Risk Warning

Online trading involves significant risk, and you may lose all of your invested capital. It is not suitable for all traders or investors. Please ensure that you understand the risks involved and note that the information contained in this article is for general information purposes only.

General Information

What is IFC Markets？

IFC Markets is an international online broker that provides a wide range of financial instruments and trading services to clients worldwide. The company offers various trading instruments, including currency pairs, commodities, indices, stocks, and cryptocurrencies through multiple trading platforms, including NetTradeX, MetaTrader 4, and MetaTrader 5. However, IFC Markets operates as an unregulated broker, and traders should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before engaging in any trading activities.

In the following article, we will analyze the characteristics of this broker from various aspects, providing you with simple and organized information. If you are interested, please read on. At the end of the article, we will also briefly make a conclusion so that you can understand the broker's characteristics at a glance.

Pros & Cons

IFC Markets offers a wide range of trading instruments, multiple trading platforms, and educational resources, providing traders with flexibility and opportunities for learning. The availability of various deposit and withdrawal methods, as well as 24/7 customer support, adds convenience for traders.

However, the lack of regulation raises concerns about investor protection and the reported instances of scams and withdrawal issues highlight potential risks. The limited information on spreads and commissions may also make it difficult for traders to assess trading costs accurately.

Please note that the information provided is based on the available data and may not reflect the complete picture of the pros and cons of IFC Markets. It's always recommended to conduct thorough research and exercise caution when choosing a broker for trading activities.

IFC Markets Alternative Brokers

There are many alternative brokers to IFC Markets depending on the specific needs and preferences of the trader. Some popular options include:

• Trading 212 - for traders seeking a user-friendly platform with a wide range of tradable instruments and a commission-free trading model.

• TrioMarkets - for experienced traders looking for competitive spreads, multiple account types, and access to various trading platforms.

• XGLOBAL Markets - for traders who prioritize competitive pricing, fast execution, and a diverse range of financial instruments for trading.

Ultimately, the best broker for an individual trader will depend on their specific trading style, preferences, and needs.

Is IFC Markets Safe or Scam？

IFC Markets is a forex and CFD broker that holds licenses from various regulatory authorities, including CySEC (Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission), FSC (British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission), and LFSA (Labuan Financial Services Authority). However, the CySEC license is exceeded, the FSC license is from an offshore jurisdiction, and the LFSA license is a suspicious clone.

It's important to note that having multiple licenses does not necessarily guarantee the safety or legitimacy of a broker. Traders should exercise caution when dealing with brokers that have offshore licenses or licenses from less reputable jurisdictions. It's recommended to conduct thorough research, consider the broker's reputation, and carefully assess the risks before engaging in any trading activities.

Market Instruments

IFC Markets provides a wide range of trading instruments to cater to the diverse needs of its clients. Traders can access over 650 instruments, including currency pairs, precious metals like gold and silver, continuous index CFDs, stock CFDs, and cryptocurrency CFDs.

Currency pairs offer opportunities to trade major, minor, and exotic pairs, allowing traders to participate in the global forex market. Precious metals provide an alternative investment option and a hedge against inflation. Continuous index CFDs enable traders to speculate on the performance of popular stock indices, while stock CFDs allow for trading on the price movements of individual company shares. Additionally, the inclusion of cryptocurrency CFDs allows traders to gain exposure to the volatile and rapidly evolving digital asset market.

Accounts

To meet different types of investors' investment needs and trading experience, IFC Markets offers two live account types. The Beginner account is designed for novice traders and requires a minimum deposit of 1 USD, 1 EUR, or 100 JPY. This account type provides access to a range of trading instruments and features, allowing beginners to start their trading journey with a smaller initial investment.

The Standard account, on the other hand, is suitable for more experienced traders and requires a minimum deposit of 1000 USD, 1000 EUR, or 100,000 JPY. It offers additional benefits and features, including access to more trading instruments, tighter spreads, and personalized customer support.

In addition to live accounts, IFC Markets also offers demo accounts for practice and testing strategies, as well as Islamic Accounts/SWAP-free accounts for clients who adhere to Islamic finance principles. These account options provide flexibility and cater to the diverse needs of traders at different skill levels.

