A
Account Statement Report
An FXCC account statement report shows all transactions made in a trading
account over a period of time. For example; every trade (order) the client
takes/enters into the market, the cost of each order, the account balance
at a particular time and the rolling balance after each action on the
account is accounted for.
Account Value
The current value of a client's account, this includes the total equity
(amount of net money deposited/remaining in the account) and any changes
due to: profits and losses from existing and closed positions, credits and
debits from daily rollovers, together with charges from activity such as:
commissions, transfer fees, or bank related fees, if such fees are
aplicable.
AdjustablePeg
An exchange rate policy adopted by central banks. The national currency is
"pegged" (fixed) to a major currency (stronger currency, such as the US
dollar or Euro). A recent example being the peg of the Swiss franc to the
euro. The peg can be adjusted, generally as improvements to the country's
competitive position in the export market.
ADX; average directional index
The Average Directional Movement Index (ADX) was designed as a trading
indicator to establish the strength of the trend by measuring price
movement in a single direction. The ADX is part of the Directional Movement
system created and published by J. Welles Wilder and is the average
resulting from the Directional Movement indicators.
Agreement
This relates to the FXCC Customer Agreement. All clients must read and then
accept the terms of business by signing (electronically if necessary) the
FXCC Customer Agreement, before opening an account with FXCC.
Application
The FXCC trading platform.
Application Programming Interface - API
This is an interface enabling a software program to communicate with other
software programs. With reference to forex trading, an API refers to the
interface, enabling a platform to connect with the Forex market. APIs
contain development features allowing information sharing, such as: real
time forex price quotations and trade orders/execution.
Appreciation
A currency's value increases, or strengthens, in response to economic
developments and therefore market reactions.
Arbitrage
It is a term used when forex traders simultaneously sell and buy same (or
equivalent) financial instruments with the aim to profit from price or/and
currency movements.
Ask Price
The price at which the currency, or instrument is offered for sale by FXCC,
or another counter party. The ask or offer price is effectively the price a
client will be quoted when he/she is attempting to buy or long a position.
Asset
Any good that has a fundamental exchange value.
ATR; average true range
The Average True Range (ATR) indicator measures the size of the period
under observation's range, taking into account any gap from the close of
the previous trading period.
Aussie (AUD)
An accepted dealer and internationally recognized symbol/term, for the
AUD/USD currency pair.
Authorized Representative
This is a third party who a client grants trading authority to, or offers
control over a client's account to. FXCC does not, by implication or
otherwise, endorse or approve of the operating methods of an authorized
representative. FXCC therefore accepts no responsibility for the authorized
representative's conduct.
Auto - Trading
This is a trading strategy whereby orders are placed automatically by a
system, or program, often referred to as using expert advisors or EAs, as
opposed to a client manually placing their trades/orders into the market
through their platform. The buy or sell orders are delivered into the
market by the program to be executed when the parameters set by the
trader's program, are finally met.
Average hourly earnings
It represents the average amount that employees are paid per hour for a
given month.
B
Back Office
The FXCC Back Office department deals with account setup, funds transfers
into the client's account, trade reconciliation issues, client inquiries
and any other activities generally concerning activity that does not
directly involve the buying, or selling of a currency pair.
Backtest
It is a method where the trading strategy is tested using historical data
in order to confirm that the trading system is viable, so as to avoid
trading risks of the trader's capital.
Balance of Payments
It is a statement that summarizes the difference in total value between
payments in and out of a country for a specified time period. It is also
known as the balance of international payments as it incorporates the
transactions between country's residents and nonresidents.
Balance of Trade, or Trade Balance
It is the difference between a country's imports and its exports for a
specific time period. It is also the most important part of a nation's
current account. In the case that a country exports a greater value than
its imports, then the country has a trade surplus, and vice versa, if a
country is in a prolonged trade deficit condition (trade gap), the currency
versus its trading partners would decline, or weaken, making the cost of
imports more expensive and exports cheaper for the trading partners.
Bank for International Settlements (BIS)
It is an international financial organization that promotes the cooperation
of central banks with the aim of fostering stability and information
sharing among the central banks of the world. Another aim is to be the key
center for all the economic research.
Bank Line
Defined as a line of credit granted by a bank to a client, this is also
often referred to as a "line".
Banking Day (or Business day)
Banking day is the business day of a bank. It includes all the days when
offices of a bank are opened for business to public, where business
includes all banking functions. Usually banking day is all days except
Saturday, Sunday and legally defined holidays.
Bank of Japan (BOJ)
The central bank of Japan.
Bank Notes
They can be used as a cash equivalent and is a paper which is issued by a
central bank as a type of negotiable instrument (promissory note), which is
payable to the bearer on demand.
Bank Rate
It is an interest rate based on which the central bank borrows money to its
domestic banking system.
Base Currency
This is referred to as the first currency in a currency pair. The base
currency is also the currency in which an investor (issuer), maintains its
book of accounts. In the FX markets, the US Dollar is normally considered
to be the base currency for the majority of FX quotes; quotes are expressed
as a unit of $1 USD, versus the other currency quoted in the pair. The
exceptions to this convention are: the British Pound, the Euro and the
Australian Dollar.
Base Rate
The base rate is the interest rate that the central bank, like the Bank of
England or Federal Reserve, will charge to lend money to commercial banks.
Better risk borrowers will pay a small amount over base rate, lesser
quality borrowers will pay an enhanced rate, above the base rate.
Basis Point
One per cent of one percent. For example; the difference between 3.75% and
3.76%.
Basis Price
The price expressed in annual rate of return or in terms of yield maturity
instead of the price in terms of a currency.
Bear Market
Bear market is a market condition where there is a continued period of
(generally) falling prices for a particular investment product.
Bear Squeeze
A change in the market condition where investors and/or traders, who are
short on an investment product, have to buy back an investment at a higher
price than they sold for it, otherwise the rising market condition/s will
inflict a loss on their account, or their individual trade/s. A bear
squeeze can be an international event created in the investment markets,
usually by central banks or market makers.
Bear
An investor who believes that the price of an investment product will fall.
Beige Book
A Beige Book is a commonly used name for the Fed report, published just
before the FOMC meeting on interest rates. It is available to the public
eight (8) times a year.
Bid Price
The price at which FXCC (or another counter party) offers to buy the
currency pair from a client. It is the price the client will be quoted when
wanting to sell (go short) a position.
Bid/Ask Spread
The difference between the bid and ask price.
Big Figure
Refers normally to the first two or three digits of a currency's price. For
example; EUR/USD exchange rate of .9630 implies a '0' as the first figure.
Therefore the price would be 0.9630, with the "big figure" being 0.96.
Bollinger Band (BBANDS)
A technical indicator that measures volatility, created by John Bollinger.
They provide a relative definition of high and low, where we can observe
the prices as high at the upper band and as low at the lower band.
Break, or Break out
Break out is a term used to describe a sudden, fast rise (or fall) in the
price of an instrument leading towards a break through a predetermined
level of support or resistance.
Bretton Woods Agreement of 1944
This is a post ' WWII agreement that resulted in fixed exchange rates and
set price of gold. The agreement was made between delegates from various
independent nation-states representing major economies of the world.
Broker
An agent, such as FXCC, who executes orders to buy and sell financial
products, such as: currencies and other related instruments, either for a
commission, or the profits on a spread.
Building (Housing) Permits
The number of newly authorized construction projects granted by a
government or other regulatory body before the actual construction can
legally commence.
Bull Market
A prolonged period of rising prices for a particular investment product.
Bull
An investor who believes that prices of particular investment products will
rise.
Bundesbank
The Central Bank of Germany.
Business Day
Any day when commercial banks are open for business, other than Saturday or
Sunday, in the principal financial center of the country.
BuyLimit Order
An order that includes special instructions to execute a transaction to buy
an asset at a specified price or lower. It is not activated until the
market price is at (or lower) the limit price. The buy limit order once
triggered, becomes the market order to buy at the current market price.
Buy StopOrder
A buy stop is a stop order which is placed above the current dealing ask
price, it is not activated until the market ask price is at (or above) the
stop price. The buy stop order once triggered, becomes the market order to
buy at the current market price.
C
Cable
This is the term used in the foreign exchange market for the USD/GBP rate.
Candlestick Chart
A type of chart that consists of blocks that resemble the look of
candlesticks. It displays the high and the low price, as well as the
opening and closing prices.
Carry
The amount that is either credited or debited from an account for holding a
currency pair where the underlying overnight interest rates of the
components differ.
