Forex, FX, or Foreign Exchange, is the simultaneous exchange of one country's currency for that of another. FOREXYARD offers leading online trading platforms for individuals that wish to speculate on the exchange rate between two currencies. In doing so, speculators purchase or sell one currency for another with the hope of making a profit when the value of the currencies changes in favor of the speculator as a result of events that takes place across the globe. This market of exchange has more daily volume - both buyers and sellers - than any other market in the world. The FX market is available 24-hours a day, five days a week. Furthermore, the Forex Market is the largest financial market in the world with daily reported volume of over $1.4 trillion changing hands between buyers and sellers across the globe, making it one of the most exciting markets for trading. Although currency trading is inherently governmental (central banks) and institutional (commercial and investment banks), technological innovations, like the internet, have made it easy for individuals to take part in the currency trading markets and to trade via intermediaries online.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
How an FX Trade Works
In the FX market you can buy or sell one currency for another. When you buy a currency, you are said to be "long" in that currency and when you sell a currency, you are said to be "short" in that currency. As the value of one currency rises or falls relative to another, traders decide to buy or sell currencies in order to make profits - since the objective is to earn a profit from their position. Placing a trade in the foreign exchange market is simple and the mechanics of a trade are virtually identical to those found in other markets. Because of the symmetry of currency transactions, you are always simultaneously long in one currency and short in another. An open position is one that is live and ongoing. As long as the position is open, its value will fluctuate in accordance with the exchange rate in the market. To close out your position, you conduct an equal and opposite trade in the same currency pair. For example, if you have gone long in one lot of EUR/USD you can close out that position by subsequently going short in one EUR/USD lot (at the prevailing bid price).
Example of How FX Trade Works
| Trader's Action | Euros | US Dollars |
| A trader purchases 10,000 Euros in the beginning of 2001 when the EUR/USD rate was .9600. | +10,000 | -9,600 |
| In May of 2003 the trader exchanges his 10,000 Euro back into US dollar at the market rate of 1.1800. | -10,000 | +11,800 |
| In this example, the trader earned a gross profit of $2,200. | 0 | +2,200 |
Quoting Currency Pairs
Currencies are quoted in pairs, such as EUR/USD or USD/JPY. The first listed currency is known as the base currency, while the second is called the counter or quote currency. The base currency is the "basis" for the buy or the sell. For example, if you BUY EUR/USD you have bought Euros (simultaneously sold dollars). You would do so in expectation that the Euro will appreciate (go up) relative to the US dollar.
Currency Abbreviations
| Symbol | Definition | Symbol | Definition |
| EUR | Euro | NZD | New Zealand Dollar |
| GBP | Great British Pound | AUD | Australian Dollar |
| USD | US Dollar | CAD | Canadian Dollar |
| CHF | Swiss Franc | JPY | Japanese Yen |
EUR/USD
In this example Euro is the base currency and thus the "basis" for the buy/sell. If you believe that the US economy will continue to weaken and this will hurt the US dollar, you would execute a BUY EUR/USD order. By doing so you have bought Euros in the expectation that they will appreciate versus the US dollar. If you believe that the US economy is strong and the Euro will weaken against the US dollar you would execute a SELL EUR/USD order. By doing so you have sold Euros in the expectation that they will depreciate versus the US dollar.
USD/JPY
In this example the US dollar is the base currency and thus the "basis" for the buy/sell. If you think that the Japanese government is going to weaken the yen in order to help its export industry, you would execute a BUY USD/JPY order. By doing so you have bought U.S dollars in the expectation that they will appreciate versus the Japanese yen. If you believe that Japanese investors are pulling money out of U.S. financial markets and repatriating funds back to Japan, and this will hurt the US dollar, you would execute a SELL USD/JPY order. By doing so you have sold U.S dollars in the expectation that they will depreciate against the Japanese yen.
GBP/USD
In this example the GBP is the base currency and thus the "basis" for the buy/sell. If you think the British economy will continue to be the leading economy among the G8 nations in terms of growth, thus buying the pound, you would execute a BUY GBP/USD order. By doing so you have bought pounds in the expectation that they will appreciate versus the US dollar. If you believe the British are going to adopt the Euro and this will weaken pounds as they devalue their currency in anticipation of the merge, you would execute a SELL GBP/USD order. By doing so you have sold pounds in the expectation that they will depreciate against the US dollar.
USD/CHF
In this example the USD is the base currency and thus the "basis" for the buy/sell. If you think the US dollar is undervalued, you would execute a BUY USD/CHF order. By doing so you have bought US dollars in the expectation that they will appreciate versus the Swiss Franc. If you believe that due to instability in the Middle East and in U.S. financial markets the dollar will continue to weaken, you would execute a SELL USD/CHF order. By doing so you have sold US dollars in the expectation that they will depreciate against the Swiss franc.
Buying / Selling
First, the traders should determine whether they want to buy or sell. If they want to enter a short order - whereby they will profit if the exchange rate falls - they simply need to click on the SELL rate. The opposite holds true for traders who enter buy orders: they can simply click on the BUY rate, and thus will profit if the exchange rate goes up.
