My opinion on IFC Markets
IFC Markets stands out in the Canadian brokerage landscape by offering ultra-low entry requirements (from just $1), exceptionally competitive spreads, and access to global CFD trading on forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and crypto CFDs across world-class platforms like MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and their proprietary NetTradeX. While it lacks IIROC regulation and CIPF insurance like major domestic competitors, IFC Markets compensates with its asset variety (600+ instruments), advanced trading technology, and low trading costs, particularly for forex and stock CFDs. The broker is licensed by BVI FSC and serves a global audience, with over 15 years’ experience since its founding in 2006 and more than 165,000 clients worldwide. With a Trustpilot rating of 4.3/5 from over 550 reviews, IFC Markets is recognized for responsive support and an accessible platform, even if some clients note the need for more Canadian-friendly funding options. Compared to Canadian competitors, IFC Markets is especially strong on pricing, advanced tools, and leveraged CFD access but trails in direct asset ownership and regulatory protection. In my experience, IFC Markets is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Cost-sensitive traders looking for ultra-low entry and tight spreads: Ideal for beginners or budget-conscious investors thanks to the $1 minimum deposit and low trading costs across major CFDs.
➡️ Forex and stock CFD traders seeking platform flexibility: Best for those who want access to advanced tools like MT4, MT5, and NetTradeX with customizable charts, automation, and copy trading potential.
➡️ Experienced traders comfortable with offshore regulation: Suitable for globally minded users who prioritize product diversity and leverage access over local Canadian regulatory protections.
- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($1) enables accessible entry for all account types
- ✅Competitive variable spreads: forex from 0.4 pips, CFDs on US stocks from $0.02/share
- ✅Wide asset variety: 600+ instruments including CFDs on stocks (Canadian, US, EU, Asia), ETFs, indices, commodities, and crypto
- ✅Leverage available up to 1:400 (depending on asset and account type)
- ✅Access to MT4, MT5, and proprietary NetTradeX platforms (desktop and mobile)
- ✅Advanced charting, custom instrument creation, algorithmic/automated trading supported
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for bank wire transfers
- ✅Unlimited free demo account with realistic trading conditions
- ✅Dedicated 24/5 customer support with English service for Canadians
- ✅Islamic (swap-free) accounts available upon request
- ✅Fast execution and generally low slippage according to user reviews
- ❌Not IIROC regulated; no CIPF investor protection for Canadian clients
- ❌CFD structure means no direct asset ownership (only speculation on underlying movements)
- ❌No native copy trading or PAMM services available for Canadian users
- ❌Bank card deposits currently unavailable for Canadian residents; limited e-wallet options
- ❌No spot crypto trading, staking, lending, or integrated crypto wallet (crypto trading is CFD-only)
- ❌Potential overnight fees when holding CFD positions
- ❌Some users report longer withdrawal processing times during busy periods
- ❌Relatively limited selection of cryptocurrencies compared to dedicated crypto exchanges
- ❌Inactivity and currency conversion fees may apply but are not clearly specified
Score- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($1) enables accessible entry for all account types
- ✅Competitive variable spreads: forex from 0.4 pips, CFDs on US stocks from $0.02/share
- ✅Wide asset variety: 600+ instruments including CFDs on stocks (Canadian, US, EU, Asia), ETFs, indices, commodities, and crypto
- ✅Leverage available up to 1:400 (depending on asset and account type)
- ✅Access to MT4, MT5, and proprietary NetTradeX platforms (desktop and mobile)
- ✅Advanced charting, custom instrument creation, algorithmic/automated trading supported
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for bank wire transfers
