CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 71.28% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

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Should you trade Gold?

21 February 2020

Why is Gold so Valuable? 

This particular precious metal has been behind the acquisition of wealth amongst many nations. Subsequently, it has caused the rise and fall of empires throughout time. 

The price of gold is largely affected by supply and demand levels; therefore, this leads to a lot of fluctuation in its value on the market. This is very attractive to traders as it means high liquidity, as well as helping the precious metal hold a unique position within the global economy in general. It is important to note that gold is not a fiat currency (a fiat currency is one where its value is backed by the government), so it still holds its purchasing power during periods of inflation. Here’s why you should trade gold.

It has also previously had a major influence over the rise and fall of empires. In the past Gold has been used as a form of currency since the precious metal doesn’t rust. Now the main reason people tend to buy and sell gold is to speculate on its value, to buy and sell physical gold, or as a form of hedging.

The Uses of Gold

Central banks keep gold reserves as a form of a backup currency, or as a recognised asset that they can make use of in times of crisis. There is a high demand for gold as the precious metal is used in many different factors, including jewellery, finance, and technology. As well as this, gold can be used as an industrial metal because of its rare ability to conduct both heat and electricity. However, people trade gold due to its value on the market.

Currently, the precious metal is widely used in the manufacturing of iPhones and computer chips. If the price of gold rises on the market, then this ultimately increases the cost of the items it is used to make.

Reasons to Trade the Precious Metal

Traders often see gold as an insurance policy as it is considered to be a safe haven asset during times when the market is showing uncertainty and volatility. According to the World Gold Council, the gold market is highly liquid. The council estimates that the average trading volumes are significantly higher than currency pairs, excluding the major FX pairs. If the gold market is highly liquid, then this leads to tighter spreads, making it a more accessible and inexpensive commodity to trade.

Various strategies can be used to master gold trading. This includes fundamental analysis, such as analysing supply and demand, what affects supply and demand, current trends and positions of gold traders. You can also use technical analysis to study the price of gold by looking at the gold price chart. A good strategy to trade gold would be to utilise a mixture of the two.

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Important Risk Warning

Risk Warning: CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 71.28% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with Eightcap EU Ltd. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) and seek advice from an independent adviser if you have any doubts. Please refer to our Risk Disclosure Notice.

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