Why does Interactive Brokers impose such restrictive limits for options trading?

Discussion in 'Options' started by Con1991, Apr 18, 2023.

  1. Con1991

    Con1991

    So, further to previous posts I have made in relation to my paper trading journey on IB, I am faced with yet another issue. When attempting to trade large-size options contracts, I am receiving a message informing me the order is rejected, as it is too large. Having used other paper trading platforms, I have never encountered this issue with other brokers. Why does IB impose such limits? I wonder does this only apply to simulated accounts, and it is not the case on live accounts? Between all of the 'regulatory' problems and such like, I am very unhappy that IB is my only venue to trade options here in Europe...
     
  2. newwurldmn

    newwurldmn

    200,000 spx options is 80billion in notional.

    I’m pretty sure the real system will prevent you from sending that.
     
  3. Con1991

    Con1991

    Well, TD Ameritrade allows it.
     
  4. Overnight

    Overnight

    Well, IB's sim engine is smarter than TD's, now isn't it? Have you tried to do that 200K order on a live account at TD?
     
  5. Con1991

    Con1991

    Not on live account no. If the liquidity is there I don't see the issue. The brokerage receives commission for each contract after all.
     
  6. Con1991

    Con1991

    Also, IB's paper account only partially fills orders, and mostly only fills upon market open and close. Which is also a sign something is amiss I would think.
     
  7. rb7

    rb7

    Lol....no.
    There are position limits that would prevent you to do so. And it's not related to IB but to the US Option market.
     
  8. Overnight

    Overnight

    Why not? Try it if you are feeling that prowess in your gut.
     
  9. Con1991

    Con1991

    There are position limits for options, yes. However they are usually 200 or 250k, depending upon the underlying. And European index options have no position limits in place. That includes NDX, SPX, RUT etc. So it is just IB that has these independent order restrictions in place then.
     
  10. Con1991

    Con1991

    I am unable to open a TD Ameritrade live account in my country. Otherwise I would have done it already.
     
    #10     Apr 18, 2023