For most people there are plenty of confusing ideas about exactly what Forex is, and how it can benefit you.  Trying to clear up these problems is extremely important and can help you to ensure that you get started on the right foot.

What is Forex?
In simple terms, Forex is the foreign exchange market that allows investors to meet together for the common purpose of buying and selling currency.  Using this market people from all around the world are able to quickly buy and sell currency regardless of the time of day.  The market allows for transactions that are both large in size, and also those that are significantly smaller as well.

When is Forex open?
This is the great news for most investors.  The Forex market is actually open 5 days a week, 24 hours a day. You might think that this is really strange, but if you consider that Forex is a global market place where people from all around the world are coming together to buy and sell currency it is really easy to see how the market can actually operate near continuously without having to close.  The market does close for a very brief period of time during the weekend though, but as soon as the first time zone changes to Monday morning the market is open yet again.

Can I really trade at any time of day?
Yes, this is why the Forex market is so popular.  While the stock market is only open a few short hours each week, the Forex market is open almost continuously.  This allows people with a wide variety of schedules to all come together for the purpose of buying and selling the currency.  In order to really get the best results it is important to work at a time when you are free to think and for some people this might be 3 a.m. and for others it might be closer to 10a.m.  Having the flexibility to submit transactions at a time that is best for you will allow you faster results, and a better idea of how the market really works.

Are there any minimums?
This is something that tends to be set by the brokers themselves.  If you are concerned about the minimum amounts, you should always talk to the brokers that you are considering to find someone who will fit your budget and needs.  Taking a gamble on a larger minimum than you can reasonably afford might create disaster so knowing that you can reasonably afford the minimum is critical.  If the minimum that you are told at first is not suitable, you can always feel free to look for a different broker who can fit all of your needs.

Do I have to go somewhere to trade?
This is one of the best aspects of the Forex market, because it occurs online there is no reason at all to worry about having to get out of your house and go to the market.  You can simply locate the nearest computer to take care of most of your transactions.  This allows you to quickly and easily get things in order no matter where you are.  Because of the flexibility, you can even stay up to date on how the market is moving while you are on vacation without the hassle that you might imagine.

The Forex market represents a place where everyone is able to meet together for a variety of transactions that can occur quickly.  Using the market carefully it is possible to find a lot of success.  It is extremely important though that you take the time to carefully review all of your options before you get started to ensure you have the best success possible.  Small amounts of effort in the beginning will help you to ensure you are successful without having to spend years going to school to study financial topics.