What is a margin account?

A margin account is specifically designed to allow investors to borrow money from their brokerage to purchase additional securities, leveraging their existing investments. This borrowing occurs against the investor's securities in the account, enabling them to buy more than they could with just their available cash. The use of borrowed funds can amplify both potential gains and losses.

This account type is fundamentally different from the other options listed. Accounts with no minimum balance requirements typically refer to standard brokerage or checking accounts, and they do not offer the capability to borrow against investments. A savings account with a fixed interest rate focuses on preserving capital and earning interest rather than facilitating leveraged transactions. An account exclusively for holding mutual funds implies a restriction to certain investment types, without the provision for borrowing funds.

Therefore, recognizing the features of a margin account contextually helps to distinguish it from other types of accounts and underscores the key function it serves in investing.