#TradingPairs101 Trading Pairs 101
Trading pairs are the foundation of forex trading, representing the exchange rate between two currencies. Here's a breakdown of the most popular trading pairs:
Major Currency Pairs
- *EUR/USD (Euro vs. US Dollar)*: The most traded pair globally, influenced by the European Central Bank and Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions.
- *USD/JPY (US Dollar vs. Japanese Yen)*: Known for its low interest rates, making it popular for carry trades.
- *GBP/USD (British Pound vs. US Dollar)*: Affected by the Bank of England and Federal Reserve's policies.
- *USD/CHF (US Dollar vs. Swiss Franc)*: Considered a safe-haven currency, often used during economic uncertainty.
Commodity Currencies
- *AUD/USD (Australian Dollar vs. US Dollar)*: Influenced by commodity prices, particularly mining and agriculture.
- *USD/CAD (US Dollar vs. Canadian Dollar)*: Affected by oil prices and the Canadian economy's close ties to the US.
- *NZD/USD (New Zealand Dollar vs. US Dollar)*: Driven by agriculture, trade, and tourism.
Cross-Currency Pairs
- *EUR/GBP (Euro vs. British Pound)*: Reflects the economic relationship between the UK and Eurozone.
- *EUR/JPY (Euro vs. Japanese Yen)*: Offers an alternative to USD-based pairs.
- *EUR/CHF (Euro vs. Swiss Franc)*: Closely tied to the European economy.
When trading these pairs, consider factors like ¹:
- Interest rate decisions by central banks
- Economic indicators (GDP, inflation, employment)
- Commodity prices (for commodity currencies)
- Global events and market sentiment
Keep in mind that each pair has its unique characteristics, and understanding these dynamics is crucial for successful trading.