%% Well that maybe a common problem ,zdreg but not the brokers fault -- too large trading- too /much in market. NOT likely your first sentence applies to AMTD;+ its up 100% past 52 weeks, not a stock tip or predicton. Actually the IB [Interactive Brokers advice, get 2 accounts] was not maybe not limited to SIPC; its diversification of location+ most likely IB does not want you putting all eggs in one basket.
re:systems going down. of course it is the broker's fault unless it is widespread internet issue or a quote feed issue from the exchanges. brokers are responsible for capacity issues and limiting bugs when updating their platforms. generally the above has nothing to do with the price of stock,