The Difference Between Forex and CFDs

The Difference Between Forex and CFDs

In the world of trading and investment, the Forex market and CFDs are among the most popular options for traders.
Although both provide opportunities to make profits, there are fundamental differences between them.
In this article, we will explore the difference between Forex and CFDs in terms of definitions,
features, and the main advantages and disadvantages of each.

 

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Forex

 

What is Forex?

Forex, or the foreign exchange market, is the largest financial market in the world where currencies are traded.
Forex operates through currency pairs (e.g., EUR/USD), allowing traders to buy one currency while selling another to profit from price fluctuations.

 

Advantages of Forex:

  1. High Liquidity: Forex is characterized by massive liquidity due to the high volume of trading.
  2. Extended Trading Hours: The market operates 24 hours a day during weekdays.
  3. High Leverage: Offers the possibility of earning significant profits with a small capital investment.

 

Disadvantages of Forex:

  • High Risk: Losses can increase rapidly due to leverage.
  • Complexity: Requires a deep understanding of market analysis and factors affecting currencies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CFDs

What are CFDs?

Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are financial derivatives that allow investors to speculate on the price movements of assets
without owning the underlying asset.
Many assets can be traded through CFDs, including stocks, commodities, indices, and currencies.

 

 

Advantages of CFDs:

  1. Asset Diversity: Enables trading across various markets using a single platform.
  2. Leverage: Similar to Forex, CFDs offer leverage to maximize potential returns.
  3. Short Selling: You can profit even in falling markets.

 

Disadvantages of CFDs:

  • Additional Costs: Overnight financing fees may impact profits.
  • Volatility Risks: Price movements can be unpredictable, leading to potential losses.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Differences

 

The Key Difference

Feature Forex CFDs
Type of Assets Foreign currencies Multiple assets (stocks, commodities, indices)
Liquidity High liquidity Depends on the type of asset
Trading Currency pairs only Wide variety of assets
Costs Low spreads Additional costs, including overnight fees

 

 

Which One Suits You?

The choice between Forex and CFDs depends on your investment goals and level of experience.
If you prefer focusing on currencies and leveraging high liquidity, Forex might be the right choice for you.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to diversify your investments and speculate in multiple markets, CFDs may be the better option.

 

 

Conclusion

Whether you choose Forex or CFDs, it is essential to understand the tools you’re using and manage trading risks wisely.
Remember, success in either option requires continuous learning and precise market analysis.

 

 

 

 

 

Evest Academy A Revolution in Trading and Investment Education

Evest Academy A Revolution in Trading and Investment Education:
As interest in investing and trading in building wealth and achieving financial independence increases,
the new Evest Academy offers a unique educational experience that combines knowledge,
technology, and practical experience in one place.
The academy aims to empower investors at all levels to enhance their skills and reach high professionalism.


Content
Why Evest Academy
Academy Features

How to Get Started
Conclusion

 

 

 

 

Why Evest Academy?

Evest Academy is a comprehensive platform that brings together up-to-date educational content,
industry experts, and an interactive experience tailored to meet the needs of both beginner and professional investors
By offering rich and flexible educational materials,
investors can learn the basics of technical and fundamental analysis, risk management, and the latest trading strategies.

 

Academy Features

Comprehensive and Updated Educational Content

The academy offers courses covering all aspects of investment and trading,
from market fundamentals to advanced strategies.

Interactive Learning  

With visual content, detailed articles, and practical exercises,
trainees can gain deep and smooth learning experiences.

Guidance from Trading Experts

Trainees receive guidance from certified experts who provide practical advice
and help apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.

Practical Skill Development

The academy allows trainees to apply their knowledge in an environment that simulates financial markets,
enhancing their understanding and decision-making capabilities.

 

 

 

How to Get Started?

Joining Evest Academy is easy and accessible to everyone.
Simply
register, and you’ll be able to embark on a rewarding
educational journey that will help you achieve your financial goals.

