Setting Up a Forex Account

For starters, it would probably be wise to seek out a Forex broker, before you decide to set up a Forex account.  These professionals are usually employed by large banks or loan companies due to the huge amounts of capital they need to provide.  Check to be sure they are registered as a Futures Commission Merchant.  The information that you need should be listed on the website of the bank or loan company under Forex Broker.  If the broker is sponsored by a reputable institution you can feel more secure in your investments.  Find a broker who will provide the information and technological knowledge to help you become successful in the Forex Account market.  Your broker should offer charts, commentaries and other research that is required to analyze the market

Setting up an Account

Some individuals who are just getting into Forex trading prefer to start small.  There are “mini accounts” which allow a client to invest a minimum of $250.  This type of account offers a considerable amount of leverage, (borrowed money from the brokerage firm) otherwise it would be impossible to make money with such a small amount of money invested.  Leverage is the amount of money that the broker will loan you for the purpose of trading.  The need for less leverage is desirable, since there is opportunity for greater profit in the account.  And additionally, there is less need for a “margin call”, the need for the investor to put up more money to satisfy his minimum investment.

In a “standard account” there are several different types of leverages, but the minimum investment is $2,000.  Then, there is the “premium account” which requires a large amount of capital to open.  If you are in a financial position to have a “managed Forex account” there is a minimum account investment of $5,000.  These managed accounts, though, are for investors of high net worth.

Be sure that the broker you choose has the ability to provide the leverage you need for the type of account you wish to open.  When you sign up for a Forex Account, you are required to sign up for a margin agreement.  This agreement indicates that you are using borrowed money as a part of your investment, and the brokerage company can take whatever action is necessary in your trading activity to protect their own interest.  For example, the broker can buy or sell from your account if he sees that as being the best move for the company.  Talk to friends and associates in order to get advice on their experience with a particular Forex broker and whether they have found him to be an honest professional.

There is a website online where you can set up a practice Forex account to learn some of the terminology and strategies before actually putting “real” money on the line.  Once you get the “hang” of Forex trading with a practice account, there are authentic websites for actual Forex Account trading that you might want to look into.  Try to keep your leverage low, and your profits high! Good luck!