IC Markets vs Seacrest Markets Comparison: Which Is Better for Traders?
We test brokers on real accounts using our own methodology, evaluating the quality of order execution, trading conditions, platforms and customer support.
Who is better - IC Markets or Seacrest Markets?
Our pick: IC Markets
Based on multiple factors - spreads and fees, available assets and instruments, execution quality, platform usability, support level, and educational resources - IC Markets looks preferable to Seacrest Markets.
IC Markets scored 4.7/5 and ranks 4 in our all Forex brokers list, whereas Seacrest Markets has 4.1/5 and ranks 51.
This is not financial advice. See the full comparison below.
Who is IC Markets suitable for?
IC Markets is suitable for traders looking for low spreads and ECN accounts and the ability to scalp and use expert advisors.
Who is Seacrest Markets suitable for?
Suitable for retail and active Forex and CFD traders who value high leverage and straightforward trading conditions.
Comparison Table of IC Markets and Seacrest Markets
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2007 | 2024 |
| Regulated in Countries | Seychelles, Australia, Cyprus, Kenya | South Africa |
| Minimum Deposit |
|
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0.1 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Review | IC Markets Review | Seacrest Markets Review |
IC Markets Review
IC Markets is a reliable and versatile broker that offers a wide range of services and tools for trading in the financial markets. The company provides impressive trading instruments, high-quality trading platforms, advanced analytical tools, and valuable education for traders of all levels.
IC Markets is likely most suitable for experienced traders who value deep liquidity, tight spreads, and advanced trading tools. Beginner traders can also benefit from the educational materials offered by the company, but they should be prepared for some additional expenses and a higher minimum deposit requirement.
Pros and Cons of IC Markets
Pros
- A wide range of trading assets.
- Low spreads.
- Variety of trading platforms.
- Quality educational materials.
- Efficient customer support service.
Cons
- High minimum deposit.
IC Markets is in the top 10 of the following ratings:
Seacrest Markets Review
Seacrest Markets is a CFD broker with moderate regulation (FSCA), a transparent fee structure, and an accessible entry threshold starting from $50. Trading is conducted via MetaTrader 5, covering major asset classes, with leverage available up to 1:500. The conditions are tailored to retail traders who value clear costs and a straightforward onboarding process.
The broker is best suited for:
retail traders working with Forex and major CFDs;
active traders seeking high leverage;
traders who appreciate 24/7 support and an easy account opening process.
It may be less suitable for investors looking for Tier-1 regulation, an extensive range of stocks and ETFs, or advanced institutional research.
Pros and Cons of Seacrest Markets
Pros
- FSCA (South Africa) license and formal regulation of brokerage activity.
- Low minimum deposit — from $50.
- 24/7 support and a strong community.
Cons
- No Tier-1 regulation and no compensation funds.
- Limited number of trading instruments compared to large brokers.
- No web-based platform and no alternative to MetaTrader 5.
Reliability
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | 5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2007 | 2024 |
| Regulated in Countries | Seychelles, Australia, Cyprus, Kenya | South Africa |
| Regulators |
IC Markets
IC Markets operates under the regulation of several jurisdictions, including ASIC in Australia, CySEC in Cyprus, and SFSA in the Seychelles, indicating a high degree of regulation.
Seacrest Markets
Seacrest Markets’ reliability can be described as moderate: the broker is regulated by the FSCA (Tier-2) but does not hold Tier-1 licenses or participate in compensation schemes, which reduces the level of protection compared to major international brokers.
Pros
- FSCA (South Africa) license
- Transparent registration information
Cons
- No Tier-1 regulation
Account Opening
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Account Opening | 4.5/5 | 5/5 |
| Minimum Deposit |
|
|
IC Markets
The account opening process at IC Markets is well-thought-out, transparent, and detailed, ensuring convenience and ease for clients. However, the high minimum deposit may deter many beginners.
Seacrest Markets
Opening an account with Seacrest Markets is fast and without unnecessary bureaucracy: online registration, verification within a day, and clear requirements make the process convenient for most traders.
Pros
- Simple online registration
- Verification within 24 hours
- Low minimum deposit
Cons
- Mandatory extended KYC questionnaire
Account Types
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | 3.8/5 | 4/5 |
| Trading Accounts |
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| Minimum Deposit |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0.1 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Demo Account | ||
| Swap-free Account |
IC Markets
IC Markets' accounts are mainly aimed at experienced and professional traders.
Pros
- ECN accounts
- Ability to copy trades
- Access to VPS
Cons
- No cent accounts
- No fixed spread accounts
Seacrest Markets
Seacrest Markets offers classic trading accounts with a clear fee structure. The lineup suits different trading styles, though the overall variety and depth of account options remain moderate.
Pros
- Availability of Classic and ECN accounts
Cons
- Limited selection of trading accounts
Commissions
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Commissions | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Spread | from 0 points | from 0.1 points |
| Average Spread (EURUSD) | 0.62 | 1.2 |
| Commission per Lot | $3.5 | $3.5 |
IC Markets
IC Markets has low commissions. Fees for transactions on ECN accounts and spreads are acceptable to most traders, and the absence of charges for deposits/withdrawals and account inactivity is a significant advantage.
Seacrest Markets
Seacrest Markets' fees are around the market average: spreads and swaps are comparable to competitors, and the ECN commission remains competitive. The cost structure is transparent and without notable hidden charges.
Pros
- Market-average spreads
- No withdrawal fee except for bank transfers
Cons
- There is an account inactivity fee
- Swaps can be significant for long-term trading
Deposit and Withdrawal
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Account Funding Methods |
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IC Markets
IC Markets offers multiple options for depositing and withdrawing funds, but possible fees from banks and payment systems should be considered, along with some restrictions on withdrawal methods.
