GlossaryMarkets & assets

Base currency

The first currency in a currency pair, representing one unit in the quoted exchange rate. It is separate from the account's balance currency.

Do not confuse

Common comparison error

Base currency in a forex pair is not necessarily the currency used for deposits, account balances, stakes, or withdrawals.

Practical use

How to verify Base currency

Read Base currency together with Quote currency, Currency pair, Pip. The comparison must preserve the exact rule, value, state, and evidence described below.

A neutral example

In EUR/USD at 1.0850, EUR is the base currency and one euro is priced in USD. The account may still keep its cash balance in GBP, so pair notation and account conversion are checked separately.

Evidence path

Where to verify Base currency

Use the source that governs the exact contract, account, entity, or platform state. A general definition cannot replace current broker terms.

Symbol information and market scheduleMatch the symbol to its underlying market, price source, trading hours, weekend treatment, and settlement availability.

Broker platform recordCompare the platform symbol and timestamp with the named market or provider instead of relying on the asset label alone.