IC says market access is just the beginning at Forex Expo Dubai 2026 event

IC, previously known as IC Markets Global, participated on the first day of Forex Expo Dubai 2026 alongside over 16,000 traders, brokers and industry professionals. The conference took place on 22–23 September at the Dubai World Trade Centre. During an executive interview and a leadership panel, Jason Hughes, General Manager of IC MENA, stated that providing market access alone no longer differentiates a broker. What truly counts, he said, is how the trading experience performs during challenging conditions.

The company was also awarded the title "World's Most Trusted Broker" at Forex Expo Dubai 2026, adding another achievement as it strengthens its footprint in international markets.

Beyond market access

In an executive interview at the expo, Jason talked about how trader expectations are shifting and why the infrastructure behind the trading experience is becoming more important as markets speed up and become more interconnected.

"Access to markets is just the starting point. What matters is the quality of the experience around that access. For us, that means execution, technology, infrastructure and reliability, particularly when markets are moving quickly and those things matter most. We've been in the market for nearly 20 years, and that longevity matters. Serious traders want to know that the infrastructure behind their trading has been tested over time and is built to perform consistently."

IC keeps investing in execution, connectivity and liquidity access, with a focus on ensuring the technology and infrastructure behind each order can deliver consistent performance during times of heightened market volatility.

A more international, more sophisticated trader

Jason also reflected on how the regional trading environment has changed and the increasingly global profile of traders in the UAE and surrounding region.

"It's interesting how international and sophisticated the market has become. Traders here have exposure to different markets, asset classes and regions, and they expect the same level of technology, access and service they would expect from a global financial centre. You need global capability, but you also need to understand the market and the clients you are serving locally."

As traders adopt more automation, advanced tools and multi-asset strategies, he noted, the benchmark for brokers continues to rise.

Running FX and crypto risk from the UAE

On 23 September, Jason Hughes took part in the leadership panel called "Running FX and Crypto Risk from a Well-Tested UAE Hub". The session examined how firms should react when geopolitical events, policy announcements and social media move markets almost simultaneously.

Jason addressed how quickly a brokerage should change its risk stance after a major geopolitical event, and how well-prepared companies manage liquidity and client exposure during extreme volatility. The discussion also covered the benefits and challenges of managing FX and crypto risk from the UAE as the country grows into an international financial hub.

Performance under pressure

IC's exhibition area showcased the TGR Haas F1 Team show car and a race simulator, attracting steady visitors over both days. "Motorsport and trading are very different worlds, but the common thread is performance under pressure," said Hughes. "It comes from preparation, precision, technology and the ability to make good decisions when it matters most."

About IC

IC is among the largest online trading providers globally, offering a broad selection of trading instruments in Forex, indices, commodities, stocks, bonds and cryptocurrencies. Founded in Australia in 2007, the company is recognised for its deep liquidity, ultra-low spreads and advanced trading technology, trusted by traders across more than 200 countries. Ranked No. 1 worldwide for retail FX/other volumes (Finance Magnates Q4 Report), IC continues to invest in innovation, infrastructure and strategic partnerships as it expands in the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America.

Risk Disclaimer:

The accuracy, completeness and timeliness of the information contained on this site cannot be guaranteed. IC Markets Global does not warrant, guarantee or make any representations, or assume any liability regarding financial results based on the use of the information in the site.

News, views, opinions, recommendations and other information obtained from sources outside of www.ic.com, used in this site are believed to be reliable, but we cannot guarantee their accuracy or completeness. All such information is subject to change at any time without notice. IC Markets Global assumes no responsibility for the content of any linked site.

The fact that such links may exist does not indicate approval or endorsement of any material contained on any linked site. IC Markets Global is not liable for any harm caused by the transmission, through accessing the services or information on this site, of a computer virus, or other computer code or programming device that might be used to access, delete, damage, disable, disrupt or otherwise impede in any manner, the operation of the site or of any user’s software, hardware, data or property.