Knowledge Base

Reading time • 4 minute(s)

5 Top Stocks to Watch out for Right Now

The stock market has been riding a wave of uncertainty lately, with new tariffs and trade tensions shaking investor confidence. Volatility has become the new normal, leaving many wondering where to put their money to work. In times like these, it's important to focus on companies that can weather the storm and offer long-term potential. With that in mind, here are five stocks to keep an eye on right now each offering a unique opportunity amid the market turbulence.

Read more 

Reading time • 2 minute(s)

Volatility vs. Risk: Why They're Not the Same And Why That Matters

In the fast-moving world of finance, two words often get thrown around interchangeably: volatility and risk. To many investors and even some professionals they seem like two sides of the same coin. But they are not the same. And confusing them can lead to costly mistakes. Understanding the difference isn't just academic, it's critical for smarter investment decisions, better portfolio management, and clearer thinking in times of market stress. "Volatility is not synonymous with risk. Confusing the two is like mistaking weather for climate." – Howard Marks, Oaktree Capital Management.

Read more 

Reading time • 2 minute(s)

The New Normal: How Volatility Became a Permanent Feature of Global Markets

There was a time when markets moved slowly, predictably. Economists even coined a term for it: the "Great Moderation" - a period from the mid-1980s to 2007 characterised by low inflation, steady growth, and relative calm in financial markets. Fast forward to today, and that world feels almost mythical. Volatility is sharp, sudden, and sometimes inexplicable and is no longer an outlier. It's a built-in feature of the global financial system. From pandemic shocks to meme-stock frenzies to geopolitical escalations, the modern market seems to lurch from one upheaval to the next. How did we get here? And what does this "new normal" mean for investors, businesses, and policymakers?

Read more 

Reading time • 2 minute(s)

Refer a Friend FAQs

Referring friends to XTB is a simple and rewarding way to share the benefits of trading with a trusted global broker. Whether you’re an experienced trader or just getting started, XTB’s Refer a Friend program lets you and your friends enjoy exclusive perks. In this article, we’ll walk you through how the program works, the benefits you can unlock, and tips to maximise your rewards. If you're looking for an easy way to boost your trading experience, keep reading to learn how you can start referring today!

Read more 

Reading time • 11 minute(s)

What is the dollar index, and how does it work?

Dollar index investing means profiting from changes in the USD’s strength relative to foreign currencies. This article explains the basics, strategies, and factors any investor and trader needs to know about the US dollar index. Key Takeaways The U.S. Dollar Index measures the strength of the USD against a basket of six major currencies, with the euro having the most significant influence. Reading above 100 levels signals, that US dollar strengthened vs the currencies in the basket, while below 100 signals that US dollar is weaker than currencies cumulative power Key factors affecting the Dollar Index include Federal Reserve policies, economic indicators, and global events, which can lead to substantial fluctuations - weakening (recessions, large US - Europe bond yield spreads, financial crises or even higher risk appetite) or strengthening US dollar (high oil prices, strong macro data, higher inflation, lower risk appetite) Investors can utilise dollar index futures and various trading strategies, such as fundamental and technical analysis, to enhance their investment decisions and manage risks. US Dollar index  (so-called DXY) derivatives (such as USDIDX) are objects of global market trades and speculators.

Read more 

Reading time • 4 minute(s)

Where Her Money Works

For too long, women have been underrepresented in financial conversations despite their incredible ability to manage, save, and invest wisely. At XTB, we’re committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone has the tools and knowledge to take control of their financial future. This International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting the incredible women driving change in finance. Women like Charlotte Jessop, Kia Commodore, and Abigail Foster are on a mission to make money talk more accessible and help women feel confident about managing and investing their money. Historically, financial spaces have been male-dominated, leaving women with fewer opportunities to engage in conversations about wealth-building. Despite women owning 43% of Stocks and Shares ISAs in the UK, this drops to just 38% for young professionals aged 25-34. Research by XTB and HMRC shows that women, particularly in southwest England, are strong savers holding 57% of all Cash ISAs — but remain cautious investors. However, with growing representation and access to financial education, more women are now taking control of their financial futures. In this conversation, Charlotte, Kia, and Abigail share their journeys, the challenges they’ve faced, and tips on how women can take charge of their finances. At XTB, we believe that financial empowerment should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we provide over 160 hours of educational content, including eBooks, comprehensive educational articles, YouTube videos, and expert market analysis, to help individuals make informed investment decisions. Our goal is to break down the complexities of finance and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the knowledge and tools to invest confidently.