Example of How Buying / Selling Works
As with all markets, there are two prices for every currency pair. The difference between these two prices is the spread, or the cost of the trade. In this example, the spread is three pips. On the 10k position, a pip on the EUR/USD currency pair is worth $1.
Margin / Leverage
FX accounts are margined: a trader can hold a market position much larger than the value of the trader's account value. The online trading platform which FOREXYARD offers has margin management capabilities, which allow lenient margin requirement of up to 1/2%. However, we do not recommend using leverage of more than 10 times your account value. Using leverage exaggerates both gains and losses. Even when market conditions are relatively calm, using leverage can generate large gains or losses. In the case where a trader surpasses the maximum leverage allowed (which can happen when account equity shrinks as a result of trading losses), the trading system will close all open positions in the account. This prevents client's accounts from falling into a negative balance, even in a highly volatile, fast moving market.
Example of How Margin Works
Since the trader opened 1 lot of 10k EUR/USD, his margin requirement or Used Margin is $50. Usable Margin is the funds available to open new positions or sustain trading losses. If the equity (the value of his account) falls below 20% of his Used Margin due to trading losses, his position will automatically be closed. As a result, the trader can never lose more than he/she deposits.
| Account | Balance | Equity | Day P/L | Usd Mr | Usbl Mr | Usbl Mr% | Gross P/L | MC |
| 008771 | 50.01000 | 50.01000 | 10.00 | 1000.00 | 50,010.00 | 98.00 | 0.00 | N |
| 50.01000 | 50.01000 | 10.00 | 1000.00 | 50,010.00 | 98.00 | 0.00 | N |
Rollover
In the spot forex market, trades must be settled in two business days. If a trader sells 100,000 Euros on Tuesday, the trader must deliver 100,000 Euros on Thursday, unless the position is rolled over. As a service to our traders, FOREXYARD automatically rolls over all open positions to the next settlement date at 5:00 pm New York time. Rollover involves exchanging the position being held for a position expiring the following settlement date. The positions being exchanged are usually not valued at the same price. The difference in amount varies greatly based on the currency pair, the interest rate differential between the two currencies, and fluctuates day to day with the movement of prices.
For positions open at 5.00 pm EST there is a daily rollover (interest payment) you pay for an open position depending on your established margin level and position in the market. If you do not want to earn or pay interest on your positions, simply make sure they are closed by 5.00 pm EST, the established end of the market day.
Getting Started
With no commitment or cost, you can open a Virtual Trading Account. The account has the full capabilities of a "real" account including live market rates, access to real-time market analysis, and the ability to execute trades off streaming prices. The virtual account (or Demo Account) gives you the ability to learn about the forex markets and test your trading skills without any risk.
How to Trade Your Demo
Use this time to make a plan and develop your strategies.
- Choose the right currency pair. Find out based on your risk parameters, which currency is best suited for your trading style. Some may be too volatile and some too slow so decide which currency pair is most appropriate for your strategy and time frame.
- Decide on how long you plan to stay in a trade. If you are an inter-day trader, what is the average time of your trade? - a few minutes, a couple of hours, a full day, or swing trade (couple of days to a week).
- Before you enter a trade you should also have clear exit plan. Place your stops and limits accordingly.
- Know how much you are willing to risk and how much you are looking to gain.
- Keep track of important news and technical levels, which may be tested within your time frame.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Triangular trade, or Triangle trade,
Triangular trade, or Triangle trade, is a historical term indicating trade among three ports or regions. The trade evolved where a region had an export commodity that was required in the region from which its major imports came. Triangular trade thus provided a mechanism for rectifying trade imbalances.
The Transatlantic Triangular Trade operated during the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries, carrying slaves, cash crops, and manufactured goods between West Africa, the Caribbean or American colonies and the European colonial powers, with the northern colonies of British North America, especially New England, sometimes taking over the role of Europe.[1]
Triangular trade, or Triangle trade,
Triangular trade, or Triangle trade, is a historical term indicating trade among three ports or regions. The trade evolved where a region had an export commodity that was required in the region from which its major imports came. Triangular trade thus provided a mechanism for rectifying trade imbalances.
The Transatlantic Triangular Trade operated during the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries, carrying slaves, cash crops, and manufactured goods between West Africa, the Caribbean or American colonies and the European colonial powers, with the northern colonies of British North America, especially New England, sometimes taking over the role of Europe.[1]
Trade Forex with Confidence
FXCM is one of the largest and well-capitalized forex brokers
Over 125,000 live accounts trade through FXCM's trading platformsFXCM Holdings, LLC has over
US$100,000,000 in firm capital
Regulated in the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong
Trade Forex with Confidence
FXCM is one of the largest and well-capitalized forex brokers
Over 125,000 live accounts trade through FXCM's trading platformsFXCM Holdings, LLC has over
US$100,000,000 in firm capital
Regulated in the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Economic Indicators
Economic indicators can be anything, from the bits and pieces of financial and economic news, to the data published by different agencies on the statistics of government or private sector.
This data is regularly made public to help the common man keep track of the latest developments in the nation’s financial sector. Most benefited from these economic indicators are the market observers who are constantly keeping an eye on the overall economy and its effect on the market. This is the main reason why such indicators are consistently tracked by nearly everyone related to the financial markets in some way or another.