Carry Trade
In terms of Forex transactions, a carry trade is a strategy whereby an
investor borrows money at a low interest rate, in order to invest in an
asset that is likely to provide a higher return. This strategy is very
common in the foreign exchange market, when central banks' borrowing rates
diverge.
Cash Delivery
This is the same day settlement of an obligation.
Cash
Referring to an exchange transaction settled on the day the transaction is
agreed upon.
Cash on Deposit
Cash on deposit is corresponding to the amount of funds deposited in the
account, taking into consideration the plus or minus of realized closed
positions, profit and loss, as well as other debits, or credits, such as
rollovers, and commission (if any are applicable).
CCI, Commodity Channel Index
The Commodity Channel Index (CCI) compares the current mean price in the
market with the average mean price observed over a typical window of 20
periods.
Central Bank
A bank, which is responsible for controlling a country's or regions'
monetary policy. The Federal Reserve is the central bank for the United
States, the European Central Bank is the central bank of Europe, the Bank
of England is the central bank of England and the Bank of Japan is the
central bank of Japan.
Central Bank Intervention
The act by which a central bank, or central banks enter the spot foreign
exchange market in an attempt to influence unstable supply and demand, by
directly purchasing (or selling) foreign exchange.
CFTC
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission, this is the US Federal regulatory
agency for futures traded on the commodity markets, including financial
futures.
Channel
It is a term used when the price has been contained between two parallel
lines (support and resistance levels) for a specific period of time.
Chartist
This is considered to be an individual who studies graphical information
and charts of historical data, in order to attempt to determine trends, or
patterns of price movement, that will help predict the direction and
volatility of a particular investment product. It is a specific type of
practitioner of technical analysis.
CHF
CHF is the abbreviation of the Swiss franc, the currency of Switzerland and
Liechtenstein. The Swiss franc is referred to as the "Swissie' by currency
traders.
Cleared Funds
Funds that are freely available, resulting from the settlement of a trade,
or trades.
Client or Customer
An FXCC Account holder. The client, or account holder can be an:
individual, money manager, corporate entity, trust account, or any legal
entity that has an interest in the value and performance of the account.
Closed Position
Closed position refers to the position that no longer exists as the trader
exited the market under his own discretion. For example, the sell position
will be counterweighted by a buy position and vice versa.
CME
Chicago Mercantile Exchange.
Commission
The fee that a broker such as FXCC may charge per trade.
Commodity Pairs
There are three forex pairs which include currencies from the countries
which have large amounts of commodities/natural mineral reserves. The
commodity pairs are: USD/CAD, USD/AUD, USD/NZD. Commodity pairs are highly
correlated to changes in commodity prices. Traders looking to gain exposure
to commodity markets' changes, often look to trade these pairs.
Confirmation
An electronic, or printed document exchanged by counterparts that describes
all the relevant details of a financial transaction.
Consolidation
Consolidation is a term used to describe a period when prices are less
volatile and are moving sideways.
Consumer Confidence
A measure of the overall degree of optimism surrounding the financial
conditions within an economy and consumer personal financial situation.
Consumer Price Index
This is defined as the monthly measure of the change in the price level of
a basket of consumer goods, usually including: food, clothing, and
transport. Countries vary in their approach to rents and mortgages.
Continuation
Continuation is a terms commonly used when it is expected that the trend
will extend its course.
Contract
An OTC (Over the Counter) agreement done with FXCC to buy or sell a
specified amount of a particular currency, for a specified amount of
another currency, where the settlement is set on a specified value date
(normally the spot date). The foreign exchange rate that the two parties
are contracted to will determine the contracted amounts.
Conversion Rate
The rate used to convert a specific currency pairs' non US dollar
profits/losses into dollars, at the end of each trading day.
Convertible Currency
A currency that can be freely traded for other currencies without
regulatory restrictions. They are generally associated with open and stable
economies, and their prices are typically determined through supply and
demand in the foreign exchange market.
Correction
It is a reverse movement and the terms is used to describe price action
during a partial reversal of a trend.
Correspondent Bank
A foreign bank representative, who provides services on behalf of another
financial institution, which has no branch in the relevant financial
center, for example; to facilitate the transfer of funds or conduct
business transactions.
Counter Currency
The second currency in a currency pair. For example; in the currency pair
EUR/USD, the counter currency is the USD.
Counter Party
An individual or a bank that participates in international financial
exchange and is the underwriter of a contract such as loan.
Country risk
It refers to the likelihood of a country to arbitrate or influence the
value of a currency. The limit price in a sell limit order should be above
the current dealing bid price involves the examination of economic,
political and geographical factors of a particular country, in order to
determine its overall stability.
Cover
Making a transaction that finally closes out a position.
Crawling Peg
This is also referred to as an "adjustable peg". This is defined as the
level a country's exchange rate is set at, in relation to another currency.
Cross Currency Contract
A spot contract to either purchase, or sell one foreign currency, in
exchange for another specific foreign currency. The currencies exchanged
are not the US Dollar.
Cross Pair
A currency that does not include the USD.
Cross Rate
The exchange rate between two currencies, neither of which are the official
currency of the country and both are expressed in terms of a third
currency.
Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies are digital, virtual currencies using cryptography for
security of the transaction. As it is not issued by central banks, or
governments it is referred to being of organic nature, which in theory
makes it immune to government interference, or manipulation, such as
Bitcoin.
Currency
It is the metal or paper medium, when in actual use or circulation, as a
mean of exchange, specifically circulating banknotes and coins.
Currency Basket
It is commonly used to minimize the risk of currency oscillations, and is
referred to as a selection of currencies where the weighted average of the
basket is used to measure the value of a financial commitment.
Currency Converter
It is an electronic program used for the conversion of currencies; a
calculator which converts the value of one currency into the value of
another currency. For example; dollars to euros. Converters should use the
most recent market quotes available in the foreign exchange market.
Currency Option
Currency options grants the buyer the right, but not commitment, to
exchange a fixed amount of funds denominated in one currency into another
at a fixed price on a specified date.
Currency Pair
Defined as two currencies in a foreign exchange transaction. The 'EUR/USD'
is an example of a currency pair.
Currency Risk
The risk of unfavorable fluctuations in exchange rates.
Currency Symbols
These are the three letter identifiers created by the ISO (International
organization for standardization) and typically used in place of the full
currency names. For example: USD, JPY, GBP, EUR, and CHF.
Currency Union
The most referred to currency union is the Eurozone. It is an agreement
between two or more countries to share a common currency (or peg), so as to
maintain their exchange rates to keep the value of their currency at a
specific level. Members of the union also share a single monetary and
foreign exchange policy.
Customer Account Application
The FXCC application process which all clients must complete and submit for
acceptance by FXCC, before a transaction can take place.
D
Daily Cut Off (close of business day)
This is the single point in time, during a particular business day,
representing the end of that business day. The trade date of any contract
entered into after the daily cut off, is considered executed on the next
business day.
Day Order
A buy or sell order that if it is not executed on the specific day, is then
automatically cancelled.
Day Trade
It refers to a trade with has been opened and closed within the same day.
Day Trader
Speculators and traders who take positions in investment products, which
are then liquidated prior to the close of the same trading day, are defined
as day traders.
Deal Blotter
Traders may prefer to keep records of all the transactions executed during
a specific period. A personalized deal blotter contains all the basic
information relevant to transactions. The forex trader deal blotter might
include information such as the opening and closing currency positions,
initiated by the trader.
Deal Date
It is the date on which the transaction is agreed on.
Dealing Desk
Forex markets are open 24/5, therefore many institutions have dealing desks
in various locations. Dealing desks are also found outside the forex
markets; in banks and finance companies, in order to execute trades in many
securities. Dealing desks at broker firms, when trading forex as a retail
trader, often set their own quotes and spreads when offering forex trading
to their clients, as opposed to accessing the market direct, though, for
example, straight through processing methods.
Deal Ticket
This is the primary method of recording the basic information relating to
any financial transaction.
Dealer
An individual (or firm) acting as a principal, rather than as an agent, in
the transaction of foreign exchange (purchase or sell). Dealers trade for
their own benefit, trade their own account/s and take their own risk.
Default
This is defined as the breach of a financial contract.
Deficit
A negative balance of trade.
DEMA, (double exponential moving average)
Created by the technician Patrick Mulloy, the Double Exponential Moving
Average (DEMA) attempts to provide a smoothed average by calculating faster
averaging methodology, potentially with less lag than a standard
exponential moving average. The calculation is also more complex than the
moving average.