Read more 

Reading time • 8 minute(s)

5 common mistakes to avoid when investing

Investing can be one of the most effective ways to build wealth and achieve financial independence, but it’s not without its pitfalls. Even the most seasoned investors make mistakes that can cost them time, money, and opportunities. Whether you’re new to the market or a seasoned trader, recognising common investment mistakes can help you make smarter decisions and avoid costly errors. From chasing hot stocks to neglecting proper research, these missteps can undermine your investment strategy and long-term goals. In this guide, we’ll explore the five most common mistakes investors make and how you can avoid them, empowering you to approach the market with confidence and a clear plan. Avoiding these errors can make all the difference between financial success and missed opportunities.

Read more 

Reading time • 12 minute(s)

Investing amid geopolitical tensions

Key Takeaways  Geopolitical risks refer to political and economic uncertainties arising from global tensions, wars, and policy changes that can significantly impact asset prices. Investing amid geopolitical tensions requires understanding how these risks affect different asset classes. Some assets can significantly gain during those events, and some may face crashes The globalisation trend supported global economies and markets during the last decades. If this trend is changing, investors should analyse how it can impact their portfolio Some assets, such as commodities, precious metals and defence stocks, can gain during periods of geopolitical instability. However, this reaction is never guaranteed and easy to predict Diversification by focusing on less vulnerable stocks, hedging and collecting uncorrelated assets to portfolios can help to mitigate risks. Analysing aerospace & defence, consumer staples and utilities stocks, precious metals and soft commodities, as well as VIX may give investors an edge during geopolitical tensions  Geopolitical tensions, ranging from international conflicts to trade wars and political instability, can create significant uncertainties in the financial markets. Every uncertainty may be an opportunity, but some of the unexpected events may lead to significant market corrections and crises. Global trade tensions can lead to volatile asset prices and disrupt global economic activities. Answering the question of how to navigate these challenges may be crucial for maintaining a resilient investment portfolio. This article will explore how to invest amid geopolitical tensions, highlighting which assets are less vulnerable and which can benefit from such periods of instability.

Read more 

Reading time • 6 minute(s)

Sweat and Save: How to Build Manageable Fitness and Financial Plans

Achieving a balanced lifestyle often requires intentional effort in both fitness and finance. While these may seem like distinct areas of focus, there are surprisingly many similarities in how to approach and manage them effectively. Whether you're looking to improve your physical health or bolster your financial security, the key is creating manageable, sustainable plans that align with your long-term goals. In this article, we’ll explore how you can build fitness and financial plans that are both achievable and rewarding, using the same principles of discipline, consistency, and realistic goal-setting.

Read more 

Reading time • 9 minute(s)

What are Assets Under Management (AUM)?

AUM is a key financial metric that reflects the total market value of all the investments that a financial institution, such as a mutual fund, hedge fund, or investment firm, manages on behalf of its clients. Think of AUM as the “size” of an investment company’s portfolio—it shows how much money the firm controls and invests to generate returns for its clients. Understanding AUM meaning is important because it gives investors a snapshot of the company’s scale, influence, and ability to attract and retain clients. Generally, firms with higher AUM are perceived as more established and successful, often having access to better resources, talent, and investment opportunities. AUM is not just a number; it’s a reflection of a firm’s trustworthiness, performance, and reputation in the financial world. Whether you’re a beginner looking to invest or simply curious about how financial markets work, knowing about AUM can help you make more informed decisions about where to place your money.

Read more