Equity Trust Company

Equity Trust Company: A Comprehensive Overview

1. Company Overview

Founding Date and Background

Equity Trust Company was founded in 1974, initially operating as a brokerage firm. It transitioned into a self-directed IRA custodian in 1983, focusing on providing individuals with the ability to manage their retirement accounts with a diverse range of investment options beyond traditional stocks and bonds.

Parent Company/Ownership Structure

Equity Trust Company operates as an independent entity and is not a subsidiary of a larger parent company. It has established itself as a leader in the self-directed IRA market, providing custodial services for a variety of alternative investments.

Headquarters Location

The company is headquartered in Westlake, Ohio, USA. This central location allows it to serve clients across the United States effectively.

Global Business Scope

While primarily serving clients in the United States, Equity Trust Company has a growing presence in the global market, particularly in the realm of self-directed retirement accounts and alternative investments. Its focus is on empowering individual investors to take control of their financial futures.

Main Regulatory Bodies

Equity Trust Company is regulated by several key bodies, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These regulatory frameworks ensure compliance with federal laws governing retirement accounts and investment services.

2. Company History and Development

Key Milestones

• 1974: Equity Trust Company is founded as a brokerage firm.
• 1983: The company becomes a qualified custodian for self-directed IRAs.
• 2020-2024: Recognized as the "Best Self-Directed IRA Company" by Investopedia.

Business Expansion Journey

Over the years, Equity Trust has expanded its services to include a wide range of alternative investment options, such as real estate, private equity, and cryptocurrencies. This evolution reflects the shifting preferences of investors seeking more control and diversification in their retirement strategies.

Customer Base Growth

Equity Trust Company has grown significantly, currently managing over 368,000 accounts with more than $52 billion in retirement assets under custody. This growth is indicative of the increasing demand for self-directed retirement accounts and alternative investments.

Platform Development History

The company has continually invested in technology to enhance its platform, including the launch of the "My Equity" account management system, which allows clients to manage their investments seamlessly online. This technological advancement has improved the user experience and operational efficiency.

Important Awards or Recognitions Received

Equity Trust has received numerous accolades, including an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and recognition as a top workplace in Northeast Ohio. These awards reflect the company's commitment to exceptional customer service and operational excellence.

3. Trading Services Offered

Forex Trading Options

Equity Trust Company offers a range of forex trading options, allowing clients to trade multiple currency pairs. The exact number of currency pairs available may vary, but the platform typically provides access to major, minor, and exotic pairs, catering to various trading strategies.

Stock Trading Options

Clients can invest in a wide variety of stocks through their self-directed IRAs. This flexibility enables investors to build diversified portfolios that align with their financial goals.

CFD Trading Products

Equity Trust offers Contracts for Difference (CFDs) as part of its trading services. This allows clients to speculate on price movements of various assets without owning the underlying asset, providing additional trading strategies.

Other Financial Instruments

In addition to forex and stock trading, Equity Trust Company provides access to a diverse array of financial instruments, including:

• Cryptocurrencies: Clients can invest in various digital currencies, reflecting the growing interest in this asset class.
• Commodities: Investors have the opportunity to trade commodities, further diversifying their portfolios.

Special Services or Unique Advantages

Equity Trust Company differentiates itself by offering a comprehensive suite of self-directed retirement accounts, enabling clients to invest in alternative assets such as real estate, precious metals, and private equity. This flexibility, combined with a user-friendly platform and exceptional customer support, positions Equity Trust as a leader in the self-directed IRA space.

4. Regulatory and Legal Background

Detailed Regulatory Information

Equity Trust Company is subject to regulation by several key bodies:

• Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Governs retirement accounts and tax-advantaged investments.
• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): Regulates securities transactions and investment practices.
• Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA): Oversees brokerage firms and exchange markets.

Legal Entity Structure by Region

Equity Trust Company operates primarily as a custodian for self-directed IRAs in the United States. It adheres to federal regulations and state laws governing financial services and investments.

Client Fund Protection Measures

To ensure client fund protection, Equity Trust employs stringent security measures, including advanced encryption technologies and compliance with industry regulations. Client funds are held in separate accounts to safeguard against potential risks.

Countries/Regions Served

While Equity Trust primarily serves clients in the United States, it is increasingly catering to international investors interested in self-directed retirement accounts and alternative investments.

Compliance History

Equity Trust Company has maintained a strong compliance record, adhering to all regulatory requirements and industry standards. Its commitment to transparency and ethical practices has fostered trust among its clients.

5. Competitive Landscape

Main Competitors

Equity Trust Company faces competition from several key players in the self-directed IRA market, including:

• Entrust Group
• Self Directed IRA Services
• Millennium Trust Company
• Regal Assets

Positioning in the Industry

Equity Trust Company is positioned as a leading provider of self-directed IRAs, with a focus on alternative investments. Its extensive experience, robust technology platform, and commitment to customer service set it apart from competitors.

Market Differentiation Factors

Equity Trust differentiates itself through:

• A comprehensive range of investment options, including alternative assets.
• A user-friendly online platform that simplifies account management.
• Exceptional customer support and personalized service.
• A strong track record of compliance and trustworthiness.

Conclusion

Equity Trust Company stands out as a leader in the self-directed IRA market, offering a robust platform for investors seeking to diversify their retirement portfolios with alternative assets. With a commitment to customer service, regulatory compliance, and innovative technology, Equity Trust empowers clients to take control of their financial futures.

Back to top

For more information about Equity Trust Company and its services, learn more.