Profile
This ICMBrokers review explores the broker’s regulatory environment, execution model, market access, and trading conditions. ICMBrokers is an offshore-based forex and CFD broker known for high leverage, limited regulatory oversight, and simple account structures, appealing to high-risk traders.
Regulation and Safety
ICMBrokers is registered offshore and operates under limited regulation:
- VFSC (Vanuatu): Company No. 40302
- Formerly registered in BVI: No longer listed as regulated there
The broker is not regulated by any top-tier financial authority (FCA, ASIC, CySEC). No FSCS, ICF, or AFCA coverage is available. Client fund protections are minimal, and there is limited transparency regarding internal risk management policies.
Execution Model and Trading Platforms
ICMBrokers uses a hybrid Market Maker and STP model:
- Execution type: B-book with some STP routing
- Platform: MetaTrader 4 (MT4) for desktop, web, and mobile
- FIX API: Not available
- VPS hosting: Not offered
Execution is not transparent, and spreads may be widened during volatility due to internal dealing desk practices.
Markets and Instruments
ICMBrokers offers access to a modest range of CFD instruments:
- Forex: 20+ major and minor currency pairs
- Commodities: Oil, gold, silver
- Indices: Limited offering (Dow Jones, S&P 500)
No single stocks, ETFs, or crypto CFDs are offered. The asset range is narrower than industry standards.
Accounts, Spreads and Leverage
ICMBrokers offers a single account type with the following specifications:
- Spreads: Fixed, from 2.0 pips on majors
- Leverage: Up to 1:400
- Minimum deposit: $1,000
- Commission: None
- Stop-out level: 20%
High leverage and fixed spreads make the broker suitable for high-risk strategies, but may deter professionals seeking dynamic pricing.
Funding and Base Currencies
Limited funding options are available with restricted base currency support:
- Methods: Bank wire, Neteller, Skrill, crypto (BTC, USDT)
- Base currencies: USD only
- Processing time: 1–3 business days (deposits and withdrawals)
Withdrawal conditions are not transparent and have drawn complaints regarding speed and approval procedures.
Client Protections and Features
- No negative balance protection
- Funds not segregated from company accounts
- No investor compensation scheme
- Minimal AML/KYC verification
- No 2FA or security enhancements on client login
Institutional and Retail Offering
ICMBrokers primarily targets retail and introducing brokers:
- IB and affiliate partnerships available
- No white-label or prime brokerage
- No FIX API or institutional liquidity
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High leverage (up to 1:400)
- Simple MT4-based setup
- Fixed spread model
- Supports crypto deposits
Cons
- Offshore regulation only
- No fund protection or FSCS/ICF coverage
- Limited product range
- No ECN access or FIX API
- High minimum deposit ($1,000)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ICMBrokers regulated?
ICMBrokers is regulated by the VFSC in Vanuatu, an offshore financial authority with minimal oversight.
What platforms does ICMBrokers offer?
ICMBrokers offers MetaTrader 4 (MT4) on desktop, web, and mobile platforms.
What is the minimum deposit for ICMBrokers?
The minimum deposit requirement is $1,000, which is higher than most retail brokers.
Does ICMBrokers offer negative balance protection?
No. Clients are fully liable for negative balances, especially under high leverage scenarios.
Is ICMBrokers suitable for beginners?
No. Due to its offshore status, limited protections, and high minimum deposit, it is not ideal for novice traders.