What are Minor Currency Pairs?
The Minors (Crosses)
Forex Trading Glossary
Quick Answer: Minor pairs (crosses) are currency pairs without USD, like EUR/GBP or GBP/JPY. They offer diversification and higher volatility than majors.
What Are the Minor Currency Pairs?
Minor pairs, or crosses, consist of two major currencies excluding the U.S. dollar—for example, EUR/GBP, AUD/JPY, or EUR/CHF. They reflect regional economic relationships without direct USD exposure.
Trading Characteristics
- Moderate liquidity: Wider spreads than majors but still accessible.
- Regional themes: Useful for expressing views on Europe vs. UK, or Australia vs. Japan.
- Carry opportunities: Crosses highlight interest-rate differentials.
- Correlation management: Crosses can diversify USD-heavy portfolios.
Related Terms
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