 

Conclusion

Knowledge is the most valuable tool an investor can have in a world of opportunities and challenges.
With Evest Academy, you will not be alone in your journey to success.
We are here to support, guide, and empower you to become
a professional investor capable of overcoming challenges and achieving your goals.

 

 

Evest Academy: A Revolution in Trading and Investment Education

Gold Extends Gains Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions in Europe

Gold Extends Gains Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions in Europe

Gold prices continued to rise on Tuesday, supported by escalating geopolitical tensions in Europe,
despite diminished expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut at its next meeting.

 

Contents

  • Gold
  • Japan
  • Artificial Intelligence

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gold

Gold futures for December delivery increased by 0.31% ($8.1), reaching $2,622.7 per ounce,
after gaining 1.75% in the previous session, marking the highest level since November 11.

Spot gold also rose by 0.27% to $2,618.96 per ounce,
while silver futures for December delivery gained 0.31% to $31.32 per ounce.
Platinum spot prices remained steady at $968.15 per ounce.

These movements came amid reports suggesting the Biden administration has allowed Ukraine to use
U.S.-made weapons for strikes deep inside Russian territory, raising concerns over potential military escalation in Europe.

 

 

 

 

 

Japan

Japanese Stocks Rise Amid Rate Hike Speculations and Monetary Policy Adjustments

Japanese stocks closed higher on Tuesday, driven by expectations that the Bank of Japan may raise interest rates
in December following the yen’s weakness.

The Nikkei index gained 0.51% to reach 38,414 points, while the Topix index climbed 0.68% to 2,710 points.

The Bank of Japan announced it would conduct a comprehensive review of its monetary easing tools
next month to assess their effectiveness over the past 25 years, without directly altering current policies.

Market expectations for a 25-basis-point rate hike rose to 54%, with the yen stabilizing at 154.64 against the dollar.
The banking sector also saw significant gains, with Tokyo Bank shares surging 13% over the past two weeks.

 

 

 

Artificial Intelligence

IBM and AMD Collaborate to Enhance AI Performance and Offer Innovative Enterprise Solutions

IBM has announced a partnership with AMD to improve the performance and
energy efficiency of generative AI models for enterprise clients.
According to a statement from IBM on Monday, AMD Instinct MI300X accelerators will be integrated into
IBM Cloud services starting in the first half of 2025.

The collaboration will also provide support for AMD Instinct MI300X accelerators within IBM’s Watsonx AI platform and data center.

AMD CEO Philip Guido emphasized that as businesses continue integrating AI models and databases into their operations, they require accelerators capable of handling intensive computational workloads with high performance and scalability.

 

 

 

Gold Extends Gains Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions in Europe

NVIDIA and Google: A Partnership Driving the Future of Quantum Computing

NVIDIA and Google: A Partnership Driving the Future of Quantum Computing

Technology is making leaps that surpass the limits of science fiction, as NVIDIA and Google join forces to revolutionize quantum computing. Through this partnership, the two companies are leveraging their expertise to develop groundbreaking technologies that unlock unprecedented opportunities in the tech world.

 

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Simulating Quantum Processors with Eos

Google Quantum AI announced its use of NVIDIA’s supercomputer, Eos, to accelerate the design of quantum components.
The primary goal is to simulate the complex physics underlying quantum processors, helping to overcome existing technical limitations.

Quantum computing is based on the principles of quantum mechanics, promising machines far faster than today’s semiconductor-based technologies. However, this field remains in its early stages, with significant challenges to achieving widespread commercial applications.

 

 

Tackling Quantum Noise Challenges

Noise, or quantum interference, is one of the biggest obstacles to developing quantum computing devices. NVIDIA is offering solutions powered by its accelerated computing technology, assisting Google in mitigating the impact of noise during the design of quantum chips.

