FxPro Help Centre - Glossary

Loonie

Definition

In forex trading, "Loonie" is a colloquial term used to refer to the Canadian dollar (CAD). The nickname "Loonie" is derived from the image of a common loon, a bird native to Canada, that appears on the one-dollar coin of the country. Traders and market participants often use this informal term when discussing the Canadian dollar in the context of forex trading.

Usage in Forex

The Loonie is one of the major currency pairs traded in the forex market, often paired with the US dollar (USD) as the USD/CAD currency pair. Traders closely monitor the performance of the Loonie against other major currencies, analyzing economic indicators, geopolitical events, and commodity prices, as Canada is a significant exporter of commodities such as oil, natural gas, and metals.

Volatility and Factors Affecting the Loonie

Due to its close ties to commodity prices and the energy sector, the Loonie tends to exhibit volatility in response to fluctuations in global commodity markets. Factors such as changes in oil prices, economic data releases, monetary policy decisions by the Bank of Canada, and geopolitical developments can all influence the value of the Canadian dollar.

Conclusion

In summary, the term "Loonie" is commonly used in forex trading to refer to the Canadian dollar. Traders and investors track the performance of the Loonie against other major currencies, considering various factors such as commodity prices, economic indicators, and geopolitical events to make informed trading decisions. Understanding the dynamics that affect the Loonie's value is essential for navigating the forex market effectively and managing risk.

Other terms in this category