ICM
ICM is a globally established trading brand known for its structured approach and execution-focused environment. It provides access to global markets through professional platforms designed for stability, speed, and technical analysis. The broker emphasizes transparent pricing, multiple account configurations, and disciplined trading conditions. Its operating model appeals to traders who value reliability, order, and consistent market access. Overall, ICM positions itself as a practical broker built for methodical and performance-oriented trading participation.
ICM is an international brokerage firm with a global presence and a regulatory structure that supports its operations across multiple jurisdictions. The broker operates under the supervision of several recognized authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom, the Securities and Commodities Authority in the United Arab Emirates, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Abu Dhabi, and the Financial Services Authority of Seychelles. This multi-regulatory framework defines ICM’s positioning as a broker focused on compliance, institutional access, and structured market participation.
The broker offers trading services exclusively through Contracts for Difference, maintaining a clear derivatives-only model. Through this structure, ICM provides access to a broad range of markets, including equities, forex pairs, commodities, indices, cryptocurrencies, and futures, all traded under the CFD format. ICM does not provide access to real assets, reinforcing its role as a broker oriented toward speculative and tactical trading rather than long-term investment.
ICM’s platform offering includes MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, three widely recognized trading platforms known for their robustness and advanced functionality. This platform selection allows traders to operate using familiar and technically sophisticated tools, supporting both discretionary and algorithmic trading approaches.
The broker offers three primary account types designed to suit different trader profiles: ICM Direct, ICM Zero, and the Cent Account. Each account type features distinct pricing conditions in terms of spreads and commissions, while maintaining consistent operational parameters such as a minimum deposit starting from USD 200 and maximum leverage capped at 1:200.
Execution at ICM is structured around STP execution with ECN access, emphasizing transparency and direct market connectivity. This execution model is intended to reduce conflicts of interest and support consistent order processing. ICM positions itself as a technically oriented broker designed for traders who value regulatory compliance, professional platforms, and a transparent execution environment over simplified retail features.
In accordance with regulatory disclosure requirements, ICM reports that 76% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. This disclosure highlights the inherent risks associated with leveraged derivative trading.
Regulation and Trust
ICM operates under a multi-layered regulatory framework that includes oversight from the FCA in the United Kingdom, the SCA in the United Arab Emirates, the FSRA of Abu Dhabi, and the FSA of Seychelles. This combination of regulators allows the broker to operate across different regions while adhering to jurisdiction-specific compliance requirements.
FCA regulation provides a strong benchmark for operational conduct and transparency, while regional regulation in the UAE through the SCA and FSRA reinforces ICM’s positioning within regulated Middle Eastern financial markets. The additional authorization under the FSA of Seychelles enables broader international operations with more flexible conditions.
This regulatory structure supports ICM’s identity as a compliance-focused broker offering a supervised trading environment rather than operating under a single offshore license. However, trading conditions may vary depending on the entity under which the account is held.
GCC Regulators
Top-tier Global
Other / Offshore
We verify claimed licenses against official registers when possible.
From a trust perspective, ICM’s multi-regulatory profile provides a solid foundation for traders who prioritize oversight and institutional structure over aggressive trading incentives.
Costs (Spreads & Fees)
ICM’s cost structure is determined primarily by the selected account type. The broker offers different pricing configurations designed to accommodate varying trading styles and cost sensitivities.
The ICM Direct account typically operates with standard spreads and no commissions, offering a straightforward pricing model. The ICM Zero account provides tighter spreads in exchange for per-lot commissions, targeting traders who prioritize lower raw spreads and are comfortable with commission-based pricing. The Cent Account offers a lower nominal trading environment, suitable for testing strategies or managing position size with greater granularity.
Across all account types, trading costs are clearly defined, and the broker does not rely on complex or opaque fee structures. However, access to the most competitive pricing generally requires higher capital commitment.
Values are Dynamic and they are subject to change upon market conditions.
Overall, ICM’s pricing framework reflects its professional orientation, emphasizing clarity and execution quality rather than promotional pricing.
Platforms and Tools
ICM provides access to three established trading platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader. This platform selection supports a wide range of trading strategies and technical requirements.
