CFTC Ownership and Control Reporting
The Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has historically maintained rules which require FCMs to report information relating to clients holding positions equal to or exceeding defined thresholds (e.g., Large Trader Reporting). In November 2013, the CFTC adopted a new rule which expands the prior reporting rules and which requires the collection and reporting of more comprehensive information on owners and controllers of accounts trading U.S. commodity futures products. This new rule is referred to as Ownership and Control Reporting (OCR) and outlined below are a series of FAQs relating to this rule.
1. Who must provide CFTC OCR information?
In order to comply with the requirement that any account meeting the position or volume thresholds be reported to the CFTC by 09:00 ET on the day following the day in which the account becomes reportable, IB requires that all accounts trading U.S. commodity futures products provide the requested information.
In order to comply with the requirement that any account meeting the position or volume thresholds be reported to the CFTC by 09:00 ET on the day following the day in which the account becomes reportable, IB requires that all accounts trading U.S. commodity futures products provide the requested information.
2. What information must be provided?
The following information is required of all Owners and Controllers of an account:
• Name
• Street Address
• Email Address
• Direct Phone Number, Including Country Code
The following information is required of all Owners and Controllers of an account:
• Name
• Street Address
• Email Address
• Direct Phone Number, Including Country Code
The following details are also required for owners and controllers that are legal entities:
• Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), If Applicable
• Contact Person Details:
o Name
o Job Title
o Relationship to Legal Entity
o Direct Phone Number, Including Country Code
• Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), If Applicable
• Contact Person Details:
o Name
o Job Title
o Relationship to Legal Entity
o Direct Phone Number, Including Country Code
The following details are also required for all individuals who are “Account Controllers”:
• Individual’s Relationship to Account Owner
• Individual’s Job Title
• Name of Individual’s Employer
• Employer’s Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), If Applicable
• Individual’s Relationship to Account Owner
• Individual’s Job Title
• Name of Individual’s Employer
• Employer’s Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), If Applicable
3. Who is an "Account Owner" for the purposes of OCR?
An "Account Owner" includes any individual or legal entity who holds a direct ownership interest in the trading account.
4. Who is an "Account Controller" for the purposes of OCR?
The CFTC defines an “Account Controller” as “a natural person who by power of attorney or otherwise actually directs the trading of an account. A trading account may have more than one controller.”
This definition can be found at 17 C.F.R. § 15.00(bb).
An "Account Owner" includes any individual or legal entity who holds a direct ownership interest in the trading account.
4. Who is an "Account Controller" for the purposes of OCR?
The CFTC defines an “Account Controller” as “a natural person who by power of attorney or otherwise actually directs the trading of an account. A trading account may have more than one controller.”
This definition can be found at 17 C.F.R. § 15.00(bb).
5. What is the "Head of Desk" option?
As noted above, you must provide full OCR information for all Owners and Controllers of your account. Unless you indicate otherwise, IB presumes that every active TWS user on your account is an Account Controller for CFTC OCR purposes.
Your institution may have a "Head of Desk" who directs the trading of your institution's trading account, with the other traders simply acting under this individual's direction. If this is the case, you can identify the "head of desk" using the Account Management OCR interface, in which case "Account Controller" information will only be required for that individual.
6. What is a Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)?
An LEI is a unique 20 -digit alphanumeric code associated with a single organization and which is intended to be recognized universally across regulatory agencies and jurisdictions.
-If any of the Account Owners or Controllers of your account have LEIs, you must provide the LEIs;
-If an Account Owner or Controller of your account does not have an LEI, you can select "non applicable".
DTC, in collaboration with SWIFT, operate as the local (U.S.) source provider of LEIs and maintains a website (www.gmeiutility.org) for the assignment of new and search of existing LEIs.
7. What is a National Futures Association (NFA) ID?
A number which the National Futures Organization assigns to each registrant (e.g., firms and individuals such as Commodity Trading Advisors and Commodity Pool Operators). The NFA maintains an Online Registration System (ORS) through which registration and assignment of the ID is provided. See www.nfa.futures.org
A number which the National Futures Organization assigns to each registrant (e.g., firms and individuals such as Commodity Trading Advisors and Commodity Pool Operators). The NFA maintains an Online Registration System (ORS) through which registration and assignment of the ID is provided. See www.nfa.futures.org
8. How do I know if my employer has an LEI or NFA ID?
You may ask your employer to provide you with this information or search one of the following websies:
You may ask your employer to provide you with this information or search one of the following websies:
LEI searches may be performed via the following DTC website: www.gmeiutility.org. Searches may be conducted by the entity's registered legal name or address.