Also, this is the rationale behind the economic indicators containing great potential for creating levels and moving currency prices along with the whole markets, as so many people are expected to respond to the same data together.
Economic Indicators
Economic indicators can be anything, from the bits and pieces of financial and economic news, to the data published by different agencies on the statistics of government or private sector.
This data is regularly made public to help the common man keep track of the latest developments in the nation’s financial sector. Most benefited from these economic indicators are the market observers who are constantly keeping an eye on the overall economy and its effect on the market. This is the main reason why such indicators are consistently tracked by nearly everyone related to the financial markets in some way or another.
Also, this is the rationale behind the economic indicators containing great potential for creating levels and moving currency prices along with the whole markets, as so many people are expected to respond to the same data together.
What is Forex?
The largest financial market in the world, Foreign Exchange market, Forex or FX market, all the terms are used to describe the business of trading of the world's various currencies, with more than $2 trillion changing hands every day. Being an international foreign exchange market, Forex is a market where money is sold and bought freely. FOREX was launched in the 1970s, to become the biggest liquid financial market today, dealing in more than hundred times the daily trading on the New York Stock Exchange.
FOREX is a perfect market to invest in, as it is free from any external control and free competition. Mostly, all Forex trading are tentative and unlike the stock market trading, the Forex market is not conducted by a central exchange, but on the “interbank” market, which is thought of as an OTC (over the counter) market. The trading takes place between the two dealers, either over the telephone or through Internet, all over the world. The major trading centers are the ones at Sydney, London, Frankfurt, Tokyo and New York, making Forex a 24-hour market.
What is Forex?
The largest financial market in the world, Foreign Exchange market, Forex or FX market, all the terms are used to describe the business of trading of the world's various currencies, with more than $2 trillion changing hands every day. Being an international foreign exchange market, Forex is a market where money is sold and bought freely. FOREX was launched in the 1970s, to become the biggest liquid financial market today, dealing in more than hundred times the daily trading on the New York Stock Exchange.
FOREX is a perfect market to invest in, as it is free from any external control and free competition. Mostly, all Forex trading are tentative and unlike the stock market trading, the Forex market is not conducted by a central exchange, but on the “interbank” market, which is thought of as an OTC (over the counter) market. The trading takes place between the two dealers, either over the telephone or through Internet, all over the world. The major trading centers are the ones at Sydney, London, Frankfurt, Tokyo and New York, making Forex a 24-hour market.
Trade Now
If you're ready to trade, you can start trading now on the Forex Market. If you open a Live Account through FXCM, you will get FREE unlimited access to DailyFX Plus with live streaming news and expert market commentary. These tools are the same alerts and analysis tracked by forex specialists. Open a Live Account
If you prefer the flexibility and convenience of trading in small (1K, 2K) lots, but are not willing to sacrifice tight spreads or quality execution, you can open an account with as little as $25, yet trade with competitive spreads with FXCM Micro.
FXCM Micro provides:
- EUR/USD 1.8 pips, GBP/USD 3.2 pips
- Trading in 1K micro lot size
- Leverage 400:1/ $2.5 per lot*
- $25 minimum account opening
- Hedging Capabilities
- Free Trading Signals
If you are ready to trade Forex with super-low spreads, FXCM Micro execution, and 1K lot sizes, open a live FXCM Micro Account
*Without proper risk management, currency trading has a high degree of leverage which can lead to large losses as well as gains.
Trade Now
If you're ready to trade, you can start trading now on the Forex Market. If you open a Live Account through FXCM, you will get FREE unlimited access to DailyFX Plus with live streaming news and expert market commentary. These tools are the same alerts and analysis tracked by forex specialists. Open a Live Account
If you prefer the flexibility and convenience of trading in small (1K, 2K) lots, but are not willing to sacrifice tight spreads or quality execution, you can open an account with as little as $25, yet trade with competitive spreads with FXCM Micro.
FXCM Micro provides:
- EUR/USD 1.8 pips, GBP/USD 3.2 pips
- Trading in 1K micro lot size
- Leverage 400:1/ $2.5 per lot*
- $25 minimum account opening
- Hedging Capabilities
- Free Trading Signals
If you are ready to trade Forex with super-low spreads, FXCM Micro execution, and 1K lot sizes, open a live FXCM Micro Account
*Without proper risk management, currency trading has a high degree of leverage which can lead to large losses as well as gains.
