Foreign Exchange (Forex) Market Guide
The foreign exchange market is the largest financial market in the world, with daily turnover of around $7 trillion. Currencies are always quoted in pairs (e.g. EUR/USD), where the rate represents how much of the quote currency is needed to buy one unit of the base currency.
Exchange rates are influenced by central bank interest-rate policy, trade balances, inflation and geopolitical events. ZivFin shows real-time quotes for major currency pairs alongside an economic calendar so you can see scheduled releases that may move the market.
Key Forex Terms
Pip
The smallest standardized price increment for a currency pair, typically the fourth decimal (0.0001) for most pairs and 0.01 for JPY pairs.
Spread
Difference between the bid and ask price. Major pairs with high liquidity tend to have tight spreads.
Major / Minor / Exotic
Pairs that include USD (e.g. EUR/USD) are majors; pairs between other major currencies are minors (or crosses); pairs that include an emerging-market currency are exotics.
Leverage
A multiplier that lets you control a large position with a small margin. It magnifies both gains and losses, so risk management is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the forex market move the most?
Liquidity and volatility peak when London and New York are both open (roughly 13:00–17:00 UTC). Major data releases also bring sharp short-term moves.
How do I use this together with the economic calendar?
Use the calendar to anticipate major events — US CPI, the FOMC, ECB decisions, etc. — and prepare for the higher volatility that typically accompanies them.
Can I trade with leverage on ZivFin?
No. ZivFin is an information platform and does not offer execution, margin or leverage. Live trading must be done through a regulated forex broker.
Disclaimer: Leveraged forex trading is a high-risk product and can result in rapid losses. The content on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and is not trading advice or a solicitation.