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Choosing a Broker
6 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Broker
With so many discount brokers competing for your business, how do you know which one is right for you? It's not a matter of merely comparing commissions. Discount stock brokers charge lots of other fees, too.
Check Out Your Broker Before You Invest
In today's world, where a brokerage firm's name, reputation and longevity can't guarantee the firm's ethics or solvency, as a savvy investor you should be especially cautious before opening up a new brokerage account. By checking out the broker's background you can gain some peace of mind. Here's how.
Comparing Brokers
Hidden Fees Your Broker Won't Tell You About
Your discount broker may offer great commissions. The service could be excellent, and the research tools top of the line. But you may not be getting the great deal you think you are when you look at what you're really paying that discount broker. Here are some hidden fees to watch out for.
What's Wrong With Comparing Online Brokers on Commissions?
Those advertised commissions of $12, $7, even $5 a trade look pretty good. But online brokers aren't always telling the whole story when it comes to commissions. Unless your trades fall within a narrowly defined window, expect to pay more.
Changing Brokers
5 Things Your Broker Doesn't Want You to Know
Do you really know what you're paying your online broker? Many investors don't. And it's no wonder. Even as online brokers have pushed down commissions, many have increased their fees. And some have made their commission schedules so complicated, you almost need a spreadsheet to figure out what you're really paying.
Your Online Broker: Are You Getting the Service You Deserve?
As the discount brokerage industry has gotten more competitive, the service discount brokers offer has gotten better today. Today's investors shouldn't have to choose between low commissions and good service. Here's how to find an online broker that gives you both.
Categories of Brokers
Choosing an Online Broker
A zero-commission online broker seems like a no-brainer. But don't jump on board so fast. Zero-commission trades aren't always as cheap as they seem. Check out what you have to do to qualify and what other fees you'll be paying before deciding if a zero-commission online broker is right for you.
Do You Need a Full-Service Broker?
Choosing a full service stockbroker over a discount broker used to be about the advice. Discount brokers were mere ordertakers, executing trades but not offering any advice. Whereas full service brokers offered investment advice, portfolio management services and financial planning for everything from college savings and retirement to estate planning.