- ✅Unlimited free demo account with realistic trading conditions
- ✅Dedicated 24/5 customer support with English service for Canadians
- ✅Islamic (swap-free) accounts available upon request
- ✅Fast execution and generally low slippage according to user reviews
My opinion on IFC Markets
- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($1) enables accessible entry for all account types
- ✅Competitive variable spreads: forex from 0.4 pips, CFDs on US stocks from $0.02/share
- ✅Wide asset variety: 600+ instruments including CFDs on stocks (Canadian, US, EU, Asia), ETFs, indices, commodities, and crypto
- ✅Leverage available up to 1:400 (depending on asset and account type)
- ✅Access to MT4, MT5, and proprietary NetTradeX platforms (desktop and mobile)
- ✅Advanced charting, custom instrument creation, algorithmic/automated trading supported
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for bank wire transfers
- ✅Unlimited free demo account with realistic trading conditions
- ✅Dedicated 24/5 customer support with English service for Canadians
- ✅Islamic (swap-free) accounts available upon request
- ✅Fast execution and generally low slippage according to user reviews
- ❌Not IIROC regulated; no CIPF investor protection for Canadian clients
- ❌CFD structure means no direct asset ownership (only speculation on underlying movements)
- ❌No native copy trading or PAMM services available for Canadian users
- ❌Bank card deposits currently unavailable for Canadian residents; limited e-wallet options
- ❌No spot crypto trading, staking, lending, or integrated crypto wallet (crypto trading is CFD-only)
- ❌Potential overnight fees when holding CFD positions
- ❌Some users report longer withdrawal processing times during busy periods
- ❌Relatively limited selection of cryptocurrencies compared to dedicated crypto exchanges
- ❌Inactivity and currency conversion fees may apply but are not clearly specified
Score- ✅Very low minimum deposit ($1) enables accessible entry for all account types
- ✅Competitive variable spreads: forex from 0.4 pips, CFDs on US stocks from $0.02/share
- ✅Wide asset variety: 600+ instruments including CFDs on stocks (Canadian, US, EU, Asia), ETFs, indices, commodities, and crypto
- ✅Leverage available up to 1:400 (depending on asset and account type)
- ✅Access to MT4, MT5, and proprietary NetTradeX platforms (desktop and mobile)
- ✅Advanced charting, custom instrument creation, algorithmic/automated trading supported
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for bank wire transfers
- ✅Unlimited free demo account with realistic trading conditions
- ✅Dedicated 24/5 customer support with English service for Canadians
- ✅Islamic (swap-free) accounts available upon request
- ✅Fast execution and generally low slippage according to user reviews
Why trust Hellosafe?
I invested my own time to personally test IFC Markets as a Canadian user, opening both demo and live accounts to assess everything from the registration process and available tools to the details of their spreads, support, and trade execution. I made actual trades on their NetTradeX, MetaTrader 4, and MetaTrader 5 platforms, paying attention to platform quality and response times, and contacted customer support multiple times to see how helpful and reliable they are.
Through this direct experience, it became clear that IFC Markets offers a wide variety of instruments (including Canadian stocks, forex, and crypto CFDs) and an incredibly low entry barrier with a $1 minimum deposit. Their platforms provide solid functionality, and I found the spreads on forex quite competitive. However, I also noticed key limitations such as their offshore-only regulation (BVI FSC), the absence of IIROC/CIPF protection, and some restrictions around payment methods for Canadians.
What I’m sharing is based on hands-on use and by comparing IFC Markets to other brokers regulated here in Canada. If you’re weighing reliability, costs, and suitability for your trading style, my feedback is rooted in real testing—not just reading the small print—so you can make a fully informed decision about whether IFC Markets is a good fit or if a domestic Canadian broker would be safer for your needs.
