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Series 7: Investment Information & Recommendations
Series 7 practice questionmediumMargin Accounts — SMA

SMA (Special Memorandum Account) in a long margin account increases when:

  1. AThe market value of securities declines
  2. BThe market value of securities increases above the Reg T requirement✓ Correct answer
  3. CThe client receives a margin call
  4. DThe debit balance increases
Explanation

Why BThe market value of securities increases above the Reg T requirement

SMA increases when the market value of securities in the account rises, creating excess equity above the Reg T 50% requirement. SMA also increases from cash deposits, dividends received, and interest credits. Importantly, SMA represents buying power — each $1 of SMA provides $2 of buying power (at 50% Reg T). SMA does not decrease when the market value declines (it has a ratchet effect).

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