Andrea Rafold 
Contracts for difference (CFDs) are a type of derivative trading that allow investors to speculate on the price movement of an underlying asset without actually owning the asset themselves. CFDs are a popular choice for traders looking to take advantage of market movements without incurring the total cost of buying the underlying asset. You can read more here. CFDs offer numerous advantages for traders in Australia.
CFDs offer leverage
CFDs are leveraged products, meaning traders only need to put up a small deposit – or margin – to open a position. It allows investors to gain experience with a more significant amount of the underlying asset than they would if they bought it outright. For example, if an investor wanted to buy $10,000 worth of Apple shares, they would need to front $10,000. However, with CFDs, they could open a $5,000 position and only pay half the price. Of course, leverage is ambiguous and can magnify profits and losses.
Go long or short
With CFDs, investors can take a position on whether they think an asset’s price will rise or fall, known as going long or short. If a trader believes a stock’s price will increase, they will go long by buying CFDs. If they think the price will decrease, they will go short by selling CFDs. This flexibility is one of the primary motives why CFDs are so popular with traders.
Trade on a wide range of assets
CFDs allow investors to trade on various underlying assets, including indices, shares, currency pairs, commodities, etc. It gives traders a lot of choices when it comes to finding an opportunity that suits their investment style.
Access to global markets
CFD trading platforms offer access to global markets, so investors can trade on assets worldwide. It dramatically benefits Australian traders by opening up a whole world of new opportunities.
No stamp duty
In Australia, CFDs are not subject to stamp duty, unlike other investments such as shares and ETFs, meaning that CFD traders can save significant money in taxes.
Tight spreads
CFDs generally have tight spreads, meaning the difference between the bid and ask price is negligible. It allows investors to trade with high accuracy and profit even when the market is only moving slightly.
24-hour trading
The markets for CFDs are open 24 hours a day, five days a week, so investors can take advantage of opportunities as they arise, no matter what time it is.
Easy-to-use trading platforms
Most CFD brokers offer easy-to-use trading platforms suitable for both beginner and experienced traders. These platforms provide all the tools and information needed to make successful trades.
Demo accounts
Most CFD brokers offer demo accounts, allowing investors to practice trading with virtual money before risking their capital. It is a great way to learn about the market and try out different strategies without any financial risk.
CFDs are regulated
CFDs are regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), so investors can be confident that they are trading in a safe and secure environment.
Disadvantages of using CFDs as a trading method
CFDs are complex products
CFDs are complex products and difficult to understand, especially for beginner traders, leading to investors making poor decisions and incurring losses.
CFDs are risky
CFDs are risky products and can result in the loss of your entire investment because leverage magnifies both profits and losses. CFDs are not suitable for everyone, and you should only trade with money you can afford to lose.
Fees and commissions
CFD brokers typically charge fees and commissions on each trade, which can eat your profits. Ensure you compare the fees of different brokers before deciding which one to use.
You may be subject to margin calls
If the market moves against your position, you may be required to deposit more money (a margin call) to maintain your trade. If you can’t meet the margin call, your position will be closed and incur a loss.
There is a time limit on CFDs
CFDs have a limited duration and will expire at some point, meaning that if your trade is not profitable by the time it expires, you will still incur a loss.
