The Top 10 Best Lowest Spread Forex Brokers in South Africa are revealed. We have rated and reviewed the best Forex Brokers with Low Spreads.
This is a complete list of The Best Lowest Spread Forex Brokers.
What is Lower Spreads Forex?
Low spread accounts from forex brokers minimize the difference between the ask (sell) and bid (buy) prices, which lowers trading expenses for South African traders.
Because they reduce entry and exit costs, lower spreads are particularly advantageous for scalpers and high-frequency traders.
Since many of these brokers use STP (Straight Through Processing) or ECN (Electronic Communication Network) technology, spreads on key currency pairings can start as low as 0.0 pips during hours when the market is liquid.
What should I consider before choosing the lowest spread forex broker?
Before choosing the lowest spread forex broker, you should consider the broker’s reputation, regulatory compliance, trading platforms, trading fees, and other essential features of your trading strategy. It’s also a good idea to open a demo account and test the broker’s trading platform and services before depositing real funds.
In this in-depth write-up, you will learn:
- Low Spread Brokers in South Africa
- List of Low-Spread Brokers Accepting South African Traders
- Zero Spread Forex Brokers that are regulated and can be trusted
- Lowest Spread Forex Pairs
- Lowest Spread Brokers for Gold Trading
- Best FSCA Low Spread Broker for Scalping
- Low Spread, No Commission Forex Brokers
🏆 10 Best Forex Brokers in South Africa
| Rank | Broker | Broker Review | Regulators | Minimum Deposit | Visit Broker |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 |  | Read Review | ASIC, FSA, CBI, BVI, FSCA, FRSA, CySEC, ISA, JFSA | $100 |  |
| 🥈 |  | Read Review | FSCA, FCA, FSA, CMA | $0 | |
| 🥉 |  | Read Review | CySEC, MWALI, FSCA | $25 | |
| 4 |  | Read Review | ASIC, CySEC, FSA, SCB | $200 | |
| 5 |  | Read Review | FSA, FSCA | $250 | |
| 6 |  | Read Review | FSA, FSC, FSCA, ASIC, CMA | $20 | |
| 7 |  | Read Review | FSC, FSCA | $50 | |
| 8 |  | Read Review | ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, FSA, FSC, CMA | $100 | |
| 9 |  | Read Review | ASIC, CySEC, IFSC, DFSA, FCA | $5 | |
| 10 |  | Read Review | FSA, CySEC, FSCA, FSC | $10 | |
10 Best Lowest Spread Forex Brokers – A Comparison
| 🔎 Broker | 📝Sign up | 📊 Typical EUR/USD Spread | 💴 Min. Deposit (USD) | 💻Trading Platforms |
 | 👉 Open Account | 0.0 – 0.3 pips (Raw) | $10 USD | MetaTrader 4 & 5 |
| 👉 Open Account | 0.1 – 0.3 pips (Zero) | $0 USD | MT4, MT5, HFM Platform |
| 👉 Open Account | 0.0 – 0.2 pips (Raw) | $200 USD | MT4, MT5, WebTrader |
 | 👉 Open Account | 0.9 pips (fixed) | $100 USD | MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGo |
 | 👉 Open Account | 0.0 – 0.4 pips (Core) | $0 USD | MT4, OANDA Trade |
 | 👉 Open Account | 0.0 – 0.2 pips (Pro) | $100 USD | MT4, MT5, Tickmill Trader |
 | 👉 Open Account | 0.0 pip spreads(Zero) | $0 USD | MT4, MT5, WebTrader TradingView, WebTrader, cTrader |
 | 👉 Open Account | 0.0 – 0.1 pips (Razor) | $0 USD | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView |
 | 👉 Open Account | From 0.0 pips (Raw account) | $100 USD | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, Iress |
 | 👉 Open Account | 0.3 Pips | $200 USD | MT4, MT5, FXTM Trader |
10 Best Lowest Spread Forex Brokers in South Africa (2026)
- ☑️Exness – Overall, the Best Spread Forex Broker in South Africa
- ☑️HFM – Ultra-competitive Low Spread Broker
- ☑️IC Markets – Best Execution Low Spread Forex Broker
- ☑️AvaTrade – Best Online Trading Experience
- ☑️OANDA – Raw Spreads Account with Spreads from 0.0 Pips
- ☑️Tickmill – MT5 Broker with Low Spreads
- ☑️Fusion Markets – Lowest cost forex trading with tight spreads
- ☑️Pepperstone – Best Low Spread Forex Broker for Beginners
- ☑️FP Markets – Ultra-tight spreads with reliable execution
- ☑️FXTM – MT4 Broker with Low Spreads
1. Exness
- 💰 Min Deposit: $10
- 📈 Leverage: Up to 1:2000
- 🏦 Regulators: Globally regulated with multiple licences from respected financial regulators.
