Bitcoin CFDs: A Complete Guide

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Bitcoin CFDs: A Complete Guide

A Contract for Difference (CFD) is an intricate trading product gaining traction alongside other conventional trading options like indices, stocks, forex, and futures. With the burgeoning interest in cryptocurrency, trading Bitcoin CFDs has become widespread. Here's a comprehensive guide on the subject.

Using CFDs to invest in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies is advantageous. The key benefits of opting for CFDs over traditional cryptocurrency investments are:

  • It simplifies the initiation of trading without needing extensive technical expertise.
  • Opportunities to profit exist whether the market prices rise or fall.
  • Considerably fewer security risks
  • There's no necessity for a cryptocurrency wallet.

These regulated CFD trading platforms deliver exceptional service for purchasing and selling popular cryptocurrencies:

Exploring the thrilling domain of CFD trading can be equally fascinating as it is intimidating. Therefore, it might be beneficial to go through this helpful compilation of 10 CFD Trading Tips to Remember.

What are Bitcoin CFDs?

CFDs present traders with the chance to benefit from the price shifts in a commodity like Bitcoin without physically owning said commodity. At its essence, a CFD represents an agreement between a buyer and a seller concerning an asset’s prospective price.

Traders engage in CFDs with the expectation that Bitcoin's price will either rise, taking a long position , or fall, assuming a short position . A CFD broker processes your trading commands and facilitates the transaction through an efficient online platform for seamless CFD trading .

Similar to traditional methods, Bitcoin CFDs employ leverage or margin trading to boost trade execution volume. When Bitcoin's value increases, a seller will liquidate their holdings. The net price difference, or spread , between opening and closing positions is tallied, and the resulting gain or loss is settled via the trader’s brokerage account. Conversely, a trader initiating a sell position will buy a counter-trade upon price decline and receive the net difference of the gain or loss through the brokerage account .

Contrasts Between a CFD Broker and a Cryptocurrency Exchange / Broker

When you use a non- CFD cryptocurrency Through an exchange , like CEX.io, you acquire the currency, thus owning the asset. The Bitcoin or altcoin that you buy belongs to you, regardless of its valuation changes, until decided otherwise. This equally applies to conventional cryptocurrency platforms such as those encountered on P2P networks like LocalBitcoins.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • CFD is a type of derivative trading.
  • Purchasing a Bitcoin CFD doesn't mean acquiring the cryptocurrency itself but entering a contract with the CFD provider.
  • CFDs enable transactions using margin and leverage.
  • You can't transfer CFDs from a platform to another, a feature possible with actual cryptocurrency assets (i.e., non-CFD).

Both CFD brokers and traditional exchanges or brokers simplify the buying and selling process, earning commissions or fees in return. Conversely, buying Bitcoin CFDs doesn't grant actual cryptocurrency ownership. Instead, it involves a contract deriving its value from the underlying cryptocurrency.

Different CFD Brokers Available

The CFD broker market is quite competitive , and selecting a top-tier CFD broker, whether for trading crypto or other traditional assets, can be challenging. Opting for new or lesser-known brokers heightens risk, so leveraging reputable platforms is typically safer. Some top Bitcoin CFD brokers include:

Plus 500

Plus500 has established a great standing as a CFD broker , partly due to its FCA approval and its presence on the London Stock Exchange. Suitable for professional traders, the platform provides negative balance protection , meaning your loss cannot exceed your deposit. Plus500 supports payments via cards and Skrill.

eToro

eToro offers a robust and adaptable platform for Bitcoin CFDs, with its operations since 2007. The platform spans multiple markets, offering investors an opportunity to expand their portfolio without relying on alternative online brokers .

eToro further enhances trading experiences with cutting-edge features such as CopyTrade and CopyPortfolio.

IQ Option

Founded in 2013, IQ Option is domiciled in Cyprus and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission. Boasting 20 million users, the platform offers demo accounts and maximum leverages of 1000:1 for professionals.

AvaTrade

AvaTrade presents a licensed trading platform for Bitcoin CFDs, accepting minimal deposits. This international platform imposes no transaction fees and avails various convenient payment options. It ensures cross-channel accessibility , including proprietary mobile apps.

XTB

XTB ranks among the leading Bitcoin CFD brokers worldwide, operating from 13 global offices . The regulated platform guarantees secure, user-friendly trading experiences. Additionally, its carefully curated crypto pairs cater to a wide range of leading coins.

Main Benefits of Bitcoin CFDs

Bitcoin CFDs Pros And Cons

If your primary interest is in buying and selling positions and securing profitability from trading, CFDs are ideal. Trading Bitcoin CFDs spares the need to physically hold Bitcoin, eliminating storage concerns during transactions.safe cryptocurrency wallets so as not to get it hacked or stolen.

An additional key advantage of CFDs involves trading on margin . This approach parallels margin trading with physical commodities, CFD l everage permitting larger position entries than your budget permits. With each successful trade, you can retain profit gains from borrowed funds, after brokerage fees get deducted.

The prime advantage lies in an investor's ability to profit from both bull markets, denoting upward price trends, and bear markets, reflecting price downturns. Acquiring Bitcoin directly (BTC) only profits from rising markets, whereas with a Bitcoin CFD short position, traders might benefit from declining markets.

Beginning with some top-tier CFD brokers mentioned above is straightforward. Investors may opt for long or short positions , and given the lack of asset ownership, there are generally no short-selling or borrowing interest charges .

Cons of CFDs

CFDs are complex and high-risk trading instruments, with more than 66% of average retail investors incurring losses, even with the top brokerage platforms highlighted earlier. Furthermore, trading with leverage can intensify losses just as it can magnify gains . Ensure affordability before engaging in CFD trading.

Until positions are closed, brokerage platforms typically levy overnight fees . Consider these fees in your investment planning strategies.

Finally, some CFD brokers impose steep charges , especially when compared to non-CFD brokers. We advise examining a few such as top-ranking Crypto Exchanges . Alternatively, delve deeper into finding CFD brokers best aligned to your trading preferences.

When is it advisable to steer clear of cryptocurrency CFDs?

You should avoid cryptocurrency CFDs if your goal is transferring cryptocurrency or making payments in crypto.

Purchasing a Bitcoin CFD, without owning Bitcoin itself, restricts you from transferring it as payment. You can only liquidate the CFD through your broker, to realize gains or limit losses. Understanding the difference between crypto CFDs and crypto assets becomes essential.

Alternatively, when purchasing Bitcoin directly through a non-CFD broker, you'll usually receive a cryptocurrency wallet integrated into the exchange platform. This wallet lets you transfer Bitcoin (or other acquired cryptocurrencies) to anyone providing the appropriate cryptocurrency wallet address .

Trading Bitcoin CFDs might positively influence your investment portfolio, but comprehending the inherent risks beforehand is paramount.

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