NFA ID searches may be performed via the following NFA webpage: www.nfa.futures.org/basicnet/welcome.aspx . Searches may be conducted by entering a firm name, individual name or pool name.
9. Why must I provide this information?
U.S. federal regulations require all FCMs, including IB, to obtain this information from its clients. The requirement is universal and applies to any individual or entity regardless of their broker.
U.S. federal regulations require all FCMs, including IB, to obtain this information from its clients. The requirement is universal and applies to any individual or entity regardless of their broker.
10. Does OCR apply to non-U.S. persons?
Yes, if you wish to trade U.S. commodity futures products, we must collect this information from you.
Yes, if you wish to trade U.S. commodity futures products, we must collect this information from you.
11. How will Interactive Brokers treat this information?
This data will be kept confidential in accordance with the Interactive Brokers Group Privacy Statement. See link for details: https://individuals.interactivebrokers.com/en/index.php?f=ibgStrength&p=priv
This data will be kept confidential in accordance with the Interactive Brokers Group Privacy Statement. See link for details: https://individuals.interactivebrokers.com/en/index.php?f=ibgStrength&p=priv
12. Can I enter the OCR information in multiple sessions?
Unfortunately, all data must be entered within a single session and partial entry and a save option is not available. If you do not enter all required OCR information in a single session, you will need to start all over and reenter it in your next session.
13. Are foreign brokers subject to OCR?
Yes. As a foreign broker you must either:
a) Ensure that IB has OCR information for all of your customers that trade U.S. commodity futures products; or
b) Perform your own OCR submissions on their behalf.
14. Where can I learn more?
The full text of this rule change is available on the CFTC website
The full text of this rule change is available on the CFTC website
Hong Kong - China Stock Connect
Hong Kong – China Stock Connect (“China Connect”) is a mutual market access program through which Hong Kong and international investors can trade shares listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) and Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE) via the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (SEHK) and their existing clearinghouse. As a member of SEHK, IBKR provides you with direct access to trade with eligible listed products on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchange. IBKR clients with China Connect trading permissions will be eligible to trade SSE/SZSE securities through Shanghai and Shenzhen - Stock Connect.
Among the different types of SSE/SZSE-listed securities, only A shares (shares in mainland China-based companies that trade on Chinese stock exchange) are included in the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Connect.
Shanghai Connect includes all the constituent stocks of the SSE 180 Index, SSE 380 Index and all the SSE-listed A shares that have corresponding H shares listed on the SEHK.
Product List and Stock Codes for SSE
Shenzhen Connect includes all the constituent stocks of the SZSE Component Index, the SZSE Small/Mid Cap Innovation Index that have a market capitalization of not less than RMB 6 billion and all the SZSE-listed A shares that have corresponding H shares listed on SEHK.
Product List and Stock Codes for SZSE
IBKR Commission for Trading SSE/SZSE Securities
Same as trading Hong Kong stocks, IBKR charges only 0.08% of trade value as a commission with a minimum CNH 15 per order. Detailed fee rates can be found in the Hong Kong – China Stock Connect Northbound fee table.
Daily Quota
Trading under Shanghai Connect and Shenzhen Connect is subject to a Daily Quota. The Daily Quota is applied on a “net buy” basis. The Daily Quota limits the maximum net buy value of cross-boundary trades under Shanghai Connect and Shenzhen Connect each day.
If the Northbound Daily Quota Balance drops to zero or the Daily Quota is exceeded during the opening call auction session, new buy orders will be rejected. Or if it happens during a continuous auction session or closing call auction session, no further buy orders will be accepted for the remainder of the day. SEHK will resume the Northbound buying service on the following trading day.
SEHK will also publish the remaining balance of the Aggregate Quota and Daily Quota.