South African traders can take advantage of a 0.0 pips spread at Exness because the broker maintains positions as one of the top spread providers in the country.
The FSCA oversees Exness, which delivers affordable trading together with dependable South African services.
Customers appreciate quick withdrawal services, round-the-clock help, and access to MetaTrader versions 4 and 5, together with its minimal spreads through Exness.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 💵 Minimum Deposit | $10 USD |
| 📈 Average Spread | 0.0 – 0.3 pips (Raw Spread Account) |
| 💳 Withdrawal Fee | None – Free instant withdrawals |
| 💷 Inactivity Fee | No inactivity fee |
| 📊 Commissions | ± $3.50 per lot (on Raw account) |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Exness is well-regulated and keeps all client funds in segregated accounts with top-tier institutions | There is a limited portfolio of financial instruments offered |
| Traders can choose between several retail investor accounts | Exness offers a limited number of payment methods that can be used for deposits and withdrawals |
Why is Exness considered the best low spread broker?
Exness offers spreads from 0.0 pips on major pairs, especially on its Raw Spread and Zero accounts, with lightning-fast execution and deep liquidity.
Does Exness charge commissions on low spread accounts?
Yes, Exness applies a small commission on Raw Spread accounts. However, the ultra-low spreads significantly reduce total trading costs for frequent and high-volume traders.
2. HFM
HFM is a well-regulated forex and CFD broker with a significant market share in South Africa.
It offers South African traders a choice between four account types (Micro, Premium, HFcopy, and Zero Spread) and the ability to trade over 1,000 CFDs from nine asset classes.
HFM is an affordable broker with average trading costs of 10 USD on the Micro, Premium, and HFCopy Accounts and 7 USD on the Zero Spread accounts.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 📈 Spreads from | 0.0 Pips |
| 💰 Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| 💳 Commission | From $0.03 per $1,000 lot |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Wide range of markets: Foreign Exchange, Stocks, Cryptocurencies, Gold, Silver, Copper, Government Securities, Mutual Funds, Exchange Traded Funds. | Offshore entities: Some regulations are in less secure offshore zones |
| Negative balance protection: But can’t lose more than its deposit. | No U.S. clients: Not available to U.S. traders |
| Multiple platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, Mobile. | Basic research tools: Limited advanced analysis features |
| High leverage: Up to 1:2000 | Fees applicable when the account has been unused |
| Fast execution: Quick trades with low delays | Bonus restrictions: Bonuses vary by region |
| Part of HFM Group, which has strong regulation: FCA, FSCA, FSA, CMA | Transparency on fees: Some fees are less clear, depending on account and region |
What are the typical spreads offered by HFM?
HFM offers spreads as low as 0.1 pips on major pairs via its Zero Spread Account, providing competitive conditions for short-term traders and scalpers.
Is HFM reliable for low spread trading?
Yes, HFM is FSCA-regulated and known for consistent pricing, fast execution, and a variety of account types that cater to both beginners and professionals.
