Trading investment assets while traveling can be tricky. You have to consider time zone differences, regulations in terms of trading platforms, and striking a balance with non-trading activities, amongst other factors. However, none of these concerns should stop you from making great investment decisions. Financial assets are flexible and come with many tools and strategies that can help you maneuver the markets on the go. Here is a detailed guide on overcoming trading challenges you may face while exploring Southeast Asia.
Prioritise Digital Infrastructure
Trading assets while traveling abroad means you always have to be 100% remote-ready. This includes essentials like a VPN to protect your data on public WiFi, personal WiFi, and a power bank to keep your portable WiFi, laptop, and phones charged, regardless of where you are. Other tools, like a backup device, can be a lifesaver if your main device fails or gets lost. The aim of prioritizing these tools is to be prepared for all unforeseen circumstances. When trading away from home, your brokerage tech support and broker are your best friends. You should verify their operating hours and convert them to your timezone so you know when to reach out in case of emergencies.
Choosing Trading Platforms
Some trading platforms are location-specific and also require licenses to operate in specific regions. For instance, eToro is not regulated in Malaysia, so you won’t get the same level of protection as with other locally registered platforms. The first rule of thumb when choosing a trading platform is to pick one that is regulated and licensed to operate in your region.
Remote investors touring Southeast Asia can choose from a variety of platforms available in this region. For instance, TradingView Singapore offers a locally accessible charting system for investors to conduct technical analysis and also execute orders. Aside from prioritizing platforms that work globally, another thing to take note of is choosing platforms that offer variety. Diversification is a great way to spread your assets across varying risk levels and minimize losses. Using a trading app with enough features to explore will help you achieve this without having to manage multiple platforms.
Understanding Time Zones
Some financial market assets are time zone-specific. The forex market, for instance, consists of three trading sessions: London, Tokyo, and New York. Each session has its own operating hours and characteristics.
- Tokyo – 12:00 to 09:00 GMT (Key markets- JPY)
- London – 08:00 to 17:00 GMT (Key markets- GBP, EUR)
- New York – 13:00 to 22:00 GMT (Key markets- USD, CAD)
The timezones also influence the best times to trade, with the most volatile hours being the London to NY overlap and the low liquidity hours being the end of the US session. At the same time, the London session often sets the tone for the day’s trading, with some of its trends snowballing to the New York time. Depending on your interests, these time zones would most likely affect your investment decisions. If you’re investing in the US or EU markets, Southeast Asia time (GMT =7 to +9) can create early or late-night trading windows for you. You can use tools like Time Zone Converter to keep track of the opening and closing times of varying trade sessions.
Having The Right Tools in Your Arsenal
Tools, from analysis to charting software, bots, and so much more, are the building blocks of trading the markets. If you’re using an advanced trading platform, you are already a step ahead because most platforms offer these instruments. Some are free, but you’ll likely have to pay for more advanced ones. However, you shouldn’t limit yourself to what your broker or trading platform offers. Explore advanced software with features that can give you an edge in the market. Risk management instruments, news apps, and economic calendars are additional essentials to keep an eye out for. Digital tools have the power to boost your success significantly. Maximize them as much as you can.
Trading on The Go
Traveling the world shouldn’t stop you from trading. Most financial markets are flexible enough to allow traders to invest regardless of which part of the world they are in. It gets even easier with mobile applications and platforms that allow investors to trade on the go. Cryptocurrency, foreign currencies, stocks, and several other financial assets used for investment and exchange are available around the clock, wherever you are. Remember our tips while traveling so you won’t miss a beat in the stock market.
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