For details, please refer to HKEX Stock Connect FAQ or HKEX Stock Connect Rule 1407
Trading Information of Shanghai and Shenzhen Connect
|
Trading currency |
RMB |
|
Order Type |
IBKR offers various order types but will stimulate the order into limit order for execution. More information can be referred to our website.
|
|
Tick Size / Spread |
Uniform at RMB 0.01 |
|
Board Lot |
100 shares (applicable for buyers only) |
|
Odd Lot |
Sell orders only (odd lot should be made in one single order) |
|
Max Order Size |
1 million shares |
|
Price Limit |
±10% on previous closing price (±5% for stocks under special treatment under risk alert, i.e. ST and *ST stocks) |
|
Day (Turnaround) Trading |
Not allowed |
|
Block Trade |
Not available |
|
Manual Trade |
Not available |
|
Order Modification |
IBKR will cancel and replace the order for any order modification |
|
Settlement cycle |
Securities: Settlement on T day Cash from China Connect trades: Settlement on T+1 day Forex*: Settlement on T+2 day |
*Due to the unsynchronized settlement cycle, clients who exchange CNH themselves should execute the Forex trade one day prior to the stock trade (T-1) to avoid the extra day’s interest payment (considering normal settlement without involving holidays).
Trading Hours
|
SSE/SZSE Trading Sessions |
SSE/SZSE Trading Hours |
|
Opening Call Auction |
09:15 - 09:25 |
|
Continuous Auction (Morning) |
09:30 – 11:30 |
|
Continuous Auction (Afternoon) |
13:00 – 14:57 |
|
Closing Call Auction |
14:57 – 15:00 |
Half-day Trading
If a Northbound trading day is a half-trading day in the Hong Kong market, it will continue until respective Connect Market is closed. Refer to the exchange website for holiday trading arrangements and additional information.
Disclosure Obligation
If client holds or controls up to 5% of the issued shares of China Connect, the client is required to report in writing to the China Securities Regulatory Commission (“CSRC”) and the relevant exchange, and inform the Mainland listed company within three working days of reaching 5%.
The client is not allowed to continue purchasing or selling shares in that Mainland listed company during the three days notification period. Visit the IBKR Knowledge Base for more information.
Shareholding Restriction
A single foreign investor’s shareholding in a Mainland listed company is not allowed to exceed 10% of the company’s total issued shares, while all foreign investors’ shareholding in the A shares of the listed company is not allowed to exceed 30% of its total issued shares. Visit the IBKR Knowledge Base for more information.
Forced-sale Arrangement
Each IBKR client is not allowed to hold more than a specific percentage of the China Connect listing company's total issued shares. HKEX requires the client to follow the forced-sell requirements if the shares exceed the limit:
|
Situation |
Shareholding (in a listed company) |
|
A single foreign investor |
> = 10% of the company’s total issued shares |
|
All foreign investors |
> = 30% of the company’s total issued shares |
Margin Financing
Margin trading in China Connect securities will subject to restrictions and only certain A shares will be eligible for margin trading. Eligible Securities, as determined by SSE and SZSE from time to time, are listed on the HKEX website.
According to the relevant rules of SSE and SZSE, either market may suspend margin trading activities in specific A shares when the volume of margin trading activities for a specific A share exceeds the prescribed threshold. The market will resume margin trading activities in the affected A share when its volume drops below a prescribed threshold.
Stock Borrowing and Lending (SBL)
SBL in China Stock Connect Securities is subject to restrictions set by the SSE or SZSE and stated in the Rules of the Exchange.
IBHK does not offer this service at the moment.
Eligible Short Selling Securities
SBL for the purpose of short selling will be limited to those China Stock Connect Securities that are eligible for both buy orders and sell orders through Shanghai and Shenzhen Connect (i.e., excluding Connect Securities that are only eligible for sell orders).
IBHK does not offer this service at the moment.
Trading Shenzhen ChiNext and Shanghai Star shares
Trading Shenzhen ChiNext and Shanghai Star shares are limited to institutional professional investors.
Holidays
Clients will only be allowed to trade China Connect on days where Hong Kong and Mainland markets are both open for trading and banking services are available in both Hong Kong and Mainland markets on the corresponding settlement days. This arrangement is essential in ensuring that investors and brokers will have the necessary banking support on the relevant settlement days when they will be required to make payments.
The following table illustrates the holiday arrangement of Northbound trading of SSE/SZSE Securities:
|
|
Mainland |
Hong Kong |
Open for Northbound Trading |
|
Day 1 |
Business Day |
Business Day |
Yes |
|
Day 2 |
Business Day |
Business Day |
No, HK market closes on money settlement day |
|
Day 3 |
Business Day |
Public Holiday |
No, HK market closes on trading day |
|
Day 4 |
Public Holiday |
Business Day |
No, Mainland market closes |
Severe Weather Conditions
Information on the trading arrangement available under severe weather conditions can found on the HKEx website.
