Monday, December 7, 2009

Affinity Fraud in the Forex Market, Beware

By Tom K Kearns

We were taught at our very young ages to look left and right before crossing the street; pay attention to the brightly colored cross walker that guided us, and the bus lights accompanied by the electrically pulled-out stop sign with the intent of restraining us from crossing the street. Now, in our older years concerns about money and internet scams, prompt us to keep an eye on the predators that prey upon us, like the bully at school after our lunch money.

Affinity frauds are like lions in the grass watching us like dinner. In the money markets, affinity frauds pounce on the identifiable and very specific groups, factions of religion, ethnicity, and demographics. It is a new type of fraud that is being watched closely in the Forex market. Playing in the field of predators, some brokers offer alleged investment opportunities to specific areas claiming affinity (likeness, similarity) towards them. Only to lure in a feeling of comfort to better the ability to reel them like fish to the hooked worm.

Getting things done and getting people connected in a world where enormity of true connection is easily portrayed is effortless, via emailing, instant messaging, and so on. Individuals need to be aware of this when they are making investments with Forex brokers or other types. The companies, regulators, and capital of the newfound brokers, traders or investors need to be researched.

Being legitimate with a few real customers is a typical move for these swindlers, forming the bond, working with them hand in hand, getting the testimonials, and then using that as collateral to fetch others. Being the lucky ones to be embarked on a fraud that can lead to damages they cannot live with is unfortunate for the "others". The lack of notifying the authority is all too common in this situation. Trying to fix issues within the group, and leaving them quickly shorthanded and alone is usually what happens instead.

Ways to avoid Affinity Frauds

1) The first thing to do, which I feel is the most important, before investing ANYTHING, is to call and ask your state or provincial security agencies about the sales person, firm or company. This is a simple maneuver, and can save a heap of you a good chunk of money. First, ask if the investor or company is registered, and then see if the investment is allowed to be sold. If not completely back away, those investors have a way with words, and do not care in anyway for you. DO your research!

2) From the investor, get written information on the procedures of the investment, the risks, and what you will have to go through to get your money out.

3) Get professional advice from an attorney, financial planner, or accountant. You are much better off whether you get it free from a friend or you pay them.

4) Earlier people the investor had that were legitimate could be incredibly enthusiastic, however later arrivals may not be so pleased. So pay attention to dates of testimonials. Look closely for odd names and repetitive names. Be AWARE! - 23309

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Introduction to Using ETF Trading Strategies to Increase Your ROI

By Patrick Deaton

There are many ETF trading strategies that offer a person just entering ETF the opportunity to reap great rewards when they are successfully used. However, in order to make the strategy perform at the level one desire, it is important that the correct strategy be paired with the style of trading that will be done.

Establishing safety nets, such as buy and sell limits, will give the beginner the flexibility needed to try strategies and methods as they find the one that is best for their needs. Creating a plan that includes a time-frame for testing methods and strategies will allow a person to use a strategy without making a long term commitment to that strategy.

The type of ETF trading that a person is going to do will impact the type of strategy that will work best. If an individual is adding ETF to their established portfolio, the trading strategy will be different than for the person who is going to be trading regularly.

People who trade ETFs for long term investment, may look at, and trade ETFs on a yearly basis when they review their mutual funds and the rest of their portfolio. These individuals do not need the type of ETF strategy that a person who is getting in and getting out on a regular basis needs.

Knowing about ETF trading, the structure of ETF, and the methods for trading can make a significant impact on the returns that one sees from their ETF trades. Taking the time to research strategies before implementing them is critical to creating an effective strategy for an individual. There are many strategies that are advertised on the Internet. However, it is important to see how that strategy has performed from a historical perspective.

When a strategy is advertised that has been effective for only a few people, it does not have the history necessary to make it an effective trading strategy. The riskier the ETF trading that is being done, the more important it is to have a thorough knowledge of the strategy and confidence in its ability to provide consistent results.

Buy and Hold is one of the most popular ETF trading strategies used by people who are making long-term trades. The trades are spread among many sections and there is limited risk to a portfolio. This is the strategy that many financial advisers recommend and by individuals who want a fixed income or steady growth for their portfolio from any financial product. This is more of a hands-off strategy and an individual does not need to follow the index, make trades, or have in-depth knowledge about the sectors they are in. However, this lack of knowledge and tracking also means that a person is missing opportunities to make gains that occur in the market on a regular basis.

A more active role in trading occurs with the Active Long-Term Trading Strategy. This is a variation of the Buy and Hold Strategy and provides more opportunity of an individual to make trades. However, it is also designed for long-term, steady growth. An individual may choose the level of involvement they want to have in the trading activities that take place and can be more proactive with their portfolio.

When deciding on a strategy it is very helpful to discuss one's goals and objectives with an individual who is knowledgeable in ETF trading strategies and the structure of ETF trading. By effectively pairing the correct strategy with the trading style that one has, there is a greater possibility for success in the trading arena. - 23309

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