Geoffrey Vidal, a researcher at Google Quantum AI, emphasized that achieving scalable quantum devices requires innovations to control noise. NVIDIA’s advanced technology is key to exploring the effects of noise on increasingly large quantum chip designs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Role of Supercomputers in Quantum Acceleration

NVIDIA’s supercomputer delivers exceptional performance, enabling scientists to simulate how quantum system components interact with their environment. These simulations, previously expensive and time-intensive, are now completed in minutes and at a fraction of the cost.

For instance, many quantum chips must be cooled to extremely low temperatures to function. NVIDIA’s system efficiently simulates these processes, supporting research and development efforts in the field.

 

 

Key Announcement at SC24 Conference

The partnership between NVIDIA and Google is part of a series of announcements made by NVIDIA during the International Conference for High-Performance Computing, Networking, Storage, and Analysis (SC24), held this week in Atlanta. This collaboration reflects the ongoing ambition to explore the potential of quantum computing and push technological boundaries to new heights.

 

 

Conclusion

The NVIDIA-Google partnership marks a significant step forward in accelerating progress in quantum computing. With continued advancements in innovative technologies, the dream of quantum computing becoming a reality that transforms the world might soon be within reach.

 

 

 

NVIDIA and Google: A Partnership Driving the Future of Quantum Computing

Asian Stocks Rise Boosted by Wall Street Gains

Asian Stocks Rise Boosted by Wall Street Gains: Asian markets witnessed a notable rise,
supported by gains made by Wall Street and the halting of bond sales that had driven 10-year bond yields higher.
Traders are closely monitoring economic developments and political directions in the United States,
especially with President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming assumption of office.

 

Contents

Performance of Asian Markets  

Investor Evaluation and Stimulus Expectations  

U.S. Markets Impact

Bond Performance and Australia  

Bitcoin Movements  

Oil and Gold Prices  

Developments in the U.S. Administration  

 

 

 

Performance of Asian Markets

Asian stocks rose following solid gains in U.S. indices.
The MSCI regional index rose to 0.7%,
supported by gains in Japan, South Korea, China, and Australia.
The Nasdaq 100 also posted gains,
with Tesla shares climbing by 5.6% based on reports that Trump’s transition team plans
Establishing a federal framework for fully autonomous vehicles is a priority for the Department of Transportation.

 

Investor Evaluation and Stimulus Expectations

Asian investors are assessing whether markets in China and Hong Kong
can maintain the rebound seen after last week’s sell-off.
Anticipation is increasing around stimulus plans and government directives to bolster corporate valuations.

 

U.S. Markets Impact

Frederic Neumann, Chief Asian Economist at HSBC Holdings Plc,
noted that Asian equity markets benefit from improved market sentiment in the U.S.,
lower U.S. interest rates provide some relief to risk assets across the region.

 

Bond Performance and Australia  

Treasury bonds showed little change in Asian markets following a decline in 10-year yields in U.S. trading.
The central bank continues its monetary policy in Australia to control inflation,
with the Australian dollar and three-year sovereign bond yields declining.

 

 

 

 

 

Bitcoin Movements

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indices climbed,
driven by continued U.S. economic growth expectations.
Meanwhile, Bitcoin surged above $91,000 in Asian trading,
supported by positive developments in the United States.

 

Oil and Gold Prices

Oil prices remained relatively unchanged following a rise amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
West Texas Intermediate crude settled above $69 per barrel
after the U.S. permitted Ukraine to use long-range missiles within Russia, intensifying tensions.
Gold extended its gains, with Goldman Sachs reiterating its forecast of prices reaching $3,000 per ounce next year.

 

Developments in the U.S. Administration  

Trump’s transition team plans to nominate prominent economic figures to key government positions.
Separately, the U.S. Department of Justice is seeking historic actions against Google,
reflecting the impact of technology and U.S. policies on global markets.