Currencies
USD | EUR | CAD | GBP | AUD | MXN | JPY | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 USD | = | 1.000 | 0.753 | 1.262 | 0.697 | 1.437 | 14.146 | 99.110 |
1 EUR | = | 1.327 | 1.000 | 1.675 | 0.925 | 1.907 | 18.777 | 131.550 |
1 CAD | = | 0.793 | 0.597 | 1.000 | 0.553 | 1.139 | 11.212 | 78.553 |
1 GBP | = | 1.434 | 1.081 | 1.810 | 1.000 | 2.061 | 20.290 | 142.154 |
1 AUD | = | 0.696 | 0.524 | 0.878 | 0.485 | 1.000 | 9.845 | 68.975 |
1 MXN | = | 0.071 | 0.053 | 0.089 | 0.049 | 0.102 | 1.000 | 7.006 |
1 JPY | = | 0.010 | 0.008 | 0.013 | 0.007 | 0.014 | 0.143 | 1.000 |
Currencies
USD | EUR | CAD | GBP | AUD | MXN | JPY | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 USD | = | 1.000 | 0.753 | 1.262 | 0.697 | 1.437 | 14.146 | 99.110 |
1 EUR | = | 1.327 | 1.000 | 1.675 | 0.925 | 1.907 | 18.777 | 131.550 |
1 CAD | = | 0.793 | 0.597 | 1.000 | 0.553 | 1.139 | 11.212 | 78.553 |
1 GBP | = | 1.434 | 1.081 | 1.810 | 1.000 | 2.061 | 20.290 | 142.154 |
1 AUD | = | 0.696 | 0.524 | 0.878 | 0.485 | 1.000 | 9.845 | 68.975 |
1 MXN | = | 0.071 | 0.053 | 0.089 | 0.049 | 0.102 | 1.000 | 7.006 |
1 JPY | = | 0.010 | 0.008 | 0.013 | 0.007 | 0.014 | 0.143 | 1.000 |
Retracements
Measure retracements in percentage terms. Market corrections up or down often retrace a significant portion of the previous trend. One can measure the corrections in an existing trend in simple percentages. A fifty percent retracement of a prior trend is most common. A minimum retracement is usually one-third of the prior trend. The maximum retracement is usually two-thirds. Fibonacci retracements of 38% and 62% are also worth watching. Therefore popular buy points in an uptrend are usually between 33-38% retracement of the original trend. As can be seen from the chart below, when joining the trough at 1.2750 to the peak at 1.2890 in the 1-hour EUR/USD chart we can see the Fibonacci levels drawn out. The first retracement ended at the 38% line and the major retracement at the 62% line. 
Retracements
Measure retracements in percentage terms. Market corrections up or down often retrace a significant portion of the previous trend. One can measure the corrections in an existing trend in simple percentages. A fifty percent retracement of a prior trend is most common. A minimum retracement is usually one-third of the prior trend. The maximum retracement is usually two-thirds. Fibonacci retracements of 38% and 62% are also worth watching. Therefore popular buy points in an uptrend are usually between 33-38% retracement of the original trend. As can be seen from the chart below, when joining the trough at 1.2750 to the peak at 1.2890 in the 1-hour EUR/USD chart we can see the Fibonacci levels drawn out. The first retracement ended at the 38% line and the major retracement at the 62% line.
Moving Averages
Moving averages often provide objective buy and sell signals, hence they should be watched. They show you if an existing trend is still in motion and help confirm a trend change. Do not rely on moving averages to tell you in advance if there is a trend change imminent; use it as a back-up to your chart analysis for trend identification. A combination chart of two moving averages is the most popular way of finding trading signals. Signals are given when the shorter average line crosses the longer. Price crossings above and below a 40-day and 200-day moving average also provide good trading signals. Since moving average chart lines are trend-following indicators, they work best in a trending market. As can be seen in the EUR/USD 1-hour chart below the 5-period and 25-period moving averages project and confirm the trend in progress. The 5-period moving average crosses over the slower 25-period moving average at 1.2715 confirming the up-trend with an exit point at 1.2770. The same rate 1.2770 is another indication of a resume in the up-trend with an exit at 1.2850.
Oscillators
Oscillators help identify overbought and oversold markets. While moving averages offer confirmation of a trending market, oscillators can often warn us in advance that a market has rallied or fallen too far and will soon turn or retrace. Two of the most popular oscillators are the Relative Strength Index or RSI and the Stochastics. Both these oscillators work on a scale of 0 to 100. With the RSI, readings over 70 are overbought while readings below 30 are oversold. The overbought and oversold values for Stochastics are 80 and 20. Oscillator divergences often warn of market turns and as opposed to moving averages they work best in range bound markets. Weekly signals can be used as filters on daily signals. Daily signals can be used as filters for intra-day charts. As can be seen in the EUR/USD 1-hour chart below, the Stochastics break through the 80-20 barriers and cross over themselves on corrections of the price. This occurs several times.
Oscillators
Oscillators help identify overbought and oversold markets. While moving averages offer confirmation of a trending market, oscillators can often warn us in advance that a market has rallied or fallen too far and will soon turn or retrace. Two of the most popular oscillators are the Relative Strength Index or RSI and the Stochastics. Both these oscillators work on a scale of 0 to 100. With the RSI, readings over 70 are overbought while readings below 30 are oversold. The overbought and oversold values for Stochastics are 80 and 20. Oscillator divergences often warn of market turns and as opposed to moving averages they work best in range bound markets. Weekly signals can be used as filters on daily signals. Daily signals can be used as filters for intra-day charts. As can be seen in the EUR/USD 1-hour chart below, the Stochastics break through the 80-20 barriers and cross over themselves on corrections of the price. This occurs several times.
