The financial market attracts thousands of people every year with the promise of financial freedom, high profits, and professional autonomy. At the center of this universe is the professional trader — someone who lives (or supplements their income) by trading assets like stocks, currencies, futures, or cryptocurrencies. But how do you turn this dream into reality?
In this article, you will understand the main paths, skills, risks, and strategies to become a professional trader.
1. Understand what it means to be a Professional Trader
A professional trader is one who performs buying and selling operations of financial assets with the goal of profit, either with their own capital or third-party capital. They can work in financial institutions, investment funds, prop trading companies, or as freelancers.
Types of trader:
Day trader: Trades within the same day.
Swing trader: Operates over periods of days or weeks.
Scalper: Seeks micro variations in price in seconds/minutes.
Institutional trader: Trades large volumes with funds from funds, banks, or brokers.
2. Develop Fundamental Skills
To be a professional trader, it is not enough to know how to "buy low and sell high." It is necessary to:
Technical analysis: Study of charts, patterns, and indicators.
Fundamental analysis: Understanding balance sheets, macroeconomic scenarios, and news.
Risk management: Knowing how to limit losses and preserve capital.
Emotional control: Have discipline and avoid impulsive decisions.
Consistency: Maintain a tested strategy with consistent results.
3. Start Practicing Responsibly
Simulate before risking real money.
Create a trading plan with clear rules.
Start small, with capital you can afford to lose.
Record all trades and analyze the mistakes.
Avoid promises of easy money.
4. Build a Performance History
Having a consistent history is essential to attract:
Investors interested in allocating capital.
Analysis houses or prop trading firms.
Investment funds seeking traders.
Tools like MyFxBook, Darwinex, or broker reports can help record your performance transparently.
5. Consider Working with Third-Party Capital
If you demonstrate consistency and discipline, you can trade to:
Prop trading firms: Companies that provide capital and share profits.
Asset management firms: After gaining experience and certifications.
Private investors: Through managed accounts.
6. Explore Niches like Crypto or International Markets
The cryptocurrency market and global platforms open new opportunities:
High volatility: Great for experienced traders.
Markets 24/7: No time restrictions.
Remote opportunities: Work for companies anywhere in the world.
7. Stay Updated and Evolving
The market is dynamic and demands continuous learning:
Read books, follow news, and financial events.
Participate in trading communities.
Review your strategy based on real data.
* What would you like to learn? Leave your comment so I can guide you.