Seacrest Markets
Deposits and withdrawals at Seacrest Markets are organized in a standard and convenient way: cards, bank transfer, and cryptocurrencies are available. The procedures are transparent, but the range of methods remains basic.
Pros
- Support for Visa/Mastercard
- Crypto transfers available
- Clear procedure via the client portal
Cons
- Limited selection of local payment systems
- Fee for withdrawals via bank transfer
Markets and Products
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Markets and Products | 5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Forex | 61 | 50 |
| Precious Metals | 7 | 2 |
| Energy Carriers | 5 | 3 |
| Soft Commodities | 8 | 2 |
| Indices | 25 | 6 |
| Stocks | 2175 | - |
| ETF | 38 | - |
| Bonds | 10 | - |
| Cryptocurrency | 21 | 4 |
IC Markets
IC Markets offers various trading instruments, including currency pairs, CFDs on metals, energy resources, commodities, indices, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies.
Seacrest Markets
Seacrest Markets' market offering covers key asset classes and suits most retail strategies, but it falls behind large multi-asset brokers in breadth of instruments.
Pros
- Key asset classes (Forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies)
- High leverage up to 1:500
Cons
- Limited overall number of instruments
- No stocks or ETFs
Trading Platforms
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Trading Platforms |
|
|
IC Markets
IC Markets provides powerful and functional trading platforms suitable for various trader categories.
Seacrest Markets
MetaTrader 5 provides full functionality for analysis and trading, but platform choice is limited to a single terminal and there is no web version, which reduces access flexibility.
Pros
- Support for algorithmic trading
- iOS and Android mobile apps
Cons
- No web version
- No alternative platforms
Analytics
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 5/5 |
IC Markets
IC Markets provides its clients with an extensive set of analytical tools and materials, which can assist them in successful trading in the financial markets.
Seacrest Markets
Seacrest Markets' analytics cover key needs of retail traders: video reviews, articles, and built-in analysis tools. The content is practical, but it is geared mainly toward beginner and intermediate levels.
Pros
- Regular video analysis
- Economic calendar and market widgets
- TradingView integration
Education
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 3.5/5 |
IC Markets
IC Markets offers a wide range of educational resources, from interactive video lessons to webinars and podcasts, demonstrating care for their clients and a commitment to providing all the necessary resources for successful trading.
Seacrest Markets
Seacrest Markets' educational materials cover basic CFD and Forex topics and are suitable for beginners, but the education section is limited to a blog format without an extended learning program.
Pros
- Structured blog
Cons
- No comprehensive courses
- No webinars or podcasts
Customer Support
| Broker | IC Markets | Seacrest Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Email Support |
| — |
| Hotline Phones |
| — |
| Social Media |
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Discord
TikTok
YouTubeIC Markets
IC Markets provides a variety of communication channels, ensuring support service accessibility for clients. Numerous client reviews indicate the support team's quick response and high professionalism.
Pros
- Positive reviews about professional support
- Multiple channels for support communication
- Support is available 24/7
Cons
- Only international call option is available
Seacrest Markets
Seacrest Markets' support operates 24/7 and provides quick contact via live chat. A strong community enhances client service, but the set of communication channels remains standard.
Pros
- 24/7 support
- Live chat on the website
- Active community (Discord and social media)
Cons
- No extensive phone support
- No personal managers
- Limited selection of communication channels
Comparisons of IC Markets and Seacrest Markets with other brokers
IC Markets Comparisons
Conclusion
IC Markets stands out as the better overall pick, while Seacrest Markets trails on aggregate criteria.
IC Markets scored 4.7/5 and ranks 4 in our rating; Seacrest Markets has 4.1/5 and ranks 51.
We explain the reasons above in detail — fees, platforms, reliability, support, and more.
FAQ
Which broker is better: IC Markets or Seacrest Markets?
IC Markets comes out ahead by overall rank (score 4.7/5, position 4) versus Seacrest Markets (score 4.1/5, position 51).
Which broker is better for beginners: IC Markets or Seacrest Markets?
IC Markets is often a smoother start thanks to simpler onboarding and stronger baseline metrics. Still, your tools and budget should drive the final choice.
Who has lower typical trading costs (spreads/commissions) — IC Markets or Seacrest Markets?
It depends on the instrument and account type. Compare the live conditions in the “Commissions” section on this page — we break down the nuances category by category.
What trading platforms are available with IC Markets and Seacrest Markets?
IC Markets: MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, cTrader, TradingView. Seacrest Markets: MetaTrader 5. See the “Platforms” section for details and selection tips.
What markets can you trade with IC Markets and Seacrest Markets?
IC Markets: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Bonds, Cryptocurrency. Seacrest Markets: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Cryptocurrency. Full lists and differences are in the “Markets” section.
What account types are offered by IC Markets and Seacrest Markets?
IC Markets: Standard, Raw Spread cTrader, Raw Spread. Seacrest Markets: Classic, ECN. See “Account Types” for a side-by-side comparison.
What deposit and withdrawal methods are supported by IC Markets and Seacrest Markets?
IC Markets: PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Bpay, FasaPay, Klarna, Swift, SEPA, Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, POLi, Rapidpay. Seacrest Markets: Swift, Visa, Mastercard. Check method-specific fees/settlement times.
Which broker is safer — IC Markets or Seacrest Markets — and how was this assessed?
We consider regulation, corporate transparency, fund protection, and incident history. See the “Reliability” section for our findings.