Depreciation
It is a decrease in the value of a currency relative to other currencies,
due to market forces.
Depth of Market
This is the measure of the size of volume and is the indicator of the
liquidity available for transaction purposes for (as an example) a
particular currency pair, at a specific point in time.
Details
In relation to currency trading this is the information required in order
to finalize a foreign exchange transaction, for example; name, rate, and
dates.
Devaluation
Devaluation is a downward valuation of a country's currency versus: another
currency, group of currencies, or as a standard. Devaluation is a monetary
policy program used by countries that have a fixed exchange rate, or
semi-fixed exchange rate. Devaluation is implemented by the government and
central bank issuing a currency. A country may devalue its currency to, for
example, combat trade imbalances.
Discretionary Income
This is a figure calculated as the net of tax and any fixed personal
spending commitments.
Divergence
Divergence can be positive or negative and it is a signal of a shift in the
trend of the price movement.
DM, DMark
Deutsche Mark. The former currency of Germany prior to its replacement by
the euro.
DMI, directional movement index
The Directional Movement Indicators (DMI) are components of the Directional
Movement indicator system created and published by the founder of many
trading indicators, J. Welles Wilder. They are computed in tandem with the
Average Directional Movement Index (ADX). Two indicators are plotted, a
Positive DI ( +DI ) and a Negative DI ( -DI ).
Doji
A candlestick that forms when the price's open and close are almost equal.
It represents a relatively large range between the high and low, but a very
narrow range between the open and closing price and looks like a cross or
inverted cross.
Dollar rate
The dollar rate is defined as the exchange rate of a particular currency
versus the dollar (USD). Most exchange rates use the dollar as the base
currency and other currencies as the counter currency.
Domestic Rates
This is defined as the interest rates applicable to depositing, or
investing currency in the country of origin.
Done
The term used by FXCC representatives in order to indicate that a verbal
deal has been executed and is now a binding deal.
Double Bottom
Used in technical analysis as a chart pattern that may
indicate possible bullish future price movements
Double Top
Used in technical analysis as a chart pattern formation that may indicate
bearish future price movements.
Dovish
Dovish refers to the sentiment or the tone of language used when a central
bank is looking to stimulate the economy and is unlikely to take aggressive
actions regarding inflation.
Durable Goods Order
It is an economic indicator that reflects new orders which were placed with
domestic manufacturers in the near term. It measures the strength of
manufacturing and helps the investors recognize trends in the growth of the
economy.
E
Easing
Defined as action taken by a central bank, with the intention of boosting
the money supply, with the aim of stimulating economic activity,
principally by encouraging rising inflation.
Economic Calendar
This is a calendar used to monitor the economic indicators, metrics, data
and reports due to be released by each country, region and independent
economic analysis firm. Depending on the impact they have on the markets,
data releases are usually graded accordingly; those predicted to have the
greatest impact are usually defined as "high impact".
Economic Indicator
A statistic generally issued by a country's government, indicating the
current economic growth relevant to the indicator.
Effective Exchange Rate
It is an index describing the strength of a currency comparative to a
basket of other currencies. It can also be seen as an attempt to summarize
the effects on a country's trade balance of its currency's changes against
other currencies.
EFT
Electronic Fund transfer.
EMA, Exponential Moving Average
The Exponential Moving Average (EMA) represents an average of prices,
placing more mathematical weight on more recent prices. The weighting
applied to the most recent price depends on the selected period of the
moving average chosen by the user. The shorter the period for the EMA, the
more weight applied to the most recent price.
Employment Cost Index (ECI)
An economic indicator of the U.S. that measures the growth rate and
inflation of labor cost.
End of Day Order (EOD)
This is defined as an order to buy, or sell a financial instrument at a
specified price, the order remains open until the end of trading.
Either Way Market
Defined as a situation occurring in the Euro Interbank deposit market, when
both the bid and the offer rates for a particular period, are precisely the
same.
Electronic Currency Trading
Trading currencies through online brokerage accounts. Electronic currency
trading encompasses the conversion of the base currency to a foreign
currency, at the available market exchange rate, through online brokerage
accounts. Through information technology, it brings buyers and sellers
together and using an electronic trading platform it creates virtual market
places.
Euro
This is the single exchange currency of the European Union bloc.
European Central Bank (ECB)
The central bank of the European Union.
European Currency Unit (ECU)
A basket of the EU member currencies.
European Economic Monetary Union (EMU)
As a system of integration between the members of the European Union, It
involves the coordination of economic and fiscal policies, and a common
currency ' the euro.
Euro ETF
It is defined as an exchange traded fund which invests in the euro
currency, either directly, or by way of euro denominated short term debt
instruments.
Euro Rates
This is the interest rates quoted for the Euro currency over a specific
period of time.
Eurocurrency
Eurocurrency is currency deposited outside its home market by national
governments or corporations. This applies to any currency and to banks in
any country. As an example; South Korean won deposited at a bank in South
Africa, is then considered to be "eurocurrency". Also known as "euromoney."
Eurodollars
Eurodollars are defined as time deposits measured in U.S. dollars, at banks
outside the United States, therefore they do not come under the
jurisdiction of the Federal Reserve. As a consequence such deposits are
subject to much less regulation than, for example, similar deposits within
the U.S.A.
European Union
The European Union (EU) is a group of 28 countries which operates as an
economic and political bloc. Nineteen of the countries currently use the
euro as their official currency. The European Single Market was established
by 12 countries in 1993, to adhere to the four principal freedoms; the
movement of: goods, services, people and money.
Excess Margin Deposits
Money deposited with FXCC that is not used for margin against existing open
positions.
Exchange
In relation to exchanging financial transactions, an exchange is generally
defined as a physical location where instruments are traded and often
regulated. Examples: the New York Stock Exchange, the Chicago Board of
Trade.
Exchange Control
A system put in place by governments and central banks for the purpose of
controlling inflows and outflows of foreign exchange and devices, to
include: licensing multiple currencies, quotas, auctions, limits, levies
and surcharges.
Exchange Rate Mechanism - ERM
An exchange rate mechanism is a concept of fixed currency exchange rate
margins- a system designed to control a currency's exchange rate relative
to other currencies. There is variability of the currency exchange rates
within the limits of the margins. A currency exchange rate mechanism is
often referred to as a semi pegged currency system.
Exotic Currency
A foreign exchange description for a less traded and exchanged currency.
Exotic currencies are illiquid and lack the market depth of, for example,
the euro and are therefore traded in much lower volumes. Trading an exotic
currency can often be far more expensive as the quotes - the bid/ask
spread, is consistently wider. Exotics are not easily traded (or available)
in standard brokerage accounts. Examples of exotic currencies include the
Thai baht and Iraqi dinar.
Exposure
It refers to the risk associated with the fluctations in the market price
which may lead to potential profit or loss.
F
Factory Orders
It is a report generated by the U.S. census Bureau providing details of the
manufacturing statistics of non-durable and durable orders and measures
shipments, unfilled orders, and inventories of domestic manufacturers.
Fast Market
The rapid movement of prices, or rates in a market caused by an imbalance
of supply and demand conditions from buyers and/or sellers, also known a
condition when financial markets are experiencing unusually high levels of
volatility, combined with unusually heavy trading. In such circumstances
rates, or prices, may not be readily available to clients until a more
orderly market resumes.
Fed Fund Rate
It is the interest rate at which a depository organization lends funds held
in the Federal Reserve to another depository organization overnight. It is
used to conduct monetary policy and affect changes in the money supply that
causes changes in the level of activity in the United States economy.
Fed Funds
Cash balances held by banks within the control of their local Federal
Reserve Bank.
Fed
This is an abbreviation for the United States Federal Reserve Bank.
Federal Open Market Committee
Also known as the FOMC. This is the body of individuals which decide the
course of monetary policy that will be conducted in United States. The FOMC
is directly responsible for pegging the Federal funds rate and the discount
rate. Both rates are influential in controlling the levels of money supply
growth and the levels of economic activity in the United States.
Federal Reserve Board
The board of the Federal Reserve System, appointed by the US President for
a 14 year term, one of the board is also appointed for four years as the
chairman.
Federal Reserve System
The central banking system of the USA, comprising 12 Federal Reserve Banks,
controlling 12 districts under direct control of the Federal Reserve Board.
Membership of the Fed is compulsory for banks chartered by the Comptroller
of Currency and optional for state chartered banks.
Fibonacci Retracement
It is a term used in technical analysis which refers to support and
resistance levels a correction may hit before returning to the direction of
the major price movement.