Moving Averages
Moving averages often provide objective buy and sell signals, hence they should be watched. They show you if an existing trend is still in motion and help confirm a trend change. Do not rely on moving averages to tell you in advance if there is a trend change imminent; use it as a back-up to your chart analysis for trend identification. A combination chart of two moving averages is the most popular way of finding trading signals. Signals are given when the shorter average line crosses the longer. Price crossings above and below a 40-day and 200-day moving average also provide good trading signals. Since moving average chart lines are trend-following indicators, they work best in a trending market. As can be seen in the EUR/USD 1-hour chart below the 5-period and 25-period moving averages project and confirm the trend in progress. The 5-period moving average crosses over the slower 25-period moving average at 1.2715 confirming the up-trend with an exit point at 1.2770. The same rate 1.2770 is another indication of a resume in the up-trend with an exit at 1.2850.
Know the Warning Signs
he Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) indicator combines a moving average crossover system with the overbought/oversold elements of an oscillator. A buy signal occurs when the faster line crosses above the slower and both lines are below zero. A sell signal takes place when the faster line crosses below the slower from above the zero line. Longer-period signals take precedence over shorter-period signals. The MACD histogram plots the difference between the two lines and gives even earlier warnings of trend changes. It's called a histogram because vertical bars are used to show the difference between the two lines on the chart.
As can be seen in the EUR/USD 1-hour chart below, the MACD indicators cross over one another beneath the zero line to show a buy signal and vice versa for the sell signal. This occurs most prominently at 1.2760 to buy, 1.2870 to sell.
Know the Warning Signs
he Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) indicator combines a moving average crossover system with the overbought/oversold elements of an oscillator. A buy signal occurs when the faster line crosses above the slower and both lines are below zero. A sell signal takes place when the faster line crosses below the slower from above the zero line. Longer-period signals take precedence over shorter-period signals. The MACD histogram plots the difference between the two lines and gives even earlier warnings of trend changes. It's called a histogram because vertical bars are used to show the difference between the two lines on the chart.
As can be seen in the EUR/USD 1-hour chart below, the MACD indicators cross over one another beneath the zero line to show a buy signal and vice versa for the sell signal. This occurs most prominently at 1.2760 to buy, 1.2870 to sell.
Chart the Trends and Range Bound Markets
Use long term charts to decide trends or range bound markets. Begin a chart analysis with daily, weekly and even monthly charts spanning several years if possible. A larger scale chart essentially shows the life of the market and provides clearer visibility and a better long-term perspective on a market. Once the long-term has been established, consult daily and intra-day charts, these charts can include anything from say 10 minute to daily charts. A short-term market view alone can often be deceptive. Even if you only trade the very short term, you will do better if you're trading in the same direction as the intermediate and longer-term trends. If there is no trend then a different strategy is necessary, possibly playing the range until the market begins to trend once more. As can be seen in the 1-hour EUR/USD candle chart below there has been an uptrend with three peaks and three troughs. Long entry positions would at 1.2700, 1.2760 and 1.2800.
Chart the Trends and Range Bound Markets
Use long term charts to decide trends or range bound markets. Begin a chart analysis with daily, weekly and even monthly charts spanning several years if possible. A larger scale chart essentially shows the life of the market and provides clearer visibility and a better long-term perspective on a market. Once the long-term has been established, consult daily and intra-day charts, these charts can include anything from say 10 minute to daily charts. A short-term market view alone can often be deceptive. Even if you only trade the very short term, you will do better if you're trading in the same direction as the intermediate and longer-term trends. If there is no trend then a different strategy is necessary, possibly playing the range until the market begins to trend once more. As can be seen in the 1-hour EUR/USD candle chart below there has been an uptrend with three peaks and three troughs. Long entry positions would at 1.2700, 1.2760 and 1.2800.
Bearish Scenario:
If we see substantially deeper available liquidity on the Offer side of the market, this tells us that major price providers in the market are looking to sell the Euro against the US Dollar. Considering that close to 60% of all FX market volume is cleared through just six top banks, we see it prudent to be on the same side of the trade as major institutions and will favor a bearish bias on EURUSD ahead of the data release.
Bearish Scenario:
If we see substantially deeper available liquidity on the Offer side of the market, this tells us that major price providers in the market are looking to sell the Euro against the US Dollar. Considering that close to 60% of all FX market volume is cleared through just six top banks, we see it prudent to be on the same side of the trade as major institutions and will favor a bearish bias on EURUSD ahead of the data release.
Bullish Scenario:
If we see substantially deeper available liquidity on the Bid side of the market, this tells us that major price providers in the market are looking to buy the Euro against the US Dollar. Considering that close to 60% of all FX market volume is cleared through just six top banks, we see it prudent to be on the same side of the trade as major institutions and will favor a bullish bias on EURUSD ahead of the data release.
Bullish Scenario:
If we see substantially deeper available liquidity on the Bid side of the market, this tells us that major price providers in the market are looking to buy the Euro against the US Dollar. Considering that close to 60% of all FX market volume is cleared through just six top banks, we see it prudent to be on the same side of the trade as major institutions and will favor a bullish bias on EURUSD ahead of the data release.