Where to Learn More?
Please refer to the following exchange website links for additional information regarding Hong Kong China Stock Connect:
If you have any questions regarding Hong Kong-China Stock Connect, please contact IBKR Client Services for further information.
Foreign Acount Tax Compliance Act (FATCA)
What is FATCA?
The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) represents the United States efforts to combat tax evasion and abuse by US persons holding investments outside of the United States. The Act establishes a new set of tax information reporting and withholding procedures. While not expressly aimed at non-US persons, the regulations do impose withholding taxes on certain non-US entities that decline to disclose their US investors or account holders.
Under FATCA, US persons must report to the US tax authority, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), their assets held in offshore accounts. In addition, the regulations seek to require non-US financial institutions to report to the US tax authority certain information about financial accounts of US or US-owned investors and account holders.
How does this impact US Brokers, including Interactive Brokers?
As a broker based in the United States, Interactive Brokers is required to report information and make payment of withholding taxes to the IRS, for all of our customers. FATCA simply creates additional practices and withholdings to the current requirements for all US brokers.
Interactive Brokers will comply with the new rules. This may require additional disclosures by investors during the account application process, as well as expanded tax reporting. For all US institutions, FATCA becomes effective January 1, 2013. Any FATCA tax withholding requirements begin on January 1, 2014.
Additional aspects of the regulations will be phased-in over the next few years, including an expansion of US brokers reporting on US source income to non-US accounts through Form 1042-S.
What action is required for US persons?
No additional action is required for US persons holding Interactive Brokers accounts. US persons, who include US citizens, Green Card holders and other legal residents, need only to complete Form W-9 during the account application process to certify their tax status.
Does FATCA affect non-US accounts?
Yes. FATCA requires foreign financial institutions (FFIs) to furnish certain data directly to the IRS about any of their US taxpayer accounts or foreign entity accounts in which US taxpayers hold a certain level of ownership. FFI compliance with the new regulations becomes effective July 1, 2013 with the submission of electronic FFI applications to the IRS. The application forms are scheduled to be available through the IRS in January 2013.
All non-US persons and entities applying for and maintaining Interactive Broker accounts will continue to be required to fully disclose and indentify the identity of their account's beneficial owner(s). Through the IRS Form W-8, our account holders certify the beneficial owner's country of tax residence. If you fail to provide a Form W-8, or do not resubmit a new W-8 when prompted upon the three-year expiration, additional withholding will apply.
Some entities not ordinarily considered to be financial institutions may be categorized under FATCA as an FFI. Therefore, it is important to review the details outlined by the IRS.
Is there a summary of FFI requirements?
While the regulations and compliance are far more complex than a brief FAQ can describe, the following offers a short summary of actions required by those defined foreign financial institutions.
- Identify US taxpayers. If US taxpayers refuse to waive your non-US country's privacy or secrecy rules, then the US taxpayer account must be closed.
- Report to the IRS on the related US taxpayer activity within defined financial accounts.
- Withhold 30% US tax on US source income against any US taxpayer or foreign entity failing to disclose information or comply with the FATCA regulations.
Additional Information & Resources
The IRS remains the most comprehensive and up-to-date resource about FATCA compliance, implementation, and document filing. The IRS continues to issue news releases and forms. Please feel free to visit the IRS FATCA Website for details.
IRS Circular 230 Notice: These statements are provided for information purposes only, are not intended to constitute tax advice which may be relied upon to avoid penalties under any federal, state, local or other tax statutes or regulations, and do not resolve any tax issues in your favor.
IRA: Retirement Account Resource Center
IMPORTANT NOTE: This article has been customized for use by self-directed Individual Retirement Account (IRA) owners for information purposes only. Persons are encouraged to consult a qualified tax professional with the investments and elections within the IRA. IB does not provide tax advice. For detailed information regarding IRAs, you may consult the IRS Publication 590-A about IRA contributions and the IRS Publication 590-B about IRA distributions.
This resource center provides a central reference point for information concerning the various IRA account types offered by IB.
