Top 8 Major Forex Currency Pairs to Trade in 2023

9th May 2023

By Benjamin Leo

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Many Different Currency Bills Placed In A Pile

The foreign exchange market, commonly known as Forex, is a global marketplace where currencies are traded. With daily trading volumes exceeding $6 trillion, it remains the world’s largest and most liquid financial market. For both novice and experienced traders, understanding the major currencies in Forex is crucial for making informed decisions and crafting effective trading strategies.

Are you interested in learning more about the characteristics, history, and unique factors influencing each major currency? This article will provide an in-depth look at these key players in the forex market and explore their roles in global trade and finance. By understanding these major currencies, you’ll be better positioned to navigate the forex market with confidence and precision.

Introduction to Major Currencies in Forex

The foreign exchange market, commonly known as Forex, is a decentralized global market where currencies are traded. The primary purpose of the Forex market is to facilitate international trade and investment by allowing businesses and individuals to exchange currencies. This article will introduce you to the major currencies in Forex, their importance, and the factors that influence their value.

8 Top Currency Pairs in Forex

In the Forex market, currencies are always traded in pairs. The major currency pairs in Forex consist of the most traded currencies in the world, and they involve the following currencies:

US Dollar (USD)
Euro (EUR)
British Pound (GBP)
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Australian Dollar (AUD)
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

These currencies are considered “major” because they represent the largest economies globally and are the most traded in the Forex market. The most popular major forex pairs list includes currency pairs like EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, and USD/CHF.

Minor Currency Pairs

In addition to the major currency pairs, the Forex market also offers minor currency pairs, which are currency pairs that do not include the US Dollar. Examples of minor currency pairs include EUR/GBP, GBP/JPY, and AUD/CAD. These pairs are less liquid and can exhibit higher volatility compared to major pairs. Note that we will review minor and exotic currency pairs in the following sections.

Understanding the Forex Market and Currency Pairs

The Forex market operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, and it is the most liquid and largest financial market globally. Trading in the Forex market is based on the simultaneous buying of one currency and selling of another, resulting in currency pairs. Various factors, including economic indicators, technical analysis, fundamental analysis, and central bank policy, determine the exchange rate between two currencies.

Factors Influencing Exchange Rates

Exchange rates in the Forex market are influenced by numerous factors, some of which include:

Economic Indicators: Key economic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), inflation, and employment data can impact currency values.
Central Bank Policy: Decisions made by central banks, such as interest rate changes or quantitative easing measures, can affect currency strength.
Market Sentiment: Trader sentiment and risk appetite can cause fluctuations in currency values.
Political Events: Elections, policy changes, and geopolitical tensions can create volatility in the Forex market.
Technical Analysis: Chart patterns, support and resistance levels, and moving averages can influence exchange rates.

Developing a Forex Trading Strategy

To succeed in Forex trading, developing a solid trading strategy that incorporates technical and fundamental analysis is crucial. This may involve studying price charts, analyzing economic indicators, and monitoring central bank policy. By keeping an eye on these factors, traders can identify the best forex pairs to trade and capitalize on market opportunities.

Therefore understanding the major currencies in Forex and the factors that influence their value is essential for any trader. By developing a strong trading strategy that incorporates both technical and fundamental analysis, traders can navigate the complex and dynamic world of currency trading and potentially generate profits in the process.

What are the Major Currencies?

In the foreign exchange market (Forex), currencies are traded in pairs. The major currencies in Forex are those that represent the world’s largest economies and are the most traded. These major currencies are crucial to understanding the Forex market dynamics and developing an effective trading strategy. This section will outline and detail the major currency pairs in Forex and delve into each currency’s specifics, history, and role in global markets.

8 Major Currency Pairs in Forex

The major currency pairs in Forex include the following currencies:

US Dollar (USD)
Euro (EUR)
British Pound (GBP)
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Australian Dollar (AUD)
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

These currencies are considered “major” due to their significant trading volume, liquidity, and economic influence. They form the most traded currency pairs, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, and USD/CHF.

1. US Dollar (USD)

The US Dollar is the world’s primary reserve currency and is central to the Forex market. It is the most traded currency and is involved in approximately 88% of all currency transactions. The US economy, central bank policy, and global risk sentiment heavily influence the USD’s strength. As the global economy’s backbone, the USD is often seen as a safe haven during times of market turbulence.