Leverage

IFC Markets provides its clients with leverage options of up to 1:400. Leverage allows traders to control larger positions in the market with a smaller amount of capital. With a leverage ratio of 1:400, traders can amplify their potential profits or losses by 400 times. While leverage can enhance trading opportunities, it is important to note that it also carries higher risks. Higher leverage increases the potential for both gains and losses, and traders should exercise caution and employ risk management strategies when utilizing leverage.

IFC Markets' offering of high leverage provides traders with the flexibility to adjust their trading strategies and access a larger market exposure, but it is crucial for traders to have a thorough understanding of leverage and its implications before engaging in leveraged trading activities.

Spreads & Commissions

IFC Markets offers competitive spreads to its clients. Traders have the option to choose between fixed spreads and floating spreads. The fixed spreads start from 1.8 pips, providing traders with a clear and consistent cost of trading. On the other hand, the floating spreads start from as low as 0.4 pips, allowing traders to potentially benefit from tighter spreads during periods of market volatility or when liquidity is high.

One advantage of trading with IFC Markets is that they do not charge any hidden commissions on trades. This means that traders can have greater transparency and clarity regarding their trading costs. By offering competitive spreads and transparent fee structures, IFC Markets aims to provide traders with a cost-effective trading environment.

Below is a comparison table about spreads and commissions charged by different brokers:

Please note that spreads and commissions can vary depending on market conditions, account type, and trading platform. It is always advisable to check with the broker directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding spreads and commissions.

Trading Platforms

IFC Markets offers traders NetTradeX, the market-leading MT4 and MT5 trading platforms. Both MT4 and MT5 are the most popular forex trading platforms on the market, and both support iOS, Android, and tablet versions, allowing traders to trade flexibly. NetTradeX is IFC Markets' proprietary trading platform, offering a user-friendly interface and a range of advanced trading tools. It is designed to cater to the needs of both beginner and experienced traders.

MT4 and MT5, on the other hand, are popular and widely used platforms in the industry. They offer comprehensive charting capabilities, advanced order management tools, and a wide range of technical indicators and expert advisors for automated trading.

The availability of multiple platforms allows traders to choose the one that best suits their trading preferences and strategies.

See the trading platform comparison table below:

Please note that this information is subject to change, and it's always recommended to verify the availability of specific trading platforms with the respective brokers directly.

Deposits & Withdrawals

IFC Markets offers a diverse range of deposit and withdrawal options to cater to the needs of its clients. Traders can choose from various methods such as International Bank Transfer, bank cards (Visa/MasterCard), Pasargad Novin, Cryptocurrencies, TopChange, Perfect Money, Boleto, Bitwallet, WebMoney, ADVCash, and Fasapay.

IFC Markets minimum deposit vs other brokers

The minimum deposit and withdrawal amounts, fees, and processing times may vary depending on the chosen method. It is recommended to refer to the provided screenshots or consult the IFC Markets website for detailed information on each payment option.

Customer Service

IFC Markets is committed to providing comprehensive customer support to assist its clients. With 24/7 availability, traders can reach out to the support team through various channels, including 19 languages live chat, phone, email, Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger, or by requesting a callback. This wide range of communication options ensures that clients can choose the method that is most convenient for them.

Additionally, IFC Markets maintains an active presence on popular social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn, allowing clients to stay updated on the latest news and developments. Furthermore, an FAQ section is available on the website, providing answers to frequently asked questions and assisting traders in finding quick solutions to common queries.

Overall, IFC Markets' customer service is considered reliable and responsive, with various options available for traders to seek assistance.

Education

IFC Markets places great emphasis on providing educational resources to support traders of all skill levels. Their educational offerings include a variety of materials designed to enhance traders' knowledge and skills. Video tutorials are available, offering step-by-step guidance on various trading topics. Additionally, Forex and CFD trading books provide in-depth information and insights into market analysis, trading strategies, and risk management.

Traders can also benefit from the Trader's Glossary, which contains a comprehensive list of terms and definitions commonly used in the financial markets. For those who seek a more structured learning experience, the IFCM Trading Academy offers courses tailored to different levels of expertise, including beginner, intermediate, and expert.

