Interactive Brokers Sees Trading Activity Surge 47% in May 2026

Interactive Brokers reported strong growth across its key operating metrics for May 2026, with trading activity, client assets, and account numbers all posting substantial year-over-year gains.

The electronic brokerage recorded 4.969 million Daily Average Revenue Trades (DARTs) during May 2026, representing a 47% increase compared with the same month last year and a 17% rise from April 2026. The figures indicate continued client engagement across the broker’s global trading platform.

Client equity reached $937.3 billion at the end of May, up 49% from a year earlier and 8% higher than the previous month. The increase brought total client assets closer to the $1 trillion mark, reflecting both market appreciation and continued account growth.

Interactive Brokers Sees Trading Activity Surge 47% in May 2026

Interactive Brokers also reported growth in margin lending activity. Ending client margin loan balances stood at $100.9 billion, rising 65% year over year and 11% month over month. Meanwhile, ending client credit balances totaled $180.1 billion, including $6.4 billion held in insured bank deposit sweep programs. Credit balances increased 34% from May 2025 and 3% from April 2026.

The broker’s client base continued to expand. Total client accounts reached 4.995 million at the end of May, an increase of 32% compared with the prior year and 3% from the previous month.

Average commission per cleared commissionable order was $2.60, including exchange, clearing, and regulatory fees.

The May operating figures follow a strong first quarter for the company. For the three months ended March 31, 2026, Interactive Brokers reported diluted earnings per share of $0.59, or $0.60 on an adjusted basis.

Net revenues totaled $1.67 billion, rising to $1.68 billion on an adjusted basis. Income before income taxes reached $1.29 billion, or $1.30 billion as adjusted.

Commission revenue increased 19% to $613 million, supported by higher customer trading activity. Stock trading volume rose 25%, while futures and options volumes increased 20% and 16%, respectively. Net interest income climbed 17% to $904 million, driven by higher average customer margin loans and customer credit balances.

Company Overview

Interactive Brokers caters to diverse requirements, offering competitive fees alongside a wide array of trading options such as stocks, ETFs, options, futures, and other global assets. It distinguishes itself as a top-tier brokerage, particularly appealing to traders and investors seeking a straightforward trading experience. With Interactive Brokers’ user-friendly platform, users can execute trades seamlessly, benefiting from competitive spreads that enhance cost-effectiveness. 

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