 

 

Asian Stocks Rise Boosted by Wall Street Gains

Global Market Outlook: Economic Events and Trading Dynamics

Global Market Outlook: Economic Events and Trading Dynamics: This week’s economic calendar features significant global events
that could impact various markets, including trade balances, consumer price indices, and key industry data.
From movements in major currency pairs like USD/JPY and EUR/USD to oil and Nasdaq trends developments,
we provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect and how markets might react.

 

Content
Economic Calendar
USDJPY

AUDUSD

Oil

EURUSD

Nasdaq

 

 

 

 

Economic Calendar

Monday

Trade Balance (September) at 16:00 – Eurozone  

Tuesday

Consumer Price Index (Yearly) (October) at 13:00 – Eurozone  

Consumer Price Index (Yearly) (October) at 16:30 – Canada  

Wednesday

Consumer Price Index (Yearly) (October) at 10:00 – United Kingdom  

Crude Oil Inventories at 18:30 – United States  

Thursday

Initial Jobless Claims at 16:30 – United States  

Existing Home Sales (October) at 18:00 – United States  

Friday

German Gross Domestic Product (Quarterly) (Q3) at 10:00 – Germany  

Manufacturing PMI (November) at 17:45 – United States  

Services PMI (November) at 17:45 – United States  

 

 

USD/JPY (US Dollar against Japanese Yen) 

The USD/JPY pair is trading around 154.89 levels,
experiencing some downward movements towards the end of last week’s trading.
However, the yen’s weakness remains significantly prominent,
with expectations of intervention by the Japanese central bank to limit the yen’s losses.
From a technical perspective,
the pair is expected to continue its downward correction following the false breakout,
as it closed below the resistance level centered around 155.22.
It is anticipated to continue its bearish moves, targeting 151.28 levels.

 

AUD/USD (Australian Dollar against US Dollar):  

The strength of the US dollar continues to dominate the AUD/USD pair’s movements,
with the pair trading around 0.6460 levels.
The current movement indicates continued bearish moves toward the primary demand levels on the daily timeframe,
centered around 0.6346. If a reversal price behavior appears around these levels,
we may see a corrective rise to the 0.6514 levels.

 

 

 

 

Oil

Oil trading witnessed substantial declines last week, reaching 66.90, close to the critical level of 66.50
which oil could not break despite multiple attempts?
This comes amid uncertainty regarding future oil demand.
Oil is expected to continue its sideways trading and then return to rise from the current levels, targeting 72.31.
However, if the 66.49 level is broken and closed below,
bearish trading may continue towards 62 levels.

 

EUR/USD (Euro against US Dollar):  

Despite some weakness in the US dollar at the end of last week,
the euro could not gain any ground against the dollar.
The pair remains in a strong downtrend and is expected to continue targeting the next support level,
around 1.0446. From there, a corrective upward movement may take place towards 1.0599.

 

Nasdaq

The Nasdaq has retreated below the 20,686 level after a substantial decline during last Friday’s trading,
especially following the rise in inflation in the United States.
It is expected to continue its downward correction to stabilize around 19,943 levels before resuming its upward movement.

 

 

Global Market Outlook: Economic Events and Trading Dynamics

Bank of Japan Governor

Bank of Japan Governor

Rate Hikes Depend on Strong Economic Expectations, Positive Developments in Wages and Inflation

In statements made on Monday morning, Bank of Japan (BoJ) Governor Kazuo Ueda emphasized
that the Japanese economy is showing signs of moderate recovery despite some signs of weakness in specific sectors.
Ueda stressed that the central bank will gradually raise interest rates once strong economic expectations are met,
focusing on supporting sustainable growth and moderate inflation.

 

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Details

Ueda clarified that the BoJ is carefully monitoring various risks that may affect economic expectations,
including developments in the U.S. economy.
He noted that rising spending is gradually supporting a positive cycle between wages and inflation,
with income levels increasing in both corporate and household sectors.