Fill, or filled
This is a deal executed on behalf of/on a client's account as a result of a
client order. Once filled, the order cannot be cancelled, amended, or
waived by the client.
Fill Price
It is the price at which the client's order to go long or short is
executed.
Firm Quotation
This is defined as a price quote, delivered in response to a request for a
firm rate, that guarantees a bid or ask price up to the amount quoted. It
is a price at which the quoting party is willing to execute a deal, for
spot settlement.
Fiscal Policy
The use of taxation and/or stimulus as a tool, for implementing monetary
policy.
Fixed Dates
These are the monthly calendar dates similar to the spot. There are two
exceptions. For further detailed description see information on value
dates.
Fixed Exchange Rate
This is the official rate set by monetary authorities. It is a currency
rate that is set against another currency or currencies.
Fixing
It is defined as a method for determining rates by establishing a rate
which balances buyers to sellers. This process occurs either once, or twice
daily at specific defined times. Used by some currencies, particularly for
establishing tourist rates.
Fix Protocol
The Financial Information Exchange (FIX) protocol was established in 1992
and it is an industry driven messaging standard for the exchange of
information related to securities transactions and markets.
Floating exchange rate
Defined as an exchange rate where the currency price is set by market
forces constructed on the supply and demand paralleled with other
currencies. Floating currencies are subject to intervention by the monetary
authorities. When such activity is frequent, the float is known as a dirty
float.
FOMC
Federal Open Market Committee, is the committee within the Federal Reserve
System consisting of 12 members that set the direction of monetary policy.
The Announcements inform the public about the decisions made on the
interest rates.
Foreign Exchange
The term "foreign exchange" refers to the off exchange trading in foreign
currency, there is no single, centralized, authorized and recognized
exchange for trading forex. The term may also refer to currency trading on
exchanges such as the IMM at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.
Foreign Exchange Swap
Transaction which involves a simultaneous purchase and sale of two
currencies on a specific date at a rate agreed at the time of the
conclusion of the contract, also known as the 'short leg', at a date
further in the future at a rate agreed at the time of the contract - 'the
long leg'.
Forex
"Forex" is the accepted short name for foreign exchange and commonly refers
to off exchange trading in foreign currency.
Forex Arbitrage
A trading strategy used by forex traders attempting to exploit the
difference in the pricing of currency pairs. It takes the advantage of the
different spreads that are offered by a broker for a specific pair. The
strategy involves reacting fast to opportunities.
Forex market hours
Defined as the hours when forex market participants can: buy, sell,
exchange and speculate on currencies. The forex market is open 24 hours a
day, five days a week. Currency markets combine: banks, commercial
companies, central banks, investment management firms, hedge funds, retail
forex brokers and investors. The international currency market has no
central exchange, it involves a global network of exchanges and brokers.
Forex trading hours are based on when trading is open in each participating
country. When the main markets overlap; Asian, European and in the USA, the
highest volume of trading occurs.
Forex Pivot Points
This refers to the set of indicators, commonly used by day traders in order
to define quickly if the market sentiment may change from bullish to
bearish and vice versa. In other words, it is used to determine the support
and resistance levels. Forex pivot points are calculated as the average of
the: high, low and close (HLC), from the previous day's trading session.
Forex Spread Betting
Spread betting involving bets on the price movements of currency pairs, the
bid and the ask price.
Spread betting firms offering currency spread betting quote two prices, the
bid and the ask price - the spread. Traders bet if the price of the
currency pair will be lower than the bid price, or higher than the ask
price.
Forex Trading Robot
Computer software trading program based on technical trading signals, which
help determine whether to enter a trade for a particular currency pair at
any given time. Forex robots, for retail traders specifically, are often
helpful in removing the psychological element of trading.
Forex System Trading
This would be defined as trading based on analysis to determine whether to
buy, or sell a currency pair at a specific time, often based on a set of
signals generated by technical analysis charting tools, or fundamental news
events and data. A trader's trading system is generally formed by technical
signals creating their buy or sell decisions, which historically lead to
profitable trades.
Forward Contract
Sometimes used as an alternative expression for 'forward deal' or 'future'.
More specifically for arrangements with the same effect as a forward deal
between a bank and a customer.
Forward Rate
Forward rates are quoted in terms of forward points, representing the
difference between the forward and the spot rates. To obtain the forward
rate, as opposed to the actual exchange rate, forward points are either
added, or subtracted from the exchange rate. The decision to subtract or
add points is determined by the differential between the deposit rates for
both currencies involved in the transaction. The base currency with the
higher interest rate is discounted to the lower interest rate quoted
currency in the forward market. The forward points are subtracted from the
spot rate. The lower interest rate base currency is at a premium, the
forward points are added to the spot rate, in order to obtain the forward
rate.
Fundamentals
These are the macro economic factors at the regional or national level,
which are accepted as forming the foundation for the relative value of a
currency, these will include factors such as: inflation, growth, trade
balance, government deficit, and interest rates. These factors have effect
on a large population rather than a few select individuals.
Fundamental Analysis
A method used to measure the basic value of a particular currency based in
major news on economic indicators, government policies, and any events that
have effects on the currency country.
FX
This is an acronym for foreign exchange, which is widely used nowadays.
FXCC
FXCC is an international brand that is authorized and regulated in various jurisdictions, comprising of two entities: FX Central Clearing Ltd and Central Clearing Ltd.
FXCC Demo Trading Platform
FXCC provides a demo trading platform program, which is a full feature
replica of the FXCC trading platform for real trading. The demo trading
platform allows FXCC clients to become familiar with the actual trading
platform's functionality and features, without risking any capital by
executing contracted trades. The platform does not involve actual deals or
contracts, therefore any profit, or loss generated by using the platform is
virtual. It is strictly for demonstration purposes only.
FXCC Risk Disclosure Document
The FXCC Risk Disclosure outlines the risks involved when dealing in CFDs
and to assist the client in taking investment decisions on an informed
basis.
G
G7
Defined as the seven leading industrial countries the: USA, Germany, Japan,
France, UK, Canada and Italy.
G10
This is the G7 plus: Belgium, Netherlands and Sweden, a group linked with
IMF discussions. Switzerland is sometimes (marginally) involved.
GBP
Short for the Great Britain Pound.
Going Long
Defined as the action of buying a currency pair. For example; if a client
bought the EUR/USD, they would be 'going long' the Euro.
Going Short
This is the action of selling a currency pair. For example; if a client
sold the EUR/USD, they would be 'going short' the Euro.
Gold Standard
This is defined as a fixed monetary system, under which a government and or
central bank, fixes their currency which can be freely converted into gold
because of its fundamental properties. It has non-monetary uses, therefore
it is expected to retain a minimum level of real demand. It also refers to
freely competitive monetary systems, in which gold, or bank receipts for
gold, act as the principal medium of exchange.
Good 'til Canceled (GTC order)
An order to buy or sell at a fixed price that continues to be active until
it is either executed or is cancelled by the trader.
Greenback
It is a term used in jargon which represents the U.S. paper dollars.
Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
Defined as the total value of all goods and services produced in a country
over a specific period of time.
Gross National Product (GNP)
It is an economic figure equal to GDP plus income earned from output,
income, or investment proceeds earned abroad.
GTC
SEE: Good 'til canceled.
H
Hammer
A candlestick that is characterized by a square like body with a long
whisker towards the bottom.
Handle
The handle is defined as the whole number part of a price quote,
eliminating the decimals. In foreign exchange markets, the handle also
refers to the part of the price being quoted which appears in both the bid
price and offer price for the currency. For example; if the EUR/USD
currency pair has a bid of 1.0737 and ask of 1.0740, the handle would be
1.07; the quote equal to both the bid and the ask price. Also often
referred to as "the big figure" the handle is often used as a phrase to
describe a prominent looming level, for example, the DJIA approaching
20,000.
Hard Currency
Hard currency is also known as the strong currency and is the most valued
form of currency in trading internationally. They are currencies broadly
acknowledged globally as forms of payment for goods and services. Hard
currencies generally maintain stability through short periods and are very
liquid in the forex market. Hard currencies are produced from nations with
strong economic and political environments.
Hawkish
The sentiment of the central bank when it is intending to increase interest
rates, which may return in positive outcome on the currency.
Head and Shoulders
A chart pattern used in technical analysis that proposes a reversal of a
trend, for example, from bullish to bearish trend reversal.
Hedged Position
It involves the holding of long and short positions of the same underlying
assets.
