Define: Initial Margin Requirement

Initial Margin Requirement
Initial Margin Requirement
Quick Summary of Initial Margin Requirement

Initial Margin Requirement is the deposit of the buyer’s own money as a percentage of the total amount they want to borrow when purchasing stock on margin. It is set by the government to prevent excessive borrowing and potential stock market issues. Maintenance Margin Requirement is the minimum amount of the buyer’s own money that must be kept in the account after purchasing stock on margin to avoid losing the stock. It is also set by the government and is a percentage of the total value of the account to prevent excessive losses.

Full Definition Of Initial Margin Requirement

The initial margin requirement is the percentage of the purchase price that a buyer must deposit with a broker in order to buy a security on margin. This percentage is determined and adjusted by the Federal Reserve Board. For instance, if a buyer wants to buy $10,000 worth of stock on margin and the initial margin requirement is 50%, they would need to deposit $5,000 with their broker. This requirement is implemented to prevent excessive speculation and price volatility in the stock market. By mandating buyers to contribute a certain percentage of the purchase price, it ensures that they have a vested interest and are less likely to make risky investments that could result in financial instability.

Initial Margin Requirement FAQ'S

The initial margin requirement is the minimum amount of funds that an investor must deposit when opening a margin account to engage in margin trading. It acts as a collateral to cover potential losses.

The initial margin requirement is typically calculated as a percentage of the total value of the securities being purchased on margin. The specific percentage may vary depending on the regulations set by the brokerage firm or exchange.

The initial margin requirement is in place to protect both the investor and the brokerage firm. It helps ensure that investors have enough funds to cover potential losses and reduces the risk of default for the brokerage firm.

Yes, the initial margin requirement can change. It is often influenced by market conditions, volatility, and regulatory changes. Brokerage firms may adjust the requirement to manage risk and comply with regulations.

If you fail to meet the initial margin requirement, you may receive a margin call from your brokerage firm. This means you will be required to deposit additional funds or sell securities to meet the requirement. Failure to do so may result in the liquidation of your positions.

Yes, different types of securities may have different initial margin requirements. Generally, more volatile or risky securities may have higher initial margin requirements to account for the increased potential for losses.

Yes, cash is commonly used as the initial margin requirement. However, some brokerage firms may also accept certain types of securities or other eligible collateral.

In certain cases, brokerage firms may offer margin account holders the option to apply for a waiver of the initial margin requirement. However, this is typically only available to experienced investors who meet specific criteria.

The initial margin requirement is usually set by the brokerage firm or exchange and is not negotiable on an individual basis. However, different brokerage firms may have different margin requirements, so it is worth comparing options before opening a margin account.

Consistently failing to meet the initial margin requirement may result in restrictions on your margin trading activities or the closure of your margin account by the brokerage firm. It is important to carefully manage your margin account to avoid such consequences.

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This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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