I use Global Futures the most. A daytrade margin for an ESm11 is $500 and less, depending on your account size. I think $1000 opens an account - not sure.
The overall best experience for me has been InteractiveBrokers.com. But I got in pinch once and left them, never to return. I will probably close out my EminiDirect account and go back there.
One good thing about Global..... If you use certain data providers they will have your exchange fees waived. For me, that saves about $90 a month. Their executions are very good too. My only real complaint is I have trouble setting up wires taking money out (sometimes). But a phone call quickly gets me flying if I have trouble.
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