I'd like to experiment with investing online - I've heard that there are quite a few places that will allow you to invest "virtual" money (ie, not real cash) and treat them as if they were an actual investment.

Can anyone suggestion any decent programs I can play with, and get a better handle on what's involved?

Thanks in advance.

Try something like this http://www.gcitrading.com/cfd-demo.htm

Thanks for the link - I've signed up for it, though not played with the account as yet. I am getting a daily email for having done so, though, but I guess it's an acceptable trade-off.

It also helps to do a little reading about the terminology. When I first signed up for a trader account online I felt I needed a degree just to understand how to use it.

You get used to it though, and that's why these sort of demos can be very useful. I'll try and compile a list of different types, though, as some are more useful than others, plus some allow you to experiment in different market sectors or focus on one, ie, equities, forex, commodities, etc.

Before I ventured into the real money investing market I played around with some of thgese progs and had a great time. There's nothing like the real thing though.

Hmmm, sounds like I want to try these things and experiment (but not invest yet). I am sure I am also going to have a great time experiencing and learning.

I remember when they made us do it in high school It was quite fun. I lost a bundle though.

There are quite a few sites out there that will over you free accounts with virtual money to see how you would really do. However, remember to think logically as you would if it were your money. Often times it's easy to just pick and choose on a whim and not care too much for what you're really doing. Do it as if it were real.

Thats a good way to get good at the game before using your real money, that way you can learn from your mistakes without "paying" for them.