Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Webull
View on Wikipedia
Webull Corporation, often stylized as simply Webull, is a US-based financial services holding company headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida.[7] It provides an electronic trading platform of the same name.
Key Information
The platform is accessible via its mobile app and through desktop and offers commission-free and low-cost trading of stocks, exchange traded funds (ETFs), options, margins, fixed income, cryptocurrency and futures.
Webull was founded in 2016 by Wang Anquan and began operations under Hunan Fumi Information Technology, a Chinese holding company.[8][9][10] Wang hired Anthony Denier as CEO of the U.S. Webull brokerage that same year. Hunan Fumi Information Technology received backing from Xiaomi, Shunwei Capital, and other private equity investors in China.[11]
History
[edit]Foundation and early history (2016-2019)
[edit]Webull was founded in 2016 under Hunan Fumi Information Technology, a chinese holding company, by Wang Anquan, a former employee of Chinese technology companies Alibaba Group and Xiaomi.[9] On May 24, 2017, Webull Financial LLC was established as a Delaware limited liability company.[12][6][13] Wang hired Anthony Denier as CEO of the U.S. brokerage that year and the two mapped out their strategy on napkins at a Mexican restaurant in New York City.[10]
In January 2018, Webull became a licensed securities company in the U.S, licensed with the SEC and FINRA.[14] In September 2019, Webull Corporation was established in the Cayman Islands to serve as the parent company of Hunan Fumi Information Technology, the Webull platform, and all Webull subsidiaries.[15]
2020s (2020-present)
[edit]In May 2020, the company received SEC approval to launch a robo-advisor on its platform.[16] By August 2020, the platform had over 11 million registered users, and in October 2020, it had 750,000 daily active users.[17][18] In November 2020, Webull began supporting cryptocurrency transactions.[19] In December 2020, Webull launched in Hong Kong.[20]
On January 27, 2021, primarily due to events related to the GameStop short squeeze, Webull recorded its highest-ever number of active daily users, at 952,000, and the Webull app was downloaded across the Apple App and Google Play stores an estimated 100,000 times.[11] That week, approximately 1.2 million people downloaded the Webull mobile app, which the company reported as a 1,548% week-over-week increase.[21] On January 28, 2021, Webull was directed by its clearing house to temporarily halt buy orders for stocks affected by the GameStop short squeeze.[22][23][11]
In June 2021, Webull began talks of an initial public offering to raise up to $400 million.[24][25] On February 28, 2024, Webull announced that it had signed an agreement to publicly list on the Nasdaq through a special-purpose acquisition company deal with SK Growth Opportunities Corporation (NASDAQ: SKGR).[26][9]
In 2022, Webull Corporation restructured to move Hunan Fumi Information Technology outside of the Webull group.[15] That same year, Webull launched in Singapore,[27] Australia[28] and South Africa.[29]
In June 2023, Webull moved cryptocurrency trading to a separate app called Webull Pay.[30] By the end of 2023, Webull had 4.3 million funded accounts, with $8.2 billion USD worth of customer assets.[9] That year, Webull expanded offerings to Japan,[31] the United Kingdom[32] and Indonesia.[29]
In January 2024, Anthony Denier was promoted to group president of Webull Corporation.[33] In November 2024, Webull launched overnight, or extended-hours, trading, expanding the trading window of U.S. stocks for its users both inside and outside of the United States.[34] By the end of 2024, Webull had launched in Canada,[35] Brazil,[36] Thailand,[37] Malaysia[38] and Mexico.[39]
On April 11, 2025, Webull completed its merger with SK Growth Opportunities Corporation and began publicly trading (NASDAQ: BULL).[40]
Partnerships and sponsorships
[edit]In September 2021, BSE Global, the parent company of the Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty, entered into a global multi-year agreement with Webull and the company became the official jersey patch partner for both teams.[41][42] Terms of the agreement for the jersey patch weren't announced, but people familiar with the agreement told CNBC that it is a multi-year pact that pays the Nets roughly $30 million per year.[43]
In April 2025, Webull announced a 2025 season partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Tampa Bay Rowdies.[40] The partnership includes community initiatives such as hurricane relief fundraisers, financial literacy events with local schools and volunteering.[44]
Controversies
[edit]Webull has received controversy owing to its ties to Chinese companies, with Anthony Denier, Webull's U.S. CEO, describing Webull as "both a U.S. and Chinese company" in 2019.[45] Webull has additionally received criticism from U.S. lawmakers and states attorneys general over those ties. In 2024, a coalition of state attorneys general launched a probe into Webull over user privacy issues and concerns about the company's links to Chinese Communist Party (CCP) interests.[45][46]
2023 FINRA fine
[edit]In 2023, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) fined Webull $3 million over the company's response to customer's complaints as well as its failure to conduct due diligence when allowing users to trade options.[47]
Lawmaker scrutiny
[edit]The Wall Street Journal reported that a number of U.S. lawmakers, including Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, have expressed concerns about Webull in congressional hearings and letters to regulators.[45] In 2022, Tuberville led a bipartisan coalition of U.S. senators in introducing legislation to prevent Webull and other Chinese-owned companies from owning crypto exchange platforms.[48] In December 2024, the United States House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party raised concerns over Webull's ownership structure and operation ties to China.[46]
2024 U.S. state attorneys general probe
[edit]In 2024, attorneys general from 14 U.S. states launched a probe into Webull centered on data privacy concerns and its potential ties to the Chinese Communist Party.[49] In April 2024, the Indiana Attorney General initiated a multi-state inquiry into how Webull handles U.S. customer data, given the company's historical ownership and activity within China. In response, Denier stated that Webull operates each brokerage locally, with customer information in the US strictly stored there, explaining that "there is no one outside the US that has access to any US customer information."[9] In June 2024, the state of Tennessee banned Webull on all government-issued devices.[45]
Userbase
[edit]The company has stated it has approximately 20 million users worldwide as of February 2024.[49] Anthony Denier, the company's CEO, claimed that Webull's userbase attracted more advanced and experienced investors than competing platforms, such as Robinhood.[50] As of March 2025, Webull Corporation operated in Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, South Africa, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, Indonesia, Canada, Brazil, Thailand, Malaysia, and Mexico.
