CFD vs. Stock Trading

When entering the world of financial markets, traders often face a choice between two popular methods: Contract for Difference (CFD) trading and traditional stock trading. While both allow individuals to profit from the movements of stock prices, they differ significantly in their mechanics, risks, and strategies.

Understanding the key differences between CFDs and stock trading is essential for making informed decisions based on one's financial goals, risk tolerance, and trading style. Whether you are a long-term investor or a short-term trader, choosing the right approach can greatly impact your success in the financial markets.

What is CFD Trading?

CFDs focus on an asset’s value at the start of the contract compared to at the end of the contract. If an asset is valued at $150 at the start of the contract and rises to $175 at the end of the contract, the buyer pays the seller $25. If the asset fell to $140, the buyer would receive $10. Traders can choose whether to enter long or short positions.

CFD trading takes place outside of the stock exchange, and you can use this trading style for currencies, commodities and other assets. You will have to find a reputable CFD broker to get into this line of trading. You don’t have to own the underlying asset to participate in CFD trading, but you do get exposure to the asset’s price movements from now until the end of the contract.

What is Stock Trading?

Stock trading is similar to CFD trading, but you own the underlying asset instead of a contract. Stock trading requires more capital, but you get more control over your exit. Stock traders can wait as long as they want to exit positions and give their assets time to rally or recover from losses. 

Stock traders also benefit from dividend payouts and can also realize long-term gains instead of short-term gains if they hold onto their shares for at least one year. Long-term capital gains are taxed far more favorably than short-term capital gains. 

Comparing CFDs vs. Stocks

Most people know about stock trading, but CFD trading has a lot of perks as well. After reading through the comparison, you may want to give a CFD broker a try. However, it’s also possible that you may stick with stock trading. Regardless of which path you take, it is a good idea to know about multiple ways to make money with assets and then choose what is right for you.

Time

Stock traders have more time to wait out an unprofitable investment. Some long-term traders hold onto their stocks for several years before trading them. CFD traders do not have the same luxury and must pay up or receive a payment at the end of the contract.

Capital Required

CFD trades do not require as much capital as stock trades. You can get exposure to a stock’s price movements for a fraction of the cost with CFD trading. It’s easier to get started with CFDs.

Potential Returns

CFD trading can yield higher returns than stock trading. You don’t need as much money to profit from the same price movements. While CFD trading has a higher ceiling, the downside can also be significant. CFD traders use leverage to initiate numerous positions. That leverage can become profitable when trades move in your favor, but the losses can compound in a hurry if you aren’t careful.

Capital Gains

Both types of trading incur capital gains, but stock traders can hold onto their investments for over a year. The longer duration allows stock investors to pay taxes on long-term capital gains. This distinction results in a lower tax bill at the end of the year.

Portfolio Diversification 

CFD traders have an easier time diversifying their portfolios because it costs less money to enter positions. Stock traders can diversify their portfolios sufficiently, but CFD traders can get more coverage. Stock traders are also limited to stocks, while CFD traders can get exposure to stocks, crops, raw materials and other assets.

Trade CFDs and Stocks with These Trading Platforms

Wondering where you can trade CFDs and stocks? These are some of the top trading platforms to consider.

Should You Be a CFD Trader or Stock Trader?

CFD trading and stock trading each have their strengths and weaknesses. Stock trading is more popular than CFD trading, but both trading strategies can be useful for a trader’s portfolio. It is important to assess your financial goals before getting into trading. Knowing your risk tolerance and goals can help you adjust your portfolio accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions