Risk Disclosure
Important information about trading risks and financial disclosures
Last updated: January 2024
Table of Contents
Important Risk Warning
Trading financial instruments involves substantial risk and may result in the loss of your entire investment. You should carefully consider whether trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances, knowledge, and financial resources.
This Risk Disclosure document outlines the principal risks associated with trading through 24Swiss's services. It is not intended to be comprehensive, and you should seek independent advice if necessary.
1. General Trading Risks
Market Volatility
Financial markets are inherently volatile and can experience rapid and significant price movements. These movements can occur due to various factors including:
- Economic news and data releases
- Political events and policy changes
- Natural disasters and force majeure events
- Market sentiment and investor behavior
- Central bank interventions and monetary policy
Loss of Capital
There is a substantial risk that you may lose some or all of your invested capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and no guarantee can be made regarding future performance.
No Guaranteed Profits
Trading does not guarantee profits. Even experienced traders can incur significant losses. You should never invest money that you cannot afford to lose.
Complexity of Financial Instruments
Some financial instruments are complex and may be difficult to understand. You should ensure you fully understand the nature and risks of any instrument before trading.
2. Foreign Exchange (Forex) Trading Risks
Currency Risk
Forex trading involves the simultaneous buying and selling of currencies. Currency values fluctuate constantly due to:
- Interest rate differentials between countries
- Economic indicators and growth prospects
- Political stability and government policies
- Trade balances and current account deficits
- Central bank interventions and monetary policy
Leverage Risk
Forex trading typically involves high leverage, which can magnify both profits and losses. A small adverse movement in exchange rates can result in significant losses relative to your initial investment.
Interest Rate Risk
Changes in interest rates can significantly impact currency values and may result in additional costs or benefits through swap rates on overnight positions.
Country Risk
Political instability, economic sanctions, or regulatory changes in a country can dramatically affect its currency value and your ability to trade or withdraw funds.
3. Cryptocurrency Trading Risks
Extreme Volatility
Cryptocurrencies are known for their extreme price volatility. Prices can fluctuate dramatically within short periods, potentially resulting in substantial gains or losses.
Regulatory Uncertainty
The regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies is evolving and uncertain. Changes in regulations could significantly impact cryptocurrency values and trading availability.
Technology Risks
Cryptocurrency trading involves specific technology risks:
- Blockchain network congestion and high transaction fees
- Smart contract vulnerabilities and bugs
- Cryptocurrency exchange hacks and security breaches
- Network forks and protocol changes
- Loss of private keys or wallet access
Market Manipulation
Cryptocurrency markets may be more susceptible to manipulation due to lower liquidity and less regulatory oversight compared to traditional financial markets.
Operational Risks
Cryptocurrency trading involves operational risks including:
- Delayed or failed transactions
- Incorrect wallet addresses
- Network downtime and maintenance
- Exchange operational issues
4. Leverage and Margin Trading Risks
Amplified Losses
Leverage allows you to control larger positions with smaller capital but amplifies both potential profits and losses. A small adverse price movement can result in losses exceeding your initial investment.
Margin Calls
If your account equity falls below required margin levels, you may receive a margin call requiring additional funds. Failure to meet margin requirements may result in automatic position closure.
Forced Liquidation
In volatile market conditions, positions may be automatically closed to prevent further losses, potentially at unfavorable prices.
Overnight Financing Costs
Leveraged positions held overnight may incur financing costs (swap rates) that can accumulate over time and impact overall profitability.
Gap Risk
In fast-moving markets, prices may "gap" beyond your stop-loss levels, resulting in losses greater than anticipated.
5. Technology and Platform Risks
System Failures
Technology systems may experience failures, outages, or malfunctions that could prevent you from:
- Placing, modifying, or canceling orders
- Accessing your account or positions
- Receiving real-time market data
- Executing trades at desired prices
Connectivity Issues
Internet connectivity problems, network congestion, or hardware failures may disrupt your ability to trade or monitor positions.
