Cash spread
instrument decision for Ethiopia: compare the exact symbol by contract size, cash value per price move, trading hours, spread or commission, margin, holding cost and recent volatility before choosing exposure.
(Ask − Bid) × 100 × lots. A USD 0.60 spread at 0.02 lot costs USD 1.20 at entry.
All-in costs
| Cost | Calculation/evidence |
|---|---|
| Spread | Live difference ×100×lots |
| Raw commission | USD 7×lots round trip |
| Zero commission | USD 11×lots round trip |
| Holding | Current symbol/account terms |
| Slippage | Stress allowance |
| Conversion | Quote to account currency |
Sampling protocol
Capture the same symbol/account/volume during quiet hours, London–New York overlap, rollover and a scheduled US event. Use median and stressed cash cost.
Calculator limitation
A calculator may use a previous average spread. The live terminal quote and actual history provide execution evidence.
Budget impact
Subtract estimated non-price costs from the trade cash ceiling before deriving lots. Costs are not added after the risk limit.
Compare accounts
Zero headline spread can include higher commission. Compare full round trip for identical XAUUSD conditions, not isolated marketing fields.
Frequently asked questions
Is gold spread fixed?
No. Confirm the exact symbol, contract, cost and current account condition before applying this answer in Ethiopia.
Is commission inside the spread?
No. Confirm the exact symbol, contract, cost and current account condition before applying this answer in Ethiopia.
How is spread converted to cash?
Price difference ×100×lots. Confirm the exact symbol, contract, cost and current account condition before applying this answer in Ethiopia.
Which sample matters?
The intended and stressed Ethiopia-local sessions.