3. IC Markets
Trading with IC Markets will involve fees starting at USD 3, spreads starting at 0 pips, and commission-free trading, depending on the account traders select.
IC Markets is authorized and regulated by multiple Regulators worldwide, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Financial Services Authority (FSA), and the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB).
Featured
| 🔎 Account | |
| 💰 Min. Deposit | $200 USD |
| 💳 Commission (per lot) | $0 USD |
| 🔁 Spreads from | 0.6 Pips |
| 📈 Leverage | 1:500 |
| 📊 Micro Lot Trading (0.01) | Yes |
| 💵 Currency Pairs | 61 |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Low Forex Fees | Limited Product Selection |
| Easy Account Opening | Slow Chat Response |
How low are IC Markets' spreads?
IC Markets offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips on its ECN-style accounts, along with ultra-fast execution speeds ideal for algorithmic and scalping strategies.
Why is IC Markets popular for execution quality?
IC Markets uses Equinix data centers and institutional-grade liquidity, ensuring minimal slippage and fast trade execution, which complements its low spread offering.
4. AvaTrade
- 💰 Min Deposit: $100
- 📈 Leverage: Up to 1:400
- 🏦 Regulators: ASIC, FSA, CBI, BVI, FSCA, FRSA, CySEC, ISA, JFSA
The respected South African forex broker AvaTrade obtains regulatory approval from the FSCA while providing competitive fixed currency pair spreads beginning at 0.9 pips for major currency pairs, including EUR/USD.
The brokerage service at AvaTrade provides fee-free deals alongside price slippage elimination, thereby delivering cost benefits suitable for traders who want transparent expenses.
Users who prefer consistent spreads and easy trading will find AvaTrade suitable for their needs as they can open an account with R1,500 while getting MetaTrader 4 and 5 and AvaTradeGo platforms and receiving good customer support.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 💵 Minimum Deposit | $100 USD |
| 📈 Average Spread | 0.9 pips (Fixed) |
| 💳 Withdrawal Fee | No |
| 💷 Inactivity Fee | Yes (after 3 months) |
| 📊 Commissions | No (spreads only) |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌Cons |
| Wide range of CFDs assets to trade - 1000+ | You can’t buy stock or cryptocurrency |
| Worldwide regulated (mention the regulation if necessay) | Cryptocurrency deposit is not accepted |
| Award winner | Quarterly and annual inactivity fees |
| Multiple platform – MT4, MT5, etc | Costumer support is not available 24/7 |
| Negative balance protection | No bonus for EU based clients |
| 20% welcome bonus | No US clients accepted |
| Education content | Spread is higher then others brokers |
| Beginners, friendly platform (webtrade) | Imitated crypto assets– only the popular ones are offer |
What spreads can I expect with AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers fixed spreads starting from 0.9 pips on major forex pairs. While not raw, the predictability benefits traders who prefer stable pricing.
Does AvaTrade support low-spread scalping?
Scalping is limited due to fixed spreads and execution style, but AvaTrade offers a smooth trading platform experience with tight spreads and excellent tools.
5. OANDA
Global traders consider OANDA a reliable forex broker because it provides industry-leading spreads starting from 0.0 pips for its Core Pricing account.
The brokerage operates under international regulatory bodies, FCA and CFTC, as well as holding multiple licenses, which assures traders of security even if it is not certified by the FSCA.
OANDA has become popular because of its distinct features, which include a no minimum deposit rule combined with an audio-transparent pricing structure, along with its powerful multiplatform OANDA Trade application and MetaTrader 4 support.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 💵 Minimum Deposit | No minimum deposit |
| 📈 Average Spread | 0.0 – 0.4 pips (Core Account) |
| 💳 Withdrawal Fee | Free for bank cards & wallets (bank transfer may apply) |
| 💷 Inactivity Fee | $10/month after 12 months of no trading |
| 📊 Commissions | $5 per lot round-turn on Core Account |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌Cons |
| Accepts U.S. clients | No account protection for U.S. clients |
| Regulated by FCA and NFA | No guaranteed stop losses for U.S. or U.K. clients |
| Well-designed platforms | Traders cannot access cryptocurrencies or single-stock CFDs |
| Superior research offerings | A lot of ancillary fees |
Does OANDA offer raw spread accounts?
