Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Getting Started in Forex Trading

By John Eather

The foreign exchange market provides many rewards to investors who know how to use the system. The goal of this article is to get you started with Forex basics so that you can take advantage of this incredible market.

In the past, foreign exchange trading was limited to national banks and large corporations. All of this changed in the 1980s when the rules were modified to allow investors of modest means to join in by using margin accounts. Margin accounts are what have made Forex trading so popular. With a 200:1 margin account, you are able to control $200,000 with an investment of only $1,000.

Forex is undeniably difficult, therefore it's crucial to acquire the knowledge you want for the purpose of making sound decisions. Although Forex trading is easy to get going in, it has some risks. You had better learn all you possibly can about the Forex market ahead of starting out to trade.

Forex traders typically require a broker to manage transactions. Almost all brokers are respectable members of large financial institutions. A reputable broker will be registered as a Futures Commission Merchant (FCM) with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) for protection against fraud and predatory trading practices.

Opening a Forex account is as simple as completing a form and providing the required ID. This form will include a margin agreement that explains that the broker may interrupt any trade that seems too risky. This is designed to protect the broker's interests, since most trades are carried out using the broker's funds. Once your account has been accepted, you are ready to fund it and get started with trading.

Umpteen brokers provide a diverse selection of accounts to accommodate the requirements of various investors. Mini accounts provide you a way to begin Forex trading with around 50 dollars. Standard accounts usually need minimum deposits of between $1,000 to $2,500, hinging on the broker. The total leverage useable changes dependent upon the account. High leveraged accounts mean that you have larger sums to trade with.

Trades don't cost a commission, granting you to do many trades everyday without being forced to ante up high brokerage fees. Brokers bring in their money supported on the "spread"; the bid and ask price difference.

Novice traders are well-advised to undergo some experience in Forex by performing "paper trades" for a while. Paper trades are in essence rehearsals that do not involve real funds. They allow you to ascertain how the Forex system behaves while you observe how to make use of the software found with the majority of Forex brokers.

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