Forex Trading Platforms and Windows Vista Business Edition: EFX Navigator

Today we will be putting Windows Vista Business Edition to the trading platform test. The platform that we will be testing under Windows Vista Business Edition today is EFX Navigator.

Installation: The EFX Navigator installation is very straightforward, simply choose an install location and agree to the licence and EFX Navigator is installed without a hitch. The wizard buttons and overall look had a very Windows 98 feel about them. After installation is complete you can choose to place an icon on either your Desktop and or quick launch toolbar.

On first launch of EFX Navigator, you will notice the windows 98 look and feel. It is very disappointing that the EFX Navigator does such a poor job in the user interface department as I have heard many reports that they offer straight through processing.

When EFX Navigator is launched, the default layout is displayed as shown above. This layout is comprised of several floating windows with no cohesive feel. The windows include:

• FX board which displays BID and ASK prices for assorted currencies.
• Account Balances including summary, profit & loss and totals.
• Navigator Menu bar window that contains menus and other key metrics.
• Positions.
• Order book.

EFX Navigator can be a very confusing platform for the newer trader especially if you are only familiar with using market orders.

In EFX Navigator, different windows and tools can be accessed via the Navigate menu they include:

• Level II Orders.
• Baskets.
• Option Chain.
• Watch list.
• Alerts.
• Balance.
• Support.

Bottom Line

EFX Navigator is intended for advanced traders and should not be used by the novice. It runs without issue in Windows Vista Business Edition; however it does not really make use of Vistas new graphical capabilities. EFX Navigator is stable and I had no problem with network connectivity issues under Vista. There are no built in charting or strategy automation tools in EFX Navigator; which make it a poor choice for systems traders. If you are an advanced trader, you will enjoy the liquidity of trading through an ECN. 

About the author

Mark - Is a 28 year old form Australia. He has a Bachelor in Economics and a Major in CS. He is currently working towards his CFP. His interests include algorithmic trading systems, artificial intelligence, game theory and poker.