Last time you offer to place 500K in a JVA was in 2007. One year later you will offer again the same amount and the same post.

If you "would" have 500K in an account you "would" use this as Securties to raise an other 450K (aprox) as Credit Line to work with. But i doubt that you have even a view bucks to start be your own "trader" and not in need to look for a Partner.

But anyway. ETF or BRIC would be a nice solution for any US Investor even and if there is "real" money in the game. Outside of US you may can trade on CFD or Open End Products. But and if you do not have "real" money you can always "play" with virtual funds on a Platform at max. 30 days.

Take care