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Choosing
a broker:
Many
day traders are comfortable conducting their trading activities
from an office in their home. However, for those day traders who
aspire to make a full-time career day trading, there are a number
of benefits to trading on the premises of a day trading firm rather
than from home. The principal advantages to trading in-house at
a good day trading firm are the availability of structured training
programs, top of the line trading software, hardware and data feeds
as well as the ability to interact with and learn from other professional
traders.
It is important to keep in mind that day trading firms who offer
in-house training and trading services differ significantly in the
range and quality of the services they provide as well as in their
fee structures. Accordingly, it is wise to perform some due diligence
prior to selecting a firm to trade at.
In this regard, here are some of the more important questions that
should be posed:
Questions to Ask
1.
Is it possible to spend a day or two with a day trader in the firm
in order to assess the facilities and overall office environment
of the firm prior to making a commitment?
2.
What account size is required to be a member of the particular day
trading firm? Note: A minimum account size of between $10,000 to
$50,000 is common.
3.
Does the firm have a screening process for new members to assess
a person's suitability for day trading or does it accept anyone
who has sufficient capital? Note: Avoid those firms who will accept
virtually anyone who walks in the door.
4.
How long is the training program? Note: The training program should
last for at least month and should offer you the ability to practice
the techniques taught by way of simulated trading.
5.
What trading software, hardware and other trading tools and educational
materials will be made available to you during the training process?
6.
Does the firm teach risk management strategies in addition to trading
techniques and strategies?
7.
Apart from commissions and ticket charges, how much does it cost
per month in order to trade at a particular firm?
8.
What is the charge for commissions on trades?
9.
What are the ticket charges, if any, that are payable on trades
routed through the various ECNs?
10.
Is there a minimum number of trades required on a monthly or other
periodic basis in order to continue trading with the firm?
11.
Is a percentage of your profits earned while trading at the firm
paid to the trading firm? Note: Avoid those firms that want a percentage
of your profits.
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