References
[edit]- ^ "GameStop, AMC Trades to Resume at Chinese Online Brokers". Bloomberg News. January 29, 2021. Archived from the original on April 17, 2022. Retrieved January 31, 2021.
- ^ Wursthorn, Michael; Choi, Euirim (August 20, 2020). "Does Robinhood Make It Too Easy to Trade? From Free Stocks to Confetti". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on December 12, 2023. Retrieved January 12, 2021.
- ^ Massa, Annie (December 10, 2020). "Webull is winning over traders from US rival". Australian Financial Review. Archived from the original on December 9, 2023. Retrieved January 13, 2021.
- ^ a b c d e "Archived copy". Archived from the original on February 28, 2024. Retrieved April 15, 2024.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) - ^ "ON THE MOVE: Firstrade Appoints Don Montanaro; Webull Promotes Anthony Denier". January 16, 2024. Archived from the original on February 28, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
- ^ a b Massa, Annie (December 8, 2020). "Robinhood Is Losing Thousands of Traders to a China-Owned Rival". Bloomberg News. Archived from the original on April 1, 2023. Retrieved January 2, 2021.
- ^ "UNITED STATESSECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549". www.sec.gov. Archived from the original on February 28, 2024. Retrieved May 2, 2024.
- ^ Zeldin, Lee (July 13, 2023). "Biden's financial regulators give China-backed brokers a hand, but who is surprised?". The Washington Times. Archived from the original on October 4, 2023. Retrieved September 23, 2023.
- ^ a b c d e "Online brokerage Webull targets young Asian traders ahead of Nasdaq IPO". Yahoo Finance. Archived from the original on March 12, 2025. Retrieved March 17, 2025.
- ^ a b "Robinhood Is Losing Thousands of Day Traders to China-Owned Webull". Bloomberg Businessweek. December 8, 2020.
- ^ a b c McGregor, Grady (February 2, 2021). "The Robinhood revolt was good for Webull, China's little-known trading app". Fortune. Archived from the original on June 1, 2023. Retrieved August 6, 2021.
- ^ "Webull Financial LLC". Delaware Department of State: Division of Corporations. Archived from the original on September 20, 2016. Retrieved February 14, 2021.
- ^ "Form ADV - CRD #: 304881" (PDF). SEC Reports. January 12, 2021. Archived (PDF) from the original on November 10, 2022. Retrieved August 6, 2021.
- ^ Shicong, Dou (July 20, 2018). "Xiaomi Fintech Unit Fumi Technology Closes USD30 Million Round-B Funding". www.yicaiglobal.com. Retrieved March 17, 2025.
- ^ a b "Fumi Technology". Tech Behind Fintech. March 11, 2025. Retrieved March 17, 2025.
- ^ Capelj, Renato (May 6, 2020). "Webull Leverages Crisis To Spur Innovation, Financial Wellness". MarketWatch. Archived from the original on April 26, 2023. Retrieved January 13, 2021.
- ^ Graw, Michael (August 20, 2020). "Commission-free brokerage Webull launches desktop platform". TechRadar. Archived from the original on December 12, 2023. Retrieved January 2, 2021.
- ^ Osipovich, Alexander (October 16, 2020). "Individual-Investing Boom Fuels Trading in Low-Price Stocks". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on December 9, 2023. Retrieved January 12, 2021.
- ^ Vigna, Paul (December 16, 2020). "Bitcoin Tops $20,000 for First Time". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on January 15, 2021. Retrieved January 13, 2021.
- ^ "Webull has officially launched its trading service in Hong Kong". markets.businessinsider.com. Retrieved March 21, 2025.
- ^ Vanian, Jonathan (February 2, 2021). "Robinhood, Webull, and Fidelity apps soar amid GameStop controversy". Fortune. Archived from the original on February 2, 2021. Retrieved February 14, 2021.
- ^ Perez, Sarah (January 28, 2021). "Robinhood and Reddit top the App Store, as trading apps surge following gamestop mania". TechCrunch. Archived from the original on February 15, 2021. Retrieved February 14, 2021.
- ^ Crowley, James (January 28, 2021). "Webull follows Robinhood in blocking GameStop, AMC trades after being suggested as alternate trading platform". Newsweek. Archived from the original on January 28, 2021. Retrieved January 28, 2021.
- ^ "Online Broker Webull Considers $400 Million U.S. IPO". Bloomberg. June 8, 2021. Archived from the original on July 13, 2021. Retrieved July 4, 2021.
- ^ Dayal, Nikhil (June 10, 2021). "Webull In Talks To File For IPO Later This Year: Report". Benzinga. Archived from the original on July 9, 2021. Retrieved July 4, 2021.
- ^ "Online brokerage Webull targets young Asian traders ahead of IPO". South China Morning Post. August 21, 2024. Retrieved October 14, 2024.
- ^ Coles-Andrew, Graeme (February 1, 2024). "Webull expands Singapore brokerage offering with SGX-listed retail products". The Armchair Trader. Retrieved March 23, 2025.
- ^ Derwin, Jack (September 11, 2023). "Robinhood's fiercest US rival has quietly launched in Australia". Capital Brief. Retrieved March 23, 2025.
- ^ a b Kirui, Jared (October 30, 2023). "Webull Dives into Indonesian Market". Financial and Business News | Finance Magnates. Retrieved March 23, 2025.
- ^ Lipschultz, Bailey; Wanna, Carly (February 2, 2024). "Online Brokerage Webull Shed Crypto Exposure Ahead of SPAC Deal". Bloomberg. Archived from the original on February 28, 2024.
- ^ "Webull Launches Operations in Japan". www.fazzaco.com. Retrieved March 23, 2025.