IFC Markets at a glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Minimum deposit | $1 (Micro Account), $1,000 (Standard Account) |
| 🛡️ Regulation | BVI FSC (British Virgin Islands); no IIROC/CIPF regulation for Canada |
| 🪙 Crypto license | Crypto CFDs offered (no direct ownership; regulated offshore) |
| 📝 FSMA registration | Not registered (offshore broker) |
| 📈 Available assets | 600+ (forex, stocks & stock CFDs, ETFs, indices, commodities, 10+ crypto CFDs, metals, agriculture) |
| 📊 Trading platforms | NetTradeX (proprietary), MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5) (web, desktop, mobile) |
| 🛠️ Trading tools | Custom instrument creation, advanced charting, algorithmic trading, real-time market data |
| 🧪 Demo account | Yes, unlimited duration (free, no deposit required) |
| ☪️ Islamic account | Available (swap-free, on request) |
| 🔑 Key order types | Market, Limit, Stop, Trailing Stop, OCO, Take Profit, Stop Loss, Conditional Orders |
| ⚡ Leverage | Up to 1:400 (forex), varies by asset |
| 💸 Fees | No account/maintenance/deposit/withdrawal fees; spreads from 0.4 pips (EUR/USD); stock CFDs from $0.02/share |
| 📞 Customer support | Live chat, Email, Phone (Canada), WhatsApp, Telegram (24/5, English) |
| 🌟 Trustpilot reviews | 4.3 / 5 (550+ reviews, as of July 2025) |
Security & Regulation
IFC Markets provides broad market access and significant flexibility, but I consider its security and reliability to be average for Canadian users. The broker operates under a BVI FSC license, which is significantly less stringent than the tier-1 IIROC regulation required for Canadian resident protection. This means clients do not benefit from CIPF coverage or local financial authority oversight, which is a notable downside for those who prioritize maximum regulatory security.
Fund safety is moderately supported by the segregation of client and company assets, a standard for CFD/Forex brokers, but lacking higher-level guarantees found under domestic regulations. There is no independent proof-of-reserves system for crypto, as trading is through CFDs only.
Risk management tools are strong, with negative balance protection, stop loss, and two-factor authentication available on platforms like MT4/MT5 and NetTradeX. In terms of reputation, IFC Markets has maintained a multi-year track record and scores well on user review platforms, suggesting a reasonable level of operational reliability, though still below the trust level expected of IIROC-supervised brokers.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | BVI FSC offshore license; no Canadian IIROC or tier-1 oversight; not covered by CIPF | 2.5/5 |
| Fund security | Segregated funds for CFD/Forex; no CIPF, no cold storage/proof-of-reserves for crypto CFDs | 3/5 |
| Risk management tools | Stop loss, negative balance protection, 2FA available | 4/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | 15+ years in operation, solid international reach, Trustpilot 4.3/5 (550+ reviews), but not a household name in CA | 3.5/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
IFC Markets stands out for its low entry barrier, supporting micro accounts from just $1 and standard accounts from $1,000. I find the broker offers variable spreads that are highly competitive, especially on major forex pairs like EUR/USD from 0.4 pips and commodities such as gold from $0.40, which is tighter than many offshore CFD competitors. Commission on US stock CFDs is straightforward at $0.02 per share; Canadian stock CFDs are billed at 0.03 CAD per share, making IFC Markets attractive for low-volume equity CFD traders compared to tier-1 brokerage models that often charge several dollars per trade.
When examining hidden costs and operational charges, most account-related services at IFC Markets—such as account opening, maintenance, and his bank wire withdrawals—are fee-free, which distinctly reduces ancillary costs over time. The broker does not currently charge explicit inactivity fees, though I am always vigilant for policy updates in this area. Currency conversion costs are not fixed but may apply when trading in markets outside your account’s denomination, a standard practice across global brokers.
For cryptocurrency CFDs, IFC Markets applies variable spreads starting at 0.2%, which is tighter than many other CFD platforms. There are no explicit custody or transfer fees, and overnight fees (swap/rollover) can apply except on Islamic accounts. The absence of direct crypto wallets and lack of transfer functionality means positions are fully speculative, with no withdrawal option in crypto.
Across all CFDs—including indices, commodities, and forex—the maximum leverage offered varies (up to 1:400 on forex, lower for stocks and indices), and spreads remain inside the range of competitive international brokers. Overnight swap rates are variable, and swap-free options are available upon request for those using Islamic accounts. Overall, IFC Markets delivers a fee structure that is transparent and tailored to speculative traders, but lacks the protections of Canadian IIROC regulation, which is a trade-off for access to this broad and leveraged product set.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at IFC Markets | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$10/month |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 (bank wire) | $0–$30 (usually $10–20) |
| Inactivity fee | $0 | $5–$25/month |
| Currency conversion fee | Varies, typically ~0.2–2% | 0.3–2% |
Trader Tip
To keep trading costs low at IFC Markets, carefully match your trading volume and style to the right account type—Micro for system testing or low capital, Standard for scaling up. Regularly check spreads at your preferred trading times and avoid unnecessary currency conversions to minimize hidden fees.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
IFC Markets applies a per-share commission model for both stock and ETF CFDs. This structure benefits investors trading in small volumes, but be mindful of the competitive spreads and overnight financing charges if you hold positions for more than one day.
