Updated Monday, October 10, 2011



Company Background:

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Regal Securities, the parent company of eOption, was founded in 1976 as an independent brokerage firm.  Its founder, George Bokios, was also one of the founding members of the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE).  The company is privately held and headquartered in Glenview, Illinois.

Regal Securities first foray into the online brokerage business was with the Investrade brand in 1997. eOption was later launched in 2007 to capitalize on the growing popularity of options trading.  Both platforms are still active and execute both stock and options trades. eOption's clearing firm is Penson Financial Services.

Platforms:

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• Website: www.eoption.com
• Advanced Trading Platform: Several high frequency trading platforms available
• Mobile Website: No
• iPhone / iPad / Android / BlackBerry Apps: No

Review Summary:

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eOption plays the role of discount broker well.  The trading platform is not high tech but it is easy to use and gets the job done.  As one would expect from the name, options trading in particular is well done.  Commissions and fees are some of the best in the industry.  Other nice features include excellent margin rates and a good dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP).  Drawbacks include an outdated account opening process and terrible charts.  There are also no mobile trading solutions.  Despite these limitations, those looking for a simple web based trading platform for a good value deserve to give eOption a look.

Detailed Reviews by Category:

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• Account Opening: D
• Stock Trading: B
• Options Trading: B
• Charts: D
• Research Tools: C
• Commissions and Fees: Pass
• Margin Rates
• Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs): Yes
• Extended Hours Trading: Yes
• Mint.com Compatibility: No
• Wikinvest Compatibility: No
• Clearing Firms