High Frequency Trading (HFT)
This is a kind of algorithmic trading with simultaneous large volume of
orders, performed at very fast speeds.
High/Low
The highest traded price or the lowest traded price for an underlying
instrument for the present trading day.
Hit the Bid
This is a term used to describe the action of a seller of a currency pair,
when selling at the market bid side.
HKD
This is the currency abbreviation for the Hong Kong dollar (HKD), the
currency of Hong Kong. It is constructed of 100 cents, often represented by
the symbol $, or HK$. Three Chinese note issuing banks have authority to
issue Hong Kong dollars, subject to Hong Kong government policy. HK$ move
through a government exchange fund holding U.S. dollars in reserve.
Holder
In relation to currency trading, this is defined as the buyer of a currency
pair.
Housing Market Indicators
Market moving economic indicators relating to housing, mainly in the USA
and the UK, based on published housing data.
Housing Starts
This is the number of new residential construction projects (privately
owned houses) that have commenced during any given period of time, usually
quoted each month or yearly.
I
Ichimoku, (ICH)
Ichimoku has been designed before World War II, as a financial markets
forecasting model, a trend following indicator recognizing the mid points
of the historical highs and the lows over various points of time. The
purpose of the indicator is to generate trading signals similar to that
created by moving averages, or by the combination of the MACD. Ichimoku
chart lines are moved forward in time, creating wider support and
resistance areas, potentially this reduces the risk of false breakouts.
IMF
The International Monetary Fund established in 1946 in order to provide
short and medium term international loans.
Implied Rates
It is a rate resulting from the difference between the spot rate and the
future rate on a transaction.
Inconvertible Currency
A currency that due to foreign exchange regulations or physical barriers
cannot be exchanged for another currency. Inconvertible currencies can be
constrained from trading, due to particularly high volatility, or by
political sanctions.
Indirect Quote
An indirect quote is when the USD is the base currency of the pair and not
the quote currency. Since the USD is the dominant currency in global
foreign exchange markets, it is usually used as the base currency and other
currencies, for example Japanese yen or Canadian dollar are used as the
counter currency.
Industrial Production Index (IPI)
An economic indicator that measures market activity. It is published by the
Federal Reserve Board of the U.S.A on monthly basis and is measuring the
production output of the mining, manufacturing, and utilities.
Inflation
Defined as the rise in prices of consumer goods, directly related to the
reduction in purchasing power.
Initial Margin Requirement
This is defined as the minimum margin balance necessary, in order to
establish a new open position, where the Initial margin has to be less than
or equal to the margin available. The initial margin requirement can be
expressed as a percentage (for example; 1% of US dollar position amount),
or can be calculated by the leverage ratio.
Interbank Market
The interbank market is defined as the over the counter market of dealers,
in FX trading they would constitute creating markets in foreign exchange to
one another.
Interbank Rates
Foreign Exchange rates quoted between international banks.
Inter Dealer Broker
This is a brokerage firm operating in the bond (or OTC derivatives)
markets, acting as mediators between major dealers and inter dealer trades.
For example; members of the London Stock Exchange, who are only permitted
to deal with market makers, as opposed to the general public.
Interest Rates
The amount charged to use money. Interest rates are influenced by the rates
set by the Fed.
Interest Rate Parity
As a consequence of this phenomenon, the interest rate differential and the
differential between the forward and spot exchange rate between two
counties are equal. Interest rate parity connects: interest rates, spot
exchange rates and foreign exchange rates.
Intervention
It is an action by a central that affects the value of its currency, by
selling or buying foreign currency in exchange for their own domestic one,
as an attempt to influence the exchange rate.
Intraday Position
Classified as positions run by a client of FXCC within the day. Usually
squared by the close.
Introducing Broker
Referred to as a person, or a legal entity that introduces customers to
FXCC, often in return for compensation in terms of a fee per transaction.
Introducers are prevented from accepting margined funds from their clients.
L
Leading and lagging indicators
Nearly all (if not all) technical indicators lag, they do not lead; they do
not offer proof that, for example, a currency pair will behave in a certain
manner. Some fundamental analysis can lead, given that it can be a forward
indication of events. A survey of consumers buying habits in the future may
indicate the health of the retail sector. A survey of a housing
construction body may provide evidence of their members commitment to
construct more homes. The CBOT survey indicates the commitment traders have
made to purchase and trade certain financial instruments.
Left-hand Side
Selling the quoted currency, also known as taking the bid price of the
quote.
Legal Tender
The value of ones' country currency, which has been recognized by law as
the official method of payment. The national currency is considered to be
authorized tender in most countries, and is used to pay a private or public
liability, as well as to meet financial commitments. A creditor is
obligated to accept legal tender towards repayment of a debt. Legal tender
is issued by the national body authorized, such as the U.S. Treasury in the
United States and the Bank of England in the UK.
Leverage
This is the control of a large notional position, through the use of a
small amount of capital.
Liability
Liability is an obligation to deliver an amount of currency at a specified
date in the future to the counterparty.
LIBOR
The London Inter-Bank Offered Rate.
Limit Order
A limit order can be used to place a trade to enter the market at a
pre-defined price. Once the market price reaches the pre-set price, the
order may be triggered (a limit order does not guarantee that the order
will be executed) at the stated limit price. It may occur, due to the
volatility in the market that the market reaches the limit price and
immediately retreats back from the limit price level, with very little
volume traded. Then, the limit order may not be triggered and will remain
in effect until the time it can be executed or until the client voluntarily
cancels the order.
Limit Price
This is the price that the client specifies when placing a limit order.
Line Charts
The simple line chart connects single prices for a selected time period.
Liquid
This is the condition in the market where there is sufficient amount of
volume being traded, in order to easily buy, or sell instruments generally
on (or close to) the quoted prices.
Liquidation
Defined as a transaction that offsets, or closes out a previously
established position.
Liquidation Level
Once the client's account does not have sufficient funds to hold the opened
positions, liquidation will occur based on a specific account level which
will liquidate opened positions at the best price available at the given
time. A client can prevent liquidation of their account and positions by
depositing additional margin into the account, or by closing out existing
open position(s).
Liquidity
This is the term used to describe the amount of volume available to buy, or
sell at a point in time.
London Spot Fix
As a result of the conference call of the London Gold Pool (Scotia-Mocatta,
Deutsche Bank, Barclays Capital, Societe Generale and HSBC), the price per
ounce of precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum and palladium is
set on daily basis at 10:30 (London a.m. fix) and 15:00 GMT (London p.m.
fix). The London spot fix price is considered to be fixed once the
conference call terminates.
Long
When a client opened a new position of buying a currency pair, it is
considered that he went 'long'.
Loonie
Dealer and slang term for the USD/CAD currency pair.
Lot
Defined as a unit used to measure the value of a transaction. Transactions
are referred to by the number of lots traded, rather than by their monetary
value. It is a standard trading term referring to an order to 100,000 unit.
M
MACD, Moving Average Convergence and Divergence
It is an indicator which shows the connection between two moving averages
and how they interact when the price changes. It is trend following
momentum indicator.
Maintenance Margin
This is the lowest margin required, which a client must have at FXCC, in
order to keep open, or sustain an open position.
Major Pairs
Major pairs refers to the currency pairs that are most traded in the forex
market, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF. These major currency
pairs drive the global forex market, the USD/CAD and AUD/USD pairs could
also be regarded as majors, although these pairs are generally known as
"commodity pairs".
Manufacturing Production
It is the total output of the manufacturing sector of the Industrial
Production figures.
Managed Forex Accounts
It is a term used when a money manager will for a fee trade on the clients'
account in a similar method to hiring an investment advisor, in order to
manage an investment account of, for example, equities.
Margin Call
Margin Call occurs when the clients' margin level drops to 100% as set by
FXCC. The client has the option to add more funds in order to meet the
margin requirements and avoid the Stop Out or can close the least
profitable trades.
Margin
This is defined as the total amount of customer cash pledged against the
combined open positions.
The margin and leverage are interconnected. Namely, the lower the leverage,
the higher the margin
Required to maintain an opened position and vice versa. Mathematically
expressed; margin = open position/maximum trading leverage ratio. For
example; a USD/CHF 100,000 USD position at the maximum trading leverage
ratio of 100:1, will require pledged margin equal to 100,000/100 or $1,000.
