Day trading is about to get easier for smaller retail investors

Core Viewpoint - Regulators are moving to eliminate the $25,000 minimum equity rule for pattern day trading, making active day trading more accessible to smaller accounts [1][2]. Group 1: Regulatory Changes - The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has approved amendments to replace the $25,000 minimum equity rule, pending approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission [1]. - The previous rule required traders to maintain a minimum account balance of $25,000 to execute four or more day trades within a five-business-day period, established in 2001 due to concerns over excessive risks taken by small traders [2]. - The new intraday margin rule will base intraday buying power on existing maintenance margin requirements rather than a fixed equity minimum, reflecting advancements in technology and market access [3]. Group 2: Market Impact - The rule change is expected to increase options trading and enhance activity for brokerage firms like Robinhood, which saw a 1% increase in shares following the FINRA announcement [4].