2. Euro (EUR)

The Euro is the official currency of the Eurozone, which comprises 19 of the 27 European Union member countries. Launched in 1999, the Euro is the second most traded currency in the Forex market, and its value is influenced by the economic performance of the Eurozone, European Central Bank policy, and political events within the region. The EUR/USD currency pair is the most traded pair in the Forex market, with high liquidity and tight spreads.

3. British Pound (GBP)

The British Pound, also known as the Sterling, is the United Kingdom’s official currency and is the world’s oldest continuously used currency. The GBP is the fourth most traded currency in the Forex market and is heavily influenced by the UK’s economic performance, Bank of England policy, and Brexit-related news. The GBP/USD currency pair, known as “Cable,” is one of the most liquid and volatile major currency pairs.

4. Japanese Yen (JPY)

The Japanese Yen is the official currency of Japan and is the third most traded currency in the Forex market. Known for its low-interest rates, the JPY is often used as a funding currency in carry trades, where traders borrow in low-interest-rate currencies to invest in higher-yielding assets. The JPY is considered a safe-haven currency and tends to strengthen during times of market uncertainty. The USD/JPY currency pair is popular for traders due to its high liquidity and low spreads.

5. Swiss Franc (CHF)

The Swiss Franc is Switzerland’s official currency and is known for its stability and neutrality. The CHF is considered a safe-haven currency, and its value is often appreciated during economic turmoil. The Swiss National Bank’s monetary policy heavily influences the value of the CHF which is the sixth most traded currency in the Forex market. The USD/CHF currency pair is popular among traders due to its low spreads and high liquidity.

6. Canadian Dollar (CAD)

The Canadian Dollar, often called the “Loonie,” is Canada’s official currency and the fifth most traded currency in the Forex market. The CAD’s value is closely linked to the prices of commodities, particularly oil, as Canada is a significant oil exporter. The Bank of Canada’s monetary policy and economic data also play a crucial role in determining the CAD’s value. The USD/CAD currency pair is popular among traders focusing on commodity-driven economies and offering high liquidity with low spreads.

7. Australian Dollar (AUD)

The Australian Dollar, also known as the “Aussie,” is the official currency of Australia and is the seventh most traded currency in the Forex market. The AUD’s value is heavily influenced by the prices of commodities, such as iron ore and gold, as Australia is a major exporter of these resources. The Reserve Bank of Australia’s monetary policy and the country’s economic performance also impact the AUD’s value. The AUD/USD currency pair is popular among traders due to its high liquidity and correlation with commodity prices.

8. New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

The New Zealand Dollar, also known as the “Kiwi,” is the official currency of New Zealand and is the tenth most traded currency in the Forex market. The NZD’s value is influenced by the country’s agricultural exports, particularly dairy products, as well as the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s monetary policy and the nation’s economic performance. The NZD/USD currency pair offers opportunities for traders focusing on commodity-driven economies and exhibiting relatively high volatility and liquidity.

Understanding the major currencies in Forex and their respective roles in the global economy is essential for any trader. By examining each currency’s history, economic status, liquidity, trading volume, and relationship with other currencies, traders can develop informed trading strategies and capitalize on market opportunities. By focusing on the most traded currency pairs, traders can benefit from high liquidity, tight spreads, and various trading opportunities in the dynamic Forex market.

12 Factors Influencing Major Currency Values and Exchange Rates

Exchange rates are a crucial aspect of trading in the foreign exchange (Forex) market. Numerous factors, such as economic indicators, central bank policies, and geopolitical events, influence the values of major currencies and exchange rates. Here we will outline and explain the factors that impact major currency values and exchange rates, using examples and real-world scenarios to illustrate the points.

1. Interest Rates

Interest rates set by central banks can significantly affect the value of a currency. Higher interest rates tend to attract foreign capital, increasing the demand for domestic currency and leading to its appreciation. For instance, when the US Federal Reserve raises interest rates, the US dollar (USD) usually becomes more attractive to investors, increasing its value.

2. Inflation

Countries with lower inflation rates typically experience an appreciation in the value of their currency. When inflation is low, the purchasing power of a currency increases, making domestic goods more competitive in the global market. This leads to a higher demand for the local currency and its appreciation. For example, the German D-Mark experienced a long-term appreciation in the post-war period due to its relatively low inflation rate.

3. Economic Growth

Strong economic growth can lead to an increase in the value of a currency. As a country’s economy expands, foreign investors are more likely to invest in its assets, boosting the demand for its currency. For instance, during periods of robust economic growth in the United States, the USD tends to appreciate.

