IC Markets vs BlackBull Markets 2026
Both are regulated. The right choice depends on your trading style.
IC Markets suits traders who value tighter spreads. BlackBull Markets suits traders who prioritise lower minimum deposit (None vs $200), more instruments (26,000 vs 2,250).
Head to head
| IC Markets | BlackBull Markets | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | ASIC 335692 | FMA FSP403326 |
| Regulation tier | tier-1 | offshore |
| Min deposit | $200 | None |
| EUR/USD spread | From 0.0 pips (ECN) | From 0.0 pips (ECN) |
| Instruments | 2,250+ | 26,000+ |
| MetaTrader | Yes (MT4+MT5) | Yes (MT4+MT5) |
| Copy trading | No | No |
| Real stocks | No — CFDs only | No — CFDs only |
| Inactivity fee | None | None |
| Founded | 2007 | 2014 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia | Auckland, New Zealand |
Regulation: IC Markets vs BlackBull Markets
IC Markets is regulated by ASIC under licence 335692 (International Capital Markets Pty Ltd). The ASIC is a tier-1 regulator. Client funds are held in segregated accounts and negative balance protection applies.
BlackBull Markets is regulated by FMA under licence FSP403326 (BlackBull Ltd). The FMA is an offshore regulator with lighter oversight than FCA, ASIC, or CySEC.
IC Markets has the stronger regulatory profile with a ASIC licence from a tier-1 regulator.
Spreads and fees
IC Markets's EUR/USD spread is From 0.0 pips (ECN). BlackBull Markets's EUR/USD spread is From 0.0 pips (ECN). IC Markets offers tighter spreads on this pair.
IC Markets does not charge an inactivity fee. BlackBull Markets does not charge an inactivity fee.
Platforms and tools
Both IC Markets and BlackBull Markets support MetaTrader 4 and 5, so algorithmic traders and EA users can use either.
Neither broker offers copy trading.
Minimum deposit
IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200. BlackBull Markets requires None. BlackBull Markets has the lower barrier to entry.
Note that minimum deposits can vary by account type and by which regulatory entity serves your country. Some offshore entities allow lower deposits than the tier-1 entity.
Which is better for beginners?
BlackBull Markets also has the lower minimum deposit of None. Both platforms are accessible to new traders, though neither is specifically designed as a beginner-only broker.
Which is better for experienced traders?
Both IC Markets and BlackBull Markets support MetaTrader, so experienced traders can use either without restriction. IC Markets's tighter spreads (From 0.0 pips (ECN)) make it better for high-frequency and scalping strategies. BlackBull Markets offers more instruments (26,000) for portfolio diversification.
Verdict: IC Markets vs BlackBull Markets
Choose IC Markets if you want tighter spreads. The ASIC licence (335692) gives it strong tier-1 regulatory backing.
Choose BlackBull Markets if you want lower minimum deposit (None vs $200), more instruments (26,000 vs 2,250). The FMA licence (FSP403326) means offshore-style flexibility.
Both brokers are legitimate and regulated. The choice comes down to your specific trading requirements.
Frequently asked questions
IC Markets vs BlackBull Markets: which is better?
IC Markets is better for tighter spreads. BlackBull Markets is better for lower minimum deposit (None vs $200), more instruments (26,000 vs 2,250). If regulation quality is your priority, IC Markets (ASIC).
Is IC Markets or BlackBull Markets safer?
IC Markets holds a ASIC licence (335692) from a tier-1 regulator with client compensation protection. BlackBull Markets is regulated by FMA.
What is the minimum deposit for IC Markets and BlackBull Markets?
IC Markets minimum deposit: $200. BlackBull Markets minimum deposit: None. Minimums vary by entity and account type.
Do IC Markets and BlackBull Markets have MetaTrader?
Yes, both support MetaTrader 4 and MT5.