CFD and forex trading are considered the two trading strategies with the most risk. This is confirmed by various research showing that 67 to 76 percent of CFD traders eventually lose money. In addition, FX trading has also made a name for itself, and researchers claim that 70 to 80 percent of forex traders lose money. However, CFD and FX trading can be highly profitable when done right, but which one is best? What are the similarities, and what are the differences?

The similarities between FX and CFD trading

There are numerous parallels between CFD trading and FX trading. First, both of these methods involve a somewhat similar trading process where traders can quickly enter and exit the market when they’re either on the upswing or downswing. In addition, the charts look almost the same and traders often use technical analysis to spot opportunities in the market. What is good to note is that CFD and FX trades happen over-the-counter (OTC), meaning traders execute without a physical broker or central exchange. Another similarity between CFD trading and forex trading is that the only cost of trading is the spread, unlike other types of trading instruments that charge commissions and other expenses.

The main difference between CFD and FX trading is that the trader does not own the underlying asset. When a trader buys EUR/USD, the trader speculates on the exchange rate rather than owning. Similarly, when a trader acquires a CFD contract on a stock, the trader is not holding the stock but betting on its underlying price. In many ways, FX is similar to CFDs.

Differences between CFDs and Forex

The main distinction between CFD and FX trading is that CFD trading allows investors to open positions in different parts of the market, from indices to energy, metals, and much more. This variety can be a significant advantage when trading because it allows you to go for markets trading with higher volume. In addition, when trading CFDs, you can choose from various contracts that differ in value and currency type according to the country from which the underlying asset originates. Forex trading includes exchanging one currency against another with inconsistent lot sizes. When you trade FX, you’re speculating on the exchange rate, which is dynamic and can change very quickly.

The last distinction between CFD trading and Forex trading is different in market behavior. Certain factors influence market behavior, such as the supply of commodities and demand or trend changes linked to business sectors. On the other hand, global events influence FX trading, such as big job transfers or worldwide political upheavals. Investors consider political instability when it comes to FX trading energy-draining since significant political events and news outings can happen any time.

What is the best choice for me?

Consider your interests, risk profile, and final trading goals when trading CFDs or forex. Both trading opportunities have pros and cons. As you know, each market might provide you with an advantage while trading. When traders have sufficient expertise and experience between the CFD and forex markets, they may choose to trade both.