On Popularity of Intraday Trading and CFDs

First of all, there are notable advancements almost on a daily basis.

One significant game-changer is the adoption of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, which enable more efficient and secure trading processes. Additionally, platforms are constantly improving their user interfaces and adding new features to enhance the overall trading experience.

Also selection of assets, instruments and tools is enhancing. Turning derivatives, which had been a matter limited to specialized experts in the past, into retail-friendly instruments was a real revolution in trading.

Contracts for difference (CFDs) have become one of the most popular, but also a risky option. And which are most popular? Whether CFDs on commodities, share stocks, indices, or forex? this is a question I receive often from both our clients and the trade media.

My answer usually is that the preference for derivatives such as CFD on commodities versus share stocks, indices, or forex vary among traders based on their individual strategies, risk appetite, and market conditions. It is important to realize that the preferences of traders can change over time and are influenced by various factors.

In terms of differences in trading volume, it is difficult to provide specific and up-to-date information as the numbers can vary across different markets and regions. Additionally, such data is typically not readily available to the public and may be specific to each brokerage or trading platform.

However, historically, share stocks, indices, and forex have generally been more popular and have higher trading volumes compared to commodities derivatives. This is because shares, indices, and forex are more widely known and followed by traders, and they often have more liquid and well-established markets.

That being said, commodities derivatives such as CFDs on commodities can also be attractive to traders, particularly to those who specialize in commodity trading or have a specific interest in that sector. Commodities such as oil, gold, and agricultural products have their own unique characteristics and can provide diversification opportunities in a trader’s portfolio.

It’s important to remember that trading preferences can vary among individuals, and some traders may choose to trade multiple instruments across different asset classes to diversify their portfolios and take advantage of various market opportunities.

Shadiq Zameen, Vice President of Golden Brokers Dubai