User Exposure on WikiFX

On our website, you can see that some reports of scams and unable to withdraw. Traders are encouraged to carefully review the available information and consider the risks associated with trading on an unregulated platform. You can check our platform for information before trading. If you find such fraudulent brokers or have been a victim of one, please let us know in the Exposure section, we would appreciate it and our team of experts will do everything possible to solve the problem for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IFC Markets offers a diverse range of trading instruments, multiple trading platforms, and educational resources, providing traders with opportunities for growth and flexibility. The availability of various deposit and withdrawal methods, along with responsive customer support, adds convenience to the trading experience.

However, the lack of regulatory licenses and reports of scams and withdrawal issues raise concerns about the safety and reliability of the broker. Traders should carefully evaluate the risks associated with trading on an unregulated platform and consider alternative options with stronger regulatory oversight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Overview:

FinMarket is an unregulated Forex and CFD broker based in Cyprus, established in 2015. Despite claiming to be regulated by CySEC, the lack of proper regulation raises concerns about the safety of traders' funds and the transparency of their operations. Unfortunately, the website is currently down, which adds further doubts about the broker's legitimacy. The high spreads and commissions, along with the relatively high minimum initial deposit of $1000, make it an unattractive option for traders, especially beginners. Moreover, the limited account manager availability and the absence of an FAQ section demonstrate a lack of commitment to customer support. Overall, due to the unregulated status and the website's unavailability, FinMarket should be approached with extreme caution.

Regulation:

Suspicious Clone.

A “Suspicious Clone” in the context of financial services refers to an entity that mimics or imitates the appearance and branding of a legitimate and regulated company, often with the intent to deceive and defraud unsuspecting individuals. These clones use similar names, websites, and other identifying features to create the illusion of being a reputable and regulated entity, while in reality, they are operating without proper authorization and oversight.

In the case of FinMarket being labeled as a “Suspicious Clone,” it suggests that the broker claims to be regulated by CySEC but lacks the necessary authorization and compliance. Such suspicious clones can pose significant risks to investors and traders, as they may engage in fraudulent activities, mismanage funds, and potentially disappear without a trace. Traders should exercise extreme caution when dealing with suspicious clones and always conduct thorough research and due diligence before entrusting their funds to any financial service provider.

Market Instruments Offered by FinMarket:

FinMarket offers a diverse array of market instruments, catering to traders' interests and allowing them to diversify their portfolios across different asset classes. The following table summarizes the market instruments along with some examples:

Forex Currency Pairs:

FinMarket provides access to more than 30 forex currency pairs, including major pairs like EUR/USD, EUR/GBP, and AUD/JPY. These major pairs offer high liquidity and are widely traded in the global forex market.

Major Indices:

Traders can participate in the performance of major stock market indices, such as FTSE, S&P 500, and NASDAQ. These indices represent the overall performance of specific stock markets and sectors.

Commodities:

FinMarket offers various commodities for trading, including precious metals like Silver and Gold, energy resources like Crude Oil, and agricultural products like Coffee. Commodity trading allows traders to diversify their investment strategies.

Individual Stocks:

With over 160 individual stocks available as CFDs, traders can speculate on the price movements of well-known market holders like Amazon, Netflix, and Apple. This allows investors to gain exposure to individual companies without owning the underlying shares.

Cryptocurrencies:

For those interested in the cryptocurrency market, FinMarket offers access to various digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. Cryptocurrency trading allows traders to capitalize on the price movements of these digital currencies.

Despite offering a diverse array of market instruments, FinMarket's lack of proper regulation raises concerns about the safety and legitimacy of its offerings. Traders should exercise extreme caution when considering this broker due to the absence of regulatory oversight, which may expose investors to potential risks and fraudulent activities. Additionally, the website being down further adds to the suspicion surrounding the broker. While the range of assets offered, including forex currency pairs, major indices, commodities, individual stocks, and cryptocurrencies, might seem attractive, the overall lack of regulation casts doubt on the broker's credibility and reliability. It is essential for traders to conduct thorough research and choose regulated brokers to safeguard their investments and trading experience.

