Indices trading may track stocks, bonds, mutual funds as well as any other security or investment vehicle related to index trading, including indices themselves. Unlike traditional index trading, over the counter (OTC) trading on indices, or contract for difference (CFDs) on indices, are financial instruments that allow traders to invest and take advantage of both prices moving up (going long) or prices without having to go through the central exchange market.

The trade is performed over the counter (OTC) similar to trading FX, which means the trading is done directly between the two involved parties and not via central exchange market.