Settlement
The process of finalising a trade — exchanging cash for the security — which completes a day or two after the trade (e.g. T+2).
Related terms
Related lessons
Cash Accounts
The simple, sensible default brokerage account: what a cash account is, how settlement and settled funds work, why it carries no borrowing risk, what happens to uninvested cash, and why it suits almost every beginner.
Margin Accounts
Borrowing to invest: how a margin account works, how leverage magnifies gains and losses alike, the mechanics and danger of margin calls and forced liquidation, the cost of margin interest, and why beginners should steer clear.
401(k)
The US workplace retirement plan: what a 401(k) is, how pre-tax (and Roth) contributions work, why an employer match is free money to claim first, how tax-deferred growth compounds, contribution limits, vesting, and the rules around accessing the money.
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