4. Balance of Payments

The balance of payments, including the current and financial accounts, can also impact a currency’s value. A current account deficit indicates that a country is importing more goods and services than it is exporting, leading to a higher demand for foreign currency and a domestic currency depreciation. Conversely, a current account surplus means that a country is exporting more than it is importing, resulting in an appreciation of its currency.

5. Government Debt

High levels of government debt can lead to currency depreciation, as investors may perceive the country as a riskier investment. In such cases, foreign investors may sell their holdings of the country’s bonds, causing a fall in the value of its currency. For example, concerns about the US government’s debt levels have led to depreciation of the USD in the past.

6. Political Stability

Political stability plays a significant role in determining the value of a currency. Investors are more likely to invest in countries with stable political environments, as they are perceived as lower risk investments. As a result, an increase in political stability can lead to an appreciation of a currency, while political turmoil can cause a depreciation.

7. Speculation

Market speculators can influence exchange rates by either buying or selling a currency based on their expectations of its future value. If speculators anticipate that a currency will appreciate, they will increase their demand for it, causing its value to rise. Conversely, if they expect a currency to depreciate, they will sell it, declining its value.

8. Terms of Trade

An improvement in a country’s terms of trade can lead to an appreciation of its currency. When the prices of a country’s exports rise at a faster rate than its imports, the terms of trade improve. This increases the demand for the domestic currency, as more foreign currency is needed to purchase the exports, ultimately resulting in its appreciation.

9. Government Intervention

Governments and central banks have the monetary authority to intervene in stabilizing a currency by formulating trade policies, printing more money, or increasing and decreasing interest rates. China, for example, is reluctant to allow its currency to appreciate because it will negatively impact its exports.

The Chinese government aims to boost its exports and attract foreign investment by artificially lowering the yuan. Given China’s large trade surplus, its central bank, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), absorbs large inflows of foreign capital. It purchases foreign currency from exporters and then issues that currency in local yuan currency. As an export-dependent economy, China does so to compete with neighboring countries like Japan and South Korea.

10. The Stock Markets

The stock market and foreign exchange are the most financially traded markets globally. The mood of investors is buoyed when a domestic stock market rises, as it is an indicator that the country’s economy is doing well. To help with price predictions, traders often look for correlations between both markets.

As a result, foreign investors have increased interest, and the demand for local domestic currency also increases. When the stock market is underperforming, a lack of confidence means investors will take their funds back to their own currencies.

11. Natural Disasters and Geopolitical Events

Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis, can significantly impact a country’s economy and currency value. These events can lead to a decrease in investor confidence and reduced foreign investment, resulting in a depreciation of the domestic currency. Additionally, geopolitical events such as wars, political unrest, and terrorism can also affect exchange rates as they influence a country’s stability and economic outlook.

12. Commodity Prices

The prices of commodities, such as oil, gold, and agricultural products heavily influence some currencies. Countries that are major exporters of these commodities may experience fluctuations in their currency value based on global demand and market prices. For example, the Canadian dollar (CAD) is closely tied to the price of oil, as Canada is a major oil exporter. When oil prices rise, the value of the Canadian dollar often appreciates as well.

Thus, various factors influence major currency values and exchange rates in the forex market. Traders must pay close attention to these factors, including economic indicators, central bank policies, and geopolitical events, to develop a successful trading strategy. By understanding how these factors impact currency values, traders can make informed decisions in the volatile world of forex trading.

Trading Major Currency Pairs: Characteristics and Strategies

Forex trading involves buying and selling currencies to profit from fluctuations in exchange rates. The foreign exchange market operates 24 hours a day and is the largest financial market in the world. To succeed in forex trading, it’s essential to understand the characteristics and strategies associated with trading major currency pairs.

Major Forex Pairs List

Major currency pairs in Forex are those that include the US Dollar (USD) as either the base or quote currency. They are the most traded currency pairs due to their high liquidity and tight spreads. The major currency pairs include:

EUR/USD: Euro and US Dollar
USD/JPY: US Dollar and Japanese Yen
GBP/USD: British Pound and US Dollar
USD/CHF: US Dollar and Swiss Franc
USD/CAD: US Dollar and Canadian Dollar
AUD/USD: Australian Dollar and US Dollar
NZD/USD: New Zealand Dollar and US Dollar

Characteristics of 8 Major Currency Pairs

Major currency pairs have higher liquidity and tighter spreads compared to minor currency pairs, making them ideal for traders seeking lower trading costs and faster trade execution. They are also more responsive to economic indicators and central bank policy changes, leading to higher volatility and increased profit opportunities.

