The losses of a trader in securities, whether from trading losses or expenses, reduce Adjusted Gross Income and do not present alternative minimum tax problems.

FORBES: Trader in Securities Status Difficult to Attain

Taxpayers are also subject to the 3.8% Medicare Surtax on gross income derived during the ordinary course of a trade or business (a) of trading in financial instruments or commodities, or (b) is considered a passive activity with respect to the taxpayer.

FORBES: New Taxes and New Terms: How to calculate Net Investment Income under the New 3.8% Medicare Surtax