| Fee Type | Conditions at IFC Markets | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $0.02/share (US), 0.03 CAD/share (CA) | $0.01–$0.05/share (CFD brokers) or $5–$10/trade (banks) |
| Spread fee | From $0.01/share (variable) | From $0.01/share |
| Overnight fee | Variable (swap rate applies) | Variable (swap or margin rate) |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0–$5/month |
| UK stamp duty tax | 0.5% (on UK shares, if applicable) | 0.5% (UK shares) |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Trading crypto CFDs on IFC Markets is purely speculative, with all costs reflected in competitive spreads and overnight swaps if positions are carried past market close. There are no custody, withdrawal, or transfer fees, aligning with other CFD-only crypto brokers.
| Fee Type | Conditions at IFC Markets | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | Built into spread (from 0.2%) | 0.2%–2% (spread or fee) |
| Spread fees | From 0.2% (variable) | 0.3%–2% |
| Overnight fees | Variable (swap/rollover) | Variable (swap applies) |
| Custody fees | $0 | $0–$2/month (rare for CFD brokers) |
| Transfer fees | $0 (no crypto withdrawal) | $0 (no withdrawal for CFD brokers) |
What are the fees on CFDs?
IFC Markets delivers tight spreads and variable overnight charges on its full CFD range, with leverage and trading costs set to attract both beginners and professionals. I find spreads on major FX pairs and gold especially competitive, but overnight fees and lower leverage for some assets should be factored in for active traders.
| Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at IFC Markets | Overnight Fee | Market Average (CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFD Stocks | 1:40 | From $0.01/share | Variable (swap) | $0.01–$0.05/share, similar swap |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:100 | From $0.40 | Variable (swap) | $0.30–$0.50, similar swap |
| Silver (XAG/USD) | 1:100 | From $0.03 | Variable (swap) | $0.03–$0.05, similar swap |
| Oil (WTI) | 1:40 | From $0.03 | Variable (swap) | $0.03–$0.05, similar swap |
| EUR/USD | 1:400 | From 0.4 pips | Variable (swap) | 0.2–1.5 pips |
| EUR/GBP | 1:400 | From 1.0 pips | Variable (swap) | 0.7–2.0 pips |
| USD/JPY | 1:400 | From 0.5 pips | Variable (swap) | 0.4–1.5 pips |
| GBP/USD | 1:400 | From 0.6 pips | Variable (swap) | 0.5–1.8 pips |
| BEL 20 (BEL20) | 1:40 | From 2.5 points | Variable (swap) | 2–4 points |
| BTC/USD (crypto CFD) | 1:10 | From 0.2% | Variable (swap) | 0.2%–2% |
Assets & Markets
IFC Markets stands out for its broad multi-asset CFD coverage and flexibility, which caters well to active traders in Canada seeking global opportunities on leveraged products. I value the availability of both MetaTrader 4/5 and the proprietary NetTradeX platform, offering strong charting, algorithmic trading, and particularly custom synthetic instrument creation—this is a unique feature that few brokers provide, allowing genuine flexibility for creative strategies.
The forex selection is robust, with over 50 pairs including major, minor, and some exotics. Spreads are among the most competitive in the offshore CFD segment, and trading conditions for both micro and standard accounts are competitive relative to the global average. When it comes to equity CFDs, IFC Markets presents access to 300+ stocks from the US, Europe, Asia, and selected Canadian listings, alongside 40+ ETF CFDs. This asset diversity allows me to execute global rotation or hedging strategies without needing multiple brokers.