Important Notice - Select IRA Tax Reporting for key information with transaction and tax reporting in your IRA.
Account Management IRA Reference
Beneficiary Options
Recharacterizations from a Roth IRA
Required Minimum Distributions
IRS Circular 230 Notice: These statements are provided for information purposes only, are not intended to constitute tax advice which may be relied upon to avoid penalties under any federal, state, local or other tax statutes or regulations, and do not resolve any tax issues in your favor.
How to send documents to IBKR using your smartphone
Overview:
Interactive Brokers allows you to send us a copy of a document even if you do not currently have access to a scanner. You can take a picture of the requested document with your smartphone.
Below you will find the instructions on how to take a picture and send it per email to Interactive Brokers with the following smartphone operating systems:
If you already know how to take and send pictures per email using your smartphone, please click HERE - Where to send the email to and what to include in the subject.
iOS
1. Swipe up from the bottom of your smartphone screen and tap the camera icon.
If you do not have the Camera icon, you can tap the Camera app icon from the home screen of your iPhone.
Normally your phone should now activate the rear camera. If it activates the front one, tap the camera switch button.
2. Place your iPhone above the document and frame the desired portion or page of the document.
3. Make sure to have uniform, sufficient lighting and not to cast any shadow on the document due to your position. Hold the smartphone firmly with your hand/s and avoid shaking. Tap on the shutter button to take the photo.
4. Tap the thumbnail image in the lower left-hand corner to access the picture you have just taken.
5. Make sure that the picture is clear and the document is well legible. You can enlarge the picture and see it in detail by swiping apart two fingers on the picture itself.
If the picture does not present a good quality or lighting, please repeat the previous steps in order to take a sharper one.
6. Tap the share icon in the lower left-hand corner of the screen.
7. Tap the Mail icon.
Note: to send emails your phone has to be configured for that. Please contact your email provider if you are not familiar with this procedure.
8. Please see HERE how to populate the To: and Subject: fields of your email. Once the email is ready, tap the up arrow icon on the top right to send it.
Android
1. Open your applications list and start the Camera app. Alternatively start it from your Home screen. Depending on your phone model, maker or setup, the app might be called differently.
Normally your phone should now activate the rear camera. If it activates the front one, tap the camera switch button.
2. Place your Android above the document and frame the desired portion or page of the document.
3. Make sure to have uniform, sufficient lighting and not to cast any shadow on the document due to your position. Hold the smartphone firmly with your hand/s and avoid shaking. Tap on the shutter button to take the photo.
4. Make sure that the picture is clear and the document is well legible. You can enlarge the picture and see it in detail by swiping apart two fingers on the picture itself.
If the picture does not present a good quality or lighting, please repeat the previous steps in order to take a sharper one.
5. Tap the empty circle icon in the lower right-hand corner of the screen.
6. Tap the share icon in the lower left-hand corner of the screen.
7. In the sharing menu that will be displayed now tap the icon of the email client set up on your phone. In the example picture below, it is called Gmail but the name may vary according to your specific setup.
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Note: to send emails your phone has to be configured for that. Please contact your email provider if you are not familiar with this procedure.
8. Please see HERE how to populate the To and Subject fields of your email. Once the email is ready, tap the airplane icon on the top right to send it.
WHERE TO SEND THE EMAIL AND WHAT TO INCLUDE IN THE SUBJECT
The email has to be created observing the below instructions:
1. In the field To: type:
- newaccounts@interactivebrokers.com if you are a resident of a non-European country
- newaccounts.uk@interactivebrokers.co.uk if you are a European resident
2. The Subject: field must contain all of the below:
- Your account number (it usually has the format Uxxxxxxx, where x are numbers) or your username
- The purpose of sending the document. Please use the below convention:
- PoRes for a proof of residential address
- PID for a proof of identity
Change Your Billable Account
If you have additional linked, duplicate or consolidated accounts, the Billable Account section appears on the Market Data Subscriptions screen. Use the Billable Accounts panel to change the account that is currently being billed for market data.
To change your billable account
1. Click Settings > User Settings
2. In the Trading Platform panel, click the Configure (gear) icon for Market Data Subscriptions.
The Market Data Subscription screen opens.
3. Click the Configure (gear) icon in the Billable Account panel.
4. Select the account you want to be billed for market data, then click Save.
Beginning with the next billing cycle, your market data subscriptions will be billed to the account you selected.