- ^ Miao, Hannah (July 13, 2023). "Retail Brokerages Public and Webull Launch U.K. Expansions". WSJ. Retrieved March 23, 2025.
- ^ Lyudvig, Anna (January 16, 2024). "ON THE MOVE: Firstrade Appoints Don Montanaro; Webull Promotes Anthony Denier". Traders Magazine. Retrieved March 31, 2025.
- ^ Lyudvig, Anna (November 12, 2024). "Webull Launches 24/5 Trading". Traders Magazine. Retrieved March 31, 2025.
- ^ "Webull Canada Launches Pre-Market and Post-Market Trading". Yahoo! Finance. November 25, 2024.
- ^ Sikder, Tareq (February 6, 2024). "Webull Unveils US Stock Market for Brazilian Investors". Financial and Business News | Finance Magnates. Retrieved March 24, 2025.
- ^ "Tech in Asia - Connecting Asia's startup ecosystem". www.techinasia.com. November 3, 2024. Retrieved March 24, 2025.
- ^ Daud, Dafizeck (May 17, 2024). "Webull Malaysia Launches Leading Global Trading Platform with Zero Commission for First Six Months". SME & Entrepreneurship Magazine. Retrieved March 24, 2025.
- ^ Nasli, Adam (August 4, 2023). "Is Webull available in Mexico?". brokerchooser.com. Retrieved March 24, 2025.
- ^ a b Hosking, Patrick (April 27, 2025). "Webull stake gives boost to RIT Capital Partners, say analysts". www.thetimes.com. Retrieved April 29, 2025.
- ^ "Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty form Global Multi-year Partnership with Webull". Brooklyn Nets. Archived from the original on September 27, 2021. Retrieved October 11, 2021.
- ^ Jones, Rory (September 28, 2021). "Brooklyn Nets and Webull agree 'US$30m' jersey patch deal". SportsPro. Retrieved April 1, 2025.
- ^ Young, Jabari (September 27, 2021). "Brooklyn Nets land $30 million per year jersey deal with brokerage platform Webull". CNBC. Archived from the original on October 10, 2021. Retrieved October 11, 2021.
- ^ "Webull Corp announces partnership with Tampa Bay Rays, Rowdies - TipRanks.com". TipRanks Financial. Retrieved April 29, 2025.
- ^ a b c d Osipovich, Alexander (June 13, 2024). "Webull's China Problem Grows With Tennessee State Ban". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on June 14, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
- ^ a b "US lawmakers raise concerns over Webull's ties to China, demand data on security risks". ThePrint. December 8, 2024. Retrieved December 9, 2024.
- ^ Mccrank, John (March 9, 2023). "Wall Street watchdog fines Webull for options customer approval violations". Reuters. Retrieved August 14, 2024.
- ^ "Tommy Tuberville announces bipartisan bill to block Chinese owned companies from owning crypto-currency exchanges". Alabama Today. June 16, 2023. Retrieved October 14, 2024.
- ^ a b Osipovich, Alexander (April 17, 2024). "Trading App Webull Faces Multistate Probe Over China Ties". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on May 2, 2024. Retrieved May 2, 2024.
- ^ Li, Yun (February 28, 2024). "Online trading platform Webull is set to go public via a $7.3 billion SPAC deal". CNBC. Retrieved October 14, 2024.
External links
[edit]Webull
View on GrokipediaWebull Corporation is a digital investment platform and online brokerage firm founded in 2017 by Wang Anquan, a former Alibaba executive, with its U.S. operations headquartered at 44 Wall Street in New York City.[1][2][3] Originating from the Chinese technology company Hunan Fumi Information Technology, Webull launched brokerage services in the United States in May 2018 through its licensed broker-dealer subsidiary Webull Financial LLC, offering commission-free trading of stocks, exchange-traded funds, options, and cryptocurrencies via a mobile-first application designed to democratize access to advanced trading tools and market data.[4][5] The platform has expanded globally to regions including Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, achieving significant growth with customer assets reaching approximately $15.9 billion and millions of funded accounts by mid-2025, alongside high user retention rates exceeding 98% in late 2023.[6][7][8] However, Webull has faced regulatory scrutiny, including multimillion-dollar fines from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority for inadequate supervision of options trading approvals and automated systems, as well as a multistate investigation into its data privacy practices and ties to the People's Republic of China, amid concerns over potential exposure of U.S. client information.[9][10][11]
History
Founding and Early Operations (2016-2019)
Webull was founded in 2016 by Wang Anquan, a former manager at Alibaba and Xiaomi, in Changsha, China, initially operating under the Chinese holding company Hunan Fumi Information Technology Co., Ltd..[12][13] The platform began as a free mobile application aggregating real-time market data from global exchanges, targeting retail investors with tools for analysis rather than direct trading..[14] This data-focused model emphasized advanced charting, technical indicators, and community features to democratize access to financial information without commissions..[15] In 2017, Webull expanded internationally by establishing Webull Financial LLC, a U.S.-based broker-dealer registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) on May 24, serving as the entity for American operations..[16] The company secured initial funding from investors including Xiaomi's Shunwei Capital and Coatue Management, enabling platform enhancements like paper trading simulations and API integrations for algorithmic strategies..[12] By late 2018, Webull officially launched its full trading platform in the United States, offering commission-free trades in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and options, positioning itself as a mobile-first alternative to established brokers..[6] During 2019, early operations emphasized user acquisition through promotional incentives, such as extended-hours trading access from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET and margin accounts with competitive rates..[17] The platform introduced features like Level 2 quotes and customizable watchlists, attracting tech-savvy retail traders amid rising interest in self-directed investing..[14] By year-end, Webull reported serving hundreds of thousands of U.S. users, with a focus on compliance under Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversight while maintaining its Chinese parent structure for technology development..[6] This period laid the groundwork for zero-commission models, mirroring industry shifts but differentiated by real-time data feeds sourced from global partnerships..[18]Expansion Amid Retail Trading Boom (2020-2022)
