Where to start?

sw2020 said:

I'm a smart person, numerate and have a pretty good business head on my shoulders.

The definition of Spreadbetting seems incredibly simple, but I've read numerous threads on here and it appears rather complicated; I'm guessing it doesn't help the fact I don't understand the terminology.

I've got some money in shares. But my idea of buying shares is all on what I think that market sector is going to do, whether the company is doing well, struggling etc. and how much the shares are trading at, what they were at, and where I think they're going to go.

I've done pretty well so far; but I'm bright enough to know that it's probably more luck than precise judgement.

Only graphs I use to make a judgement is the basic company information on TDWaterhouse.

I can barely use the software, let alone set up stops etc.

I want to take it to the next level. (which would be the first step above not knowing anything whatsoever)

Appreciate any help I can get. I know I've got a lot to learn. But have a feeling I'd chuck a load of money down the pan if I started trying to be too clever.

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julian said:

I believe you wanted to know how spread betting works.Hopefully this will make it easier.
Normally
If you buy 1000 shares at 1.00 it will cost you £1000. If they rise to 1.01 you will have £1010. If they rise to 1.10 you will have £1100. Every point the share moves is equal to £10.This is because you have 1000 x 1penny shares 1000x1p = £10
Spreadbetting
So if you wanted to buy 1000 shares using spreadbetting you just bet £10 a point,
500 shares is £5 a point and 2000 shares is £20 a point.Of course you get no dividends but then again no tax

sometimes the simplest thing is hard to grasp.I spent ages trying to explain this to my father in law the other day and he is one bright cookie.Im not sure if that is what you were asking for if not ask away and Im sure myself or others will answer any direct question

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