A margin account and a cash account are two distinct types of brokerage accounts, each serving different purposes and operating under different rules.

In a cash account, investors must pay the full cost of their trades upfront using their funds. This means that all purchases must be made with the available cash balance in the account, and no borrowing is allowed. For example, if an investor wants to buy $5,000 worth of stocks, they need to have $5,000 in their account. Cash accounts are straightforward, carry no interest charges, and have less risk compared to margin accounts, making them suitable for conservative investors.

A margin account, on the other hand, allows investors to borrow funds from their broker to purchase securities. This leverage enables traders to buy more than their available cash balance. For instance, with an initial margin requirement of 50%, an investor with $5,000 can purchase up to $10,000 worth of securities by borrowing the remaining $5,000. However, this borrowed amount incurs interest, and the account is subject to margin requirements, such as the maintenance margin.

The key differences lie in the ability to borrow, associated risks, and costs. While margin accounts offer the potential for higher returns, they also expose investors to greater losses and the risk of margin calls.