Account Types：

FinMarket offers a range of trading accounts, but be warned, their account types may not be as attractive as they seem. Let's take a closer look at each account with a critical eye:

1. Mini Account:

1. Minimum Deposit: $250

2. Features: This account type may seem affordable, but don't be fooled. The demo account for practicing strategies is nothing special, and the 40% margin is quite restrictive. With only 24 Forex currency pairs and 10 commodities and indices for trading, you won't have a wide range of options. The leverage up to 1:500 might sound impressive, but it could lead to significant losses for inexperienced traders.

2. Standard Account:

1. Minimum Deposit: $1,000

2. Features: The demo account is available, but the 26 Forex currency pairs and 10 commodities and indices offered for trading are nothing extraordinary. The daily market news and SMS alerts may sound appealing, but they hardly compensate for the lack of variety in trading options. The dedicated account manager might not be as dedicated as you expect, and the Islamic account option is just a small gesture to attract a specific group of traders.

3. VIP Account:

1. Minimum Deposit: $10,000

2. Features: The high minimum deposit might make you think you're getting premium treatment, but don't be fooled. The additional features offered, such as 28 Forex currency pairs and a full range of commodities and indices, may not justify the steep price. Direct access to a trading manager might not be as beneficial as they claim, and the 30% margin is quite restrictive for experienced traders.

4. Premium Account:

1. Minimum Deposit: $100,000

2. Features: The hefty minimum deposit requirement might make you believe you're entering an exclusive club, but the reality might disappoint you. The in-depth analyst tips they promise are just a way to add some fluff to the account. The 25% margin is not as competitive as you'd expect, and the so-called deep liquidity might not be as deep as you hope.

Account Type	Minimum Deposit	Features
Mini Account	$250	- Demo account for practicing strategies<br> - 40% margin<br> - Trading options include 24 Forex currency pairs and 10 commodities and indices<br> - Leverage up to 1:500
Standard Account	$1,000	- Demo account available<br> - Trading options include 26 Forex currency pairs and 10 commodities and indices<br> - Daily market news and SMS alerts<br> - Dedicated account manager<br> - Islamic account option
VIP Account	$10,000	- 28 Forex currency pairs and a full range of commodities and indices for trading<br> - Direct access to a trading manager<br> - 30% margin
Premium Account	$100,000	- In-depth analyst tips<br> - 25% margin<br> - Claims of deep liquidity

In summary, FinMarket's account types might appear enticing at first glance, but upon closer inspection, they fail to deliver on their promises. The high minimum deposits, limited trading options, and questionable additional features make these accounts less appealing than they initially seem.

Leverage:

FinMarket boasts about offering “up to 1:500” leverage on their trading accounts. However, before you get too excited, let's take a closer look at the reality behind this high leverage claim.

While a leverage of 1:500 might seem like an attractive prospect, it comes with significant risks and drawbacks. High leverage can amplify both your potential profits and your potential losses. This means that even a small adverse price movement could wipe out a significant portion of your trading capital.

Inexperienced traders often get lured in by the promise of high leverage, thinking they can make huge profits with a small initial deposit. However, they fail to realize that it also exposes them to substantial risks.

Moreover, it's worth noting that regulatory authorities, like CySEC, which oversees FinMarket, have been tightening their rules regarding leverage. High leverage has been associated with increased client losses and is considered risky for retail traders. Many regulatory bodies now impose leverage caps to protect traders from excessive risk-taking.

So, while FinMarket might advertise high leverage as a way to attract traders, it's crucial to approach it with caution. Trading with such high leverage can be a recipe for disaster, especially for inexperienced traders who might not fully comprehend the risks involved.

In conclusion, the maximum trading leverage offered by FinMarket might sound appealing, but it's essential to remember that high leverage comes with substantial risks. It's crucial for traders to exercise caution and employ proper risk management strategies to protect their capital when trading with such high leverage.

Spreads & Commissions:

Spreads and commissions at FinMarket vary depending on the type of trading account. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that the broker's offerings are less competitive than they claim to be.

