Southerncomfort

Information overload is what prompted the original post. I live in the UK and work an early shifts so can trade from around 3pm through to the evening which is why I was focusing on American markets. Also are there any cost I should be aware of with trading US stocks, i mean other than the trading cost and stamp duty and capital gains tax. I know these taxes aren't applied if spreadbetting but if spreadbetting is illegal in the US can I still bet on US traded stocks? Many thanks

As the title says knowledge is power and before I even contemplate opening an account I have a lot of learning to do!! Im looking at putting some spare cash to work and want to start trading shares but with so much information about whether to trade equities, options, forex etc and whether buying shares or speadbetting is cheaper on tax Im looking for people with a bit of experience to narrow down the learning curve. I work during the day so will be trading/betting in the evenings on the US markets. I want to cover both short term and long term gains by buying and holding long term stock for the dividends but the short term trades (daily/weekly/monthly) should I buy the shares or bet on the price, which option is the most tax/cost efficient? Trying to read about and learn all the aspects of trading will keep me busy for years so any advice on which areas/styles I should focus on as a starting point would be appreciated. Thanks