Is margin trading & leverage a smart strategy, or is it just added risk? In this video, Ryan O’Connell, CFA, FRM, breaks down the real impact of margin trading on portfolio returns using a data-driven Excel analysis and Monte Carlo simulation. You'll learn how margin works, leverage ratios, and margin interest rates affect investment growth—and whether the potential higher returns outweigh the risks.
We start by explaining the fundamentals of leverage and margin trading, followed by a step-by-step portfolio growth model comparing leveraged vs. non-leveraged strategies. I used Interactive Brokers' margin rates for this analysis, but you can apply the same approach using Fidelity, Robinhood, or Binance margin rates as well.
📊 *Margin Rate Calculator →* https://ryano.finance/ibkr-margin
💾 *Download Free Excel File Here:* https://ryanoconnellfinance.com/product/margin-trading-return-simulator/
Chapters:
0:00 - What Is Leverage?
0:50 - Setting Expectations: Return & Risk
2:05 - Margin Trading Explained: How It Works & Costs
4:18 - Understanding Leverage Ratios & Their Impact
4:57 - Predicting Portfolio Growth With Margin Trading
9:22 - Comparing Portfolio Growth: With & Without Margin
10:15 - Monte Carlo Simulation: Testing Margin Trading Performance
11:49 - Is Using Margin Worth It?
*Disclosure: This is not financial advice and should not be taken as such. The information contained in this video is an opinion. Some of the information could be wrong. This channel is owned and operated by Portfolio Constructs LLC. Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
This content is provided by a paid Influencer of Interactive Brokers. Influencer is not employed by, partnered with, or otherwise affiliated with Interactive Brokers in any additional fashion. This content represents the opinions of Influencer, which are not necessarily shared by Interactive Brokers. The experiences of the Influencer may not be representative of other customers, and nothing within this content is a guarantee of future performance or success.
None of the information contained herein constitutes a recommendation, promotion, offer, or solicitation of an offer by Interactive Brokers to buy, sell or hold any security, financial product or instrument or to engage in any specific investment strategy. Investment involves risks. Investors should obtain their own independent financial advice and understand the risks associated with investment products and services before making investment decisions. Risk disclosure statements can be found on the Interactive Brokers website.
Interactive Brokers is a FINRA registered broker and SIPC member, as well as a National Futures Association registered Futures Commission Merchant. Interactive Brokers provides execution and clearing services to its customers. For more information regarding Interactive Brokers or any Interactive Brokers products or services referred to in this video, please visit www.interactivebrokers.com.
The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes generated by the Tools mentioned in this video are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results. It is important to understand that these projections are based on certain assumptions and models, and actual outcomes may differ significantly. Please note that results may vary over time.
Any trading symbols, entities or investment products displayed or named in this podcast are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to portray recommendations.
Margin Trading:
Trading on margin is only for sophisticated investors with high risk tolerance. You may lose more than your initial investment. For additional information regarding margin loan rates, see ibkr.com/interest
Any discussion or mention of an ETF is not to be construed as a recommendation, promotion or solicitation. All investors should review and consider associated investment risks, charges and expenses of the investment company or fund prior to investing. Before acting on this material, you should consider whether it is suitable for your particular circumstances and, as necessary, seek professional advice.