What is the primary purpose of a margin account?

• A. To evade risk
• B. To hold only cash investments
• C. To guarantee a fixed rate of return
• D. To borrow money using securities and cash as collateral

Answer: (D)

A margin account serves to extend credit to an investor by using the securities and cash in the account as collateral. This arrangement allows you to borrow funds to purchase additional securities or to access liquidity, effectively leveraging your investment. Because you’re borrowing, interest charges apply and there are margin requirements to maintain the loan, with the risk that a drop in market value can trigger a margin call. The other ideas don’t fit because margin accounts aren’t meant to evade risk, aren’t limited to cash-only investments, and don’t guarantee a fixed return—returns depend on market performance and the cost of borrowing.