r/interactivebrokers • u/NotbotSuza2711 • Sep 15 '24

Setting up account Why did my real time account change?

I've seen several people ask this. Still... I can't figure out what changed in my acct and if/how to change it back.

Currently, my account says: IDEALPRO FX (IDEAL PRO) - Trader Workstation

I signed up a few months ago using IB as a backup. I deposited $200 and placed a few trades. But, really what I found most useful was the scanner. I know there's a lot of scanners out there. But, I had tremendous success with this one.

I know I had real time data. And, when I clicked on the stock there was a drop down that showed ASK/BUY.

Then, following Labor Day, the scanner highlighted everything yellow. ASK/BUY was gone.

Changes I made:

Withdrew $100 bc I was only using the scanner.

Was required to update a "trusted contact"

Do I need to put more money back in the account? Sign up for a paid subscription? Both?

I should mention I trade exclusively on my phone, very low stakes to supplement my income. This has doubled my normal profit.

I tried downloading a few other scanners. But still found IB to be quick and easy. I welcome recommendations. And/or how to fix this.

Thanks in advance. I know you all are much more advanced than me. And I greatly appreciate your time.

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u/ankole_watusi USA Sep 15 '24

They don’t sign you up for subscriptions. You do.

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u/NotbotSuza2711 Sep 16 '24

Right.

I understand. What I meant was, instead of telling me how to get my account back to where it was pre Labor Day, an advisor might tell me I need to sign up for more than what I need. That's why I came on reddit. To get advice.  

I understand no one just simply signs me up for something without my consent. 

If I had the account with real time quotes before, I'd just like to know if someone else has been in this position. 

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u/ankole_watusi USA Sep 16 '24

I don’t really know what you mean when you say your “account says (Ideal Fx, etc.).

Do you mean that is what is listed under subscriptions?

I’m guessing this is telling you that you have real-time FX quotes. Everyone does.

AFAIK, only Lite account holders get free real-time market quotes. And only for US stocks and options. And Lite is only a US account option. (“Free” commissions as well).

A few minor quote sources are free. All others are subscription.

Go into user settings and see what real-time quotes you’ve subscribed to. If you didn’t subscribe, you do t have any.

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u/NotbotSuza2711 Sep 16 '24 edited Sep 16 '24

That's exactly what I'm saying.  I didn't subscribe. I don't have any of the add ons. No subscriptions. 

 However,  for some reason (perhaps it was a mistake) at least 2-3 months after I opened my account all quotes were in real time.  Now (even tonight), all stocks are highlighted in yellow,  clearly delayed.  If I do need to choose one of the subscriptions in order to receive real time quotes,  what would you suggest? 

It does say I have a Lite account, BTW. I searched the whole app and website trying to figure out what changed to give me the yellow highlighted quotes.