MetaTrader platforms are widely used for technical analysis and automated trading, while cTrader is recognized for its advanced execution features and depth-of-market tools. Together, these platforms offer flexibility without reliance on proprietary or experimental software.
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
- MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
- cTrader
The availability of these platforms positions ICM as a broker suited for technically oriented traders who value robust, industry-standard trading environments.
Assets & Markets
ICM offers access to a broad range of markets through CFDs, including equities, forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and futures. This diversified product scope allows traders to implement multi-asset trading strategies within a single account.
All instruments are traded under the CFD format, meaning traders speculate on price movements without owning the underlying assets. The broker does not provide access to physical instruments or investment products.
Stocks coverage
- Real stocks Not available
- Stock CFDs 86+
- Fractional shares Available
- Short selling Available
| Asset class | Available |
|---|---|
| ETFs | ✗ |
| Forex | ✓ |
| Indices | ✓ |
| Commodities | ✓ |
| Crypto | ✓ |
| Options | ✗ |
| Bonds | ✗ |
The asset offering is designed to support active trading across multiple market segments while maintaining ICM’s derivatives-focused structure.
Education
ICM does not place significant emphasis on educational content as a core component of its service offering. The broker’s educational resources, where available, are limited and primarily supportive rather than comprehensive.
This approach suggests that ICM is not primarily targeted at beginner traders seeking structured learning programs or guided onboarding. Instead, the broker assumes a baseline level of trading knowledge among its users.
Education at ICM should therefore be viewed as supplementary, with traders expected to rely on independent resources for in-depth learning and strategy development.
Support
ICM provides customer support as a structured and functional service designed to assist traders with operational, technical, and account-related matters. The support framework is aligned with the broker’s professional and compliance-driven positioning, focusing on ensuring smooth account operation rather than offering trading advice or strategic guidance.
Support services are intended to cover essential areas such as account setup, platform access, execution-related inquiries, and general administrative issues. This approach reflects ICM’s orientation toward self-directed traders who already understand trading mechanics and primarily require reliable assistance for day-to-day operational continuity.
- Email support
- Phone support
- Live chat
ICM does not emphasize personalized support models such as dedicated account managers or advisory-style assistance. Instead, its support offering is built around accessibility and clarity, ensuring that traders can resolve issues efficiently without adding unnecessary layers of interaction.
Overall, the support structure at ICM complements its regulated and institutional-style trading environment. It is best suited for experienced traders who value responsive operational assistance and clear communication channels over relationship-based or guidance-oriented support services.
Verdict
ICM positions itself as a technically oriented and regulation-focused CFD broker designed for traders who value compliance, platform quality, and execution transparency. Its multi-regulatory structure, including oversight from the FCA and regional authorities in the UAE, provides a strong foundation for trust and operational integrity.
The broker’s platform offering, which includes MT4, MT5, and cTrader, supports advanced trading strategies and appeals to traders who prioritize professional tools over simplified interfaces. Its three-tier account structure offers flexibility, although access to the most competitive conditions requires a higher initial deposit.
ICM’s leverage cap of 1:200 reflects a measured approach to risk and aligns with its regulatory obligations. While this may limit appeal for traders seeking aggressive leverage, it reinforces the broker’s disciplined and institutional orientation.
Overall, ICM is best suited for experienced traders who prioritize regulatory structure, professional platforms, and transparent execution over low entry barriers, real asset investment, or extensive educational support. It represents a solid option within the regulated CFD broker segment for traders seeking a structured and compliance-driven trading environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ICM a regulated broker?
Yes, ICM is regulated by multiple authorities, including the FCA, SCA, FSRA, and FSA.
Does ICM offer real assets?
No, ICM offers trading exclusively through CFDs and does not provide access to real assets.
What is the minimum deposit at ICM?
The minimum deposit required to open an account is USD 200.
Which platforms does ICM support?
ICM supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader.
What markets can be traded with ICM?
ICM offers CFDs on equities, forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and futures.
Disclaimer: This content is for education only and is not investment advice.
