Viewing broker balances

Check broker balances in real-time and maintain margin requirements

Step 1: Navigate to the broker balances

In the top menu, click on the Broker balance option. Balance data will only be displayed for those brokers with APIs connected so head to the Connect API option to add the required data if necessary.

Step 2: Check balance data

Broker balance data is retrieved in real-time from your broker accounts. Remember to maintain sufficient margin to facilitate trading.

Step 3: Deploy strategies to specific accounts

By connecting multiple broker accounts to Level2 you have the option to deploy specific strategies to specific brokers. Choose your preferred broker account from the drop-down list on the deploy page.

What is trading margin?

Margin trading is another term for leveraged trading – the method used to open a position on a financial market using a deposit (called margin). When trading on margin, your broker is essentially loaning you the full value of the trade, requiring a deposit as security.

The margin deposit is the amount of money you need to place your trade and is defined by the margin rate – which is expressed as a percentage. For example, suppose you want to buy 10 shares valued at £100 each. If you were to buy these through a traditional broker, you’d need to pay the full £1000 upfront. At a margin rate of 20%, you’d only need to put down £200 while still getting exposure to the full value of the trade.