Financial Spread Betting
DescriptionFinancial spread betting is a slimmer, hungrier version of traditional share trading. The 'spread' in the phrase financial spread betting refers to the diference in the lower Sell (Bid) and higher Buy (Offer) price quoted by the market making company. The spread is centred around the live (or the estimated future) market price of a financial product.
For example, if the Daily FTSE is trading at 5327 the quote might be 5325-5329. To speculate on a rise, you buy say £10 a point for 5329. If the spread moves up to 5345-5349, you can then sell at 5345, making £160. If the spread moves down to 5305-5309, you could close out your loses by selling at 5305, losing £140.
Financial Spread Betting is an online investment activity, and online accounts are offered by several companies. Most offer a demo account facilty for newcomers, allowing you to build up experience without risking real money.