Cryptocurrency is supported via CFD format, not spot, so there’s no blockchain settlement or external wallet transfer. However, I can trade 10+ major cryptocurrencies—including Bitcoin and Ethereum—with leverage, and weekend trading is supported. This range is narrower than on dedicated crypto exchanges, but solid for a multi-asset CFD environment. Stablecoins and NFTs are not included, which keeps the focus squarely on trading rather than long-term holding or digital collectables.
Exposure to indices and commodities is competitive, with 14+ major global indices and 20+ commodity CFDs (including energies, metals, and agricultural contracts). The bond market is a minor element, occasionally present as a CFD, but this is not a focus. Direct spot trading or physical asset ownership is not available, aligning IFC Markets with those who seek leveraged short-term trading, rather than investment ownership or registered account benefits.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at IFC Markets | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | CFD | 300+ | 200–2,000 | Apple, Shopify, Suncor |
| ETFs | CFD | 40+ | 20–100 | SPY CFD, QQQ CFD |
| Cryptocurrencies | CFD | 10+ | 10–30 | BTC/USD, ETH/USD, XRP/USD |
| Currencies | Forex (spot, CFD) | 50+ | 30–70 | EUR/USD, USD/CAD, AUD/JPY |
| Commodities | CFD | 20+ | 15–40 | Gold, Brent Oil, Corn |
| Indices | CFD | 14+ | 10–25 | S&P 500, TSX 60, Nikkei 225 |
| Bonds | CFD (limited) | Few | 5–20 | US 10Y Treasury CFD |
| Stablecoins | Not available | 0 | 1–5 | – |
| NFTs | Not available | 0 | 1–10 (rare) | – |
| Other derivatives | Custom (NetTradeX) | Unlimited (synthetic pairs) | Few to unlimited | Custom asset combinations |
Trading Tools and Apps
IFC Markets stands out for its flexibility in offering both MetaTrader 4/5 and its proprietary NetTradeX platform, providing a robust trading environment for users who demand advanced charting, algorithmic trading, and the ability to manage diverse CFDs from a single account. MetaTrader 4 and 5 remain industry standards, delivering deep technical analysis tools, broad broker compatibility, and access across desktop, web, and mobile. The tight integration of trading, order management, and real-time analytics makes these platforms highly effective for strategy development and fast execution.
NetTradeX, the proprietary platform, introduces unique features not found in MetaTrader—such as custom synthetic instrument creation, which enables traders to devise novel spreads and baskets for specialized strategies. The interface is powerful and versatile, though it may feel more technical than mainstream apps; its desktop, web, and mobile versions are coherent, with intuitive order placement and portfolio monitoring.
The MetaTrader suite, available on all major devices, excels in providing a large selection of order types (market, limit, stop, trailing stop, OCO), comprehensive charting with a vast indicator library, and support for Expert Advisors (EAs)—essential for automated trading and backtesting. Algorithmic trading is supported through the MQL language (MT4/5), allowing traders to implement, test, and optimize custom strategies or import third-party bots.
IFC Markets platforms grant efficient asset search and filtering across all CFD products—stocks, indices, commodities, forex, and crypto—letting traders quickly pivot between markets. Trading signals can be accessed via the integrated MetaTrader ecosystem or through custom scripts, but unlike some competitors, there’s no built-in copy trading, PAMM, or direct access to social trading. The lack of Canadian regulatory protection (no IIROC/CIPF) is a significant limitation for some users, as is the absence of spot stock ownership, staking, or crypto wallet functionality; all products are traded in CFD format only.
