Curious as to what forex trading is and how it works? The first thing you should know is that the term “forex”or “fx” is actually the shortened version of foreign exchange. It refers to the process of exchanging one national currency or reserve note to another country’s currency – whether managed or handled yourself on the metatrader 4 platform. However, sometimes traders will use the word forex as the shortened version of forex trading. Ultimately, knowing what someone is referring to when they use the word is often a matter of context.
For the purpose of this article, we’re using it to describe investing in currencies. Since its difficult to describe what makes forex trading unique without highlighting how other forms of investments work, we’ll highlight several other common forms of investments, as well.
Annuities.For all practical purposes, insurance carriers are in the investment business. Policy holders pay their premiums and insurance companies invest them into low risk investments. Annuities allow consumers to piggy back off the insurers investment strategy as an annuity is nothing more than a contract between the consumer and an insurer that necessitates the insurer pays the annuity holder or annuitant.
These monies can be paid back at specific intervals, extending over a long period of time, even to the point of death. There are three types of annuities.
Fixed annuities – A “fixed annuity” ensures a fixed rate of return on your money. The rates tend to be lower when compared to the other forms of annuities. However, fixed annuities are also the safest.
Variable annuity – Variable annuities earn a flexible interest rate. Market forces determine the return on this type of product because the money you invest is pooled with an investment portfolio that may rise or fall depending on market rates.
Indexed Annuities – Indexed annuities have a floor beyond which your returns will never dip below. However, their gains fluctuate based on the market. As such, they are riskier than fixed annuities but safer than their variable counterparts.
Bonds. Bonds are loans that an investor makes to an organization in exchange for interest payments over a specified period plus principal repayment on the maturity date of the obligation. Determine how businesses, municipalities, agencies, the Treasury and the different types of bonds work.
Banking Products. Banks and credit unions can offer a safe and convenient way to accumulate savings – and some banks offer services that can help you manage your money. Checking and savings accounts offer liquidity and flexibility.
Stocks/Mutual Funds.When you buy shares of a company, you own a little bit of that company. Inventories come in a wide variety and are often described in terms of size, type, business performance in market cycles, and short- and long-term growth potential. Learn more about your choices, whether it’s penny-stocks or huge caps, and that’s just the beginning.
As you can see, there are pros and cons to each investment strategy. However, it is ultimately up to you to decide your which investment vehicle makes the most financial sense to you and your family.