 

Ueda highlighted the importance of observing upcoming wage negotiations,
pointing out that sustainable wage increases will play a crucial role in achieving the bank’s inflation targets.
He also urged companies to pass on higher labor costs by raising prices for goods and services,
stating that such measures are essential for boosting productivity and achieving sustainable increases in real wages.

 

The governor discussed challenges facing the Japanese economy,
including slowing growth in China and developments in U.S. economic policy under President-elect Donald Trump.
He underscored the importance of monitoring volatile markets and their impact on Japan’s economy and domestic prices.

 

Ueda stated that core inflation is expected to rise moderately, with increasing prospects for a soft economic landing.
However, he reiterated the BoJ’s commitment to supporting economic activity
while gradually easing its accommodative monetary policies when conditions allow.

These statements come at a time when expectations for gradual rate hikes in Japan are growing,
amid rising inflationary pressures and anticipated wage increases.
With a focus on sustainable economic growth,
the BoJ aims to achieve internal economic stability while taking into account major global shifts.

 

 

 

Bank of Japan Governor

 

Gold Surges Over $30 per Ounce Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Gold Surges Over $30 per Ounce Amid Geopolitical Tensions: Gold prices significantly recovered during Monday’s trading,
marking the first rise since November 7. They had suffered the worst weekly losses since 2021.

 

Content

A decline in Youth Unemployment

Gold Surges Over

 

 

 

 

A decline in Youth Unemployment Rate in China Reflects Improvement in the Job Market 

The youth unemployment rate in China declined in October,
indicating a relative improvement in the labor market of the world’s second-largest economy.
Beijing introduced a series of supportive measures to stimulate the slowing economic growth.
According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics on Monday,
the unemployment rate for the 16-24 age group,
excluding university students, dropped to 17.1% in October compared to 17.6% in September.  

On the other hand, the unemployment rate for the 25-29 age group saw a slight increase,
rising to 6.8% from 6.7% during the same period.
These figures reflect the ongoing challenges in the labor market despite
government efforts to stimulate the economy following a noticeable slowdown.

 

 

 

 

Gold Surges Over $30 per Ounce Amid Geopolitical Tensions  

Gold prices notably recovered during Monday’s trading,
marking the first rise since November 7, after experiencing the worst weekly losses since 2021.
Spot gold contracts increased by over $30 per ounce,
reaching a peak of $2,597.26 early in the session before settling around $2,585.20 per ounce,
up 0.84%. December gold futures rose 0.7% to reach $2,588.10 per ounce.  

This surge was supported by several factors,
most notably the recent geopolitical escalation between the United States and Russia.
Washington authorized Ukraine to use American weapons in its military operations against Russia,
eliciting strong reactions from Moscow,
which warned that this development could lead to the outbreak of World War III.
Russia intercepted around 30 drones,
further escalating tensions and boosting demand for gold as a safe-haven asset.

 

Gold Surges Over $30 per Ounce Amid Geopolitical Tensions

The European Union Imposes a Record Fine of $846 Million

The European Union Imposes a Record Fine of $846 Million on Meta for Antitrust Violations

The European Commission has imposed a fine of €797.72 million (approximately $840.24 million) on Meta Platforms,
the parent company of Facebook, for violating the EU’s antitrust rules.

 

Topic

Meta

G7

USA

 

 

 

 

 

Meta:

The violations involve linking its online classified ads service, Facebook Marketplace,
to its social network and imposing unfair trading terms on other online classified ad providers.

In response, Meta announced its intention to appeal the decision while affirming its commitment to compliance and working swiftly and constructively to resolve the disputed points with the European Commission.

On the trading front, Meta’s stock dropped by 2.43%, equivalent to about $14.02, trading near $563.14 during US stock market transactions.

This fine is part of the EU’s broader efforts to combat monopolistic practices and ensure fair competition in the online classified ads market.

 

 

 

G7:

Continued Sanctions on Russia and Support for Ukraine Until Peace is Achieved

Leaders of the G7 nations reaffirmed their commitment to imposing strict sanctions on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, declaring that Russia remains the sole obstacle to achieving a just and lasting peace.