The retail trading surge of 2020-2022, fueled by COVID-19 lockdowns, government stimulus payments, and widespread adoption of commission-free platforms, propelled Webull's user acquisition and operational scaling. Launched in the U.S. in 2018, Webull capitalized on its mobile-first interface, advanced charting tools, and zero-commission model to attract novice and active traders seeking alternatives to established brokers like Robinhood. Daily active users reached 750,000 by early 2021, reflecting heightened engagement amid market volatility and meme stock phenomena.[19] In March 2020, Webull introduced options trading on its platform, enabling users to access strategies beyond basic stock trades and aligning with rising interest in derivatives during the period's equity rally. This followed the broader industry shift post-2019 regulatory changes allowing fee-free models. By November 2020, the platform expanded to cryptocurrency transactions, further diversifying offerings as digital assets gained retail traction. These enhancements contributed to rapid account openings, with the app's downloads spiking alongside competitors during the January 2021 GameStop short squeeze, when trading volumes for volatile stocks like GME and AMC exploded.[20][21] Webull's growth intersected with controversies over trading restrictions imposed in January 2021, when the firm halted buy orders for certain meme stocks including GameStop to manage risk amid extreme volatility and margin requirements from clearinghouses. CEO Anthony Denier attributed the measures to operational necessities rather than external pressures, distinguishing Webull's response from peers facing lawsuits. The episode underscored the platform's exposure to retail-driven frenzies but did not derail expansion, as registered users continued to climb toward 16.2 million by December 31, 2022.[22][5] Financially, the period marked Webull's unicorn status, with a $150 million Series C funding round in February 2021 valuing the company at $1 billion. Investors, including General Atlantic, backed the firm's technology-driven approach amid surging trading activity. This capital supported infrastructure upgrades and feature rollouts, positioning Webull to capture a share of the expanded retail market, where individual investors' participation rose from 15% of U.S. equity volume pre-2020 to over 25% by 2021. By late 2022, funded accounts and assets under management reflected sustained momentum from the boom, though profitability remained challenged by competitive pricing and regulatory scrutiny.[23]Maturation and Global Push (2023-Present)
In 2023, Webull advanced its international presence by securing regulatory approvals and launching operations in Japan and Indonesia, marking initial forays into additional Asian markets beyond its established bases in Hong Kong and Singapore.[24] This expansion built on prior growth, enabling the platform to serve a broader user base amid rising global demand for commission-free trading tools. By mid-2024, Webull further extended into Latin America with a launch in Brazil on February 6 and Southeast Asia via Thailand on May 10 and Malaysia on May 20, leveraging local partnerships to accelerate market penetration and compliance.[25] The platform's maturation reflected in sustained financial performance, with total revenues reaching $131.5 million in the second quarter of 2025, a 46% year-over-year increase driven by heightened user engagement and trading volumes across supported asset classes.[26] This period also saw Webull achieve its third consecutive profitable quarter, alongside margin expansion of 13.4 percentage points, underscoring operational efficiencies and scalability as the firm diversified revenue streams.[27] Product enhancements, including the relaunch of 24/7 cryptocurrency trading in select regions, complemented these gains by attracting active traders and aligning with broader fintech trends.[28] By late 2025, Webull's global push intensified with entries into Australia on August 27 for cryptocurrency services, challenging local competitors on fees, and the European Union via the Netherlands on September 8, offering access to U.S. and European equities, fractional shares, and ETFs.[29][30] Operating through licensed brokerages in 14 markets spanning North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and beyond, the company outlined a 2025 roadmap emphasizing user acquisition, diversified investment products, and enhanced platform utilization to sustain momentum.[31][32] These developments positioned Webull as a maturing contender in the competitive online brokerage landscape, with ongoing plans for Canada, additional Latin American locales, and further European rollout.[33]Ownership and Corporate Structure
Chinese Parent Company and Governance
Webull Corporation, incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company, is ultimately owned and controlled through Hunan Fumi Information Technology Co., Ltd., a holding company based in the People's Republic of China (PRC).[34][35] This structure traces back to Webull's founding by PRC nationals, including Anquan Wang, who established the platform's core technology and operations with significant development in China.[36] Hunan Fumi, as the parent entity, oversees strategic direction, with Webull's Cayman holding company serving as an intermediate layer for international operations following its public listing via SPAC merger on April 11, 2025.[5] Anquan Wang, a PRC citizen and Webull's founder, holds beneficial ownership of approximately 18.0% of the outstanding ordinary shares as of December 31, 2024, and controls all Class B ordinary shares, which carry 20 votes per share compared to one vote per Class A share.[5] This dual-class structure grants Wang approximately 81.4% of total voting power post-merger, enabling him to dominate governance decisions despite minority economic ownership.[5] Wang also serves as Chairman and a director, reinforcing PRC-linked influence over board matters.[37] The board comprises six members, with five U.S. citizens (Anthony Denier, H.C. Wang, others) and Wang as the sole PRC national, based primarily in the U.S.[5] Governance adheres to Cayman Islands law, exempting Webull from certain Nasdaq requirements, such as a majority-independent board, which prioritizes founder control over dispersed shareholder input.[5] A PRC subsidiary, Hunan Weibu Information Technology Co., Ltd., employs 731 staff—61% of Webull's total workforce as of December 31, 2024—handling key technology and support functions.[5] U.S. congressional inquiries, including a November 25, 2024, letter from the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party to Webull's CEO, have highlighted risks from this ownership, citing potential PRC influence over data access and operations due to Chinese legal obligations on companies like Hunan Fumi.[38][39] These concerns stem from PRC national security laws requiring cooperation with intelligence efforts, though Webull maintains U.S.-based data storage and compliance with SEC and FINRA rules.[36][40] No enforcement actions have resulted as of October 2025, but the structure underscores tensions between founder-led control and U.S. regulatory scrutiny of foreign ties.[41]Implications for Operations and Security
