What are Exotic Currency Pairs?

The Exotics
Forex Trading Glossary

Quick Answer: Exotic pairs combine a major currency with an emerging market currency (e.g., USD/TRY). They have wider spreads, lower liquidity, and higher volatility.

What Are Exotic Currency Pairs?

Exotic pairs combine a major currency with one from an emerging or smaller economy—examples include USD/TRY, EUR/SEK, or USD/ZAR. They offer unique opportunities but come with additional risks.

Considerations for Exotic Pairs

  • Wide spreads: Transaction costs can be significantly higher.
  • Lower liquidity: Slippage and gaps are common.
  • Event-driven moves: Sensitive to political instability and commodity cycles.
  • Volatility: Daily ranges can be multiples of major pairs.

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