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CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

How to Trade on the US Presidential Elections 2024

Prepare for the 2024 US presidential elections with our comprehensive guide. Learn trading strategies, market impacts, and risk management techniques to navigate this pivotal event.

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When is the Next US Presidential Election?

The next US presidential election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024. This date marks a significant event not only for US citizens but also for global financial markets, as the election outcome can influence economic policies and market sentiment worldwide.

How Could a Harris or Trump Victory Affect Market Sentiment?

The outcome of the 2024 US presidential election could significantly influence market sentiment:

  • Harris Victory: A continuation of Biden's policies might lead to stable or improved relations with international trade partners, potentially boosting global markets. Key sectors such as renewable energy and healthcare might see positive impacts.
  • Trump Victory: A return to Trump’s administration could bring changes in trade policies, deregulation, and tax reforms, potentially benefiting sectors like energy, finance, and manufacturing. However, it might also introduce volatility due to unpredictable policy shifts.

Why trade the 2024 US election with us?

  • Trading the 2024 US presidential election with us offers several features:
  • Advanced trading platforms: access our state-of-the-art trading platforms for efficient execution and analysis as well as a range of trading tools
  • Comprehensive market coverage: trade key markets including indices, forex, commodities, and more
  • Expert insights: benefit from our expert analysis and real-time news updates to make informed trading decisions
  • Extended trading hours: trade major markets even when the primary exchanges are closed2

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How to trade the 2024 US election at IG

Start trading the US election at IG in five steps:

1. Create an over-the-counter (OTC) trading account or log in: open an over the counter (OTC) trading account, or log into MyIG if you already have an account with us. If you’re not ready to start trading, you can open a free OTC demo account, which allows you to practice risk-free

2. Choose a trading method: Over-the-counter traded contracts for difference (CFDs) enable you to speculate on the price of an asset without taking direct ownership of it. This gives you the flexibility to go long if you think an asset’s price will rise, or short if you think it’ll fall. You decide which trading instruments best suit your strategy

3. Select a market: identify the markets you want to trade on, such as indices, forex pairs, or commodities. You can trade on the election by speculating on markets such as indices, shares and forex pairs. The US 500, EUR/USD and US stocks all tend to be affected by the result. Importantly, you need to carry out relevant technical and fundamental analyses for your chosen market

4. Stay updated: monitor US election news and market reactions. With our in-platform news feeds from our expert team and Reuters, plus our range of trading alerts and signals, you never need to miss breaking news stories

5. Place your trade: once you’ve followed all the steps, you’re ready to manage your risk and take a position based on your analysis and market conditions

Tips on how to trade the US elections

Trading the US elections can be both exciting and challenging due to the volatility and market reactions surrounding this major event. To help you navigate the 2024 US presidential election, here are five tips:

  • Stay informed by following the latest news
  • React in real time and trade on US indices round the clock with us. You’ll also get extended hours1 on key US shares – exclusive to our clients. Plus, with our free trading app, you’ll be able to take a position even when you’re out and about
  • Don’t miss key moves by setting up alerts for significant market events from within our platform. You can choose to be notified via email, SMS or push-notification.
  • Focus on key markets likely to be impacted by election results
  • Keep an open mind to benefit whenever an opportunity presents itself. With us you can go long or short to trade on positive or negative price movements
  • Manage your risk with stop-loss orders and hedging strategies
  • Remember, while volatility can spark new opportunities, it also increases risk. Use our risk management tools to mitigate this

Key markets to watch

As mentioned above, certain markets are likely to be more affected by the US presidential election results, such as:

  • US indices: S&P 500, Dow jones, and NASDAQ
  • Forex pairs: USD/EUR, USD/JPY, and other major currency pairs
  • Commodities: gold, oil, and agricultural products
  • Sectors: energy, healthcare, technology, and financial services

How can you hedge risk following the presidential election?

Hedging risk is crucial during the election period due to potential market volatility. Here are some strategies:

  • Diversify your portfolio: spread your investments across various asset classes to reduce risk
  • Use options and futures: employ these instruments to hedge against adverse market movements
  • Implement stop-loss orders: protect your positions by setting automatic sell orders at predetermined price levels
  • Stay informed: keep abreast of post-election policy changes and economic data releases

US presidential elections 2024 summed up

  • Presidential election date: November 5, 2024
  • Trading benefits: advanced platforms, market coverage, expert insights, 24/5 trading
  • Trading steps: open a trading OTC account, select a market, stay updated, place your trade
  • Market sentiment: varies based on Harris or Trump victory
  • Risk management: diversify, use options/futures, set stop-loss orders, hedge positions
  • Key markets: US indices, forex pairs, commodities, specific sectors
  • Out-of-hours trading at IG: seize opportunities when markets are closed2

Prepare for the 2024 US presidential elections with our comprehensive trading resources and platforms. Create a demo or live account today to start trading with confidence.

FAQs

When is the next US presidential election and why is it significant for traders?

The next US presidential election is on November 5, 2024. This event is significant for traders due to its potential impact on market volatility and sentiment. Election outcomes can influence economic policies, trade agreements, and regulatory changes, making it a crucial period for strategic trading.

How can I trade the US presidential election with the IG platform?

To trade the US presidential election, start by opening an OTC account with us. Stay updated with election news, and be ready to react quickly to market movements. Utilise our advanced trading tools and expert insights to make informed decisions.

What are the main risks associated with trading during the US presidential election?

Trading during the US presidential election comes with risks such as increased market volatility and rapid price fluctuations. To mitigate these risks, diversify your portfolio, use stop-loss orders, and consider hedging strategies. Staying informed about political developments and market reactions is also crucial for effective risk management.

1 Extended hours Monday-Thursday 10am to 2am (next day) SAST. Fridays 10am to 11pm SAST.
2 24/5 for indices, crypto, commodities & forex. During market hours for shares; extended market hours (pre & post market) for most popular shares