Online trading has exploded in recent years, making it easier than ever for anyone to jump in. But just because it’s accessible doesn’t mean you should dive in headfirst without a game plan. Trading involves real risks, and smart traders know that preparation is key.

So, if you're just starting out, how do you trade the smart way? Here are three golden rules to help you get started on the right foot.
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1. Do your homework on brokers and markets

Before you even think about making a trade, you need to get two things right: choosing the right broker and understanding the markets.
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Picking the right broker

Not all brokers are created equal, so take your time and find one that fits your needs. Look for:

• A solid reputation (check reviews and feedback from real traders)
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• User-friendly platforms that work for both beginners and pros
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• A variety of assets to trade, so you have options to diversify
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• Proper licensing and regulation to ensure your funds are safe
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Deriv, for example, ticks all these boxes. It offers an easy-to-use trading platform, multiple asset choices, and top-notch security.
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Choosing your first trading asset

Once you’ve found a broker, the next step is deciding what to trade. Forex? Stocks? Crypto? Commodities? Each market has its own risks and rewards. Research is your best friend here-learn about price trends, economic influences, and how different assets behave.

If all of this sounds a bit overwhelming, you might want to start with synthetic indices on Deriv. These assets mimic real market movements but aren’t affected by external news events. They’re available to trade 24/7-even on weekends and holidays-giving you more flexibility.
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2. Practice first with a demo account

You wouldn’t drive a car without a few lessons first, right? The same goes for trading.

Before putting real money on the line, get familiar with how trading works using a demo account. Most brokers (including Deriv) offer demo accounts loaded with virtual funds, so you can test strategies and learn the ropes without any financial risk.

Deriv’s demo account gives you USD 10,000 in virtual funds, allowing you to explore different trading strategies risk-free. The best part? It works just like a real trading account, so when you’re ready to trade with real money, you won’t feel like a total newbie.
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3. Enjoy the process and be patient

Trading isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. The best traders didn’t get there overnight—they built skills over time, made mistakes, learned from them, and refined their strategies.

Here are some key habits of smart traders:

• Patience – Don’t rush into trades just because you feel like it. Wait for the right setup.
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• Discipline – Stick to your trading strategy and avoid emotional decisions.
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• Realistic expectations – Huge profits don’t happen every day, and losses are part of the game.
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Want to level up faster? Learn from the pros! Check out "7 Traits of Successful Financial Traders" by Vince Stanzione to get insights from experienced traders.

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