Open an Account

Account Opening

Getting Started
Complete our online account forms by clicking here and send completed forms to:

Variance Trading
Attention: New Accounts
135 East 57th Street
10th Floor
New York, NY 10016

Questions & Answers

What trading platform do we offer?
Our proprietary order entry system is one of the most technologically-advanced, sophisticated and feature-rich software systems available today. This system was developed exclusively for our professional, active traders who require fast executions and direct access to primary liquidity pools and execution venues. It has been designed to allow customization of its display features and venue routing to meet the needs of each individual trader.

Is remote trading avilable?
Yes, our remote traders connect using VPN (Virtual Private Networking). Please check the hardware requirements for remote VPN trading here.

Do you offer automated trading (i.e. Black Box)
Yes, we offer cutting-edge technology, competitive pricing, dedicated technical support and customer service to the retail automated trader. We have engineered our technology from the ground up for data delivery and speed of execution with the automated trader in mind. From the order entry process to the reports and information available, we offer a complete technology package designed for the Black Box trading.

What are the requirements for opening an account with Variance Trading?
The firm performs a suitability determinations based on regulatory and firm requirements, generally the firm suggest a minimum balance of $30,000. An active trader's account must contain a minimum equity of $25,000 at the beginning of each trading day. If an active trader's account falls below the required minimum equity, then no further day trades will be permitted until the requirement is maintained. Please call a registered representative to discuss these requirements further.

How can I fund my account?

1. Check
2. Wire transfer
3. Transfer of marginable securities:
   • ACAT-this is a means of transferring all funds and/or securities from another brokerage account. Please call for the necessary forms.
   • DTC-this is a means of transferring specific securities from another brokerage account to your new account.

Please note that if you will be transferring securities, you may fund an account only with NASDAQ or NYSE listed marginable securities.

Which securities may I trade?
NASDAQ, NYSE listed stocks, AMEX stocks and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs).

What are the commissions and fees charged to an account?
Commissions are charged on a per share basis, determined by each customer's monthly trading volume. Additional fees include electronic communications network (ECNs), Supermontage (NASDAQ), NYSE, AMEX, SEC fees and margin interest, as well as fees for wire transfers, duplicate statements and returned checks or wires. Please call a registered representative to discuss further.

Are account confirmations and statements available online?
Yes, confirmations and statements are available for viewing online at any time.

What do I need to provide when opening a corporate account?
Along with the standard account opening package, you must include copies of all corporate documents, including organizational documents, corporate resolutions, operating or shareholder agreements, partnership agreements, trader authorizations, photo identification for all beneficial account owners (license or passport), and any other relevant corporate documents.

To whom should I send my completed new account paperwork?

Variance Trading
Attention: New Accounts
135 East 57th Street 10th Floor
New York, NY 10016

Please be sure to include photo identification for all beneficial account owners (license or passport).

How will I know if my account is approved?
You will be notified by your registered representative with an account number and a personal username and password to access our trading system.