Cost Basis Reporting
1099 Reporting
Statement and Year End Reporting for US persons and entities comprises the following:
1. Cost Basis: While the required reporting schedule was staggered, the primary cost basis that will be reported to the IRS includes equities bought and sold after December 31, 2010. This includes the adjusted cost basis resulting from wash sales and corporate actions.
The future phase-in period for broker reporting includes the assets sold on or after the following dates:
--- Mutual Funds and ETFS - 1/1/2012
--- Simple debt instruments (i.e. treasuries, fixed-rate bonds & municipal bonds) and options, - 1/1/2014
--- Other debt instruments - 1/1/2016
2. Tax Basis Method: Brokers are required to use the method first in, first out (FIFO), unless given other instructions by an investor. Changes to your tax basis method may be submitted through the Tax Optimizer. The Tax Optimizer is launched from within Account Management and is available for stock, option, bond, warrant and single-stock future trades.
IB offers multiple tax basis methods, including three basic options:
● First In, First Out (FIFO) - This is the default option. FIFO assumes that the oldest security in inventory is matched to the most recently sold security.
● Last In, First Out (LIFO) - LIFO assumes that the newest security acquired is sold first.
● Specific Lot - Lets you see all of your tax lots and closing trades, then manually match lots to trades. Specific Lot is not available as the Account Default Match Method.
Tax Optimizer also lets you select the following additional derivatives of the specific identification method.
● Highest Cost (HC), Maximize Long-Term Gain (MLTG), Maximize Long-Term Loss (MLTG), Maximize Short-Term Gain (MSTG), and Maximize Short-Term Loss(MSTL).
For complete instructions on using the Tax Optimizer and details on the lot-matching algorithms for each method, see the Tax Optimizer Users Guide.
Note: Changing your tax basis is effective immediately. The basis selected will be applied to all subsequent trades on the account statements and tax reports. Updates will not affect previously closed trades nor the TWS profit and loss data displayed.
3. Gain & Loss Categories: An additional requirement to the cost basis reporting is the capital gain or loss category. The gain or loss category of equities is determined by the length of time in which the security was held, known as the "holding period."
● Short-Term - Holding periods of one year or less are categorized as "short-term."
● Long-Term - Holding periods over one year are categorized as "long-term."
Year End Reports
The following statements and reports display cost basis information that will be reported on Form 1099-B for eligible accounts.
- Monthly Account Statements
- Annual Account Statements
- Worksheet for Form 8949
For a complete review of the tax information and year end reporting available, click here.
Note: Unlike the Account Statements, the Gain & Loss Worksheet for Form 8949 may consolidate sell trades. The cost basis will be adjusted, as required for 1099-B reporting.
Asset Transfers
U.S. legislation from 2008 included new guidelines for tax reporting by U.S. financial institutions. Effective January 2011, U.S. Brokers are required to report cost basis on sold assets, whether or not a gain/loss is short-term (held one year or less) or long-term (held more than one year). U.S. brokerage firms, Interactive Brokers LLC (IB) included, implemented changes to comply with the legislation.
For more information on cost basis with asset transfers, see Cost Basis & Asset Transfers.
Disclaimer: IB does not provide tax advice. These statements are provided for information purposes only, are not intended to constitute tax advice which may be relied upon to avoid penalties under any international, federal, state, local or other tax statutes or regulations, and do not resolve any tax issues in your favor. We recommend that you consult a qualified tax adviser or refer to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
ACATS Transfer Guide (US brokerage account transfers)
ACATS Transfer Guide
Introduction
Understanding the basic facts about transferring accounts between US brokerage firms can be help to avoid delays. Through this article and other Knowledge Database resources, Interactive Brokers seeks to assist with your incoming and outgoing ACATS requests.
US brokerage firms utilize a standardized system to transfer customer accounts from one firm to another. Known as the Automated Customer Account Transfer Service or ACATS, the process allows assets to move seamlessly between brokerage firms in a unified time frame. ACATS transfers are facilitated by a third party, the National Securities Clearing Corporation (NSCC), to assist participating members with timely asset transfers.
ACATS Transfer Benefits
The majority of assets may be transferred between US brokerage firms and some banks through ACATS. This standardized system includes stocks, US corporate bonds, listed options, unit investment trusts, mutual funds, and cash. Information on assets eligible for transfer is provided at "Assets Eligible..." Though impacted by multiple factors and time constraints, the accepted or rejected transfers finalize within 10 business days in most cases.
