Account Information

How do I open an Account?

Follow the instructions on the open account page. If you have any questions about the account opening procedure please contact one of our support representatives at (909) 396-8899.

Are you SIPC insured?

Global-American Investments is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). The SIPC is an independent corporation that is used to help meet customer claims in the event a broker-dealer fails. SIPC funds are available to meet customer claims up to a maximum of $500,000 in cash and securities, with a $100,000 cash maximum. Coverage does not insure against market loss or any other risk except the failure of the broker-dealer or its clearing firm.

In addition, Penson Financial Services Inc. has purchased a supplemental insurance policy for an additional $10,000,000 to protect customers in the event of Penson Financial Services' failure.

Who is Computer Clearing Services?

Penson Financial Services Inc. clears our securities transactions and handles all of the cash and securities for our customers. Penson Financial Services Inc. has been a leader in the online trading business and with their extensive data infrastructure, they continue to provide efficient clearing services. For more information on Penson Financial Services Inc., visit them at www.penson.com.

What are Global-American Investments account requirements?

There are two requirements to open Global-American Investment's account.

1. Financial Suitability: Global-American Investment's clients must be able to withstand the risks associated with active trading. Therefore, you must be able to certify that you meet or exceed the following: U.S. $35,000 annual income AND U.S. $50,000 liquid net worth*.

( * Liquid net worth is exclusive of primary residence or farm. It may also not include real estate, collectibles, or other items that may be of value but cannot be readily converted to cash.)

2. Minimum Equity: Initial funding requirements for non-day trading accounts is a minimum of $10,000 cash or net equity in freely transferable securities or a combination of both. An initial funding and maintenance requirement for pattern day trading accounts is US$25,000 per regulatory requirements. We recommend a higher initial deposit for more flexibility in trading activities.

When can I start trading?

Once Penson Financial Services Inc. has received your funds, you will be emailed with both the link and a password. After you have downloaded and installed the software on your computer, you may use this password to make trades.

How do I withdraw money from my account?

There are several options for withdrawing funds from your account. If you have any question or need assist withdrawing funds please call our service desk at (909) 396-8899.

By Check:

1. Fill out a check request form.

2. Fax the completed and signed form to 909-396-1883.

You can expect to receive the check within 2 to 3 days.

By Wire:

1. Fill out a wire request form.

2. Fax the completed and signed form to 909-396-1883.

The funds will be wired to your account on the same day if our office receives the request before 10:00 am Monday to Friday (PST).

Can I download the software before my account is funded?

Yes, you can download and install the software before you account is sufficiently funded. However, you will be unable to trade until you properly fund the your account at Penson Financial Services Inc.and have received the software trading password from Global-American Investments by email.

 

The risk of loss in electronic trading can be substantial. You should therefore consider whether such trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances and financial resources. Not all securities, products or services described are available in all countries, and nothing herein is an offer or solicitation of securities products and services in any jurisdiction where their offer or sale is not qualified or exempt from registration. Please be aware that in the event of a power failure or brownout, customers may have a potential problem reaching Global-American Investments, Inc., or being able to access their accounts to trade. Copyright 2000, 2001. All rights reserved. ©