There are two different types of brokers, Full Service brokers that charge you higher rates but offer you advice and discount brokers that don’t charge high rates but also don’t give you advice. The choice is up to you.
If you are making your own trading decisions it is probably better to go with a discount broker. If you make your own trading decisions it is better not to get your brokers advice anyway. It will interfere with your own rules and make it harder on you.
Things to consider when you are looking for a Broker; Do they have a paper trading system in place on their software? What are their
commissions
? And what level of trading approval will you get?
Listed below are a few firms to consider:
Charles Schwab
ETrade
Options Express
Think or Swim
Zecco!
When completing the application for a firm you will be assigned a trading level based on your experience and funds available. Below is the definition of the different levels.
- Level 1: Trading in Options is restricted to the covered call strategy.
- Level 2: Trading is restricted to Level 1, plus the buying of Call and Put Options.
- Level 3: Trading is restricted to Levels 1 & 2, plus the trading of Option spread strategies.
- Level 4: Trading is restricted to Levels 1, 2, 3, plus the selling of naked equity options.
- Level 5: Trading is restricted to Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, plus the selling of naked index Options.
Now you are ready, happy trading!
By the way if you trade forex, please visit this forex brokers page for a comprehensive list of brokers. Also there are ways which you can buy stock direct from company to avoid fees, but it is probably more of a headache then it is worth.
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What broker do you use?
What broker do you use to trade with? Why do you use them? Are they helpful. Share your experience with us!
