What Are Different Trading Accounts In Forex?

What Are Different Trading Accounts In Forex?
7 min read
18 May 2023

In order to trade successfully, one must select the correct trading account, as this ultimately affects various factors, including spreads, commissions, execution strategy, and more. Each trader has a different level of expertise, preferred trading method, financial status, and risk tolerance. Therefore to make an informed choice, it is crucial to comprehend the various account types and their benefits so that you can choose the best trading account for yourself as per your needs.

Demo Account

Most forex brokers provide a forex demo account, which is a risk-free account that simulates real conditions to allow traders to hone their trading skills before engaging in real-money trading. It is a replica of a live trading account, except that the funds used are virtual, and no actual money is at stake. The demo account's appeal comes from its ability to give traders a platform to test various trading strategies and techniques without risking their hard-earned money. 

This account is very helpful for new traders who are still getting the hang of forex trading since it enables them to become comfortable with the trading platform, grasp market dynamics, test their trading strategy, and manage their risk. The demo account also provides means for experienced traders to fine-tune their trading strategies, refine their skills, and try new methods without risking their capital.

Cent Account

A forex cent account is a type of real account that allows traders to trade with minimal costs. Since it enables individuals to deal with real money in smaller amounts, the cent account is ideal for new traders to start Forex trading. If you deposit $10, your account balance will be shown in cents. (1000 cents). Trading on the cent account is also a low-risk alternative, making it tempting for people looking to experiment with new approaches without taking significant financial risks. 

Trading on a cent account allows even seasoned traders to test their techniques and evaluate how they work under actual trading conditions. The ability to trade smaller lot sizes is another advantage of the cent account, which might be advantageous for people who are still learning how to handle their money. This account type is a good choice for traders who wish to trade with a lesser initial investment than other account types and is also a wonderful method to learn how to manage your money.

Standard or Classic Account

The standard or classic account is the most widely used real account in Forex trading, offering classic trading conditions suitable for novice and experienced traders. The standard account is characterised by high leverage, no commissions, and a wide range of trading instruments, making it a versatile option for traders. The standard or classic account is the most common account type used in Forex trading. And as for the most common trading platform, there are two that you will find on the top, MT4 and MT5, both developed by MetaQuotes. Where the former is known for its simplistic design, the latter is known for its advanced trading features. 

With a standard account, traders have access to standard lots of currency, each worth $100,000. However, this doesn't mean traders must put down $100,000 to trade. With margin and leverage rules, only $1,000 is required in the margin account to trade one standard lot. The standard account comes with several benefits, including better service and perks from brokers due to the adequate up-front capital required to trade full lots. Additionally, traders have the chance to profit significantly because each pip is worth $10. With other account types, it is not feasible to make a gain of $1,000 on a position that swings in the trader's favour by 100 pip in a single day unless more than one standard lot is traded.

ECN Trading Account

ECN brokers provide narrower bid/ask spreads than conventional brokers by using electronic communications networks to connect clients directly to other market participants in the currency markets. Traders also have the option to trade after regular trading hours, avoiding the higher spreads that come with using a conventional broker and offering fewer charges and costs overall. 

For traders that like short-term trades, brokers may provide an ECN account as a form of trading account. The primary benefit of using an ECN account is the direct link between traders and liquidity providers, eliminating the need for middlemen. As a result, orders are executed quickly, and there are no conflicts of interest between the broker and the trader.

Low spreads offered by the ECN account can dramatically lower the cost of trading, especially for investors that open a lot of trades. Additionally, traders have access to market depth data, which enables them to assess the state of the market in a better way.

Swap-free Account

Also known as the Islamic account, it is created to accommodate Muslim traders who abide by Sharia law. Muslim traders find it challenging to participate in standard trading accounts that impose swap fees for holding positions overnight since Sharia law forbids the payment or receipt of interest.

The primary difference between Islamic and conventional trading accounts is that the latter does not impose or absorb swap fees. Instead, a handling fee can be charged if you keep a position overnight for more than three nights in a row.

Islamic accounts are the best option for traders who use long-term trading methods and those who wish to avoid any potential conflicts with their religious views because they don't charge swap fees. Islamic accounts provide Muslim traders with a level playing field and let them use the same terms and conditions as other traders without violating their religious principles.

Conclusion

The best sort of account to use when trading forex is a crucial choice that will greatly impact how you trade in general. Before making a decision, it is crucial to thoroughly weigh the aspects of each account type, including the variety of instruments, spreads, the sum of commission, and execution technique. Depending on your trading objectives and preferences, you could discover that one account suits you better than others. Regardless of your experience level, taking the time to investigate and evaluate various accounts will help you make a well-informed choice that will eventually lead to success in the Forex market. So be sure to investigate the features of each account type and select the one that best suits your requirements.

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Alex 9.8K
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