This trading FAQ for beginners collects the questions that reach our inbox most often, across currencies, gold, shares and crypto. Every answer is deliberately short. If one leaves you wanting the reasoning or the arithmetic, the linked page has it: start with how forex trading works, how the stock market works or how crypto works, and look up any unfamiliar word in the glossary.
Two things are worth saying before the questions. First, RavixPrime explains markets; it does not offer them, so none of the answers below is an invitation to trade. Second, where rules are mentioned, they are the rules for retail clients in the places named. If you live elsewhere, your own regulator's rules apply, and it is worth looking them up directly.
Follow-up questions
Is RavixPrime a broker or an exchange?
No. RavixPrime is an independent information site. We do not offer accounts, deposits, trading, signals or investment management, and we never contact readers with offers. Anyone claiming otherwise is not connected to us.
When is the forex market open?
From Sunday 17:00 to Friday 17:00 New York time, continuously. Activity and spreads vary through the day, with the London and New York overlap usually the busiest period.
How much is one pip worth?
On a pair quoted in US dollars, such as EUR/USD, one pip on a standard lot of 100,000 units is worth $10. On yen pairs, dollar-based pairs and crosses the value depends on the exchange rate; the pip calculator works it out.
What leverage can a retail trader use?
In the UK and EU, retail CFD clients are capped at 30:1 on major currency pairs, 20:1 on other pairs, gold and major indices, 5:1 on shares and 2:1 on crypto. US retail forex is capped at 50:1 on majors.
How big is a gold lot?
A standard gold lot is commonly 100 troy ounces, so a $1 change in the gold price is worth $100 per lot. Check your provider's contract specification, as some use different sizes.
What is swap and why was I charged three times on Wednesday?
Swap is the overnight financing on a leveraged position, applied at the 17:00 New York rollover. Wednesday usually carries three days because spot currency settles two business days later, covering the weekend.
How long do US share trades take to settle?
One business day after the trade date, known as T+1, since May 2024. Other markets have their own settlement cycles.
What is the difference between TRC20 and ERC20 USDT?
They are versions of the same stablecoin on different blockchains: TRC20 on Tron, with addresses starting with T, and ERC20 on Ethereum, with addresses starting with 0x. The sending and receiving networks must match.
When is the next Bitcoin halving?
The last halving was in April 2024, cutting the block reward to 3.125 BTC. Halvings happen every 210,000 blocks, so the next is expected around 2028; the exact date depends on how fast blocks are found.
How can I tell whether a trading offer is a scam?
Unsolicited contact, guaranteed returns, pressure to act quickly, payment in crypto and any fee demanded before a withdrawal are the classic signs. Check the firm on your regulator's register using the register's own contact details.