Brokerage Comparison
Below you will find our brokerage comparison chart. This chart was developed to allow investors to see the differences between the brokerages in a speedy manner. All the firms shown below are reputable and well known. Please select a brokerage only after you have accomplished extensive research and believe the broker to be correct for your personal situation.
| Description | Account Minimums | Commission Schedule | Other Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Fidelity is one of the best online brokers. It has excellent customer service and great tools. However, unless you have greater than 50K in your account the trades can be expensive. | Retirement: $2500 - Waived with monthly $200 contributions. Cash Account: $2500 |
$8.00 - $19.95 Depending on assets and number of trades. | No extra fees in brokerage accounts. Some extra fees may apply in mutual fund accounts. |
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ETrade gets many mixed reviews. It has good trading prices but lacks in customer service. It also tends to have many hidden fees that seem to almost randomly appear. | Retirement: No Minimums Reported Cash Account: ETrade has many account types - minimums vary. |
$6.99 - $12.99 Depending on assets and number of trades. | ETrade has multiple extra fees that you could be subject to. Please read ETrade's disclosures closely. |
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TDAmeritrade is a good all around brokerage. It has no minimum account balances and a simple flat commission schedule. In customer satisfaction this brokerage performs above average. | Retirement: No Minimums Reported Cash Account: No Minimums Reported. Margin Account: $2000 |
$9.99 Flat Fee - No share limits. |
No maintenance fees. May charge transfer fees. |
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Scottrade is unique in that is has offices around the country which enhances Scottrades customer service. Combining great customer service and low prices creates an excellent brokerage. | Retirement: No Minimums Reported Cash Account: $500 Margin Account: $2000 |
$7.00 Flat Fee - No share limits. |
No extra account fees. |
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ShareBuilder is an excellent choice for creating a asset allocation plan. Its service is setup to allow investors to constantly add more funds to their portfolio cheaply. | Retirement: No Minimums Reported Cash Account: No Minimums Reported Margin Account: N/A |
Market Orders - $15.95 ShareBuilder Orders - $4.00 Note: ShareBuilder orders are executed on Tuesdays |
No maintenance fees. May charge transfer fees. |
Disclaimer: These brokerage figures where accurate as of March 2008. www.assetplay.net has no affiliation with the brokers listed an only provides this chart for your convenience. The brokerage company you select is your sole responsibility. www.assetplay.net shall not be liable for any costs or damages from your usage of a brokerage companies services.