Confirm the licence on the regulator's own register and note the licence number.; Check client money handling and whether negative balance protection applies to you.; Understand the complaint route for that entity before depositing..
Step 2: Compare real trading costs on your instruments
A meaningful cost comparison starts with the instruments and account types you would actually use. Gather each broker's current published spreads or commissions for those markets, plus overnight financing charges, currency conversion fees and any non-trading costs such as inactivity or withdrawal fees. Because published numbers may reflect averages or minimums, test conditions on a demo or small live account during the hours you trade. Keep dated notes of every figure and its source so you can re-verify before committing.
Key checks: Model total round-trip cost per trade, including commission, spread and any financing charges.; Add non-trading fees such as inactivity, conversion and withdrawal costs to the comparison.; Test live or demo conditions during your typical trading session, not just peak hours.; Re-check both fee schedules shortly before opening an account, as pricing changes without notice..
Step 3: Confirm platform features and account logistics
Write down the platform capabilities your strategy needs, such as specific order types, charting tools, automated trading support or mobile functionality, then verify each item against official platform documentation from both brokers. Also confirm the practical details: account base currencies for your country, minimum deposit requirements, funding and withdrawal methods, and verification steps. The Ic Markets review and Tickmill review on InvestorTrip outline the fields we track, and the compare broker tool helps you line both brokers up while you complete your own checks.
Key checks: Verify each required feature on the broker's official documentation rather than assuming it exists.; Check base currencies, minimum deposits and available funding methods for your country.; Use the Ic Markets review, Tickmill review and the compare broker tool to organise your comparison.; Test a demo account where available before funding a live one..
Verdict
Neither IC Markets nor Tickmill can be named a universal choice. Pick the broker whose verified entity, current fee schedule and platform capabilities match your residence, instruments and trading routine. Use the Ic Markets review, the Tickmill review and the compare broker tool to finish your checklist, and confirm all figures with the brokers directly before depositing.