If you wish to understand the popularity of forex trading, there are plenty of statistics that reinforce this. Not only is an estimated $5.3 trillion traded in currency every single day, for example, but it is also suggested that 90% of this is generated by speculators and day traders (as opposed to seasoned or corporate investors).
While the forex market may represent a tempting proposition, however, it remains a volatile and challenging entity that can only be conquered by knowledge and understanding.
With this in mind, here is a brief introduction to forex trading and a look at the key considerations facing aspiring traders:
What is Forex Trading?
In simple terms, forex trading relates to the practice of buying and selling currency on the foreign exchange. Currency is a derivative, which means that it can bought and sold without investors being forced to assume ownership, which in turn creates a liquid marketplace that offers margin-based returns.
The derivative nature of currency also means that investors can profit in a depreciating market, as they have the option of taking-up short positions against currencies that are trading in a restricted range.
Forex Trading: The Key Considerations
With this basic understanding in mind, the next step is to consider the additional factors that will help you to succeed as a forex trader. These include: –
The Importance of Knowledge and Determinism: We have already touched on the importance of knowledge to forex traders, as this empowers informed transactions and underpins an innate understanding of how the market works. Fortunately, it is easier than ever to build a wealth of knowledge on the subject of currency trading, with options such as advanced educational courses and online web tutorials covering the fundamental basics of the art.
As your level of knowledge and insight builds, you can also hone your sense of determinism and ensure that the impact of each individual trade is optimised.
Demo Accounts Help You to Bridge the Gap Between Theory and Practice: Before you open your account, you will no doubt be excited to register and begin trading for real. It is important to consider opening a demo account once you have selected your online trading portal, as this enables you to sample a simulated market environment without requiring you to risk your own money.
This also bridges the gap between theory and practice, which is central to any successful trading career.
Emotion Can Derail even the Best-laid Trading Strategies: On a final note, it is important to understand that emotive and knee-jerk reactions to trends can quickly derail your trading strategies. This is why algorithmic trading has become so popular on the forex market, as it negates elements such as emotion and human interaction to drive more efficient investments.
You therefore need to ensure that you can withstand sudden market shifts and macroeconomic trends, without giving way to detrimental impulses.