To calculate margins for currency pairs, where USD is not the base (first)
currency (e.g. EUR/USD, GBP/USD) and crosses (EUR/JPY, GBP/JPY), and the
counter currency amount is firstly converted into USD, by using the average
exchange rate(s). Example; if a customer buys 1 lot of EUR/USD, when the
price is 1.0600. Therefore, 100,000 EUR equals 100,600 USD. $100,600/100
leverage ratio = $1,006.00
Market Close
The term is used for the specific time of the day when the market closes,
which is 5 PM EST on Friday for spot forex brokers.
Market Depth
It shows the buy/sell orders in the market for a specific instrument.
Market Execution
Generally used by STP and ECN brokerages, this is a method of execution
when a trader is not guaranteed to obtain the price observed on the screen
of the terminal, but is guaranteed to get the trade executed. There are no
re-quotes with this type of execution.
Market Maker
A market maker is defined as a person, or firm authorized to create and
maintain a market in an instrument.
Market Order
A market order is regarded as an order to buy, or sell a chosen currency
pair, at the current market price. Market orders are executed at the price
displayed at the moment the user clicks the 'BUY/SELL' button.
Market Rate
It is the currency pairs' current quote for which one currency can be
exchanged for another in real time.
Market Risk
It refers to the risk that can arise from market forces, for example,
supply and demand, which as a result causes the value of an investment to
fluctuate.
Market Trading
This is the term used to illustrate the relationship of total equity,
versus free equity.
Maturity
Defined as the date for settlement for a transaction which is
pre-determined at the time of entering into the contract.
Maximum Trading Leverage Ratio
Leverage is expressed as a ratio, available to open a new position. It
allows the traders to enter the market with higher volume trades than the
initial deposit alone would allow them. For example; a leverage ratio of
100:1 allows a client the ability to control a $100,000 lot position, with
$1,000 of margin ($100,000/100 = $1,000).
Micro Lot
It is the smallest contract unit size in trading Forex that is equal to
1,000 units of the base currency.
Micro lots enable novice traders to trade in smaller increments and
therefore reduce their risk significantly.
Micro Account
In the micro account, clients are able to trade micro lots, thus this
account type is usually popular among novice traders where they can trade
small amounts.
Mini Forex Account
This account type enables traders to enter the market with positions of
1/10 the size of the standard lot.
Mini Lot
Mini lot has a currency trading size of 0.10, where the value of one pip if
based in USD equals to $1.
Minor Currency Pairs
Minor currency pairs, or "the minors" consist of many other currency pairs
and cross currencies. For example, we would classify the Euro against the
UK's pound (EUR/GBP) as a minor currency pair, despite it being heavily
traded and the spread being consistently low. The New Zealand dollar versus
the US Dollar (NZD/USD) can also be classified as a minor currency pair,
despite it also being classed as a "commodity pair".
Mirror Trading
It is a trading strategy allowing investors to 'mirror trade' other forex
traders and investors. They would basically copy the trades of other
investors which will reflect in their own trading account.
MoM
Month-on-month. Abbreviation used for calculating the percentage change in
indices during a monthly period.
MOMO Trading
This term is used when the trader is considering only short-term direction
of the price movement, not the fundamentals. The strategy is based only on
momentum.
Money Market Hedge
Money market hedge is a way to protect against currency oscillations and
allows a company to reduce the currency risk when doing business with a
foreign company. Before conducting a transaction, the value of the foreign
company currency will be locked in, so as to assure the cost of the future
transaction and ensures the domestic company will have the price it is able
and willing to pay.
Moving Average (MA)
Defined as a method of smoothing a set of price/rate data by taking the
average price of data range of values.
N
Narrow Market
This occurs when there is low liquidity in the market but great
oscillations in prices and high spread. In a narrow market generally there
is a low number of bid/ask offers.
Negative Roll
Defined as the negative interest of (SWAP) rolling over a position
overnight.
Neckline
In charting pattern formations, the base of a Head and Shoulder or its
opposite.
Net Interest Rate Differential
This is the difference in interest rates from the countries of two diverse
currencies. For example, if a trader is long in EUR/USD, then he owns the
Euro and is borrowing the US currency. If the spot next rate for the Euro
is 3.25% and the spot/next rate in the US is 1.75%, then the interest
differential is 1.50% (3.25% - 1.75% = 1.50%).
Netting
Defined as the method of settling, under which only the differences in the
traded currencies are settled at the close.
Net Position
Net position is the amount bought or sold which is not counterbalanced by a
position of an equal size.
Net Worth
It is defined as assets minus liabilities. Can also be referred to as net
assets.
New York Session
Trading session between 8:00 AM EST ' 5:00 PM EST. (New York Time).
News Feed
Regarded as a data format used in trading platforms for providing users
with frequently updated content.
No Dealing Desk (NDD)
FXCC is a "no dealing desk" forex broker. NDD is defined as unhindered
access to the interbank market, where foreign currencies are traded. Forex
brokers using this model route orders through to market liquidity
providers, rather than dealing with a single liquidity provider. A trader's
order is offered to numerous providers, in order to get the most
competitive bid and ask prices.
Noise
It is a term that is used to specify certain price movements that cannot be
explained by fundamental nor technical factors.
Non-Farm Payroll
Statistical data gathered by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which
corresponds to the payroll data for the majority of the United States. It
does not include: farm workers, private household employees, or non-profit
organization employees. It is a fundamental indicator released monthly.
Notional Value
Notional value on a financial instrument is the value of a position in
dollar terms.
NZD/USD
It is the abbreviation for the New Zealand dollar and the U.S. dollar
currency pair. It portrays to the traders the amount of U.S. dollars needed
to but one New Zealand dollar. Trading the NZD/USD currency pair is often
referred to as "trading the Kiwi".
O
OCO Order (One Cancel the Other Order)
An order type where stop and limit order is set at the same time and if
either trade is executed, the other one will be cancelled.
Offer
This is the price at which a dealer is looking to sell a currency. The
offer is also called the ask price.
Offered Market
It is a situation that may occur in the forex market, which is usually
temporary and represents the occurrence where the number of traders selling
an instrument exceeds the number of traders willing to buy.
Offsetting Transaction
This is a trade that serves to remove, or reduce some, or all of the market
risk in an open position.
Old Lady
Old lady of Threadneedle Street, a term for the central bank of England.
Omnibus Account
It is an account amid two brokers where individual accounts and the
transactions are joined in an omnibus account, rather than designated
separately. The futures merchant will open this account with another
company, where the processing of the deals and operations in the name of
the account holder are performed.
Online Currency Exchange
Defined as an online system permitting the exchange of nations' currencies.
Forex market is decentralized and it is a network of computers that connect
banks, online currency exchanges and forex brokers that allow for delivery
of the currencies traded.
On Top
Attempting to short the market, at the current market price.
Open Interest
The entire sum of unsettled contracts held by market participants at the
end of every trading day.
Open Order
It is defined as an order that will be executed once the market moves and
reaches the stated price.
Open Position
Any position that has been opened by a trader which has not been closed by
an equivalent or opposite deal of the same size.
Open Position window
The FXCC window which demonstrates all the current client positions that
are open.
Order(s)
Orders are defined as an instruction from the client to either buy or sell
a specific currency pair, through FXCC trading platform. Orders can be set
to be triggered as well, once the market price reaches the client's
pre-determined price.
OTC Margined Foreign Exchange
Over the counter (off exchange) foreign exchange markets, in which market
participants, such as FXCC and the client, enter into privately negotiated
contracts, or other transactions directly with each other, for which margin
is deposited and pledged against outstanding positions.
Overheated Economy
An occurrence when a country has a good economic growth over a long period
of time, resulting in a growing aggregate demand that cannot be supported
with the productive capacity can face overheated economy, which usually as
results in increased interest rates and higher inflation.
Overnight Position
Defined as a deal from today until the next business day.
P
Parity
Parity occurs when the price of an asset matches the price of another
asset, for example; if one euro equals one US dollar. A "parity price"
concept is also used for securities and commodities, if two assets have an
equal value. Convertible bond traders and investors might use the parity
price concept, in order to determine when it's beneficial to convert a bond
into equities.
Pip
A pip is defined as the smallest price movement that a given exchange rate
makes, based on market convention. Most major currency pairs are priced to
four decimal places, the smallest change is that of the last decimal point.
For most pairs, this is the equivalent of 1/100 of 1%, or one basis point.
Pip Value
The worth of each pip in a given trade, which is converted into a trader's
account currency.
Pip value = (one pip/exchange rate).
Pending Orders
This is regarded as the unsettled orders still pending and waiting to be
executed, at the price determined by the client.
Political Risk
Exposure to changes in government policy that may have an opposing
consequence on an investor's position.