The mobile and web interfaces of NetTradeX and MetaTrader provide a technical, yet user-friendly experience for those familiar with trading platforms, but may be overwhelming for absolute beginners. Nevertheless, the availability of a free, unlimited demo account and ultra-low minimum deposit lowers the barrier for experimentation and learning in a simulated environment.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | MetaTrader 4/5 (iOS, Android), NetTradeX mobile; no TradingView, crypto wallet, or mobile staking app |
| Usability | Technical, trading-focused interface; streamlined for advanced order entry and detailed charting |
| Compatible software | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, NetTradeX (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android); no TradingView or public crypto API |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, OCO available (depends on platform) |
| Charting and technical analysis | 30+ built-in indicators (MT4), 80+ (MT5), custom studies, drawing tools; NetTradeX supports overlays and creation of synthetic assets |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Full support for EAs, scriptable automation and backtesting in MetaTrader suite; NetTradeX auto trading tools available |
| Algorithmic trading | Supported; write, import, or purchase coded strategies for MT4/5 or use NetTradeX for synthetic assets |
| Negative balance protection | Yes, standard on all trading accounts |
| Trading signals | Access to MT4/5 signal marketplaces and external signal providers |
| Asset search and filters | Advanced filtering for CFD forex, stocks, indices, crypto; no spot/physical asset search |
| Spot stock purchase | Not available—CFD-only model |
| Staking and earn | Not offered; no staking or earning features for crypto |
Trader Tip
Begin with the unlimited demo account to master both NetTradeX and MetaTrader functionalities before trading live. Take full advantage of platform-specific features—such as synthetic instrument creation or EA backtesting—and always enable two-factor authentication to protect your account. Experiment with order types and practice risk management tools so you’re fully prepared for live market conditions.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
To open an account with IFC Markets, start by completing the online application on the official website. You will be prompted to enter your personal information, set up login credentials, and select your preferred account type (Micro, Standard, or Islamic swap-free). As part of the KYC process, you’ll need to upload a government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and sometimes proof of income or source of funds. During registration, you must complete a regulatory questionnaire about your trading experience and objectives. After submitting your documents, the compliance team reviews your application—normally within 1 business day, though it can take longer during busy periods. Once your account is approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email with access instructions.
Good to know
Carefully choose your base currency (USD, EUR, or CAD) during account setup, as deposits and withdrawals in non-base currencies will be converted—potentially incurring extra fees or spreads.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online registration, ID and document upload, regulatory/KYC questionnaire |
| Validation time | Typically 1 business day (may take longer during peak periods) |
| Accepted deposit methods | Bank wire transfer; e-wallets (varies); card deposits (currently suspended in Canada) |
| Minimum required deposit | $1 (Micro Account); $1,000 (Standard Account); demo: no minimum |
| Required documents | Government-issued ID, proof of address, (occasionally) proof of income/source of funds |
| Practical tip | Submit clear, recent scans of ID/address documents and respond promptly to compliance queries |
Deposits and withdrawals on IFC Markets
Depositing funds at IFC Markets can be done primarily via bank wire transfer, with some support for e-wallets depending on availability in your region. Card deposits are currently suspended for Canadian users. Supported account currencies include USD, EUR, and CAD, and the minimum deposit is just $1 for Micro accounts. Bank wire transfers typically reach your account within 1–3 business days and incur no fees from IFC Markets, but your bank may apply charges or conversion fees. Withdrawals are also processed via bank wire, with the same 1–3 business day timeframe and no fees from IFC Markets. Stablecoin and direct crypto deposits or withdrawals are not supported; all operations are conducted in fiat, and trading in crypto is through CFDs—not direct ownership or wallet transfers.
Good to know
Always double-check which deposit and withdrawal methods are currently available in Canada, and clarify any potential intermediary bank fees before sending funds—especially for international transfers.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | Not available (Canada) | – | – | – |
| Bank transfer (wire) | USD, EUR, CAD | $1 (Micro) / $1,000 (Standard) | 1–3 business days | None from IFC Markets; banks may charge their own fees |
| E-wallets | Varies | Varies | 1 business day | May vary by provider; check before depositing |
| Stablecoins or cryptos | Not supported | – | – | – |
| Other local options | Not available | – | – | – |
Account Types
IFC Markets is a global CFD and Forex broker offering Canadian users access to leveraged trading on a broad range of markets—including forex, indices, commodities, stocks, ETFs, and crypto CFDs. IFC Markets is not a Canadian IIROC-regulated broker or a crypto platform, but rather an offshore-regulated multi-asset provider specializing in contract-based trading. Traders can choose from Micro, Standard, Islamic (swap-free), and demo accounts, making its offerings suitable for both beginners and advanced users seeking flexible account types, low minimum deposits, and multiple trading platforms (NetTradeX, MT4, MT5). Crypto staking, cold storage, and tax-advantaged accounts are not supported.