1. Spreads:

   FinMarket advertises “tight spreads” on their website, but in reality, the spreads they offer are quite high, especially on their Mini accounts. For the benchmark EUR/USD currency pair, the average spread exceeds 3.7 pips on Mini accounts. Such high spreads can significantly impact a trader's potential profits, making it challenging to trade cost-effectively.

2. Commissions:

   In addition to spreads, FinMarket charges commissions on trades, further increasing the overall cost of trading. The commission rates vary depending on the type of account. For Mini accounts, the commission fee is $15.00 per trade.

3. Comparison to Competitors:

   Compared to other reputable brokers in the market, FinMarket's trading costs are less favorable. Many competitors offer much lower spreads, often within the range of 1.0 to 1.5 pips for the EUR/USD pair, without charging additional commission fees.

4. Impact on Traders:

   The high spreads and commission fees at FinMarket can hinder a trader's ability to profit consistently, particularly for those with smaller trading accounts. These unfavorable trading conditions may lead to significant losses and can discourage traders from achieving their financial goals.

In conclusion, despite claiming to provide tight spreads and varying commissions, FinMarket's trading conditions fall short compared to many other brokers in the industry. Traders seeking cost-effective and competitive trading experiences may find better options with brokers offering lower spreads and commission fees.

Deposit & Withdrawal

Deposit and withdrawal processes at FinMarket seem to be relatively straightforward, offering various methods for funding accounts and accessing funds. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

1. Deposit Options:

   FinMarket provides several options for depositing funds into trading accounts. Traders can choose to deposit through credit transfer, wire transfer, or the electronic payment method Ecommpay. These options offer flexibility, allowing clients to select the most suitable method based on their preferences and location.

2. Minimum Deposit Requirements:

   The broker does not impose any specific minimum deposit requirements. However, it's important to note that individual payment channels may have their own minimum deposit limits. Traders should verify the minimum deposit amount with their chosen payment method before initiating the transaction.

3. Withdrawal Process:

   FinMarket generally processes withdrawals through the same method used for depositing funds. This is a standard practice among many brokers and helps ensure the security of transactions. Traders should be aware that withdrawal requests may take some time to process, depending on the payment method and the broker's internal procedures.

4. Fund Security:

   FinMarket emphasizes the security of customer funds. The broker operates under the regulation of the Cyprus Securities Exchange Commission (CySEC), which requires adherence to strict guidelines for the protection of client funds. Furthermore, the use of SSL encryption ensures the safe transmission of personal and financial information during transactions.

5. Additional Considerations:

   While the deposit and withdrawal processes themselves appear to be straightforward, traders should also consider the overall cost associated with funding their accounts and accessing their funds. This includes any fees charged by payment providers and potential currency conversion charges, especially for international clients.

In conclusion, FinMarket offers various deposit options and follows standard practices for processing withdrawals. However, traders should be aware of any minimum deposit requirements imposed by payment channels and carefully consider any associated costs to make informed decisions about funding their trading accounts and accessing their funds.

Trading Platforms:

FinMarket provides its clients with multiple trading platforms, ensuring a diverse range of options to suit individual preferences and trading styles. The broker offers the following trading platforms:

1. MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Platform:

   MetaTrader 4 is one of the most popular and widely used trading platforms in the industry. It offers a user-friendly interface and a comprehensive set of tools and features, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced traders. Traders can access advanced charting capabilities, a wide array of technical indicators, and various timeframes for market analysis. MT4 also supports automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs), allowing traders to execute trades automatically based on predefined strategies. The platform is available for desktop (Windows, Linux, and MacOS), as well as mobile devices (iOS and Android), providing convenience and flexibility for traders who prefer to trade on the go.

1. In-House Web Trading Platform (WebTrader):

   FinMarket has developed its own web-based trading platform known as WebTrader. This platform is accessible through any web browser without the need for downloading or installing additional software. WebTrader offers a user-friendly interface with one-click trading functionality, real-time market charts to monitor market trends, and social trading features. The platform caters to traders who prefer a hassle-free trading experience and wish to access their accounts from any internet-connected device.

