The Securities and Exchange Commission has eliminated the rule requiring active traders to maintain a minimum of $25 000 in their accounts.

Replacement with real‑time risk assessment

The agency replaced the fixed threshold with a model that evaluates margin requirements and risk exposures in real time for each account holder.

Under the new framework, restrictions will depend on current margin positions and demonstrated risk, rather than a static account balance.

Enforcement and operational changes

Broker-dealers will be able to block trading activity when accounts breach margin or risk limits, and firms must monitor exposures continuously.

The updated approach is intended to allow more flexible access while preserving tools for intervention when violations occur.

Possible effects on crypto-related trading

Observers note the measure could indirectly expand retail access to crypto-related instruments, including exchange-traded funds and shares of mining companies.

By shifting to real-time risk controls, the SEC aims to align oversight with intraday trading practices and evolving market structures.