Long-term success in futures trading usually doesn’t begin overnight. You need to develop a proven trading technique that – more often as not – works. For new traders, Forbes magazine is a solid source for financial information. In one article, it flatly states, “You would be better off just giving your money to experienced traders . . . it would save on your emotional wear and tear.”
- First Things First: Research
The only thing more expensive than education is ignorance.
-Benjamin Franklin
- Time is on your side. As a beginner in futures trading, it’s important to research risks and leverage. You will learn the ins and outs of this exciting marketplace when you work with a trustworthy, experienced online futures trading broker.
- Part of your research into futures trading is to choose your online futures trading brokerage. The type of guidance you need will change as you learn more about the futures commodities trading market. Hopefully, your brokerage company will mentor your futures trading evolution; as a beginner, you may need a full-service broker. Later, you may opt for lower commissions and fees as you become more knowledgeable and adopt a do-it-yourself approach to online trading. Your considerations include:
- Brokerage’s reputation for customer service
- Commission rates you can afford
- Margin requirements that you can handle
- Software that is user-friendly and meets your requirements
- Types of futures in which you are interested