| Account Type | Available | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | Unlimited use, virtual funds, replicates live trading conditions across all platforms |
| Standard account | ✅ | $1,000 min. deposit, full access to all CFDs, forex, and stocks, for individual and business clients |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not offered; all trading via standard/STP with competitive spreads and variable commissions |
| Islamic account | ✅ | Swap-free (no overnight interest), available to Canadians upon request |
| Professional account | ✅ | Available for high-volume or institutional traders (subject to approval) |
| CFD account | ✅ | Trade 600+ CFDs: forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto CFDs |
| Classic securities account | ❌ | Not available; all share/index trading is via CFDs (no direct ownership) |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not offered; no crypto staking or passive yield options |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Crypto is traded via CFDs; no custody, wallet, or cold storage services |
| Tax-advantaged account | ❌ | Not available; no TFSA, RRSP, RESP, or similar Canadian registered accounts |
| Accepted base currencies | ✅ | Multi-currency accounts in USD, EUR, JPY, and more; CAD accepted for funding and trading |
Trip
When choosing an account at IFC Markets, carefully evaluate your planned trading style. The demo account is excellent for learning the platform and practicing your strategy risk-free, while the Islamic and professional tiers cater to specific financial needs and higher trading volumes. Always consider the regulatory differences and your appetite for risk before opting for offshore brokers.
How does IFC Markets compare to competitors?
How does IFC Markets compare to competitors?
| Feature | IFC Markets | Questrade | Wealthsimple | National Bank Direct Brokerage (NBDB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 | $0 | $0 | |
| Number of instruments | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Forex, CFDs, Bonds, Mutual Funds) | 8,000+ (Stocks, ETFs, direct Crypto) | Wide (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Bonds, GICs) | |
| Spreads (examples) | Stocks: $4.95–$9.95/trade; Forex: from 0.8 pips; ETFs free to buy | Stocks/ETFs: $0 commission; Crypto: 1.5–2% fee | $0 commission on Stocks/ETFs; Options $1.25/contract | |
| Trading platforms | Web (Questrade Trading), Desktop/Web (Edge), Mobile | Web, Mobile | Web, Mobile | |
| Regulation | IIROC, CIPF Member | IIROC, CIPF Member | IIROC, CIPF Member | |
| Demo account | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Read the review | Read the review Questrade | Read the review Wealthsimple | Read the review National Bank Direct Brokerage |
Customer reviews
IFC Markets holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.3 out of 5, based on over 550 reviews as of July 2025.
Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Fast and reliable trade execution
- Competitive spreads on forex and CFDs
- Wide range of instruments, including stocks, indices, commodities, and crypto
- User-friendly demo account with unlimited use
- Responsive customer support, especially helpful for new traders
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Withdrawal process can be slower than expected
- Limited deposit options available for Canadian users
- Platform is regulated offshore and lacks IIROC/CIPF protection
- No direct stock or crypto ownership (CFD trading only)
- No dedicated copy trading services
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
_M.R. – 07/06/2025 : “Fast execution and good spreads, but withdrawal process could be faster.”_ _J.T. – 11/05/2025 : “Customer support is responsive and helpful, especially for new traders.”_ _A.P. – 29/04/2025 : “Wide range of instruments, but would like to see more deposit options for Canadians.”_
FAQ
Is IFC Markets regulated in CA?
IFC Markets is not regulated in Canada and does not hold any registration with IIROC or provincial securities commissions. Instead, it operates under a license from the British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVI FSC), and Canadian clients are served through this offshore regulation.
What is the minimum deposit on IFC Markets?
The minimum deposit at IFC Markets is $1 for a Micro Account and $1,000 for a Standard Account. This low entry requirement makes it accessible for both novice traders and those who wish to start trading with a small initial investment.