2. In-House Mobile Trading Platform:

   For traders who are constantly on the move, FinMarket offers a mobile trading platform compatible with both Android and iOS devices. This mobile app provides full access to trading accounts, enabling traders to execute trades, monitor positions, and access real-time market data from the palm of their hands. The mobile trading platform ensures that traders can stay updated and respond to market movements promptly, regardless of their location.

In summary, FinMarket provides a diverse selection of trading platforms to cater to the needs of different traders. The MetaTrader 4 platform offers advanced tools and analysis for experienced traders, while the in-house WebTrader platform appeals to those seeking simplicity and convenience. Additionally, the mobile trading platform ensures traders can stay connected to the markets at all times, making it a comprehensive offering for a range of trading preferences.

Customer Support:

FinMarket's customer support has been a source of frustration for many traders, as it often fails to meet their expectations. The broker claims to provide reliable assistance, but in reality, reaching their customer support team can be a tedious and time-consuming process.

1. Phone Support: While FinMarket offers a phone support option, getting through to a support representative can be a daunting task. Traders often find themselves waiting on hold for extended periods, only to be met with unhelpful responses or transferred to different departments without any resolution.

2. Email Support: Traders who opt for email support are often left disappointed with the slow response times. It can take several days to receive a reply, and even then, the answers provided are often generic and fail to address the specific concerns raised by traders.

3. Live Chat: The live chat feature on FinMarket's website is advertised as a quick way to get assistance, but in reality, it is far from efficient. Traders report experiencing long wait times before connecting with a support agent, and when they do, the responses are often vague and unhelpful.

4. Web Contact Form: Submitting inquiries through the web contact form is no better, as traders rarely receive timely or satisfactory responses. It seems like the broker pays little attention to these contact forms, leaving traders feeling ignored and frustrated.

Overall, FinMarket's customer support is lackluster and inadequate. Traders have expressed their dissatisfaction with the slow response times, unhelpful answers, and overall lack of professionalism displayed by the support team. As a result, many traders feel let down by the broker's supposed commitment to providing reliable assistance.

Summary:

FinMarket is an unregulated Forex and CFD broker based in Cyprus, established in 2015. While it offers a diverse range of market instruments, including forex currency pairs, major indices, commodities, individual stocks, and cryptocurrencies, the lack of proper regulation raises concerns about the safety of traders' funds and the legitimacy of its operations. The high spreads, varying commissions, and relatively high minimum initial deposit of $1000 make it unattractive, especially for beginners. The website's unavailability adds further doubts about the broker's credibility. The customer support is inadequate, with slow response times and unhelpful assistance.

Pros:

• Offers a diverse array of market instruments.

• Provides multiple trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4 (MT4).

• Supports mobile trading for on-the-go access.

Cons:

• Unregulated status raises concerns about fund safety and transparency.

• High spreads and commissions impact profitability.

• High minimum deposit requirements.

• Inadequate customer support with slow response times and unhelpful answers.

• Website unavailability adds to doubts about legitimacy.

Overall, due to the lack of regulation, high costs, and unsatisfactory customer support, FinMarket is not recommended for traders. It is essential to consider alternative, regulated brokers with better trading conditions and customer service for a more secure and reliable trading experience.

FAQs:

Q1: Is FinMarket a regulated broker？

A1: No, FinMarket is an unregulated broker, which raises concerns about the safety of traders' funds and the transparency of their operations.

Q2: What is the minimum initial deposit required to open an account with FinMarket？

A2: The minimum initial deposit for a Mini account is $250, while the VIP account requires a minimum deposit of $10,000.

Q3: Does FinMarket offer a demo account for practice？

A3: Yes, FinMarket provides a demo account for traders to practice their strategies before trading with real money.

Q4: What trading platforms does FinMarket offer？

A4: FinMarket offers MetaTrader 4 (MT4), a web-based platform (WebTrader), and a mobile trading platform for Android and iOS devices.

Q5: Is customer support readily available at FinMarket？

A5: FinMarket's customer support has been reported as inadequate, with slow response times and unhelpful assistance, making it a source of frustration for traders.