Margin Debt

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Definition of 'Margin Debt'

Margin debt is a type of loan that allows investors to purchase securities with borrowed money. The loan is secured by the securities purchased, and the interest rate is typically higher than the interest rate on a personal loan or credit card.

Margin debt can be used to increase the potential return on an investment, but it also increases the risk of loss. If the value of the securities purchased declines, the investor may be required to deposit additional funds to maintain the margin requirement. If the investor is unable to meet the margin requirement, the broker may sell the securities to cover the loan.

Margin debt is a powerful tool that can be used to generate significant returns, but it is important to understand the risks involved before using it. Investors should only use margin debt if they are comfortable with the risks and have a plan for how they will manage their positions if the market declines.

Here are some additional details about margin debt:

* Margin debt is typically offered by brokerage firms.
* The interest rate on margin debt is typically higher than the interest rate on a personal loan or credit card.
* The margin requirement is the amount of equity that an investor must have in their account in order to borrow money.
* If the value of the securities purchased declines, the investor may be required to deposit additional funds to maintain the margin requirement.
* If the investor is unable to meet the margin requirement, the broker may sell the securities to cover the loan.

Margin debt can be a useful tool for investors who are looking to increase their potential return, but it is important to understand the risks involved before using it.

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