What is a pattern day trader account?

If a trader makes four or more day trades, buying or selling (or selling and buying) the same security within a single day, over the course of any five business days in a margin account, and those trades account for more than 6% of their account activity over the period, the trader's account will be flagged as a pattern day trader account.

Is pattern day trading legal?

Use a cash account – Pattern day trading is only applicable to margin accounts. If you are trading without margin (using a cash account) you can avoid the rule altogether. Sufficient capital – Pattern day trading is legal, however, you must have the capital in your account to show that you can afford to take the risk.

How much cash should a pattern day trader hold?

Although both groups have mandatory minimum assets that must be held in their margin accounts, a pattern day trader must hold at least $25,000 in their account. That amount need not necessarily be cash; it can be a combination of cash and eligible securities.

Does the PDT rule apply to cash accounts?

No, the PDT rule does not apply to cash accounts. As a result, traders wanting to execute multiple trades can go for a cash account instead of a margin account. However, the borrowing limit in a margin account is 25% higher than in a cash account. Does pattern day trader apply to options?