Trading Strategies for Major Currency Pairs

Technical Analysis

Technical analysis involves studying historical price movements and patterns to predict future price trends. Traders use various charting tools, such as moving averages, trend lines, and Fibonacci retracements, to identify potential entry and exit points. For example, a trader might use a moving average crossover strategy when trading the EUR/USD pair by entering a long position when the short-term moving average crosses above the long-term moving average, signaling a potential upward trend.

Fundamental Analysis

Fundamental analysis focuses on the underlying economic factors that affect currency values, such as interest rates, inflation, and GDP growth. Traders monitor economic indicators and central bank policy announcements to anticipate potential market movements. For instance, if the Federal Reserve announces an interest rate hike, the USD is likely to strengthen against other major currencies, presenting a trading opportunity in the USD/JPY or GBP/USD pairs.

Volatility-Based Strategies

Volatility is a measure of the degree of price fluctuations in the forex market. Some traders seek to profit from these fluctuations by employing breakout and range trading strategies. Breakout trading involves entering a position when the price moves beyond a specified level, such as a resistance or support level, anticipating a continuation of the trend. Range trading, on the other hand, focuses on trading within a defined price range, buying at support levels and selling at resistance levels.

Trading major currency pairs in the forex market require a thorough understanding of their characteristics and strategies to capitalize on their price movements. By employing technical and fundamental analysis techniques and leveraging these pairs’ high liquidity and volatility, traders can develop a robust trading strategy to maximize their profits in the foreign exchange market.

Importance of Major Currencies in the Global Economy

Major currencies play a vital role in the global economy, influencing trade, investment, and monetary policy. Understanding the factors that affect currency values is essential for businesses, investors, and policymakers. In this section, we will discuss the importance of major currencies in the global economy and how they impact various economic aspects.

Impact of Major Currencies on the Economy

Inflation

A devalued currency can result in imported inflation for countries that rely heavily on imports. When a domestic currency declines in value, the cost of imported goods and services rises, leading to higher inflation. This can have a negative impact on consumers and the overall economy.

Interest Rates

Currency exchange rates play a key role in central banks’ monetary policy decisions. A strong domestic currency can have the same effect as tighter monetary policy (higher interest rates), potentially slowing economic growth. Conversely, a weaker currency may prompt central banks to lower interest rates to stimulate economic growth and reduce the trade deficit.

Trade

Currency exchange rates can significantly impact a nation’s imports and exports. A weaker currency makes imports more expensive while boosting exports by making them cheaper for foreign buyers. This can lead to a trade surplus, which positively affects a nation’s GDP. On the other hand, a strong currency can reduce export competitiveness, making imports cheaper and widening the trade deficit. For example, a weak US dollar (USD) can boost US exports, making them more competitive in international markets.

Economic Growth

A nation’s GDP is affected by its net exports, which have an inverse correlation with the strength of its domestic currency. A strong domestic currency can hinder economic growth by making exports less competitive and increasing the trade deficit. Conversely, a weaker currency can stimulate economic growth by boosting exports and reducing imports, thereby improving the trade balance.

Capital Flows

Foreign capital tends to flow into countries with strong economies, stable currencies, and robust governments. A relatively stable domestic currency is crucial for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and foreign portfolio investment. For instance, FDI is a critical funding source for emerging economies like China and India. A stable currency also reduces the risk of capital flight during times of economic turmoil.

Global Impact of Major Currencies

The Asian Financial Crisis (1997-98)

The Asian Financial Crisis began with the devaluation of the Thai baht in 1997 and spread to neighboring countries, resulting in severe economic contraction, soaring bankruptcies, and plunging stock markets. This crisis demonstrated the potential negative consequences of abrupt currency fluctuations on the global economy.

China’s Undervalued Yuan

China maintained a steady exchange rate for the yuan between 1995 and 2005, allowing its export-driven economy to thrive. However, this led to complaints of currency manipulation from trading partners, eventually prompting China to allow the yuan to appreciate gradually, improving trade relations.

Japanese Yen’s Volatility (2008-2013)

The Japanese Yen experienced significant volatility during this period, influenced by carry trades and the global credit crunch. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s monetary and fiscal stimulus plans (Abenomics) led to a sharp Yen depreciation, demonstrating how government policies can influence currency values and the global economy.

The Euro (2010-2012)

Concerns about the solvency of Greece, Portugal, Spain, and Italy led to a sharp decline in the value of the Euro. This period of instability highlighted the importance of sound fiscal policies and the potential impact of currency fluctuations on the European Union’s economic stability.

