In forex and CFD trading, accuracy is crucial. However, there are times when traders notice that the dashboard shows different leverage than the account settings. This issue can cause confusion and may impact trading decisions if not properly understood. In this article, we will explain why this happens and how you can address it.

Understanding Why the Dashboard Shows Different Leverage Than Account

Leverage is a powerful tool in trading, but discrepancies between your account settings and the platform’s dashboard can occur. Several common reasons explain why the dashboard shows different leverage than account settings.

System Refresh Delays

One of the most common causes is system refresh delays. When a trader changes leverage settings, it might not update immediately across all parts of the platform. The account might reflect the new leverage, but the dashboard could still be showing the old one. Logging out and back in or refreshing the platform often solves this problem.

Asset Class Differences

Another important reason the dashboard shows different leverage than account settings is the variation across asset classes. Brokers often offer different leverage limits for different instruments. For example, forex pairs might have a leverage of 1:500, while indices or commodities could be capped at 1:100. As a result, the account’s default leverage setting might not apply equally to all assets, leading to different displays on the dashboard.

Regional Regulatory Restrictions

Traders operating under different regulations might also notice discrepancies. Regulators such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) impose strict leverage caps for retail clients. For example, under FCA regulation, maximum leverage for forex is 1:30. Even if your broker dashboard allows you to set higher leverage, the actual leverage used could be automatically adjusted based on your region. This is another situation where the dashboard shows different leverage than the account.

Incorrect Account Type Selection

The leverage available to traders depends significantly on the type of account opened. Retail accounts often have lower leverage compared to professional accounts. If you mistakenly opened a retail account when you intended to open a professional account, or vice versa, the leverage settings on the dashboard might differ from what you expected. Always double-check your account type to ensure you have the correct leverage settings.

Broker Platform Errors

Although rare, technical issues on the broker’s side can also be responsible when the dashboard shows different leverage than account settings. Platform glitches, delayed synchronisation, or backend errors can cause discrepancies. In these cases, contacting customer support to verify your true leverage settings is essential.

Steps to Resolve the Issue

If you find that the dashboard shows different leverage than your account, follow these steps:

• Refresh or Relogin: Start by refreshing the platform or logging out and back in. Sometimes, the issue resolves itself.
• Check Instrument-Specific Leverage: Review the leverage for the specific asset you are trading. It may have a different maximum leverage than the general account setting.
• Confirm Regulatory Status: Make sure you are aware of the regulations that apply to your account based on your country of residence.
• Review Account Type: Ensure you have the correct account type selected for the leverage you intend to use.
• Contact Support: If the problem persists, reach out to your broker’s customer service for clarification.

Avoiding Future Confusion

To prevent situations where the dashboard shows different leverage than the account, it is advisable to:

• Read your broker’s leverage policy carefully.
• Familiarise yourself with regulatory leverage limits in your region.
• Choose the correct account type from the beginning.
• Regularly check updates or notices from your broker about changes to leverage settings.

By understanding these elements, traders can avoid mistakes and trade with greater confidence.

Conclusion

When the dashboard shows different leverage than account settings, it can be alarming, but it is usually caused by platform delays, asset class differences, regional regulations, account types, or broker errors. By identifying the reason early, you can take appropriate steps to ensure your trading decisions remain sound. Staying informed and proactive ensures that you make the most of your trading environment.

For deeper insights and advanced trading strategies, explore Insights Pro and take your trading skills to the next level.