Point
Minimum oscillation or smallest increase in price movement.
Position
Defined as the netted total commitments in a given currency. A position can
be either flat, or square (no exposure), long, (more currency bought than
sold), or short (more currency sold than bought).
Positive Roll
Net positive (SWAP) interest of keeping a position opened overnight.
Pound Sterling (Cable)
Other references for the GBP/USD pair.
Price
The price at which an asset or underlying currency can be sold or bought.
Price Channel
Price channel is formed by placing two parallel lines on the chart for the
desired instrument. Depending on whether the movement of the market, the
channel can be ascending, descending or horizontal. Lines are used to
connect the highs and the lows, where the upper line represents the
resistance level and the lower line represents the support level.
Price Feed
This is the flow of market data (real time, or delayed).
Price Transparency
Depicts market quotes that each and every market participant has equal
access to.
Price Trend
Regarded as the steady movement of prices in a certain direction.
Prime Rate
It is the rate used to calculate the lending rates by banks in the US.
Producer Price Index (PPI)
PPI measures the price changes at the wholesale level of a fixed basket of
capital, rent consumer good production taken on by the producers, and acts
as an indicator of forthcoming retail price changes.
Profit Taking
The closing or unwinding of a position in order to realize a profit.
Purchasing Managers Index (PMI)
An economic indicator that measures the economic strength of the
manufacturing sector. By gathering monthly surveys of approx. 300
purchasing executives, it provides information of the business conditions
and acts as a decision making tool for managers.
PSAR, Parabolic Stop and Reverse (SAR)
It is an indicator that is used to define trailing stops for short and long
positions. SAR is a trend following system.
R
Rally
It is a continuing period of increase in the price of an asset.
Range
Range can be defined as the difference between the high and the low price
of a currency, future contract or index during a given time period. It is
also an indication of the asset price volatility.
Range Trading
Range trading identifies when the price fluctuates within a channel and
using technical analysis, the main support and resistance levels can be
identified, allowing a trend trader to make the decision of either buying
or selling and instrument depending if the price is near the bottom of the
channel or near the top.
Rate
Defined as the price of one currency in terms of another, normally against
USD.
Realized P/L
This is the profit and loss generated from closed positions.
Rebate
Defined as a refund of part of the original payment for some service (e.g.
Forex commission/spread rebate).
Recession
Recession refers to the occurrence when the economy of a country is slowing
and thee is a decline in business activity.
Regulated Market
This is a market which is regulated, usually by a governmental agency that
issues a number of guidelines and restrictions designed to protect
investors.
Relative Purchase Power Parity
When prices in countries may vary for the same product at the same
proportional rate over extended time. The reasons for the price difference
could include: taxes, shipping costs and product quality variances.
Relative strength index (RSI)
A momentum oscillator, which is a leading indicator. Measures the strength
and weakness according to closing prices in the specified trading period.
Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)
The Central Bank of Australia.
Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ)
The Central Bank of New Zealand.
Re-quote
A market situation which occurs when an investor initiates a trade at a
certain price, but the broker returns the request with a different quote.
FXCC provides its clients with direct access to a liquid Forex ECN model in
which all clients obtain the same access to the same liquid markets and
trades are executed instantaneously, without any delay or re -quotes.
Reserve Assets
Often referred to as "reserves" this could be considered: currencies,
commodities, or other financial capital, held by monetary authorities. For
example; central banks might use reserves in order to finance: trade
imbalances, control the impact of FX fluctuations and address any other
issues the central bank has a remit for. Reserve assets are usually liquid
and directly under the monetary authority's control.
Reserve Currency
Considered as well to be a safe-haven currency. It is usually held in
substantial amounts by central banks in order to be used to pay off
international debt commitments.
Resistance Point, or Level
It is used in technical analysis and is either a price or level which will
stop a movement of a foreign exchange rate going higher. If the level is
breached, then it is expected that the instrument price will continue going
higher.
Retail Foreign Exchange Dealer - RFED
In cases where over-the-counter buying or selling financial instruments do
not involve any exchanges, individuals or organizations are required to act
as counter-party. RFED acts in transactions involving futures contracts,
options on futures contracts and options contracts with participants who
are not eligible contract participants.
Retail Investor & Retail Trader
When an investor/trader is buying or selling securities, CFDs, currencies,
equities, etc. for his/her personal account, he/she is considered to be a
retail investor/trader.
Retail Price Index (RPI)
It is a measure of the change in the cost of retail goods and services. In
addition to CPI, RPI is also a measure of inflation of a given country.
Retail Sales
As fundamental economic measurement of consumption and indicator of
economic strength.
Revaluation Rates
These are market currency rates (from a point in time) used as a base value
by currency traders to determine whether or not a profit, or a loss has
been realized on the day. The revaluation rate is generally considered to
be the closing rate of the previous trading day.
Right Hand Side
Corresponding to the ask, or offer price of a foreign exchange rate. For
example; on EUR/GBP if we see a price of 0.86334 - 0.86349, the right hand
side is 0.86349. The right hand side is the side that a client would buy
at.
Risk
Defined as exposure to uncertain change, the variability of returns, or the
likelihood of less than expected returns.
Risk Capital
When trading forex, traders need to make sure that they do not risk more
funds than the liquid funds set aside for trading. Risk capital refers to
the amount a trader feels comfortable with investing when speculating on a
currency pair.
Risk Management
It is considered as analyzing the forex market and identifying the
potential losses that may occur with the investment, thus applying trading
techniques which may assist in lowering the investment risk.
Risk Premium
Risk premium is a term used for the fees or costs payable that are used to
compensate a party for adopting a particular risk.
Rollover (SWAP)
When a position is held overnight, and interest occurs where the client may
pay or earn on the open position, depending on the interest rate associated
with it. FXCC will debit or credit the client's account depending on the
interest rate differential between the base currency and the counter
currency and the direction of the client's position. For example; if the
client is long a currency pair as the overnight rate for the base currency
is higher than the counter currency, the client will earn a small credit
for positions held overnight. If the opposite situation exists, then the
client account will be debited for the difference in the interest rate
differential. If a client is long a higher yielding currency, they should
benefit from being able to invest and earn a higher return overnight than
they'd have to pay for being short the lower yielding currency.
Running a Position
Defined as the act of keeping open positions open, in the anticipation of a
speculative gain.
S
Safe Haven Currency
In times of market turbulence or geopolitical turmoil, an investment that
is anticipated as to keep or increase its value, is referred as 'Safe
Haven'.
Same Day Transaction
Defined as a transaction that matures on the day the transaction takes
place.
Scalping
Defined as a strategy utilizing small changes in price. The trader can
profit by promptly opening and closing large numbers of positions from
trading sessions.
Sell Limit
This specifies the lowest price at which the sale of base currency in a
currency pair can be executed. It is an order to sell the market at a price
that is above the current price.
Sell Stop
Sell stops are stop orders placed below the current dealing bid price and
are not activated until the market bid price is at, or below the stop
price. Sell stop orders, once triggered, become market orders to sell at
the current market price.
Selling Short
It is the sale of a currency that is not owned by the seller.
Settlement Date
This is the date by which an executed order must be settled by the transfer
of instruments, or currencies and funds between buyer and seller.
Short
Refers to having position opened that was created by selling a currency.
Slippage
It occurs when there is high volatility in the market and is defined as the
difference between the expected price and the price which was available in
the market and was used to execute the trade. Slippage does not have to
always be negative, and with FXCC clients can experience positive slippage,
also known as price improvement.
Society of Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (Swift).
Money transfers and other financial operations are done through Swift, as
it is communication platform for financial information exchange.
Soft Market
The occurrence when there are more sellers than buyers, which leads to low
prices due to the surplus of supply over demand.
Sophisticated Foreign Exchange Investor
When an investor has sufficient experience and knowledge of the foreign
exchange market, he/she is expected to assess the risks of an investment
opportunity.
Sovereign Risk
It is referred to the risk when a government cannot or is unwilling to meet
debt repayments.
Speculative
Trading, for example, foreign exchange is speculative; there is no
guarantee that those who invest in FX will profit from the experience.
Clients can lose their entire deposited margin, making trading FX highly
speculative. Those trading foreign exchange should only risk capital which
is considered risk capital, defined as the amount that if lost would not
change the client's lifestyle, or their family's lifestyle.
Spike
An occurrence in the Forex market defined as positive or negative movements
in price action, which is usually short-lived.
