To Bet or to Trade?
Is there a difference? The answer is yes... and no! But they are not really as far apart as some would have you believe.
The great thing about successful trading is that you will experience a smooth upward curve of profit with low volatility or deviation. The down side is that you require high levels of concentration and discipline which can be hard to maintain. It is also likely that you will fall under betfair's premium charge rules.
The successful bettor's profit curve will often be far more volatile - which again means discipline is a key advantage. Your general levels of stress are perhaps less - that comes at the end of the month when you analyse your results! The big plus is that most genuine bettors will not receive the premium charge - regardless of profit.
When placing bets the trader is looking to back or lay at a good price and then lay off the 'bet' at an even better price. The bettor is simply looking to back or lay at a good price. As long as he achieves this to his satisfaction he sees no reason to trade using the opposite side of the market.
There are of course numerous other positives and negatives to both the above disciplines - however my point is that many profitable bettors could become profitable traders and many profitable traders could become profitable bettors. It is really a question of how you want to make your money.
posted by Betting Exchange Trader