Navigating The Process
4 simple steps of the ACATS process will help you understand the flow and minimize delays. Familiarizing yourself with the transfer process helps to ensure a successful transition.
1. Incoming or Outgoing
Incoming ACATS Transfers
The financial institution that is receiving your assets and account transfer is known as the "receiving firm." Investors always work with and through the "receiving firm" to move full or partial account assets into a new broker.
Contact the "receiving firm" (Interactive Brokers) to review the firm's trading policies and requirements. You should verify that your assets are eligible for trading at the "receiving firm" before initiating the transfer request. Not all ACATS transferable assets are acceptable for trading at every brokerage firm.
Outgoing ACATS Transfers
All outgoing ACATS transfers, full or partial, must be approved by the "delivering firm." Investors, however, should work with and through the "receiving firm" in order to begin the the transfer process or to status the progress of the request.
2. Initiating Your Transfer
Investors must always begin the ACATS transfer with the "receiving firm." An ACATS transfer form or Transfer Initiation Form (TIF) must be submitted. The "receiving firm" takes your reqeust and communicates with the "delivering firm" via ACATS. The process begins with this request for transfer of the account.
For your Interactive Brokers Account, the transfer is usually submitted online. Video instruction on submitting the transfer is provided at "How to deposit funds via a full ACATS/ATON Transfer." or through Step-by-step instructions.
Note: Outgoing account transfers from your IB account should be directed to the other broker. Your request will be submitted to IB from the other broker through the ACATS electronically.
3. What to Expect
Your Account
Brokers ensure the safety and security of transfer requests by only authorizing requests between open accounts that meet the following criteria:
- Same Account Title
- Same Tax ID Number
- Same Account Type
Transfer Approval
Ultimately responsible for validating the transfer, the "delivering firm" may accept information from the "receiving firm" correcting data originally entered. Approved or validated requests result in the delivery of positions to the "receiving firm" for their acceptance. Assets may not be accepted by the "receiving firm" for the following:
- Non-marginable or Margin (credit) violation
- Not Tradable
- DTC Chill
Note: The most common reasons for ACATS rejections are outlined by clicking here.
Processing Time-frame
The processing time for each transfer request is fixed. In general, approved transfers complete within 4 to 8 business days. Almost all transfers complete within 10 business days. Each firm is required to perform certain steps at specific intervals in the process. Feel free to review the Full ACATS transfer process flow.
Fees
While Interactive Brokers does not charge a fee to transfer your account via ACATS, some brokers do apply a fee for full and partial transfers. Prior to initiating your transfer, you should contact the "delivering firm" to verify any charge.
4. Who To Contact For Help
Interactive Brokers Customer Service stands poised to assist with your incoming ACATS transfer reqeust. Click here for Customer Service contact resources.
Note: Outgoing or ACATS transfers sending accounts to another broker should be directed to the "receiving firm." Their Account Transfer Group will work with Interactive Brokers directly to complete your outgoing request.
Application considerations for Non-Resident Indians (NRI)
Overview:
Who or What is an NRI?
An Indian Citizen who stays abroad for employment, carrying on business, vacations outside of India or stays abroad under circumstances indicating an intention for an uncertain duration of stay abroad is considered a NRI. In addition, persons posted in U.N. organizations and officials deputed abroad by Central/ State Government and Public Sector Undertakings on temporary assignments are also treated as NRIs. Non-resident foreign citizens of Indian Origin are treated on par with Non-Resident Indian citizens. According to the Indian Government, anybody who resides outside of India for period of 182 days in a calendar year is considered a Non Resident Indian.
IB provides NRIs with trading access on the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) through the IB-India subsidiary. Futures and Futures Options trading are available through the F&O Segment, however, at this time stock trading is not yet available.
In order to open an NRI account, applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the identity documentation and bank account prerequisites outlined below.
Background:
1. Identity - PAN Card
The PAN (Permanent Account Number). is a ten-digit alphanumeric code generated by the India's 'Income Tax Department, This is required by anyone and everyone who wish to conduct any kind of financial transaction in India. If you do not have a PAN card you will need to apply for one before your trading account can be considered for opening. You can apply for a PAN card online though the Tax Information Network (TIN) of the Income Tax Department of India (see link below).
