Nigeria has a massive community of Forex traders which is still growing. At the moment, over 300,000 residents access the global currency exchange. This impressive popularity is due to technological advancement and accessibility of trading systems. Moreover, as locals may open accounts in the naira, they save on conversion fees. Here is how to become a currency trader quickly.
Choose the Right Intermediary
Traders work through companies classified as brokers. These businesses register trading accounts, provide clients with the necessary software, education, and support. As Nigeria has a lack of regulation, traders should choose brands with licences from other jurisdictions.
In general, you should trust companies with approval from such entities as the FCA in the UK or the FSCA in South Africa. To qualify for licensing, they have to protect their clients’ deposits, provide negative balance protection, and adhere to other industry norms.
However, not every broker will allow you to open an account denominated in naira. At the moment, this service is available through ForexTime. Entry is also affordable, as you may open a Cent account with just $10, or 2000 naira. Registration is quick and uncomplicated. Here is what you do to access the live market today.
Stage 1. Demo Account
Do not expect to just open an account and start trading. Before you gain experience, stick to the safe demo mode. The trading platform will imitate real market conditions, so you can apply theory to practice. There is no expiry date — train as long as necessary.
Trading is not rocket science, but you have to be familiar with all the features of your software, such as Metatrader 5. Practise analysing the charts, using the economic calendar, opening, managing, and closing trades, etc. Today, a basic Google search provides an abundance of educational material from reliable sources.
Retail trading has been known since the 1990s. There are articles, tutorials, webinars, podcasts, books, etc. Over three decades, the professional community has developed plenty of strategies and methods that could lead to consistent success.
So, How Do You Open an Account?
It is easy! Just open your broker’s website, fill in a basic contact form, and check your inbox. As a rule, login and password are generated almost immediately. Once this happens, you may enter them on the platform straight away, and delve into demo trading.
Stage 2: Go Live!
When you are ready to make the switch, register a live trading account with the same broker. The process is slightly more complicated, as you need to upload a few documents to verify your identity. As live accounts are funded with real money, the company needs to be sure there is no foul play.
In terms of payment, global brands accept different methods, including major debit and credit cards, online wallets, and bank transfers. All deposits and withdrawals are easily manageable through the website or your app.
Any responsible broker provides efficient support at least five days a week. Clients may contact the service centre using different methods like live chat, email, or phone. The broker may or may not have physical offices in Nigeria. Today, when remote technologies are so widespread, this is not a disadvantage.
Tips for Success
Traders have access to major, minor, and exotic pairs — there are dozens of combinations. Traders should choose instruments whose dynamics they understand best. For instance, to predict the movement of USD/ZAR, you need to keep track of news concerning the American economy and the financial system of South Africa.
Next, make sure your strategy is solid. Beginners apply popular systems to demo trades to see which style fits them. There are different roadmaps. Day traders work full time, as their working day includes a few hours of analysis and a few hours of active trading. There are also long-term strategies like swing trading. These allow you to leave positions open for days or even weeks.
Choose the level of engagement that suits you. Trading may be a part-time occupation that slowly grows into a full-time job. Online trading offers impressive flexibility.
Discover more instruments beyond currencies. Experienced traders may also work with stocks, precious metals, and derivatives like CFDs. Using the same software (e.g., MetaTrader 5) and your live account, you can profit from a range of markets without owning any physical assets. This limits potential risks and also magnifies potential profits.
Easy Access to Rich Opportunities
Online trading gives everyone a chance to turn knowledge into cash. Success comes to those who are willing to learn and perfect their strategies all the time. With modest investment, persistence, and an open mind, you may turn a hobby into a profession, and even a job for life.
