Common questions & answers
1) Where are you located?
We are headquartered in Chicago with affiliates across the globe. Addresses and phone numbers.
7) What makes you different from other brokers?
Our expertise and longevity in the business really sets us apart. As the saying goes, "You don't get to be the best because you are the oldest, you get to be the oldest because you are the best."
In addition, every client of the Zaner Group, even online self-directed traders, has a personal broker they can call and email with questions, requests, or issues. Our clients do not call a call-center when they have an issue or problem. They call their personal broker!
In addition, every client of the Zaner Group, even online self-directed traders, has a personal broker they can call and email with questions, requests, or issues. Our clients do not call a call-center when they have an issue or problem. They call their personal broker!
2) How long has Zaner been in business?
Zaner has been a commodities brokerage firm for years.
3) What are your hours?
Standard office hours for the Chicago HQ is 9 am CST - 5 pm CST, Monday through Friday. Branch and affiliate hours may differ.
Trading support hours are virtually 24/7.
Trading support hours are virtually 24/7.
4) What are your commission rates?
Commission
We offer many account types and trading solutions, therefore each commission rate is custom built. Rates are based on:
We offer many account types and trading solutions, therefore each commission rate is custom built. Rates are based on:
- Service level
- Style of trading
- Average contracts per ticket
- Contracts you trade per month
- Risk level of account
Request a custom commission quote.
Fees
We individually identify and list all portions of your trading costs on your statements. This way you can manage your costs more effectively. These fees can include:
- Exchange, clearing, brokerage and NFA
- Technology (platform)
- Account maintenance (if applicable)
5) Are you registered and regulated?
Zaner has been regulated and registered with Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and a member of National Futures Association (NFA) since 1982. In addition, we are members of the National Introducing Brokers Association, Illinois Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau.
6) I want to be a Foreign Consultant / IB. What are the requirements?
Please call us at 312-277-0050 for more information.
8) Can I get a credit for referring a friend to Zaner?
Yes, we always welcome referrals. Earn a $50 trading rebate for each client you refer to us. Please call us at 312-277-0050 for details.
9) What types of accounts do you accept?
We service accounts for clients across the globe.
- Individual
- Joint Tenants in Common
- Joint with Rights of Survivorship
- Corporate
- Partnership
- LLC
- Trusts
- Retirement (IRA)
- Power of Attorney
- Self-Directed
- Advised & Assisted
- Institutional
- Systems Execution
- Paper-Trading
- Managed
10) What is the minimum amount of money needed to open an account?
This depends on service and account type. Generally, $5000 is the minimum.
11) Where is my money held?
Deposits for futures accounts are held in segregated accounts at your clearing firm.
12) Is my money FDIC insured or otherwise?
Futures accounts receive the protection of segregated accounts. NFA publication: The Story Behind the Financial Integrity of the U.S. Futures Markets
13) How can I review my account activity?
All accounts at Zaner can review their statements either online, fax or mail.
14) What are the margin requirements for holding a position overnight?
Overnight margins are set by the exchanges. Zaner generally requires the exchange minimum margins. Complete margin list
15) What are your day-trading margins?
Zaner's day-trading margins are as low as $500. A good rule-of-thumb is 50% of overnight margin.
16) Can I trade stocks with you?
Zaner specializes in the futures and forex markets only.
17) Can I demo your trading platforms?
Yes. Sign up here.
18) Do you offer paper-trading?
Yes. More information.