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What a FOREX broker does

Even if you have bought and sold homes before, you probably would not want to do it without the help of a licensed real estate broker. The housing market is constantly changing, and you want someone that understands where that market is headed. The added expertise in the field gives you a competitive edge over the rest. The same is true when dealing the FOREX market. A FOREX broker can be a source of information and strength in your trading endeavors. Even seasoned traders, rely heavily on the help of FOREX brokers. Trading is risky business, and your broker can be there to help ease some of the risk off of your plate.

The trading decisions are still ultimately up to you, but having a broker allows you to work quicker and more efficiently. Utilizing your brokers system can mean quicker trades 24-hours a day. It is like having someone work for you while you are away on vacation, or even working a full time job. Don’t underestimate the value of a reassuring knowledgeable voice on the other end of the phone. With all the technology available, it still does not give you that personal guiding hand in the process.

Technology and your FOREX Broker

Many people believe that the FOREX Broker is a dying breed. With all of the technological advances in field, many individuals now rely heavily on computers and see no need for a broker. I would caution this line of thinking, however. If you want the convenience of an online system but the security of having someone there to answer your questions, find a brokerage firm that does both. Most FOREX brokers understand the need for 24-hour access, and have online portfolios and trading available to their customers. When you have a tough questions or problem, you will be glad you kept your broker around.

Top broker benefits

FOREX brokers vary greatly depending on the size of their firms. You don’t necessarily have to go with one of the leaders to have a good trading experience, however. You will want to look for a broker firm that offers real-time access, price certainty, competitive pricing, and competitive spreads.

Generally speaking, the bigger the FOREX broker firm, the better their spreads and prices will be. They have more pull in the market and are able to negotiate prices better. Weigh all the benefits and downfalls to each firm to ensure an educated decision. A good price does not always mean the best broker, so choose wisely.

Choosing a Broker

There are certain questions that you will want to ask to your prospective FOREX broker. Such questions include:

1. What is the spread?
   (Hint: The lower the spread the more money you make!)
   a. The spread is calculated in “pips” and is the difference between the price at which a currency can be purchased and the price at which it can be sold. Simply put, your broker has to make money. That’s how they stay in business. Unlike traditional stock trading where brokers charge commissions, FOREX brokers make money off the spread. The lower the spread the more profit that there is for you.
   
2. What are your credentials?
   (Hint: There are certain affiliations you should look for.)
   a. Most large brokerage firms are connected in some way to a bank or financial institution. Since the majority of their business is based on credit, this is a very important partnership. Their affiliation offers you the opportunity to invest thousands more than you could with smaller firms. It is also recommended that your chosen FOREX broker be registered with Futures Commission Merchant (FCM) and regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Refer to your broker’s website or call directly to find out if they have such affiliations.
   
3. What tools are available to help me learn more?
   (Hint: Not all broker firms are created equal. Find out who offers the best resources and information to help you make the smartest trading decisions.)
   a. This is a critical question to ask. It is one thing to fulfill your trade requirements, but a FOREX broker needs to also provide you with educational tools. Ask what kind of tools they offer for their clients. A good company should offer real-time charts, technical analysis tools, real-time news and data, and software or website support. Be weary of any company that refuses to share information or trial versions before opening up an account. You will want to try out their system before you choose to invest money in it. Many offer test accounts that allow you to “play” the market without actually investing any capital.
   
4. What is your leverage? (Hint: This is the determining factor on how much money you are able to make with each investment.)
   a. Leverage is the key factor to your success. As discussed earlier, the FOREX market runs mostly on credit. Your FOREX broker is able to supply you with a different margin depending on their size and your needs. The higher the margin the more money you can possibly make. If you are limited on funds, finding a high margin FOREX broker is top priority. If you have the capital already, you may decide that a lower margin is a smart choice for higher risk transactions and vice versa.