
Singapore is a top financial centre globally, and traders have many opportunities to trade futures contracts here. However, getting started can be daunting for newcomers. This article will provide an overview of futures trading and Singaporean regulations and give tips on where to go for more information.
What are futures contracts, and why trade them?
Futures contracts are contracts to purchase or sell an asset at a future date at an agreed-upon price now. Futures contracts are popular because they allow investors to hedge against price movements in the underlying asset.
Futures contracts are traded on exchanges, and the prices of these contracts are determined by supply and demand. The sheer size of the futures markets means that prices can be very volatile, which can be both good and bad for traders.
Prices can also move quickly and provide profit opportunities, and that is the reason they are popular.
How to open a futures trading account
A futures trading account can be a valuable tool for hedging against risk or speculating on the future direction of an underlying asset. Before opening an account, it is crucial to understand the risks involved and select a reputable broker.
Opening a futures trading account generally involves filling out an application with a broker, verifying your identity, and funding the account with a margin deposit. You can then execute trades through your broker once your account is authorised and funded. It is important to remember that futures contracts are leveraged instruments, resulting in losses that exceed your initial investment.
As a result, when trading futures, it is critical to exercise caution and always maintain adequate cash in your account to meet your margin requirements.
The types of orders that can be placed when trading futures
When trading futures, traders can place various types of orders.
The most common type of order is a market order to buy or sell a futures contract at the current market price. Other orders include limit orders, which are orders to buy or sell a contract at a specified price, and stop orders, which are orders to buy or sell a contract once it reaches a specified price.
Several more specialised types of orders can also be used in certain circumstances. For example, trailing stop orders automatically buy or sell a contract if it moves in the desired direction, and fill-or-kill orders are used to ensure that an entire order is executed at once or not at all.
By understanding the different orders one can place, traders can develop strategies that fit their specific needs.
Tips for managing your futures trading account
Futures trading accounts can be valuable trading tools for hedging against risk or speculating on the direction of the markets.
However, bear in mind a few things when dealing with a futures trading account:
- It is vital to understand the risks involved clearly. Futures contracts are often leveraged, meaning that a small move in the underlying asset can result in a considerable loss. It is crucial to monitor positions carefully and have appropriate risk management strategies.
- Choosing an account type that fits your needs is crucial. For example, if you plan on holding positions for an extended period, you may want to consider a managed account.
- Before entering any transactions, make sure you do your homework.
The futures markets can be complex and challenging, so it is vital to have a solid understanding of the underlying factors and common trading mistakes before placing any trades.
Following these tips can help ensure your futures trading account is managed effectively.
To summarise
Futures trading can be a great way to invest your money and achieve your financial goals. Singaporean traders should research before getting started to find the right broker and understand the risks involved.
With the proper preparation, futures trading can be an exciting and profitable experience. Futures trading can be a great way to invest your money and achieve your financial goals.
Singaporean traders should research before getting started to find the right broker and understand the risks involved.