Cybersecurity Risks
Online trading platforms may be subject to cybersecurity threats including:
- Hacking attempts and data breaches
- Malware and phishing attacks
- Unauthorized account access
- Identity theft and fraud
Software Bugs and Errors
Trading software may contain bugs or errors that could result in incorrect order execution, pricing errors, or system malfunctions.
6. Liquidity Risks
Market Liquidity
In certain market conditions, there may be insufficient liquidity to execute trades at desired prices or sizes. This can result in:
- Wider bid-ask spreads
- Slippage on order execution
- Inability to close positions
- Price gaps and volatile movements
Illiquid Markets
Some instruments or markets may have limited liquidity, making it difficult to enter or exit positions without significantly impacting market prices.
Market Hours
Liquidity may vary significantly during different market hours, with reduced liquidity during off-market hours, holidays, and major news events.
7. Regulatory and Legal Risks
Regulatory Changes
Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may affect:
- The availability of certain financial instruments
- Leverage limits and margin requirements
- Tax treatment of trading activities
- Cross-border capital flows and restrictions
Compliance Requirements
You may be subject to various regulatory requirements including reporting obligations, position limits, and compliance with local laws.
Jurisdictional Issues
Different jurisdictions may have varying levels of investor protection, regulatory oversight, and legal recourse availability.
8. Operational Risks
Counterparty Risk
There is a risk that counterparties, including liquidity providers, banks, or other financial institutions, may default on their obligations.
Settlement Risk
Delays or failures in trade settlement may result in additional costs or losses, particularly in volatile market conditions.
Custody Risk
Funds held with third parties, including banks and custodians, may be subject to risks including institutional failure or regulatory intervention.
Operational Errors
Human errors, system malfunctions, or process failures may result in incorrect trade execution, pricing errors, or other operational issues.
9. Specific Market Risks
Economic Factors
Economic indicators and events can significantly impact market prices:
- GDP growth rates and economic performance
- Inflation rates and consumer price indices
- Employment data and unemployment rates
- Central bank meetings and policy decisions
- Government fiscal policies and budget announcements
Geopolitical Risks
Political events and geopolitical tensions can cause sudden and significant market movements:
- Elections and changes in government
- International conflicts and tensions
- Trade wars and economic sanctions
- Terrorist attacks and security threats
Natural Disasters
Natural disasters and unforeseen events can disrupt markets and cause significant volatility in affected regions or globally.
10. Client Responsibilities and Recommendations
Risk Assessment
Before trading, you should:
- Carefully assess your financial situation and risk tolerance
- Ensure you understand all risks associated with trading
- Only invest money you can afford to lose
- Consider seeking independent financial advice
Risk Management
To manage trading risks, consider:
- Using appropriate position sizing and risk management
- Setting stop-loss orders to limit potential losses
- Diversifying your trading portfolio
- Avoiding over-leveraging your positions
- Regularly monitoring your positions and market conditions
Education and Knowledge
Continuously educate yourself about:
- Market dynamics and trading strategies
- Economic indicators and their impact
- Risk management techniques
- Platform features and functionality
Regular Review
Regularly review your trading performance, risk exposure, and investment objectives to ensure they remain appropriate for your circumstances.
Disclaimer
This Risk Disclosure does not cover all risks associated with trading financial instruments. Market conditions, regulations, and other factors may create additional risks not described herein.
24Swiss does not provide investment advice or recommendations. All trading decisions are your sole responsibility. You should seek independent professional advice if you have any doubts about the suitability of trading for your circumstances.
Remember: Trading involves substantial risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Contact Information
If you have questions about these risk disclosures or need clarification, please contact us:
Risk Management Department
Email: risk@24swiss.com
Phone: +41 79 688 00 50
Compliance Department
Email: compliance@24swiss.com
Address: 24Swiss AG
Bahnhofstrasse 100
8001 Zurich, Switzerland