Yes, OANDA provides a Raw Spread Account with spreads from 0.0 pips, ideal for professional traders seeking low-cost trading and high transparency.
Are OANDA's spreads competitive for South Africans?
OANDA’s pricing is transparent and highly competitive, especially during major market hours, and it accepts South African clients through its global entities.
6. Tickmill
- 💰 Min Deposit: $100
- 📈 Leverage: Up to 1:1000
- 🏦 Regulators: CySEC, FCA, FSA, FSCA
Tickmill offers its clients a wide range of services and products.
It is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) within several regions.
Tickmill spreads start from 0.13 pips on EUR/USD. The all-in cost is 0.53 pips when factoring in the RT commission equivalent of 0.4 pips.
Featured
| 🥇Broker | |
| ✅ Fees that occur by trading with Tickmill | Fees that do not occur by trading with Tickmill |
| Spread (direct spread or higher spread in the classic account) | No deposit or withdrawal fees |
| 💳 Withdrawal Fee | zero fees policy |
| 💷 Inactivity Fee | No inactivity fees |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Competitive pricing | Limited platform options |
| Well regulated | |
| High leverage |
What makes Tickmill’s spreads attractive?
Tickmill offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips on Pro and VIP accounts, with low commissions and direct market access through MT4 and MT5 platforms.
Is Tickmill good for MT5 low spread trading?
Yes, Tickmill’s MT5 setup provides institutional-grade liquidity and low latency, making it ideal for low spread strategies and algorithmic trading systems.
7. Fusion Markets
Fusion Markets is a low-cost forex broker specializing in ultra-tight spreads from 0.0 pips and very low commissions.
It is widely recognized for its cost efficiency, transparent pricing, and fast execution, making it a top choice for traders focused on minimizing trading costs.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 💵 Minimum Deposit | $10 USD |
| 📈 Average Spread | 0.0 pip spreads(Zero) |
| 📈 Trading Fees Class | Zero Account: ECN-style raw spreads + competitive commission. Classic Account: Spread-only pricing with no explicit commission. |
| 💷 Inactivity Fee | No inactivity fee |
| 📊 Commissions | From $2.25 per lot per side |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Demo account can be opened | Demo account only valid for 30 days. |
| Regulated by ASIC and VFSC | No educational tools |
| Comprehensive and competitive trading conditions despite lack of bonuses and rewards | No trading bonus for loyal customers |
| No deposit fees charged | Welcome bonus, deposit bonus, no deposit bonus and no other broker bonuses offered with first time sign up |
| MAM/PAMM offered | Few research tools |
| No withdrawal fees charged | No Swap-free accounts |
| Supports Bitcoin deposits and withdrawals |
Why is Fusion Markets considered one of the lowest-cost brokers?
Fusion Markets is known for offering extremely low commissions and spreads starting from 0.0 pips. Its transparent pricing model and minimal trading costs make it one of the most affordable forex brokers, especially appealing to scalpers and cost-conscious traders globally.
Does Fusion Markets offer reliable execution and platforms?
Fusion Markets provides fast execution speeds and supports popular platforms like MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5. Its infrastructure ensures stable trading conditions, making it suitable for both manual and automated trading strategies across various financial markets worldwide.
8. Pepperstone
- 💰 Min Deposit: $0
- 📈 Leverage: Up to 1:500
- 🏦 Regulators: ASIC, BAFIN, CMA, CySEC, DFSA, FCA, SCB
Pepperstone is one of the best forex brokers for beginners and the world’s largest forex broker, trusted by over 300,000 traders worldwide.