Webull's parent company, Fumi Technology, is incorporated in the Cayman Islands but maintains operational headquarters in China, with key executives and entities linked to the People's Republic of China (PRC), raising operational challenges related to compliance with divergent regulatory regimes and potential conflicts of interest.[36] This structure subjects Webull to PRC laws, including the 2017 National Intelligence Law, which mandates that Chinese entities and individuals support, assist, and cooperate in national intelligence work, potentially extending to foreign subsidiaries under ultimate PRC control. Such obligations could compel data sharing with PRC authorities, complicating Webull's adherence to U.S. privacy standards like those under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and heightening risks of operational disruptions from geopolitical tensions. Security implications are particularly acute given Webull's collection of sensitive U.S. customer data, including Social Security numbers, trading histories, and financial portfolios, which could provide PRC entities with insights into American economic behavior and personal identifiers for espionage.[42] Bipartisan U.S. lawmakers, including Chairman John Moolenaar and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, detailed these risks in a November 25, 2024, letter to Webull's CEO, questioning the platform's independence from PRC influence and demanding transparency on data safeguards.[36] Similarly, a April 16, 2024, multistate inquiry led by 14 attorneys general, including Indiana's Todd Rokita, probed Webull's ability to shield investor data from CCP access, citing the platform's Chinese ownership as a vector for unauthorized disclosures.[43] Operationally, these concerns have manifested in heightened regulatory scrutiny and market repercussions, such as Webull's shares declining amid delisting fears tied to China connections following its April 2024 SPAC merger and public listing on NASDAQ under ticker BULL.[44] The company has responded by asserting that all U.S. customer data resides on domestic servers inaccessible from abroad and by engaging lobbying firms like Mercury Public Affairs to navigate U.S. policy risks.[45][46] Nonetheless, ongoing probes and calls for national security reviews, such as Senator Tom Cotton's 2021 urging of a CFIUS assessment, underscore persistent vulnerabilities that could lead to operational constraints, including expansion limitations or mandated divestitures, amid broader U.S. efforts to curb PRC influence in critical financial infrastructure.[47]Products and Services
Platform Features and Technology
Webull operates across mobile, desktop, and web platforms, delivering integrated access to trading tools with real-time data streaming and customizable interfaces for consistent user experience.[48] The desktop application supports unlimited chart layouts, resizable widgets, and preset templates, while the mobile app and WebTrade enable on-the-go execution with synchronized watchlists.[48] Advanced charting forms the core of the platform's analytical capabilities, featuring over 60 technical indicators, more than 20 drawing tools such as trendlines and Fibonacci retracements, and eight line styles including candlestick and Heikin Ashi patterns.[49] Charts support multi-timeframe overlays, resizable multi-display grids for comparing multiple assets or indices, and integration with Trading Central for automated pattern alerts and technical signals.[49] As of 2026, real-time Nasdaq TotalView Level 2 quotes provide deep order book visibility including the best 50 bids and offers and order flow analysis for advanced market insight, often available via subscription or promotional access, alongside National Best Bid and Offer (NBBO) data and full order book depth for granular market visibility, with customizable tick charts and the Time Price Opportunity (TPO) indicator enabling detailed volume profile analysis.[50][49][48] Trading execution emphasizes efficiency for active users, with order types encompassing market, limit, stop-limit, trailing stop, and conditional variants like bracket, one-triggers-other (OTO), one-cancels-other (OCO), and one-triggers-one-cancels-other (OTOCO).[51] Hotkeys, price ladders, and widget-based placement streamline operations, supported by extended-hours trading from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET and prompt algorithmic routing for multi-leg options and futures via tools like TurboTrader.[51][48] Real-time alerts for price, volume, news, and 63 technical signals further enhance responsiveness.[51] Paper trading, accessible via user-friendly mobile and desktop apps, provides unlimited virtual cash, real-time data, straightforward portfolio tracking, a clean interface, extended-hours trading simulation, and news/alerts integration, replicating live conditions with historical data to enable risk-free strategy validation without account funding.[51][52] Unique technological integrations include voice quotes for audio market updates and API access for automated trading—including OpenAPI developer tools for programmatic order execution and strategy building, a January 2026 partnership with Level2 integrating no-code tools directly into the platform for drag-and-drop strategy creation, backtesting, and automated execution without coding, robo-advisory via Smart Advisor, and third-party bot integrations such as StockHero—underscoring the platform's focus on low-latency, data-driven decision-making.[53][54][55][56][48] Reviews praise these automated features for advanced tools and low costs but note reliance on APIs and partners rather than fully native in-app bots, with ratings around 3.5-5 stars for active traders.[57] Further distinctive features include the AI tool Vega, which provides real-time insights on stocks, options, and portfolios, encompassing pattern analysis, volatility trends, and personalized optimization.[58] Advanced stock screeners enable custom filtering of assets such as stocks, ETFs, and options.[59] An in-app community facilitates user interaction for sharing trading ideas, posting strategies, and discovering market trends.[60] These elements leverage proprietary systems for seamless cross-device synchronization and rapid order fulfillment, prioritizing precision over basic retail interfaces.[48]Supported Asset Classes and Trading Options
Webull supports trading in several major asset classes, primarily focused on U.S. markets, including equities, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options contracts, futures, cryptocurrencies, and fixed income products such as bonds.[61] Equities trading encompasses U.S. exchange-listed stocks on NYSE and NASDAQ, select over-the-counter (OTC) securities, initial public offerings (IPOs), and fractional shares of eligible stocks, enabling investors to purchase portions of high-priced shares starting at $5 minimum.[62] [63] These trades occur with zero commissions for self-directed cash or margin accounts, alongside extended-hours trading from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET on weekdays.[64] Options trading on Webull includes commission-free contracts for underlying stocks and ETFs, with a $0.50 per contract fee for index options; approval levels range from covered calls (Level 1) to advanced strategies like iron condors and uncovered writing (Level 4), subject to account type and risk assessment. In Roth IRA accounts, which are cash accounts, options trading is limited to Levels 1 and 2 (subject to approval), permitting strategies such as covered calls, buy-writes, cash-secured puts, long calls, long puts, collars, and protective puts; margin-required strategies, including spreads, naked options, or short selling, are not permitted.[65] [66] [67] ETFs are available for commission-free trading, covering diversified exposure to sectors, indices, commodities, and international markets through U.S.-listed funds.