Retail investors are back, and they're bringing money with them. Individual traders are pouring cash into U.S. markets at levels that rival—and in some cases exceed—the wild meme-stock days of 2021. Trading platforms are taking notice, and Webull just threw its hat in the ring with a new monthly deposit match program.
The numbers tell the story. Analysts estimate retail flows are running at nearly twice the five-year average and more than 50% above 2024 levels. Daily net inflows hit around $1.3 billion in the first half of the year, according to Vanda data cited by ARC Group. Reuters has also reported that retail participation in S&P 500 flows recently reached some of its highest levels in years, helping fuel this year's market advance.
Meanwhile, ETFs are on track for a banner year. U.S. inflows are expected to reach roughly $1.3 trillion to $1.4 trillion in 2025, driven largely by steady individual buying even when markets get choppy.
All of this is reshaping how brokers compete for your money.
The 2% Match Details
Webull's promotion is straightforward: deposit or transfer at least $2,000 in qualifying assets, and they'll match 2% in cash. The bonus gets paid out in equal monthly installments over one year, assuming you keep the qualifying balance in your account.
The offer targets traders looking to move cash into the market or consolidate accounts heading into 2026, particularly those who plan to stay active rather than just parking money temporarily.
Year-end has always been prime season for brokerage competition. Investors reposition portfolios, harvest tax losses, and deploy fresh capital for the new year. In 2025, that annual battle is happening against a backdrop of renewed retail enthusiasm.
But this cycle looks different from 2021. Instead of meme-driven mania concentrated in a handful of stocks, today's flows are broader and more diversified. Money is moving into ETFs and large-cap themes like AI and tech, alongside tactical trades in individual names.
For platforms like Webull, that creates an opportunity to win longer-term customers with incentives that boost starting capital while showcasing tools built for active traders.
Webull has carved out a niche as a platform for hands-on investors, offering commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options, advanced charting and technical tools, extended hours trading in premarket and after-hours sessions, and real-time data with customizable layouts across desktop and mobile.
With retail flows back near record territory, platforms are betting that traders will commit more capital, especially when incentives add a small edge. For investors planning to stay active through 2026, Webull's 2% match bonus offers a way to stretch deposited funds while accessing a platform designed for serious trading.