Margin Loans
Get a flexible line of credit for short-term financing needs with a margin loan from Firstrade.
Open AccountThe Advantages of Margin Loans
Increased buying power
Trading on margin allows you to buy more securities than you could on a cash-only basis
Flexible line of credit
Borrowing on margin gives you a flexible line of credit without additional paperwork or closing fees
Low margin rates
Firstrade's margin rates are among the lowest available in the industry
How Margin Loans Work
A margin loan is a flexible line of credit that allows you to borrow against the value of securities you already own. Whether you want to increase your borrowing power to purchase more securities or looking for a source of flexible borrowing for short-term financing needs, a margin loan from Firstrade can help you gain access to funds. When used correctly, a margin loan can help you execute your investment strategies. Before you begin, it is important to understand and weigh both the benefits and risks associated with margin trading.
Guide to Margin
For more information about margin loans, refer to our Margin Education section.
Benefits
Enjoy these benefits of margin trading accounts:
- The ability to leverage your investments
- The ability to short sell a stock and profit from price declines
- Increased returns when the value of your holdings moves in your favor
- Avoid cash account violations caused by unsettled funds
- Diversify your portfolio by using margin buying power
- Short-term financing option without any additional paperwork or fees
- Interest on margin loans may be tax deductible against your net investment income (consult with your tax advisor)
Risks
Understand the potential risks:
- Potential margin calls
- Increased potential loss if your securities decline in value
- Possible greater losses than your original investment
- Rise in interest rates may increase the cost of your loan
- The firm can force the sale of securities or other assets in your account
- You are not entitled to choose which securities or other assets in your accounts are liquidated or sold to meet a margin call
Margin Rates
Firstrade's margin rates are among the lowest available in the industry.
Dollar Range
Above/Below Base Rate
Effective Rate
$1,000,000 +
- 2.25%
9.00%
$500,000 - $999,999
- 1.65%
9.60%
$250,000 - $499,999
+ 0.25%
11.50%
$100,000 - $249,999
+ 0.50%
11.75%
$50,000 - $99,999
+ 1.00%
12.25%
$25,000 - $49,999
+ 1.50%
12.75%
$0 - $24,999
+ 1.75%
13.00%
As of November 8, 2024, the current base rate is 11.25%. Subject to change without prior notice.
When setting base rates, Firstrade considers indicators like commercially recognized interest rates, industry conditions related to credit, the availability of liquidity in the marketplace, and general market conditions.
Get started with margin loans
Make sure you understand the risks and benefits of using margin
Have at least $2,000 of assets in your account
Complete the Margin Application & Agreement online
Once approved, you can start enjoying the benefits and flexibility that margin offers