[68] Futures contracts provide access to dozens of products, including equity indices (e.g., E-mini S&P 500), commodities (e.g., crude oil, gold), and cryptocurrency-related futures, with extended trading hours up to 23 hours per day for select contracts and leverage options via margin accounts.[69] Cryptocurrency trading allows spot purchases and sales of major digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum through Webull's integrated platform, with real-time charts and market data, though availability is limited to eligible U.S. users and excludes certain states due to regulatory restrictions.[70] [71] Fixed income trading includes bonds, enabling portfolio diversification with government, corporate, and municipal securities, often integrated with margin capabilities for enhanced strategies.[61] Order types across these assets support market, limit, stop, trailing stop, and conditional orders, with margin accounts offering up to 4:1 intraday leverage for day trading qualifying positions. Pattern day trader (PDT) rules apply per FINRA regulations: margin accounts under $25,000 equity executing four or more day trades in a rolling five-business-day period are flagged as PDT and restricted from additional day trades until equity reaches $25,000 or the flag is reset.[62] [72] [73] Webull provides a one-time courtesy PDT flag reset per account; requests are submitted via the app (Menu > Help > Contact Us > Live Chat or ticket), with support reviewing and potentially approving removal of the flag, allowing continued day trading below $25,000, though further violations may result in permanent restrictions without another reset.[74] Alternatives to avoid PDT restrictions include maintaining $25,000 or more equity in a margin account or switching to a cash account, which has no PDT rule but limits trading to settled funds without margin. Webull does not currently offer direct forex spot trading or mutual funds, focusing instead on exchange-traded and derivative instruments for active investors.[75]Regulatory Environment
Licensing and Compliance Framework
Webull Financial LLC, the primary U.S. operating entity, functions as a registered broker-dealer under the oversight of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), holding registration number 8-69978 since its establishment.[16] This registration mandates compliance with federal securities laws, including requirements for investor protection, transparent disclosures, and prohibitions on manipulative practices. As a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) with Central Registration Depository (CRD) number 289063, Webull adheres to self-regulatory standards governing broker-dealer conduct, such as suitability assessments for trading approvals, record-keeping, and net capital requirements.[16] Customer assets receive protection through membership in the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), which safeguards up to $500,000 per client ($250,000 for cash claims) against brokerage insolvency, excluding market losses or unauthorized trades.[76][77] Webull supplements this with excess coverage via third-party insurers, extending limits beyond standard SIPC thresholds for eligible securities and cash held in custody.[78] The firm also maintains affiliations with exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq, ensuring adherence to venue-specific listing and trading rules.[79] Internationally, Webull's subsidiaries operate under jurisdiction-specific licenses to facilitate cross-border access while complying with local mandates. In the United Kingdom, Webull Securities (UK) Ltd is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number (FRN) 961286, subjecting it to rules on client money segregation, best execution, and conduct of business.[80] In Australia, Webull Securities Pty Ltd holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) 536980 from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), enforcing standards for financial product advice and disclosure.[81] Additional entities, such as Webull Securities South Africa (Pty) Ltd licensed by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA, FSP 50863) and operations in Singapore under a Capital Markets Services Licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), similarly prioritize localized compliance frameworks including anti-money laundering protocols and investor eligibility verification.[82][83] This multi-jurisdictional structure requires Webull to navigate varying capital adequacy, reporting, and cross-border data transfer regulations, with U.S. operations remaining the core focus for retail securities trading.[82]Enforcement Actions and Fines
In March 2023, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) fined Webull Financial LLC $3 million and censured the firm for systemic failures in customer due diligence and supervision. Specifically, from December 2019 to July 2021, Webull approved thousands of customers for options trading without adequate review of their experience, financial situation, or objectives, including over 2,500 individuals under age 21 for options spreads despite internal policies restricting such approvals; this violated FINRA Rules 2360, 3110, and 2010. Additionally, the firm inadequately supervised customer complaints from May 2018 to December 2021, underreporting over 500,000 communications that met complaint criteria and failing to maintain required logs, further breaching Rules 3110, 4530, and 2010. Webull was required to certify remediation of its supervisory systems within 180 days.[84][10] In November 2023, the Massachusetts Securities Division imposed a $500,000 administrative fine on Webull via a consent order for deficient supervisory controls over its brokerage operations. The investigation revealed that a single outside compliance consultant handled oversight for hundreds of thousands of accounts, with excessive reliance on third-party counsel rather than internal resources, leading to inadequate monitoring of trading activities and regulatory compliance from at least 2020 onward; this contravened Massachusetts securities regulations requiring reasonable supervisory systems. Webull agreed to cease violations, enhance its compliance department, and submit ongoing reports to the division.[85][86] On November 22, 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) charged Webull with filing deficient suspicious activity reports (SARs) lacking critical details over a four-year period beginning in 2018, violating Section 17(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 17a-8. The firm settled by paying a $125,000 civil penalty, agreeing to a censure and cease-and-desist order, and committing to an independent review of its anti-money laundering program.[87] In May 2025, FINRA fined Webull $1.6 million for lapses in supervising influencer marketing and social media communications, including failure to preserve records of promotional content, ensure required disclosures, and prevent exaggerated claims about trading capabilities from 2021 to 2023; these actions violated FINRA Rules 3110, 2210, and 2010. The settlement highlighted inadequate controls over third-party endorsements, which reached millions of potential customers without proper firm oversight.[88][89]Controversies and Scrutiny