January 2009 U.S. ISM Manufacturing
Manufacturing activity in the U.S. dropped at a slower pace in January after falling to its weakest level in 28-years during the previous month, and economic activity in the region is likely to remain subdued in the months ahead as businesses continue to face fading demands from home and abroad. The ISM index increased to 35.6 from a revised reading of 32.9 in December as new orders increased to 33.2 from a record-low of 23.1 in the previous month. A deeper look at the report showed that new export orders increased to 37.5 from 35.5, while inventories slipped to 37.5 from 39.6, which is the lowest since July 2001, and conditions are likely to get worse throughout the first half of the year as the world’s largest economy faces its longest recession in over a quarter century. As turmoil in the banking sector intensifies while the outlook for growth and inflation falter, the Fed is likely to step up its efforts as policy makers attempt to steer the economy out of a deepening
January 2009 U.S. ISM Manufacturing
Manufacturing activity in the U.S. dropped at a slower pace in January after falling to its weakest level in 28-years during the previous month, and economic activity in the region is likely to remain subdued in the months ahead as businesses continue to face fading demands from home and abroad. The ISM index increased to 35.6 from a revised reading of 32.9 in December as new orders increased to 33.2 from a record-low of 23.1 in the previous month. A deeper look at the report showed that new export orders increased to 37.5 from 35.5, while inventories slipped to 37.5 from 39.6, which is the lowest since July 2001, and conditions are likely to get worse throughout the first half of the year as the world’s largest economy faces its longest recession in over a quarter century. As turmoil in the banking sector intensifies while the outlook for growth and inflation falter, the Fed is likely to step up its efforts as policy makers attempt to steer the economy out of a deepening
February 2009 U.S. ISM Manufacturing
The ISM report showed that manufacturing in the U.S. contracted for 13 consecutive months in February, but fell at a slower pace from the previous month as the index increased to 35.8 from 35.6 in January. The breakdown of the report showed new orders ticked lower to 33.1 from 33.2, while the employment component slipped to 26.1 from 29.9, which is the lowest since recordkeeping began in1948, and the data continues to foreshadow a deepening recession in the world’s largest economy as the labor market deteriorates at a record pace. As households continue to face falling home prices paired with fading demands for employment, the outlook for private-spending remains weak, and conditions are likely to get worse as firms continue to cut back on production and investment in response to the downturn in global trade.
February 2009 U.S. ISM Manufacturing
The ISM report showed that manufacturing in the U.S. contracted for 13 consecutive months in February, but fell at a slower pace from the previous month as the index increased to 35.8 from 35.6 in January. The breakdown of the report showed new orders ticked lower to 33.1 from 33.2, while the employment component slipped to 26.1 from 29.9, which is the lowest since recordkeeping began in1948, and the data continues to foreshadow a deepening recession in the world’s largest economy as the labor market deteriorates at a record pace. As households continue to face falling home prices paired with fading demands for employment, the outlook for private-spending remains weak, and conditions are likely to get worse as firms continue to cut back on production and investment in response to the downturn in global trade.
EUR/USD: Trading the U.S. ISM Manufacturing Report
Written by David Song, Currency Analyst
Manufacturing activity in the U.S. is expected to contract for the fourteenth consecutive month in March as businesses face fading demands from home and abroad however, the data could foreshadow a stabilizing market as economists forecast the ISM index to increase to 36.0 from 35.8 in February.
Trading the News:
What’s Expected
Time of release: 04/01/2009 14:00 GMT, 10:00 EST
Primary Pair Impact : EURUSD
Expected: 36.0
Learn Forex
FOREX (the Foreign Exchange market) is an international market where participants speculate on the value of different currencies, buying and selling dollars, pounds, euros, and other currencies.
There are only a few major currencies to follow, compared to hundreds of stocks in the equities market. In order to get started understanding Forex, sign up for a free practice account today and learn as you trade!
Trading risk free with a practice account is the best way to get familiar with this ever-growing market. And once you are signed up, CMS Forex will provide you with thorough educational resources to guide you along the way.
So don't wait, take this opportunity to get started trading Forex!
Learn Forex
FOREX (the Foreign Exchange market) is an international market where participants speculate on the value of different currencies, buying and selling dollars, pounds, euros, and other currencies.
There are only a few major currencies to follow, compared to hundreds of stocks in the equities market. In order to get started understanding Forex, sign up for a free practice account today and learn as you trade!
Trading risk free with a practice account is the best way to get familiar with this ever-growing market. And once you are signed up, CMS Forex will provide you with thorough educational resources to guide you along the way.
So don't wait, take this opportunity to get started trading Forex!
How to Trade Forex
Trading foreign exchange is exciting and potentially very profitable, but there are also significant risk factors. It is crucially important that you fully understand the implications of margin trading and the particular pitfalls and opportunities that foreign exchange trading offers. On these pages, we offer you a brief introduction to the Forex markets as well as their participants and some strategies that you can apply. However, if you are ever in doubt about any aspect of a trade, you can always discuss the matter in-depth with one of our dealers. They are available 24 hours a day on the Saxo Bank online trading system, SaxoTrader.
