In addition to the Forex attributes explained in the “basics of Forex question” above, the Forex markets are indeed different from the stock markets in that their price behavior is different with usually more abrupt price swings. This requires different trading methods than those typically used for stocks in order to take full advantage of the profit potential that Forex has to offer while at the same time designing the right strategy to minimize risk.

On the other hand, they are alike in that both Forex and stocks are markets that develop repeatable price behavior that present profit opportunities for those traders with good trading methods, sound money management principles and disciplined trading.

Because of the high leverage that Forex offers, Forex positions require a much smaller account size than do stocks trading similar sized positions as Forex margin requirements are much smaller than stock margin requirements. And so the reward can be much greater with Forex, but at the same time, the risk is much greater. But this can be dealt with effectively with good trading tactics and good money management rules that allow for maximizing profit potential and minimizing risk.