Quote from IDtenT_Error:
Wasn't the justification that the PDT rule would reduce volatility?
Back 8 years ago "they" cracked me up (regulators)..in trying to "crack down" on retail day traders they implemented the $25K PDT, but also gave 4 times margin allowances...a bit of a contradiction it seemed to me at the time.
It did cut down on the "masses" getting involved chasing every new Naz stock and Internet stock with $500 in their accounts... but overall I don't see a negative effect.
We actually "debated" on stage with the people from the NASAA (right here in Vegas)...and when my brother actually agreed with the 30 minute lecture stating that the "public should not day trade" - Bob said "daytrading should be left to the professionals, of course" -- but then added, "but this still America, right?"
When they implemented the Series 7 requirement, we noticed a big improvement in the quality and seriousness of our new traders....before that, almost everyone in the Country thought they would "try stocktrading" as if it were "Hey, let's try Real Estate on the weekends" LOL....Success rates went up quite a bit.
Now that things have gone back to "normal" (in the markets, volatility, etc.)...the caliber of trader is holding up better than in the 90's....more sophistication, even from the casual, part time trader, I've noticed.
Anyway, just another couple of cents worth...
Don