Spot Market
Spot markets have built in mechanisms for financial instruments that are
traded immediately and orders are settled instantly, as the participants in
the spot forex market do not receive or deliver the physical currency which
they are trading.
Spot price/rate
It is the price of an instrument which can be sold or bought in the spot
market.
Spot Settlement Basis
It is a standardized procedure for settlement of foreign exchange
transactions where the value date is set 2 business days forward from the
Trade Date.
Spread
The difference between the prices given for immediate order (ask price) and
immediate sale (bid price) for currency pairs.
Stagflation
It is an economic problem within a country where there is a high inflation
along with a problem of high unemployment, causing slow economic growth and
rising prices.
Square
The condition when there is no open position and the client's purchases and
sales are in balance.
Standard Lot
A standard lot in forex trading terms, is the equivalent to 100,000 units
of the base currency in a forex trading currency pair. A standard lot is
one of the three commonly known lot sizes, the other two are: mini-lot and
micro-lot. A standard lot is 100,000 units of a currency pair, a mini-lot
represents 10,000, a micro-lot represents 1,000 units of any currency. A
one-pip movement for a standard lot corresponds with a $10 change.
Sterilization
Sterilization is defined as a type of monetary policy, whereby a central
bank limits the effects of inflows and outflows of capital on the domestic
money supply. Sterilization involves the purchase or sale of financial
assets by a central bank, offsetting effects of foreign exchange
intervention. The sterilization process manipulates the value of a domestic
currency relative to another, it's initiated in the foreign exchange
market.
Sterling
British pound, otherwise known as cable when trading the currency pair
GBP/USD.
Stochastic
The Stochastic (Stoch) attempts to normalize price as a percentage between
0 and 100. With stochastic lines, two lines are plotted, the fast and the
slow stochastic lines. It is a popular oscillating technical indicator used
by traders to chow strength of trends.
Stop Loss Order
This is a specific order placed by the client to close out a position if
the price moves in the opposite direction of the position by a certain
amount of pips. In most circumstances stop loss orders are executed as soon
as the market reaches, or goes through the client's set stop level. Once
issued, the stop order will be held pending until the stop price is
reached. Stop orders may be used to close out a position (stop loss), to
reverse a position, or to open a new position. The most common use of stop
orders is to protect an existing position (by limiting losses, or
protecting unrealized gains). Once the market hits, or goes through the
stop price, the order is activated (triggered) and FXCC will execute the
order at the next available price. Stop orders do not guarantee execution
at the stop price. Market conditions including volatility and lack of
volume may cause a stop order to be executed at a price different than the
order.
Stop Price Level
This is defined as the price where a client entered a price that activates
a stop loss order.
Structural Unemployment
When within an economy there is a long lasting form of unemployment, it is
referred to as Structural Unemployment. The reason may be due to
fundamental shifts in an economy caused by various factors, such as
technology, competition and government policy.
Support Levels
They are used in technical analysis to indicate the level for an asset
where the price is expected to have difficulties to breach and will
automatically correct itself.
Swap
A currency swap is the simultaneous borrowing and lending of the same
amount of a given currency at a forward exchange rate.
Sweep/Sweeping
When a client of FXCC has a P/L in another currency other than US dollars,
the P/L must be converted at the close of each business day into US
dollars, at an exchange rate prevailing at the time (known as the
conversion rate). This process is called sweeping. Until the P/L is swept,
the client's account value will fluctuate slightly (up or down), as an
exchange rate for the profit and loss and currency changes. For example; if
the client has a profit in yen, if the value of the yen rises after the
position is closed, but before the profit is swept into dollars, the
account value will change. The change is only on the profit/loss amount,
therefore the effect is minimal.
SWIFT
Society for World-wide Interbank Telecommunications is a Belgian based
company that provides the global electronic network for settlement of most
foreign exchange transactions. The society is also responsible for the
standardization of the currency codes used for confirmation and
identification purposes (i.e. USD = US Dollars, EUR = The Euro, JPY =
Japanese Yen)
Swing trading
This is a version of a speculative trading strategy holding a position open
from one (to several days) in an effort to profit from price changes, which
are often called 'swings'.
Swissy
Market slang for Swiss Franc, CHF.
T
Take Profit Order
It is an order placed by the client with a pre-defined price that once the
market prices reaches the desired level, the order will be closed. Once the
order is realized, it would result in profits for the given trade.
Technical Analysis
Technical analysis uses historical price trends and patterns in an attempt
to forecast the price direction.
Technical Correction
It is defined as the occurrence of a market price drop when there is no
fundamental reason for a decrease. An example would be when the price
returns to a substantial resistance after shortly breaking through it.
Terms of Trade
The ratio between a country's export and import price indices.
Technical Indicator
Technical indicators are used as an effort to predict the future market
trends. It is an essential part of the technical analysis used as a chart
pattern and are designed for analyzing short-term price movements.
Thin Market
It is defined as market where there not many sellers and buyers, which as a
consequence has low trading volume and the overall liquidity of the trading
instruments is low.
Tick
This is defined as the minimum change in price, up or down.
Tomorrow next (Tom next)
Tomorrow next involves positions closed out at a specific business day at
the closing rate and then re-opened the following day. The delivery is two
(2) days after the transaction date. It is the concurrent buying and
selling of a currency in order to avoid any actual delivery of the
currency.
Track record
History of trading performance, usually described as the yield curve.
Trade Date
This is the date on which a trade is performed.
Trade Deficit
Trade deficit occurs when a country has more imports than exports. It is an
economic measure of the negative trade balance and characterizes an outflow
of domestic currency to foreign markets.
Trading
The buying or selling of any goods, services and instruments with other
parties. Forex trading could be defined as the speculation on the change in
rate of foreign currencies.
Trading Desk
Trading desks are also known as 'dealing desks'. It is where the selling
and buying transactions take place and can be found in banks, finance
companies, etc. it can provide traders with instant execution of their
orders.
Trading Platforms
A software application where a client can give an order to execute a
transaction on the customer's behalf. FXCC-MT4 (MetaTrader 4) is an example
of a trading platform.
Trailing Stop
Trailing stop is used to protect the gains occurred from a specific trade
by maintain a trade opened and allowing the continuation of the gain
(profit) for as long as the price is moving in the desired direction. It is
not set on a single amount but a specified percentage.
Transaction
This is buying, or selling of, for example, a foreign exchange amount
resulting from the execution of an order.
Transaction Cost
This is the cost of buying, or selling a financial instrument.
Transaction Date
This is the date on which a trade occurs.
Transaction Exposure
When companies are participating in international trade, the risk they are
facing is the transaction exposure, in case that the currency exchange
rates will alter after the entity has entered into financial commitments.
Trend
The direction of the market or the price, usually related to the words:
"bullish, bearish, or sideways" (ranging) and can be short term, long term
or immediate trends.
Trend line
This is a form of technical analysis (an indicator), also referred to as
linear regression. Trend lines can work as simple statistical tools,
discovering trends by plotting the most appropriate line across the:
lowest, highest, or closing and opening prices.
Turnover
Turnover is similar to the volume definition and represents the total money
value of all the transactions that were executed within a specific time
period.
Two-Way Price
It is the quote that indicates the bid and ask price in the foreign
exchange market.
U
Uncovered Position
It is a term for an open position.
Under Valuation
When the exchange rate for a currency is below its purchasing power parity,
it is considered to be undervalued.
Unemployment Rate
The percent of the labor force that is currently out of job.
Unrealized P/L
It is a term for the real time profit or loss given at the current exchange
rate. For example, if the client decides to go log for a specific currency
pair, he/she will need to sell at the bid price and the unrealized P/L
maintains until the given position is closed. Once closed, the P/L will be
either added or deducted from the amount left on deposit, in order to
obtain the new cash on deposit amount.
Uptick
This is the new price quote that is at the higher price versus the
preceding quote.
US Prime Rate
The interest rate used by the US banks to lend to their customers or prime
corporate traders.
USD
This is the legal tender of the United States of America, represented as
USD when conducting foreign exchange transactions.
USDX, U.S. Dollar Index
The dollar index (USDX) measures the value of the U.S. dollar versus the
value of a basket of currencies of the U.S.A.'s significant trading
partners. Currently, this index is calculated by factoring in the exchange
rates of the six major world currencies: the euro, Japanese yen, Canadian
dollar, British pound, Swedish krona and Swiss franc. The euro has the most
weight versus the dollar in the index, constituting 58% of the weighting
value, followed by the yen with circa 14%. The index started in 1973 with a
base of 100, values since then are relative to this base.