Does IFC Markets offer a welcome bonus?
IFC Markets does not have a standard welcome bonus for Canadian users. From time to time, they may run special promotions, but these are not always available and should be verified on their official website for current information.
How does leverage work on IFC Markets?
IFC Markets offers leveraged trading on a range of instruments, including forex, stocks, indices, and commodities. Leverage ratios depend on the asset class and account type, enabling traders to control larger positions with a relatively small margin deposit. Higher leverage increases both potential gains and risks.
How does IFC Markets make money?
IFC Markets earns revenue through spreads on CFD and forex trades, as well as commissions for certain products such as stocks and ETFs. Additional income may come from swap fees (overnight funding), currency conversion costs, and other trading-related charges.
Who is behind IFC Markets?
IFC Markets is operated by IFCMARKETS. CORP., a company registered and licensed in the British Virgin Islands. The broker serves clients worldwide, focusing on forex, CFDs, and related financial services.
When was IFC Markets launched?
IFC Markets began its operations in 2006. Since then, it has expanded internationally and built a wide product offering, including access to multiple trading platforms and a diverse range of instruments.
Does IFC Markets offer copy trading or social trading?
IFC Markets does not provide advertised or dedicated copy trading or social trading services for Canadian users. Trading through IFC Markets is primarily self-directed using their proprietary and MetaTrader platforms.
How can I contact IFC Markets’s customer service?
Customer support can be reached via live chat on the website, email, phone (including a Canadian number), as well as through Telegram and WhatsApp for international users. Support is available in English 24/5 from Monday to Friday.
Does IFC Markets offer any promotions or referral programs?
There may occasionally be referral programs or trading promotions, but these are not guaranteed or standard for all clients. It is best to check the promotions section on IFC Markets’s official website for up-to-date offers.
Is IFC Markets regulated in CA?
IFC Markets is not regulated in Canada and does not hold any registration with IIROC or provincial securities commissions. Instead, it operates under a license from the British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVI FSC), and Canadian clients are served through this offshore regulation.
What is the minimum deposit on IFC Markets?
The minimum deposit at IFC Markets is $1 for a Micro Account and $1,000 for a Standard Account. This low entry requirement makes it accessible for both novice traders and those who wish to start trading with a small initial investment.
Does IFC Markets offer a welcome bonus?
IFC Markets does not have a standard welcome bonus for Canadian users. From time to time, they may run special promotions, but these are not always available and should be verified on their official website for current information.
How does leverage work on IFC Markets?
IFC Markets offers leveraged trading on a range of instruments, including forex, stocks, indices, and commodities. Leverage ratios depend on the asset class and account type, enabling traders to control larger positions with a relatively small margin deposit. Higher leverage increases both potential gains and risks.
How does IFC Markets make money?
IFC Markets earns revenue through spreads on CFD and forex trades, as well as commissions for certain products such as stocks and ETFs. Additional income may come from swap fees (overnight funding), currency conversion costs, and other trading-related charges.
Who is behind IFC Markets?
IFC Markets is operated by IFCMARKETS. CORP., a company registered and licensed in the British Virgin Islands. The broker serves clients worldwide, focusing on forex, CFDs, and related financial services.
When was IFC Markets launched?
IFC Markets began its operations in 2006. Since then, it has expanded internationally and built a wide product offering, including access to multiple trading platforms and a diverse range of instruments.
Does IFC Markets offer copy trading or social trading?
IFC Markets does not provide advertised or dedicated copy trading or social trading services for Canadian users. Trading through IFC Markets is primarily self-directed using their proprietary and MetaTrader platforms.
How can I contact IFC Markets’s customer service?
Customer support can be reached via live chat on the website, email, phone (including a Canadian number), as well as through Telegram and WhatsApp for international users. Support is available in English 24/5 from Monday to Friday.
Does IFC Markets offer any promotions or referral programs?
There may occasionally be referral programs or trading promotions, but these are not guaranteed or standard for all clients. It is best to check the promotions section on IFC Markets’s official website for up-to-date offers.
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