Trading Restrictions During Market Volatility
In January 2021, during the extreme market volatility triggered by retail investor-driven surges in "meme stocks" such as GameStop (GME), Webull temporarily restricted users from purchasing shares of certain highly volatile securities, including GME, AMC Entertainment (AMC), and others. These measures, implemented on January 28, 2021, prohibited new buy orders while allowing sells and other trading activities to continue, mirroring actions taken by competitors like Robinhood. Webull's CEO, Anthony Denier, attributed the restrictions to surging transaction costs and heightened risk requirements imposed by clearing firms and the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), which manage trade settlements; during peak volatility, these entities demanded additional collateral to cover potential defaults, straining broker liquidity without the ability to use customer funds as a buffer.[22][90] The decision sparked immediate backlash from retail traders on platforms like Reddit's WallStreetBets, who accused Webull and other brokerages of colluding with institutional investors to suppress upward price movements and protect short sellers facing massive losses. Denier publicly rejected conspiracy claims, emphasizing that the restrictions were a prudential response to operational risks rather than external pressure, and called for SEC intervention to stabilize such frenzies without halting retail access entirely. A subsequent SEC staff report on the episode confirmed that volatility-induced settlement risks prompted multiple firms, including Webull, to impose temporary limits, highlighting systemic fragilities in options and equity clearing rather than broker malfeasance.[90][91][22] Webull lifted the buy restrictions on most affected stocks by January 29, 2021, after securing additional financing and as market conditions eased, but the incident fueled broader congressional scrutiny, including inquiries from Senator Elizabeth Warren's office into why firms like Webull tightened trading rules amid the squeeze. No formal enforcement actions directly resulted from these specific restrictions for Webull, though the event underscored vulnerabilities in retail brokerages' reliance on third-party clearing, prompting calls for regulatory reforms to prevent future disruptions without curtailing legitimate trading. Denier later clarified in interviews that such measures were not discretionary but driven by enforceable deposit demands exceeding available capital, illustrating the causal link between extreme order imbalances and broker-imposed safeguards.[92][93][22]Data Privacy and National Security Probes
In September 2021, U.S. Senator Tom Cotton urged the Director of National Intelligence to investigate Webull's national security risks, citing its ownership by Chinese entities and potential for data access by the Chinese government, which could expose U.S. investors' financial information to foreign intelligence operations.[94] Webull, founded in 2017 with significant backing from Hunan Fumi Information Technology—a firm linked to Chinese state-influenced structures—prompted these concerns amid broader U.S. scrutiny of apps handling sensitive financial data.[41] Webull voluntarily submitted its ownership structure for review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) in early 2021, following heightened regulatory attention to Chinese-linked fintech firms during the GameStop trading frenzy, though no public divestiture or mitigation orders were disclosed as outcomes.[95] This self-initiated scrutiny reflected proactive efforts to address risks but did not alleviate ongoing bipartisan worries about data flows to China, where national laws compel companies to share information with authorities upon request.[39] In April 2024, attorneys general from 14 U.S. states, led by Indiana's Todd Rokita, launched a multistate investigation into Webull's ties to China, demanding details on data storage practices, user information handling, and safeguards against unauthorized access by PRC-linked entities.[11] The probe focused on whether Webull's operations, including servers and personnel in China, exposed American users' trading data—such as account balances, transaction histories, and personal identifiers—to risks of espionage or coercion under Chinese intelligence laws.[96] By December 2024, the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, chaired by Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI) and ranking member Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), sent a letter to Webull's CEO highlighting the firm's "deep ties" to PRC entities, including shared leadership and investments from bodies affiliated with the CCP, and questioning the platform's independence in protecting U.S. investor data from potential state-directed extraction.[39] The committee cited specific connections, such as Webull's parent company's board overlaps with Chinese military-linked funds, as raising "serious concerns" about data security and compliance with U.S. national interests, demanding responses on risk mitigations by year's end.[40] These inquiries underscored systemic vulnerabilities in Chinese-owned platforms operating in U.S. markets, without evidence of resolved breaches but persistent fears of unmitigated foreign influence.[97] No formal CFIUS mitigation or enforcement actions have been publicly confirmed as of October 2025, though Webull's post-IPO stock volatility in April 2025 partly stemmed from delisting fears tied to these unresolved China connections.[44] Critics, including congressional China hawks, argue that self-reported safeguards by Webull—such as data localization claims—remain unverifiable given PRC legal overrides, prioritizing empirical audits over corporate assurances.[41]Partnerships and Growth Initiatives
Strategic Business Alliances
Webull has formed several strategic alliances to enhance its platform capabilities, expand market access, and integrate advanced financial services. In May 2025, Webull announced a collaboration with Visa to implement Visa Direct on its U.S. platform, enabling real-time money transfers and a "Deposit" feature that allows users to fund accounts instantly for quicker market access.[98] This partnership aims to streamline funding processes, reducing settlement times from days to seconds and supporting Webull's goal of providing efficient trading experiences.[99] To broaden fixed-income offerings, Webull partnered with Apex Fintech Solutions and Moment Technology in July 2024, introducing trading of fixed-income securities including fractional bonds starting at $100, an asset class previously dominated by institutional investors.[100] The alliance leverages Apex's custody and clearing infrastructure alongside Moment's automation for bond trading, facilitating over 500,000 orders with 99.99% automation and expanding Webull's appeal to retail investors seeking diversified portfolios.[101] In pursuit of European expansion, Webull Securities (Europe) allied with Upvest in September 2025 to integrate European stocks and ETFs, launching fractional trading from €1 initially in the Netherlands with plans for broader rollout.[102] This partnership utilizes Upvest's Investment API for rapid deployment, enhancing user autonomy and aligning with regulatory frameworks like MiCA to support Webull's international growth.