Are there any drawbacks to using Interactive Brokers?
While I find Interactive Brokers (IB) to be a reliable and competitive broker, there are a few downsides that I’ve come across. First, the platform, especially Trader Workstation (TWS), can be quite complex and intimidating for new traders. It has a steep learning curve, and even as an experienced trader, it took me some time to get fully comfortable with all the features. Another drawback is that IB has higher minimum deposit requirements for certain account types, such as the $10,000 minimum deposit for IBKR Pro accounts. While this is standard for professional accounts, it could be a barrier for traders just starting out or those with a smaller capital base. Despite these cons, I believe the pros, such as low fees, wide product offerings, and excellent regulatory oversight, outweigh the drawbacks, especially for active traders and those looking for a high-quality trading experience.