def,
I know next to nothing of Echo (et al), only what I have read in recent threads here. So I don't have an opinion, positive or negative, regarding Echo and its peers.
In any case I would not suggest that IB change to become like any other broker. I think IB is a real good thing, and I don't want to go elsewhere. I'm sure there are many IB traders who feel the same.
You refer to changes in IB vs 5 years ago. Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't one of those changes that IB has made itself into a viable choice for the smaller players?
And when the rules change, it seems that IB will lose many customers which it has actively sought to attract over the past couple years.
I could be off base here, 'cause I am only speculating about IB's recent history and its target market(s).
You also refer to increased regulation. It may be possible to spin off a sister company in such a way that no new regulations would encumber IB proper. But the spin off would, of course, be subject to any regulations which Echo and its peers has to deal with.
And 'little sister' IB would then be competing directly with this group. But with some built in advantages including: existing (very good) user interface, support personnel, working relationships within the industry, etc. etc... Not to mention a group of loyal clients who want to stay at IB and who will otherwise be forced to move to the competion.
I realize that this is indeed wishful thinking on my part. And, I'll admit, motivated by selfishness. But it seems to be an idea which could benefit both IB as well as the group of IB traders with accounts under the limit.
What the hey...