It is also ASIC, BaFin, CMA, CySEC, DFSA, FCA, and SCB-regulated, and it keeps its client funds in segregated accounts with tier 1 banks.
Trading with Pepperstone will involve fees starting at USD 7, spreads starting at 0.6 pips, and commission-free trading, depending on the account traders select.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 💰 Min Deposit | $0 USD |
| 🔁 Spreads from | 0.6 Pips |
| 📈 Leverage | 500:1 |
| 🌗 Overnight Fees | Varies |
| 💵 Commission | $7 Per Standard Lot |
| 💷Deposit Fee | No |
| 💶 Withdrawal Fee | No |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Fast Account Opening | Mostly CFDs Offered |
| Excellent Customer Support | Basic MetaTrader Platform |
| Negative Balance Protection | No Managed Accounts |
Why is Pepperstone ideal for low-spread beginners?
Pepperstone offers razor-thin spreads starting at 0.0 pips with clear fee structures, excellent educational tools, and support, making it beginner-friendly and low-cost.
Which Pepperstone account has the lowest spreads?
The Razor Account offers the lowest spreads, combined with low commissions and access to MT4, MT5, and cTrader platforms for maximum flexibility.
9. FP Markets
- 💰 Min Deposit: $100
- 📈 Leverage: Up to 1:500
- 🏦 Regulators: ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, CMA
FP Markets is a globally regulated forex and CFD broker known for its tight spreads starting from 0.0 pips, fast execution, and advanced trading platforms.
It offers a wide range of instruments and is popular for its reliable pricing and professional trading conditions.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 💵 Minimum Deposit | $100 USD |
| 📈 Average Spread | From 0.0 pips (Raw account) |
| 💳 Withdrawal Fee | No fees (may vary by method) |
| 💷 Inactivity Fee | No inactivity fee |
| 📊 Commissions | From $3.00 per lot per side |
| 📝Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| South African traders can benefit from FP Markets' advanced technology infrastructure | While the high leverage provided by FP Markets may be beneficial, it also increases the danger of substantial losses |
| South Africans have access to extensive customer service from a skilled and attentive crew | FP Markets does not provide accounts in South African Rand (ZAR) |
| South Africans can trade with a broker who is regulated by various foreign regulatory bodies, including FSCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSA, and FSC | Because of FP Markets' worldwide focus, certain South African payment methods may not be supported |
| FP Markets provides a thorough instructional suite, which is advantageous for South African traders wishing to improve their trading knowledge and skills | While FP Markets’ product offerings are vast, they may exclude some local or speciality markets in which some South African traders may be interested |
| FP Markets offers a variety of account kinds to meet the diverse needs and trading styles of South African traders | FP Markets only supports one local deposit and withdrawal method specifically for South Africans |
What makes FP Markets a low-spread forex broker?
FP Markets offers raw ECN pricing with spreads starting from 0.0 pips on major currency pairs. Combined with competitive commissions and deep liquidity, it provides traders with institutional-grade pricing, making it suitable for scalpers and high-frequency trading strategies globally.
Is FP Markets suitable for beginners and professionals?
FP Markets caters to both beginners and experienced traders by offering user-friendly platforms, educational resources, and advanced tools. While beginners benefit from support and tutorials, professionals appreciate tight spreads, fast execution, and access to MetaTrader and cTrader platforms.
10. FXTM
FXTM is a global CFD and FX broker that is regulated by several financial authorities across the globe.
Depending on the account traders select, trading with FXTM will involve fees from USD 0.4, Spreads from 0.0 Pips, and commission-free trading.
The minimum deposit amount required to register an FXTM live trading account ranges from USD 10 to USD 500.
Featured
| 🔎 Broker | |
| 💵 Minimum Deposit | $10 USD |
| 📈 Average Spread | From 0.0 pips (Advantage account) |
| 💳 Withdrawal Fee | Free (fees may apply for small withdrawals under $30) |
| 💷 Inactivity Fee | $10/month after inactivity |
| 📊 Commissions | From ~$3.5–$7 per lot (Advantage account) |
| 📝 Sign up | 👉 Open Account |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| One of the best Forex Brokers worldwide | Withdrawal fee |
| Regulated by the CySEC and several other Forex authorities | High Stocks trading Spread |
Does FXTM offer low spreads on MT4?