The benchmark of its service is efficient execution, concise analysis and expertise – all achieved whilst maintaining an attractive and competitive cost structure. Today, Saxo Bank offers one of Europe's premier all-round services for trading in derivative products and foreign exchange. We count amongst our employees numerous dealers and analysts, each of whom has many years experience and a wide and varied knowledge of the markets – gained both in our home countries and in international financial centres. When trading foreign exchange, futures and other derivative products, we offer 24-hour service, extensive daily analysis, individual access to our Research & Analysis department for specific queries, and immediate execution of trades through our international network of banks and brokers. All at a price considerably lower than that which most companies and private investors normally have access to.
The combination of our strong emphasis on customer service, our strategy and trading recommendations, our strategic and individual hedging programmes, along with the availability to our clients of the latest news and information builds a strong case for trading an individual account through Saxo Bank.
Terms of trading are agreed individually depending on the volume of your transactions, but are generally much lower in cost when compared to banks and brokers. Your margin deposit can be cash or government securities, bank guarantees etc. Large corporate or institutional clients may be offered trading facilities on the strength of their balance sheet. The minimum deposit accepted for an individual trading account depends on the account type. Trade confirmations and real-time account overview are built into SaxoTrader, while further account information can be produced in accordance with your specific requirements.
How to Trade Forex
Trading foreign exchange is exciting and potentially very profitable, but there are also significant risk factors. It is crucially important that you fully understand the implications of margin trading and the particular pitfalls and opportunities that foreign exchange trading offers. On these pages, we offer you a brief introduction to the Forex markets as well as their participants and some strategies that you can apply. However, if you are ever in doubt about any aspect of a trade, you can always discuss the matter in-depth with one of our dealers. They are available 24 hours a day on the Saxo Bank online trading system, SaxoTrader.
The benchmark of its service is efficient execution, concise analysis and expertise – all achieved whilst maintaining an attractive and competitive cost structure. Today, Saxo Bank offers one of Europe's premier all-round services for trading in derivative products and foreign exchange. We count amongst our employees numerous dealers and analysts, each of whom has many years experience and a wide and varied knowledge of the markets – gained both in our home countries and in international financial centres. When trading foreign exchange, futures and other derivative products, we offer 24-hour service, extensive daily analysis, individual access to our Research & Analysis department for specific queries, and immediate execution of trades through our international network of banks and brokers. All at a price considerably lower than that which most companies and private investors normally have access to.
The combination of our strong emphasis on customer service, our strategy and trading recommendations, our strategic and individual hedging programmes, along with the availability to our clients of the latest news and information builds a strong case for trading an individual account through Saxo Bank.
Terms of trading are agreed individually depending on the volume of your transactions, but are generally much lower in cost when compared to banks and brokers. Your margin deposit can be cash or government securities, bank guarantees etc. Large corporate or institutional clients may be offered trading facilities on the strength of their balance sheet. The minimum deposit accepted for an individual trading account depends on the account type. Trade confirmations and real-time account overview are built into SaxoTrader, while further account information can be produced in accordance with your specific requirements.
Trading the US Durable Goods Orders Report Using the EUR/USD
The U.S. dollar is likely to face increased selling pressures over the next 24 hours of trading as economists forecast demands for durable goods to contract another 2.5% in February as private-sector spending falters. The preliminary GDP reading for the fourth quarter showed that the annual rate of growth contracted the most since 1982, while personal consumption dropped 4.3% from the third quarter to mark the largest decline since 1980
Trading the US Durable Goods Orders Report Using the EUR/USD
The U.S. dollar is likely to face increased selling pressures over the next 24 hours of trading as economists forecast demands for durable goods to contract another 2.5% in February as private-sector spending falters. The preliminary GDP reading for the fourth quarter showed that the annual rate of growth contracted the most since 1982, while personal consumption dropped 4.3% from the third quarter to mark the largest decline since 1980
Since its inception, CMS Forex’s VT Trader™ has been a comprehensive and easy to use Forex trading toolkit and a pioneer in the industry. Easy access
comprehensive and easy to use Forex trading toolkit and
a pioneer in the industry.
Since its inception, CMS Forex’s VT Trader™ has been a comprehensive and easy to use Forex trading toolkit and a pioneer in the industry. Easy access
comprehensive and easy to use Forex trading toolkit and
a pioneer in the industry.
Since its inception, CMS Forex’s VT Trader™ has been a comprehensive and easy to use Forex trading toolkit and a pioneer in the industry. Easy access
comprehensive and easy to use Forex trading toolkit and
a pioneer in the industry.
Trading Forex
A currency trade is the simultaneous buying of one currency and selling of another one. The currency combination used in the trade is called a cross (for example, the euro/US dollar, or the GB pound/Japanese yen.). The most commonly traded currencies are the so-called “majors” – EURUSD, USDJPY, USDCHF and GBPUSD.
The most important Forex market is the spot market as it has the largest volume. The market is called the spot market because trades are settled immediately, or “on the spot”. In practice this means two banking days.
Overview
Foreign exchange, Forex or just FX are all terms used to describe the trading of the world's many currencies. The Forex market is the largest market in the world, with trades amounting to more than USD 3 trillion every day. Most Forex trading is speculative, with only a low percentage of market activity representing governments' and companies' fundamental currency conversion needs.
