With the recent win in EMC, the sale of some EMC contracts has pushed my account over the $2,000 threshold for a margin account.  Although margin can be dangerous to play with if used recklessly, I think I have enough maturity to use it wisely if needed.  The primary reason for a margin account is the ability to execute complex options chains such as spreads and straddles.  With the subscription to Thestreet.com’s Options Alerts, I need the higher trading levels in order to test out their more exotic, and at times less risky, options chains.  I’ll let you know how it goes!