Yes, FXTM offers spreads from 0.0 pips on ECN accounts through MT4, with flexible leverage and low commissions ideal for experienced traders.
Which FXTM account is best for tight spreads?
The ECN Account is the best option, offering raw spreads and market execution through MT4, suitable for scalping and expert advisor strategies.
Regulation of Forex Brokers: A Technical Analysis
- Forex brokers play a crucial role in facilitating currency trading, but their activities can be risky for traders.
- To mitigate these risks and ensure a fair and transparent trading environment, regulatory bodies like the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa play a vital role.
- Fundamental analysis helps you understand the “why” behind currency movements, offering valuable insights for long-term trading strategies.
| 🧩 Category | 📘 Explanation |
| Importance of Regulation | |
| 👥 Trader Protection | FSCA requires brokers to maintain segregated client funds, sufficient capital reserves, and transparency reducing risks of insolvency or fraud. |
| ⚖️ Market Integrity | Regulated brokers must ensure fair pricing, accurate order execution, and avoid conflicts of interest, preserving trust in the system. |
| 🧾 Dispute Resolution | Traders can access formal complaint channels and regulatory mediation if disputes with brokers arise. |
| Global Regulatory Bodies | |
| 🇿🇦 FSCA (South Africa) | Ensures brokers in SA operate legally, protect client funds, and follow responsible business conduct. |
| 🇬🇧 FCA (UK) | Sets high standards for investor protection, conduct, and financial transparency in the UK market. |
| 🇦🇺 ASIC (Australia) | Enforces strict rules on leverage, reporting, and trading practices to safeguard retail traders. |
| Technical Analyst Insights | |
| 📈 Strategy Risk Awareness | Technical analysts must consider broker stability and execution quality when building indicator-based trading strategies. |
| 🧠 Regulatory Context | Knowing a broker’s regulator helps assess legal safety, trading restrictions, and trustworthiness before committing capital. |
| Forex Trading Risks | |
| 💥 Leverage Risk | Leverage can amplify profits and losses. High leverage increases exposure to margin calls if price moves sharply against the trader. |
| 🚨 Margin Calls | If equity drops too low, brokers may liquidate positions automatically, disrupting long-term technical strategies and causing unexpected losses. |
Conclusion
Regarding the best, lowest-spread forex brokers, SA Shares highlights several key players in the industry that cater to South African traders.
Brokers like Exness, Tickmill, and IC Markets stand out for offering competitive spreads, especially for major currency pairs.
These brokers combine low-cost trading environments with high regulation standards, ensuring both affordability and safety for traders.
Choosing a broker with low spreads is essential for cost-effective trading, and these platforms offer a solid balance of low fees, reliable execution, and strong customer support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using a low spread forex broker?
The main advantage of using a low spread forex broker is that you can save money on trading costs, increasing your overall profitability. Additionally, the lowest spreads can result in faster trade executions, which can be important for scalping or day trading strategies.
Are there any disadvantages to using a lowest-spread forex broker?
One potential disadvantage of using a lowest-spread forex broker is that they may charge higher commission or account maintenance fees to offset their lowest-spread offering. Some lowest-spread brokers may also have fewer trading features or research tools than others.
How can I find a reliable, lowest-spread forex broker?
To find a reliable, lowest-spread forex broker, you can research various brokers, compare their spreads and other features, and read reviews from other traders. It’s also important to check if a reputable authority regulates the broker and offers secure trading platforms.
Can I still trade with high leverage using a low spread forex broker?
You can still trade with high leverage using a low spread forex broker. However, it’s essential to use caution when trading with high leverage, as it can increase your potential losses and profits.
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