If you're exploring opportunities in the stock market but are unsure which individual shares to invest in, the ASX 200—comprising 200 leading companies—can provide a solid foundation for your investment strategy.

This article provides a comprehensive introduction to indices trading and explains why market indices are often seen as the pulse of global financial markets. It covers what indices are, highlights major global indices every trader should know, and clarifies the differences between index funds, ETFs, and direct index trading. The guide also introduces index CFD trading, outlining its key advantages, common strategies, and the main factors that influence index performance. With step-by-step guidance, risk considerations, and tips for choosing the right trading platform, the article helps traders confidently get started with index trading.