[102] Webull has also ventured into prediction markets through a February 2025 partnership with Kalshi, the first CFTC-regulated exchange for such products, allowing U.S. users to trade event-based contracts on economic indicators, weather, and elections via Webull's platform.[103] This integration diversifies trading options beyond traditional securities, positioning Webull to capture interest in alternative assets amid rising retail demand for hedging tools.[103] For international banking services, Webull collaborated with Synctera in September 2024 to launch a Global Account for Brazilian users, providing U.S. bank accounts, USD/BRL spending, and rewards programs to facilitate cross-border transactions and reduce costs for its 20 million global users.[104] Synctera's compliance tools and sponsor bank connections enable seamless money movement, supporting Webull's entry into emerging markets like Brazil.[104] Additionally, a January 2024 alliance with Dow Jones integrates curated Wall Street Journal content into Webull's news feed, offering subscriptions to new users to promote financial literacy and informed decision-making among retail investors, particularly younger demographics.[105] These partnerships collectively bolster Webull's technological edge, product diversity, and global footprint while prioritizing user-centric innovations.[105]Sponsorships and Marketing Efforts
Webull has pursued sports sponsorships to bolster brand awareness among retail investors. In June 2024, the company announced partnerships with the Brooklyn Nets of the NBA and the New York Liberty of the WNBA, focusing on financial literacy programs in New York communities.[106] These collaborations included educational events and resources aimed at empowering women and underserved groups through investment education.[106] In April 2025, Webull expanded its sports engagements with a multiyear brand partnership involving Major League Baseball's Tampa Bay Rays and the United Soccer League's Tampa Bay Rowdies, covering the 2025 season and beyond.[107] The deal featured in-stadium branding, digital promotions, and fan engagement activities to highlight Webull's commission-free trading platform.[107] Marketing efforts emphasize digital and targeted advertising to attract younger demographics. Webull has run out-of-home (OOH) campaigns via PJX Media, placing ads in transit hubs, billboards, and college campuses, which generated 943 million impressions and 472 QR code scans for app downloads.[108] On Snapchat, its ads achieved a 122% lower cost-per-install and higher click-through rates compared to other platforms, supporting user acquisition for its mobile-first brokerage.[109] The company also maintains an affiliate and referral program, offering commissions for successful sign-ups and deposits, tracked through dedicated dashboards for partners like content creators.[110] Television commercials, as cataloged by iSpot.tv, further promote Webull's zero-commission trades and extended-hours trading features to broad audiences.[111] These initiatives align with Webull's growth strategy post-IPO, prioritizing cost-effective channels over traditional mass media.[111]User Base and Financial Performance
Demographics and Adoption Trends
Webull's user base has exhibited robust growth since its inception, with registered users expanding from 16.2 million at the end of 2022 to 23.3 million by the end of 2024, reflecting sustained adoption amid competitive retail brokerage dynamics.[112] By the first quarter of 2025, registered users reached 24.1 million, marking a 17% year-over-year increase, while funded accounts—indicating active depositors—grew to 4.7 million, up 10% from the prior year.[113] This momentum continued into the second quarter of 2025, with registered users climbing to 24.9 million (18% year-over-year growth) and funded accounts rising to 4.73 million (9% increase), alongside customer assets hitting a record $15.9 billion, a 64% surge.[114] [115] Adoption trends underscore high user retention, consistently exceeding 97% quarterly, which signals strong platform stickiness among active traders.[112] The platform's appeal to younger demographics, particularly Generation Z, has driven this expansion, as evidenced by management emphasis on targeted growth in this cohort amid broader retail investing shifts.[116] Globally oriented with over 24 million users across markets, Webull's adoption has been bolstered by features like 24/7 trading access and crypto relaunch in 2025, contributing to quarterly user additions of approximately 800,000 in Q2.[117] Funded account growth, while moderating slightly from peak retail trading booms, indicates deepening engagement, with options trading volumes supporting sustained activity.[115]| Metric | Q1 2025 | Q2 2025 | YoY Growth (Q2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Users (millions) | 24.1 | 24.9 | 18% |
| Funded Accounts (millions) | 4.7 | 4.73 | 9% |
| Customer Assets ($ billions) | N/A | 15.9 | 64% |
| Retention Rate | >97% | >97% | N/A |
Revenue Growth and Profitability Metrics
Webull Corporation's annual revenue remained relatively stagnant in recent years, with fiscal 2024 revenue at $390.23 million, a 0.16% increase from $389.60 million in 2023, which itself saw a 0.33% rise from 2022.[118] This flat growth reflects broader challenges in the brokerage sector, including competitive commission-free trading and reliance on payment for order flow (PFOF) revenues, which comprised a significant portion amid varying market volumes.[5] However, trailing twelve-month revenue through December 31, 2024, expanded to $457.10 million, indicating a 26.51% year-over-year improvement driven by heightened trading activity.[119] Quarterly performance in 2025 demonstrated accelerated revenue expansion, with first-quarter revenues reaching $117 million, up 32% from the prior year, and second-quarter revenues climbing to $131.5 million, a 46% increase year-over-year, primarily from a 63% surge in trading-related income amid elevated user engagement.[113][26] Trading-related revenues, including PFOF and interest on cash balances, accounted for the bulk of this growth, underscoring Webull's dependence on volatile market conditions for top-line momentum.[27] On profitability, Webull has shown nascent improvement at the quarterly level but continues to face annual losses. The company reported adjusted net income of $15.4 million in Q2 2025, reversing a $1.5 million loss from Q2 2024 and marking its third consecutive profitable quarter, supported by revenue gains outpacing a 20% rise in operating expenses.[7] In contrast, fiscal 2024 ended with a net loss of $23 million, worsening from a $6 million profit in 2023, attributable to elevated operating costs exceeding $325 million annually, including technology investments and marketing.[120][121] Gross margins improved in recent periods, but persistent high expenses relative to revenue highlight ongoing path to sustainable profitability.[26]| Period | Revenue ($M) | YoY Growth (%) | Net Income/Loss ($M) |
|---|---|---|---|
| FY 2023 | 389.60 | 0.33 | 6 |
| FY 2024 | 390.23 | 0.16 | -23 |
| Q1 2025 | 117 | 32 | Not specified |
| Q2 2025 | 131.5 | 46 | 15.4 (adjusted) |