In a joint statement following their meeting, the group pledged continued support for Kyiv as the thousandth day of Russia’s aggressive war on Ukraine approaches. The G7 includes Italy (currently holding the rotating presidency),
the United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

The statement emphasized the group’s determination to continue imposing severe costs on Russia through stringent sanctions,
export controls, and other effective measures while underscoring their unity and solidarity with Ukraine.

 

 

 

 

USA:

U.S. Treasury Announces $16 Billion Bond Issuance

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced on Thursday its plan to issue new 20-year bonds worth $16 billion this week,
with auction results expected next Wednesday.

This issuance is part of the U.S. government’s efforts to diversify its funding sources and address the federal budget deficit.
Last month, the department sold similar bonds worth $13 billion at a yield of 4.590% with a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.59 times.

 

 

 

The European Union Imposes a Record Fine of $846 Million

How Did MicroStrategy Outperform Giants Like Nike and IBM

How Did MicroStrategy Outperform Giants Like Nike and IBM?
MicroStrategy, once a relatively unknown company,
has successfully captured the spotlight with its unconventional Bitcoin holding strategy.
This approach, led by co-founder Michael Saylor,
has propelled the company to surpass major global players
like Nike and IBM regarding financial assets.
Here are the details behind this surprising and remarkable transformation.  

 

Contents  

Financial Assets Surpass Market Giants  

A Bold Decision That Changed the Game  

Massive Gains Despite Skepticism  

A Budget Dependent on Bitcoin’s Volatility  

A Unique Metric to Measure Success  

A Long-Term Bet on Cryptocurrency  

Conclusion  

 

 

 

 

Financial Assets Surpass Market Giants

MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin holdings have reached $26 billion,
outpacing the cash and marketable securities of well-known companies like
Nike, Johnson & Johnson, and IBM.
The company now ranks among the top firms in financial assets,
following tech giants like Apple and Alphabet.  

 

A Bold Decision That Changed the Game

In 2020, Michael Saylor invested the company’s funds
in Bitcoin to hedge against inflation when MicroStrategy
faced slowing revenue growth.
Initially, the company used cash from operations
for these purchases but later relied on stock issuances
and convertible debt to expand its investments.
This strategy positioned MicroStrategy as the largest publicly traded Bitcoin holder.  

 

Massive Gains Despite Skepticism

Despite criticism from some corporate governance experts,
MicroStrategy’s strategy was welcomed by investors who saw
it as an opportunity to benefit from Bitcoin’s rising value.
The company’s stock has soared by over 2500% since mid-2020,
with Bitcoin reaching record highs of $93,500.  

 

 

 

A Budget Dependent on Bitcoin’s Volatility

MicroStrategy’s financial standing now heavily relies on Bitcoin’s performance.
Dave Zion, founder of Zion Research Group, remarked,
“Although the company cannot control the cryptocurrency’s price,
it benefits significantly from its volatility.”  

 

A Unique Metric to Measure Success

The company introduced a metric called “Bitcoin Yield,”
which measures the rate of change in the ratio
of its Bitcoin holdings to its diluted shares over time.
This yield has reached 26.4% year-to-date.
Saylor stated that the company reinvests Bitcoin’s volatility
gains to enhance shareholder returns further.  

 

A Long-Term Bet on Cryptocurrency

MicroStrategy aims to grow its Bitcoin holdings to $42 billion within three years.
Analysts believe the company will stick to this strategy,
especially given Bitcoin’s strong performance in 2024,
reinforcing investor confidence in its ability to create sustainable value.  

 

Conclusion

MicroStrategy has demonstrated that bold
and unconventional strategies can transform a small company into a significant market player
While its Bitcoin-centric approach carries risks,
It offers a compelling lesson about innovation and seizing opportunities.  

 

How Did MicroStrategy Outperform Giants Like Nike and IBM?