Forex is the umbrella term referring to the foreign exchange marketplace, on which traders exchange foreign currencies and currency derivatives. The word 'forex' comes from the combination of foreign and exchange. Like other modern networks, forex trading takes place over a computer network of banking institutions, forex brokers, and individual traders who trade mostly through banks and brokers.
Forex trading works via traders who speculate on the direction of currency markets and buy and sell currencies to create profits. In forex markets, corporations and individuals trade in three primary markets: spot market, forwards market, and the futures market. The forex market is notable for its liquidity, with trillions of dollars moving through forex markets every day.
Forex is an important marketplace in the global economic system, and that in itself makes it a fascinating topic to learn about, especially if you possess knowledge and interest in financial basics, interest rates, and trade flows. On top of that, learning about forex can get you interested in world currencies, world histories, geopolitical dynamics, and countries' political and economic strengths.
Forex can also become a very lucrative career option for you. Managing risk is a big part of a forex trader's work, as supply and demand for currencies can fluctuate widely. As you learn about forex trading and economic principles, you can test your own focus and concentration to see if you have the aptitude and desire to withstand the daily volatility in the forex markets.
Knowledge of forex could prepare you for a career as a forex currency researcher, analyst, or strategist. You would conduct analysis and research about currencies and derivatives in the forex market. An analyst's role would likely include writing up daily commentaries, posting blogs, and shooting video clips to discuss currency movements. This analysis would be important for both institutional and individual traders.
Working in forex means you must have a solid grasp of financial fundamentals, technical know-how, computer aptitude, and a willingness to learn the systems used by the bank or broker. You must work quickly to produce high-quality content that matches the speed of the forex market.
When you take online courses on Coursera, you can learn an initial introduction about financial principles, risk management, and behavioral finance principles. Knowing these topics can help you understand the banking industry and how it operates in the world of financial currencies. With a little application, you may also get to use the information to build forex trading strategies, using basic asset pricing theories to help with risk and returns calculation.