Originally Posted by
billhart22
I know that if you have 25K in a day trading account, that you can use that, because you have backup funds. You can use that until you run out of cash and then it goes to your cash account until the clearing of the funds that you have.
In other words, you can use your own money in the account until you have used it up, then it comes out of your cash "Cash". The money still takes time to clear. They don't give you a free pass. They just want your money in an account to reap from you. There isn't really that much difference, but adds flexibility. Am I wrong?
If I were a swing trader, then it would really matter. If I were a shorter, then I would be responsible to pay for my losses, plus pay the difference to close.
In addition, they mark your losses up. Your losses could cost you big time. In addition, they will charge you an interest rate depending upon your financials.
I don't think there is a real advantage to having a margin account, especially on the shorting side. JMHO. I wouldn't dare to short stocks, but that is just me. I am not comfortable with that.