To sum up, Major currencies are crucial in the global economy, influencing trade, economic growth, capital flows, inflation, and interest rates. Understanding the factors that affect currency values and their impacts on the global economy is essential for businesses, investors, and policymakers. Market participants and policymakers must stay informed about major currency movements and their implications on the global economy to make informed decisions and maintain economic stability. By monitoring currency trends and implementing appropriate strategies, countries can mitigate the risks associated with currency fluctuations and capitalize on opportunities for growth.

Major Vs. Minor Currencies

Major currencies are the most traded and liquid currencies in the Forex market. They usually consist of the currencies of the world’s largest and most stable economies. The major currencies include the following:

United States Dollar (USD)
Euro (EUR)
British Pound (GBP)
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Australian Dollar (AUD)
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

These currencies are considered the most liquid because countries with strong economies and central banks back them. Their exchange rates are less volatile and have lower spreads when trading. Major currency pairs usually involve the US dollar, such as EUR/USD, GBP/USD, or USD/JPY.

Minor Currencies

Minor currencies, also known as cross currency pairs or crosses, are currency pairs that do not involve the US dollar. They are typically less liquid and have wider spreads compared to major currency pairs. Some examples of minor currency pairs include:

These pairs still involve major currencies but don’t include the US dollar. While they are not as liquid as major currency pairs, they still offer significant trading opportunities and are popular among Forex traders.

Major vs. Exotic Currencies

Exotic currency pairs include currencies of emerging market economies. These pairs are less liquid and have wider spreads compared to major and minor currency pairs. Examples of exotic currency pairs include:

Exotic currency pairs involve currencies from countries with developing economies, such as India, Mexico, Russia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, China, and Brazil. These countries are transitioning from low-income, less developed economies to more modern, industrial economies with higher standards of living.

The differences between major, minor, and exotic currency pairs are crucial for Forex traders. By being aware of the liquidity, spreads, and risks associated with each type of pair, traders can make informed decisions and develop effective trading strategies.

Conclusion

In the realm of Forex trading, major currencies play a pivotal role in shaping the global foreign exchange market. These currencies consist of the top currency pairs, including the United States Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), British Pound (GBP), Japanese Yen (JPY), Swiss Franc (CHF), Canadian Dollar (CAD), Australian Dollar (AUD), and New Zealand Dollar (NZD). These major currency pairs dominate the Forex market due to their strong backing from countries with robust economies and influential central banks.

Major currencies in Forex exhibit lower volatility and tighter spreads, making them attractive for trading strategies, technical analysis, and fundamental analysis. Economic indicators, central bank policies, and other factors contribute to the stability and liquidity of major currency pairs, making them the most traded currency pairs in the market. In contrast, minor and exotic currency pairs involve other currencies that are less liquid and have wider spreads, presenting different opportunities and challenges for Forex traders.

Understanding the distinction between major, minor, and exotic currency pairs is crucial for navigating the complex world of Forex trading. By grasping the nuances of these categories, traders can better assess market conditions, develop effective trading strategies, and optimize their decision-making processes. Ultimately, the knowledge of major currencies and their role in the Forex market serves as a solid foundation for traders seeking to maximize profits and minimize risks in this dynamic and ever-evolving financial landscape.

FAQs

What are the major forex pairs?

The major forex pairs are the most traded currency pairs and include EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD, and NZD/USD.

What are major and minor forex currencies?

Major forex currencies are the most liquid and widely traded currencies, such as the USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, CHF, CAD, AUD, and NZD. Minor forex currencies refer to currency pairs that do not involve the USD, such as EUR/GBP, GBP/JPY, and EUR/CHF.

How many forex pairs should I trade?

The number of forex pairs to trade depends on your trading strategy, risk tolerance, and experience level. It is advisable to start with a few major currency pairs and gradually expand your portfolio as you gain experience and confidence.

Which currency is stronger in Forex?

There isn’t a fixed “strongest” currency in Forex, as the strength of a currency depends on various factors, including economic indicators, central bank policies, and geopolitical events. Currency strength can change over time due to these factors.

What are the benefits and risks of trading major currency pairs?

Benefits of trading major currency pairs include higher liquidity, tighter spreads, and lower transaction costs. Risks involve market volatility, economic and geopolitical events, and potential losses due to incorrect trading decisions.

Are major currency pairs suitable for beginners in forex trading?

Yes, major currency pairs are suitable for beginners due to their higher liquidity, tighter spreads, and lower volatility compared to minor and exotic pairs. Beginners should start with a few major pairs and gradually expand their portfolio as they gain experience.