"In addition, brokers can impose their own, more restrictive margin requirements, which I have occasionally seen Datek do. I see a lot of screaming when they do this, but it is their perogative, and usually should be taken by the investor as a clue. For example, when YHOO was over 200, before the split, Datek briefly yanked it's margin status. My old broker (Jack White) yanked IOMG a couple years back, RIGHT at the top.
Consider this free, and excellent, investment advice. :) "
Jon, very interesting point. So Datek is protecting customers. Great. The only problem is that such "protection" does not allow someone, also proud customer, to short. To know that balloons should become nm "RIGHT at the top" is encouraging.
The best way to protect customers is to prevent ALL trades, however. Why not to follow and to extend SEC "circuit breakers" practice and to halt trades during "severe one day (something) of historic proportions". Than to halt trades forever. Only this way you can really protect customers.
Have a nice weekend. |
