Stock trading requires having and committing a lot of money for returns that are relatively low- even when you get it right. There are other markets out there and these days everyone has access to them with very little required capital (less than $500) and potential percentage returns that might surprise. The following questions will be answered in this course: What is Leverage and how does it work in Financial Markets? Is leverage dangerous? How can the risks associated with leverage be effectively managed? What are the futures market, CFD market and options market and how do they work? What is involved in trading or investing in them? No prior experience required. **Please note your email address will be shared with the Tutor**

Your Tutor is Dennis Keillor

Dennis Keillor BAppSci (Physics), DipEd has been teaching at WEA since 2007. 

As a ‘Cycologist’ Dennis has been a successful financial market forecaster, trader and educator since 1997.

As a ‘Fizzacist’ Dennis has been producing homemade brew since Adam was a boy!

Course Description

In traditional stock trading, large amounts of capital are often needed to generate relatively modest returns – even when trades are successful. 

This course explores alternative leveraged instruments that offer the potential for higher percentage gains with lower capital requirements. 

You'll learn what leverage is, how it functions in financial markets, and how tools like futures, Contracts for Difference (CFDs), and options allow traders to magnify their exposure and profit potential. 

Just as importantly, you'll learn how to manage the increased risks these instruments present.

Designed for beginners, this course provides a practical introduction to the mechanics, benefits, and dangers of leveraged trading. 

You'll be guided through worked examples, trading plan creation, and real-world strategies for using leverage responsibly. 

Whether you're interested in diversifying your trading or understanding how to manage smaller accounts effectively, this course will help you develop a strong foundation in leveraged financial markets.

No prior knowledge or experience is required, just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Course Structure

This course is delivered in a structured lecture format, broken down into key topic areas that build foundational knowledge while allowing for real-time questions and interactive discussion. 

• What is leverage and how does it work in trading
• How leverage is calculated and why it matters
• Introduction to futures, CFDs, and options
• How leverage affects profit and loss (with examples)
• Risks of leverage: drawdowns, margin calls, and overexposure
• Managing risk through stop losses, position sizing, and trading rules
• How to build a trading plan that includes leverage
• Key features of futures, CFD, forex, and options markets
• Accessing charting tools, platforms, and educational resources
• Common leverage mistakes and how to avoid them.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Define leverage and explain how it works across different financial instruments
• Perform basic calculations for leverage ratios, margin, and position size
• Understand how futures, CFDs, and options differ in structure and usage
• Recognise the amplified risks and rewards associated with leveraged trading
• Apply practical strategies to manage risk and avoid margin calls
• Develop a trading plan that incorporates leverage safely and effectively
• Monitor open positions and margin levels to manage exposure
• Evaluate the pros and cons of trading leveraged markets like futures and forex
• Identify and use reputable tools and educational resources to support trading decisions
• Avoid common pitfalls like over-leveraging or relying on untested methods