BTC65420.0 2.40%
ETH3500.0 1.20%
EUR/USD1.0840 0.10%
GBP/USD1.2650 0.05%
GOLD2350.0 0.80%
OIL85.4000 0.50%
SPX5200.0 0.60%
NDX18100.0 0.90%
USD/JPY151.2 0.20%
TSLA175.4 1.20%
BTC65420.0 2.40%
ETH3500.0 1.20%
EUR/USD1.0840 0.10%
GBP/USD1.2650 0.05%
GOLD2350.0 0.80%
OIL85.4000 0.50%
SPX5200.0 0.60%
NDX18100.0 0.90%
USD/JPY151.2 0.20%
TSLA175.4 1.20%

Interactive Brokers Review

4.9

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is the premier broker for sophisticated investors, offering access to over 150 markets worldwide. In 2025, they introduced "Forecast Contracts" (prediction markets) and continue to lead with the industry’s lowest margin rates (~5.14% USD) and high interest paid on idle cash (up to 4.83% USD).

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Interactive Brokers LLC is a member of NYSE, FINRA, SIPC. Regulated by the US SEC and CFTC.

Pros

  • Unbeatable margin rates (Starts ~5.14%)
  • Global access (150+ markets in 34 countries)
  • High interest on uninvested cash (up to 4.83% USD)
  • New "Forecast Contracts" for event trading

Cons

  • Complex fee structure (Pro vs Lite)
  • TWS platform has a steep learning curve
  • Strict KYC and compliance checks

Forecast Contracts (New 2025)

IBKR now offers **Forecast Contracts** via ForecastEx. These allow you to trade on the outcome of economic data releases (like CPI), political events, and climate data. It is a regulated way to hedge against real-world events, separate from traditional asset prices.

Margin & Interest

IBKR Pro offers margin loan rates starting around **5.14%** (USD), significantly lower than the 10-13% charged by competitors like E*Trade. Additionally, they pay competitive interest on idle cash balances (e.g., up to 4.83% on USD > $10k), making it an excellent place to park capital.

FAQs about Interactive Brokers

What is the difference between Lite and Pro?

IBKR Lite (US only) offers $0 stock commissions but sells order flow. IBKR Pro charges low commissions but offers better execution (SmartRouting) and lower margin rates.

What are the margin rates?

As of 2025, IBKR Pro margin rates start around 5.14% USD for large balances, blending higher for smaller amounts, but still far below industry averages.

Is there a minimum deposit?

No, there is $0 minimum to open a cash account. Margin accounts require at least $2,000.

What are Forecast Contracts?

New in 2025, these allow you to trade "Yes/No" outcomes on economic events (like CPI releases) or climate data, offering a new way to hedge risk.

Does IBKR offer crypto?

Yes, eligible clients can trade major cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, etc.) alongside stocks from a single account.

Regulatory Risk Warning

Margin borrowing is only for sophisticated investors with high risk tolerance. You may lose more than your initial investment.