Cobra Trading, Inc. was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, United States. This privately held brokerage firm primarily serves active day traders and institutional clients, providing a range of trading services focused on equities and options. Over the years, Cobra Trading has established itself as a reputable broker known for its competitive commission rates and high-quality customer service.
The company has undergone significant growth since its inception, evolving its service offerings to meet the demands of a diverse trading clientele. One of the key milestones in its development was the introduction of its proprietary trading platforms, which have become essential tools for many traders. Cobra Trading is linked with well-known clearing firms like Wedbush Securities and Interactive Brokers, ensuring reliable execution and clearing of trades.
Cobra Trading operates on a direct market access model, allowing clients to execute trades swiftly and efficiently. This model is particularly beneficial for day traders who require immediate access to market data and trade execution capabilities. With a focus on delivering exceptional service and cutting-edge technology, Cobra Trading continues to cater to the needs of serious traders.
Cobra Trading is regulated by several prominent authorities, ensuring a high standard of operational integrity and client protection. The key regulatory bodies include:
These regulatory licenses are valid and encompass a wide range of activities, providing oversight for both retail and institutional trading. Cobra Trading adheres to strict compliance measures, including Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols, to safeguard against fraudulent activities.
Client funds are held in segregated accounts, providing an additional layer of security. Furthermore, through SIPC membership, clients are protected up to $500,000, with a cash limit of $250,000. Cobra Trading also offers excess SIPC coverage through Lloyd's of London, extending protection for cash and securities up to $25 million per client.
Cobra Trading provides access to a variety of trading products, primarily focusing on:
The broker does not offer cryptocurrencies or CFDs, which may limit options for some traders. However, it excels in providing access to short locates, which is a significant advantage for short sellers. The availability of hard-to-borrow stocks is a notable feature that sets Cobra Trading apart from many competitors.
Cobra Trading regularly updates its product offerings, ensuring that traders have access to the latest market opportunities. The focus on active trading means that the services are tailored to meet the needs of high-volume traders and those looking for quick execution times.
Cobra Trading offers several advanced trading platforms designed to cater to the needs of active traders:
Currently, Cobra Trading does not support MetaTrader 4 or 5, which may be a drawback for traders familiar with those platforms. However, the proprietary platforms offer extensive functionality, including API access for automated trading.
The platforms are accessible via desktop and mobile devices, allowing traders to manage their accounts and execute trades on the go. The infrastructure is designed to ensure fast execution speeds, which is critical for day trading.
Cobra Trading provides various account types, primarily designed for active traders:
The trading conditions are competitive, with equity commissions starting at $0.002 per share, depending on the trading volume. Options trading commissions range from $0.30 to $0.50 per contract. Cobra Trading also offers various leverage options, with retail leverage set at 1:4 for day trading and 1:2 for overnight trading.
Traders can benefit from a demo account to practice their strategies before committing real funds, although the minimum deposit for live accounts may be prohibitive for novice traders.
Cobra Trading supports several funding methods, including:
The minimum deposit requirement is $30,000 for U.S. accounts and $50,000 for international accounts. Deposits are processed promptly, but wire transfers may incur fees, typically around $20-$25. Withdrawals are generally processed within 1 to 3 business days, and Cobra Trading does not charge withdrawal fees, although third-party fees may apply.
The withdrawal methods include bank transfers and checks, ensuring that clients have flexible options for accessing their funds. However, the limited deposit methods may be a concern for some users.
Cobra Trading is committed to providing exceptional customer support, available via:
The support team operates from 7 AM to 4:30 PM CST, Monday through Friday, and is responsive to inquiries. However, the support is primarily available in English.
While Cobra Trading offers limited educational resources, including some tutorials and market analysis, it may not be as comprehensive as other brokers. Traders can access market news and analysis through the platforms, but those seeking extensive educational materials may find the offerings lacking.
Cobra Trading primarily serves the United States market but can accept clients from select other countries. The broker does not currently accept clients from regions with specific regulatory restrictions.
The main focus remains on providing services to U.S.-based traders, and potential clients should verify whether Cobra Trading is available in their jurisdiction before attempting to open an account.
In summary, Cobra Trading is a well-regulated broker that caters to active traders, offering competitive trading conditions and advanced platforms. However, the high minimum deposit and limited educational resources may deter novice traders. It stands out for its strong emphasis on customer service and comprehensive trading tools, making it a solid choice for experienced traders looking for a reliable brokerage.