The following documentation will be required to complete the application, and is split into two categories, Proof Of Identity and Proof of Address none of which can be older than six months. PAN cards will ordinarilly be received within 15-25 business days.
1. Proof Of Identity (Copy of)
· Passport
· Drivers License
· Voted Identity Card
· Property Tax Bill
· Water Bill
· Credit Card Bill
· Bank Account Statement / Passbook
2. Proof of Address (Copy of)
· Electricity Bill
· Telephone Bill
· Credit Card Statement
· Employer Certificate
· Passport
· Ration Card
· Property Tax Bill
Applications can be done online by clicking on the following link for the Income Tax Department
of India,
https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/pan/index.html .
2. NRI Bank Accounts
Indian Regulations Require that customers must have a set of two Indian Bank Accounts, Ordinary Non-Resident Account in Rupees (NRO Main) and Ordinary Non Resident Account in Rupees, Portfolio Investment Scheme (NRO PIS). The second account is considered a sub of the main NRO Account. The functions for each account are described below:
Ordinary Non-Resident Account in Rupees (NRO Main):
· Received funds that have been converted from the home currency to NRI (Indian Rupees)
· Serves to provide the initial funding for the IB Account
· Funds can be used for initial stock trading
· Serves to receive the proceeds from futures and options trades
Ordinary Non Resident Account in Rupees, Portfolio Investment Scheme (NRO PIS)
· The account used to fund/withdraw monies to/from the IBI Brokerage account for stock purchased/sold, by the exact amount including IBI commissions and costs, after IBI has issued a contract note for the trade. This is required to satisfy Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Regulations when a NRO Main Account is Opened.
NRI Bank Accounts can be opened by any of the following major banks, most of which offer online application facilities.
ICICI - http://www.icicibank.com/
HSBC - http://www.hsbc.co.in/1/2/
State Bank of India – www.statebankofindia.com
As another option customers can also a set of Non Resident External (NRE) accounts, these are not purely optional accounts, and are not required for trading in the Indian Markets through Interactive Brokers India. Please use the following link for additional information on this option :
http://www.interactivebrokers.co.in/en/accounts/individuals/nriFactSheet.php?
ib_entity=in
Other Links:
IB India Website- www.interactivebrokers.co.in
Tax Information Network (PAN Card Information) -
https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/pan/form49A.html
Overview of Fees
Clients and as well as prospective clients are encouraged to review our website where fees are outlined in detail.
An overview of the most common fees is provided below:
1. Commissions - vary by product type and listing exchange and whether you elect a bundled (all in) or unbundled plan. In the case of US stocks, for example, we charge $0.005 per share with a minimum per trade of $1.00.
2. Interest - interest is charged on margin debit balances and IBKR uses internationally recognized benchmarks on overnight deposits as a basis for determining interest rates. We then apply a spread around the benchmark interest rate (“BM”) in tiers, such that larger cash balances receive increasingly better rates, to determine an effective rate. For example, in the case of USD denominated loans, the benchmark rate is the Fed Funds effective rate and a spread of 1.5% is added to the benchmark for balances up to $100,000. In addition, individuals who short stock should be aware of special fees expressed in terms of daily interest where the stock borrowed to cover the short stock sale is considered 'hard-to-borrow'.
3. Exchange Fees - again vary by product type and exchange. For example, in the case of US securities options, certain exchanges charge a fee for removing liquidity (market order or marketable limit order) and provide payments for orders which add liquidity (limit order). In addition, many exchanges charge fees for orders which are canceled or modified.
4. Market Data - you are not required to subscribe to market data, but if you do you may incur a monthly fee which is dependent upon the vendor exchange and their subscription offering. We provide a Market Data Assistant tool which assists in selecting the appropriate market data subscription service available based upon the product you wish to trade. To access, log in to Portal click on the Support section and then the Market Data Assistant link.
5. Minimum Monthly Activity Fee - there is no monthly minimum activity requirement or inactivity fee in your IBKR account.
6. Miscellaneous - IBKR allows for one free withdrawal per month and charges a fee for each subsequent withdrawal. In addition, there are certain pass-through fees for trade bust requests, options and futures exercise & assignments and ADR custodian fees.
For additional information, we recommend visiting our website and selecting any of the options from the Pricing menu option.
