Platinum

Platinum trading involves speculating on one of the rarest metals in the world. Over 50% of the platinum mined today is acquired by the jewellery industry and the rest is used by the automotive industry as it is a key component of catalytic converters in fuel engines. This 2024 platinum trading guide will break down all you need to know about the commodity, including its history, price economics and how to get started. We have also compiled a list of the best platinum trading brokers below.

Top Platinum Trading Brokers

These are the 3 best brokers for trading Platinum:

#1
DNA Markets
#2
Pocket Option
Bonus
50% Deposit Bonus
#3
Plus500 US
Bonus
Welcome Deposit Bonus up to $200
Trading with leverage involves risk.

What Is Platinum Trading?

80% of the platinum traded today comes from South Africa, with the rest of production divided between Russia and North America. It is a relatively scarce precious metal and, as a result, tends to trade at a higher unit price. It is estimated that platinum is 15-20 times scarcer than gold. In 2021, 160 tonnes of platinum were mined. In comparison, gold mining totalled 2,600 tonnes and silver, 17,000 tonnes.

Platinum trading does not occur on all stock exchanges. However, the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and the London Platinum and Palladium Market are two major exchanges that support it. In 2019, the global platinum market size was valued at USD 6.5 billion and expected to register a compound annual growth rate of 5.% by 2027.platinum futures trading hours, tax implications, volumes and academy prices

History Of Platinum Trading

Platinum is considered a precious metal much like gold or silver. However, whilst gold and silver are widely traded around the world, platinum is less so. This is partly due to its scarcity but also because platinum does not have the ancient ties to trade that gold and silver do.

Gold and silver were known to ancient civilisations and were traded much like modern societies exchange currency today. However, platinum as an investment vehicle did not come until much later. In fact, it was not until the late 20th century that the metal was used in trade or investment. When it was first discovered in Colombia in the 17th century, it was actually considered a nuisance because it interfered with gold mining activities. In 1956, the New York Mercantile Exchange introduced platinum futures as a way to diversify the exchange from the predominantly agricultural instruments available.

Platinum coins came later still, in 1997 when the United States Mint launched its first platinum bullion coin, the Platinum American Eagle. Following their release they quickly became the most popular platinum coins in the world, selling at previously unseen premiums.

Fast forward to today and those involved in platinum trading can choose between legal tender coins, bullion bars, futures and options contracts. Platinum continues to be used predominantly by the jewellery and automotive industries but its uses span dental apparatus, surgical equipment and even drugs for cancer treatment. Experts argue that even more excitement could lay ahead for this unique instrument. As we continue to break down trade barriers and introduce previously isolated markets to the global stage, we are seeing accelerated growth. This is particularly exciting for platinum because, as countries become wealthier, they tend to increase their investment in platinum. This is primarily due to the use of platinum catalytic converters and increased demand for luxury items such as jewellery.

Why Do People Trade Platinum?

Store Of Value

Platinum is arguably the rarest of all precious metals. Its unique properties mean that it is in high demand in both the jewellery and automotive industries. Nearly one in five manufactured products uses platinum at some stage of the production process. Demand combined with scarcity drives its unit value.

Insurance Policy

Much like gold, platinum is used as an insurance policy against dollar weakness. You may have heard the term safe-haven asset. Well, it can be applied to platinum too. Investors will hedge in platinum during market slowdowns. Precious metals tend to hold their value, much more so than goods or services. Hedging in platinum protects purchasing power in the long run.

A Bullish View

Platinum trading offers a way to express a bullish view on global growth. As emerging market economies grow, demand for manufactured goods will increase. Platinum currently operates an integral role in the production of cars and, therefore, serves as a way to bet on growth in global industry.

What Influences The Platinum Trading Price?

Platinum is considered a relatively stable instrument, much like other precious metals. It is for this reason that many turn to platinum as a hedging opportunity. However, several factors will cause the price of platinum to fluctuate:

Gold

It is not uncommon to compare the price of platinum and gold. When the market is stable, platinum is considered to be worth roughly twice the price of gold. However, unlike gold and silver, platinum and gold tend to have an inversive relationship. When the price of gold increases, platinum’s value tends to decrease.

Supply & Demand

Platinum is a high value, finite resource that is primarily mined in Africa. Supply issues can affect the price. Major political or economic changes in the African region can affect supply, which, in turn, affects its value.

Industry

Most of the platinum mined is used by one of two industries; jewellery and car manufacturing. Disruption or major changes to either of these industries can have major implications on the platinum trading price.

Today’s Live Platinum Trading Price

How To Trade Platinum

You have a few different options when it comes to platinum trading. The right instrument for you will depend on several factors, including experience level, risk appetite and strategy.

platinum trading location and price trading economics

Pros Of Platinum Trading

Cons Of Platinum Trading

How To Start Platinum Trading

First things first, you’ll need to find a broker. Finding the right broker is key to long-term, successful trading. Do your research, consider reputation, platforms and tools, as well as pricing, demo accounts and regulation. Check out our comparison guide here.

Once you have found your broker, you will need to outline your strategy and take a position. If you are a more experienced trader, consider one based on the spread between platinum and other precious metals using options or futures. If you are new to platinum trading, you may want to play it safer and trade CFDs. Whichever strategy you choose, always ensure it is underpinned by a robust risk management system to minimise losses.

Finally, monitor your chosen position(s). Analyse the market, confer with experts and ensure you are up to date with the latest news and developments to put you in the best position possible to spot future opportunities.

Final Word On Platinum Trading

Platinum trading has a lot to offer as a tool for investment. Whether you are looking to hedge, store value or invest in global growth, the once-overlooked asset has shown its true value in recent years. As emerging markets continue to grow and the demand for platinum increases, it looks set to continue on a prosperous trajectory. Make sure to choose the right broker and implement a clear strategy with robust risk management to ensure the greatest chance of success. Additionally, we recommend you make the most of courses, analysis ideas and charts.

FAQs

Why Should I Trade Platinum?

Platinum is both rarer and has more uses than gold, yet it is often overlooked when it comes to investment. Platinum presents a good opportunity to diversify your portfolio. Given its ties to the automotive and jewellery industries, the platinum trading value has several avenues for fundamental analysis, on top of the standard technical volatility analysis systems.

What Is The Best Platinum Trading Strategy?

Strategies are dependent on several personal factors, including time, goals, risk appetite and capital. There is no one-shoe-fits-all solution. Popular strategies include breakout trading, scalping, arbitrage and new trading. If you are looking to improve your understanding, there are lots of great university courses, programs, academy courses and groups that you can utilise.

Where & How Can I Trade Platinum?

You can trade platinum online, via mobile or desktop platforms around the world from India to Tokyo, the US to Dubai. As uses for the metal grow, demand for platinum trading has flourished.

How Much Should I Invest In Platinum Trading?

The short answer is to invest whatever you are comfortable with, whether that is £150, £600, £1,000 or £5,000. The biggest mistake you could make is speculating with money you do not have, so be sensible. Ensure your risk management approach is robust and comprehensive to improve your chances.

What Are The Best Platinum Trading Platforms?

There are several brokers and platforms that we recommend for platinum trading, including City Index and eToro. These brokers offer competitive trading conditions, popular platforms and reputable regulation. For more, see here.