Profile
This IFC Markets review explores the broker’s regulatory structure, execution environment, platform offerings, and client safety measures. IFC Markets is a global CFD and forex broker offering proprietary trading tools and synthetic asset creation for both retail and institutional clients.
Regulation and Safety
IFC Markets is regulated in two jurisdictions:
- CySEC (Cyprus): License No. 147/11
- FSC (British Virgin Islands): License No. SIBA/L/14/1073
While CySEC ensures EU-level regulatory compliance, the BVI arm offers higher leverage and more flexible conditions. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, but no FSCS or ICF compensation applies to BVI clients.
Execution Model and Trading Platforms
IFC Markets uses a hybrid Market Maker/STP execution model, depending on the account type and platform:
- Execution: NDD/STP and dealing desk (hybrid)
- Platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, NetTradeX (proprietary)
- Access: Web, desktop, iOS, Android
- FIX API: Not supported
- VPS: Available through third-party integrations
Markets and Instruments
IFC Markets provides over 600 instruments across multiple asset classes:
- Forex: 50+ currency pairs
- Commodities: Gold, oil, silver, agricultural products
- Indices: DAX, FTSE 100, NASDAQ, Nikkei 225
- Stocks: US, EU, Asian shares (CFDs)
- Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, LTC, BCH (CFDs)
- ETFs and futures: Synthetic CFDs
Accounts, Spreads and Leverage
IFC Markets offers two core account types tailored to MT4/5 or NetTradeX:
- Standard Account: Spreads from 1.8 pips, no commission
- Beginner Account: Lower minimum deposit, similar spreads
- Leverage: Up to 1:30 (EU clients), 1:400 (BVI)
- Minimum deposit: $1 for Beginner, $1,000 for Standard
- Stop-out level: 10%
Funding and Base Currencies
Clients can fund accounts in multiple currencies using a wide range of methods:
- Methods: Bank transfer, credit cards, Neteller, Skrill, WebMoney, crypto
- Base currencies: USD, EUR, JPY, GBP, CHF, and more
- Processing: Instant for e-wallets, 2–3 business days for wires
Client Protections and Features
- Fund segregation (CySEC and BVI)
- ICF coverage up to €20,000 (Cyprus only)
- Negative balance protection for retail clients (EU)
- 2FA authentication supported
- Custom asset creation with GeWorko Method
Institutional and Retail Offering
IFC Markets provides services to both segments:
- Retail: MT4/MT5, NetTradeX, high leverage options
- Institutional: White-label solutions, multi-account management (MAM), and partner programs
- No FIX API or prime brokerage offering
Pros and Cons
Pros
- CySEC and BVI regulation
- 600+ instruments including stocks and crypto
- NetTradeX platform with synthetic asset creation
- Low minimum deposit for beginner accounts
- Supports multiple base currencies and payment methods
Cons
- Higher spreads than ECN brokers
- No FIX API for institutional clients
- BVI entity lacks strong investor protection
- GeWorko method may confuse beginner traders
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IFC Markets regulated?
Yes, IFC Markets is regulated by CySEC (EU) and FSC (BVI), though protections vary by region.
What trading platforms does IFC Markets offer?
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and the proprietary NetTradeX platform are all available.
What is the minimum deposit?
The Beginner Account requires only $1, while the Standard Account starts from $1,000.
Does IFC Markets offer crypto trading?
Yes, CFDs on BTC, ETH, LTC, and BCH are available.
Can I create custom instruments?
Yes, using NetTradeX and the GeWorko Method, clients can build synthetic portfolios.