Forex trading has become increasingly popular all over the world in recent years. South Africa is not an exception either. While various factors seem to have influenced people to get into forex trading, the emerging trends in the South African markets could also be one of the reasons behind people’s growing interest in the currency market. This piece takes a look at the prospects of forex trading SA, besides reviewing the emerging trends in the country.
Future of Forex Trading in South Africa – The Emerging Trends
With an estimated population of 60 million, South Africa is the home of elementary workers. However, a large number of people are reported to be involved in forex trading. According to statistics published in the Finance Magnets, the country has nearly 200k active traders participating in the currency market. The daily trading turnover of the country is estimated to be US$80 billion. Further, the country’s robust economic conditions and the regulatory framework’s evolution offer massive growth potential for forex traders. Below, we list and discuss some emerging trends in South Africa.
Use Of Technology
It is the foremost emerging trend that has helped people try their fate in forex trading. The advent of mobile trading apps coupled with high-speed internet connections allowed traders to manage their trading accounts anytime, anywhere. Obviously, what could be more exciting than having a complete command of your positions at your fingertips? Moreover, mobile trading apps come loaded with almost all the features you may expect in a desktop terminal, though the screen resolution could be an apparent limitation for some users.
Regulatory Developments
The regulatory framework across Africa was deemed less robust than in other regions, including the US, UK, and Australia. However, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) seems to have made numerous reforms by introducing stringent rules for brokers and retail traders to protect everyone’s interests and ensure transparency. No doubt, regulations help authorities promote openness and equality in the market. That’s why even those reluctant to join the market now feel more confident concerning the safety of their funds and being treated fairly.
Algorithmic Trading
Unlike the past, when forex trading was limited to active involvement, the induction of algorithmic trading proved to be a game changer. EA and other automated systems have made trading much more effortless. Traders can now automate their workflows, carry out targeted plans, and maximise market opportunities with minimal need for human interaction. That is one of the reasons why South African traders seem more inclined to currency trading. Essentially, it allows them to have a passive source of income besides their routine jobs. Locals are increasingly adopting algorithmic and automated approaches to the market to make their lifestyles even better.
Educational Initiative
Lack of educational resources once was the limiting factor for many aspirants in the region. However, the focus on educating traders appears to have become an emerging trend in South Africa. More and more brokers now offer comprehensive educational materials to help clients understand basic and advanced trading styles and strategies. While video tutorials and how-to guides provide ample information, the proliferation of webinars, online courses, and seminars has made things much more adaptable. These educational resources help traders gain the expertise necessary to negotiate the forex market successfully.
Portfolio Diversification
Like all other investment markets, portfolio diversification holds critical importance when trading currencies. South African traders seem to be well aware of this fact, as the recent trend shows people prefer spreading their risk among different asset classes rather than keeping all their eggs in the same basket. Undoubtedly, currency pairs are susceptible to large swings due to the market’s extreme volatility. Traders tend to mitigate the risk using this tactic, anticipating that the positive performance of some of their holdings will help reduce the negative performance of others.
Social Trading
Social trading is yet another emerging trend in the country. South African traders now have more access to a thriving community of peers through social trading. These platforms help traders to interact and share their experiences. Traders can access a varied pool of traders with various strategies, catering to those interested in day trading, swing trading, or long-term investing, thus fostering inclusivity and strategy variety.
Bottom Line
Forex trading in South Africa holds a promising potential for forex traders. The country’s regulatory outlook and emerging trends seem to be working their way into creating a robust marketplace where brokers are more compliant and traders are well aware of the potential pitfalls. Overall, the future of currency trading in the country looks bright.