Unlike trading on the stock market, the Forex market is not conducted by a central exchange, but on the “interbank” market, which is thought of as an OTC (over the counter) market. Trading takes place directly between the two counterparts necessary to make a trade, whether over the telephone or on electronic networks all over the world. The main centres for trading are Sydney, Tokyo, London, Frankfurt and New York. This worldwide distribution of trading centres means that the Forex market is a 24-hour market.
Trading Forex
A currency trade is the simultaneous buying of one currency and selling of another one. The currency combination used in the trade is called a cross (for example, the euro/US dollar, or the GB pound/Japanese yen.). The most commonly traded currencies are the so-called “majors” – EURUSD, USDJPY, USDCHF and GBPUSD.
The most important Forex market is the spot market as it has the largest volume. The market is called the spot market because trades are settled immediately, or “on the spot”. In practice this means two banking days.
Overview
Foreign exchange, Forex or just FX are all terms used to describe the trading of the world's many currencies. The Forex market is the largest market in the world, with trades amounting to more than USD 3 trillion every day. Most Forex trading is speculative, with only a low percentage of market activity representing governments' and companies' fundamental currency conversion needs.
Unlike trading on the stock market, the Forex market is not conducted by a central exchange, but on the “interbank” market, which is thought of as an OTC (over the counter) market. Trading takes place directly between the two counterparts necessary to make a trade, whether over the telephone or on electronic networks all over the world. The main centres for trading are Sydney, Tokyo, London, Frankfurt and New York. This worldwide distribution of trading centres means that the Forex market is a 24-hour market.
Overview
Foreign exchange, Forex or just FX are all terms used to describe the trading of the world's many currencies. The Forex market is the largest market in the world, with trades amounting to more than USD 3 trillion every day. Most Forex trading is speculative, with only a low percentage of market activity representing governments' and companies' fundamental currency conversion needs.
Unlike trading on the stock market, the Forex market is not conducted by a central exchange, but on the “interbank” market, which is thought of as an OTC (over the counter) market. Trading takes place directly between the two counterparts necessary to make a trade, whether over the telephone or on electronic networks all over the world. The main centres for trading are Sydney, Tokyo, London, Frankfurt and New York. This worldwide distribution of trading centres means that the Forex market is a 24-hour market.
Trading Forex
A currency trade is the simultaneous buying of one currency and selling of another one. The currency combination used in the trade is called a cross (for example, the euro/US dollar, or the GB pound/Japanese yen.). The most commonly traded currencies are the so-called “majors” – EURUSD, USDJPY, USDCHF and GBPUSD.
The most important Forex market is the spot market as it has the largest volume. The market is called the spot market because trades are settled immediately, or “on the spot”. In practice this means two banking days.
Foreign Exchange
This short introduction explains the basics of trading Forex online, a brief explanation of the markets and the major benefits of trading Forex online. There are also two scenarios describing the implications of trading in a bear as well as a bull market to better acquaint you with some of the risks and opportunities of the largest and most liquid market in the world.
Foreign Exchange
This short introduction explains the basics of trading Forex online, a brief explanation of the markets and the major benefits of trading Forex online. There are also two scenarios describing the implications of trading in a bear as well as a bull market to better acquaint you with some of the risks and opportunities of the largest and most liquid market in the world.
John J. Hardy
Asset Management, Saxo Bank
John Hardy publishes daily comments on the Forex market. Mr Hardy's analysis attempts to overlay short term technical developments and fundamental event risks with longer term themes and trends in the G-10 currencies. Mr Hardy considers inter-market correlations as paramount in understanding moves in the Forex space, so the analysis draws on a number of models based on other markets and gauges their correlation with Forex markets in an attempt to detect inefficiencies that may provide trading opportunities.
John J. Hardy
Asset Management, Saxo Bank
John Hardy publishes daily comments on the Forex market. Mr Hardy's analysis attempts to overlay short term technical developments and fundamental event risks with longer term themes and trends in the G-10 currencies. Mr Hardy considers inter-market correlations as paramount in understanding moves in the Forex space, so the analysis draws on a number of models based on other markets and gauges their correlation with Forex markets in an attempt to detect inefficiencies that may provide trading opportunities.
David Karsbøl
Manager/Market Strategist, Saxo Bank
David Karsbøl holds a Master of Science degree (Economics) from the University of Copenhagen and has previously been employed as an insurance analyst. Mr Karsbøl works with fundamental analysis and research and contributes to Saxo Bank's strategy products. He also develops and maintains macroeconomic models and a number of trading models, which are designed to profit from co-variations between the Forex and fixed income markets. Mr Karsbøl is regularly appears on major financial news networks and comments several days a week on the financial markets via Saxo Bank's live Market Call webcast. He is a native Danish speaker and is fluent in English.
David Karsbøl
Manager/Market Strategist, Saxo Bank
David Karsbøl holds a Master of Science degree (Economics) from the University of Copenhagen and has previously been employed as an insurance analyst. Mr Karsbøl works with fundamental analysis and research and contributes to Saxo Bank's strategy products. He also develops and maintains macroeconomic models and a number of trading models, which are designed to profit from co-variations between the Forex and fixed income markets. Mr Karsbøl is regularly appears on major financial news networks and comments several days a week on the financial markets via Saxo Bank's live Market Call webcast. He is a native Danish speaker and is fluent in English.
