- UNITED STATES
Popular Brokerage Accounts
Easily compare U.S. brokerage accounts to get a comprehensive overview of fees, features, and more.
The brokers listed here cover a variety of investment options, including traditional stock investing, active trading, and specialized CFD brokers.
Compare Fees
Explore Features
Last Updated: December 22, 2024
Disclaimer: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our comparisons or reviews, which are based on our independent research and analysis. Always verify details directly with the provider before making any decisions. Full disclosure Here.
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)
Fees:
- Stocks/ETFs (IBKR Lite): $0 per share for U.S. residents.
- Stocks/ETFs (IBKR Pro): $0.0005 to $0.0035 per share (tiered); $0.005 per share (fixed); No Transaction Fee ETFs are free.
- Options: $0.15 to $0.65 per contract (tiered); $0.65 per contract (fixed).
- Futures: $0.25 to $0.85 per contract (tiered); $0.85 per contract (fixed).
- Spot Currencies: 0.08 to 0.20 basis points × trade value.
- Bonds: 10 basis points × face value.
- Mutual Funds: Up to 3% or $14.95; free for No Transaction Fee Funds.
Offer:
- No Active Offer: Currently, there are no promotional offers available.
Trading Platforms:
- Global Market Access: IBKR provides access to over 150 global markets for trading stocks, options, futures, currencies, bonds, and funds.
- Low Fees: Offers competitive pricing with no added spreads, ticket charges, platform fees, or account minimums.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Features IBKR BestX™ and supports over 90 order types, catering to diverse trading strategies.
- Global Market Access: IBKR provides access to over 150 global markets, allowing clients to trade stocks, options, futures, currencies, bonds, and funds from a single unified platform.
- Advanced Trading Tools: It offers a wide range of trading tools such as IBKR BestX™, which enhances trade execution and price improvement.
- Low Fees: No added spreads, ticket charges, platform fees, or account minimums, making it one of the most affordable brokers.
- Research and Analytics: Clients have access to over 200 research, news, and market commentary providers, both free and premium.
- Diverse Order Types: The platform supports over 90 order types, including complex algorithmic trading options.
- Trading Platforms: A variety of platforms for different investor levels, from mobile to desktop solutions.
- Sustainability Options: Offers the ability to engage in sustainable investing, with access to relevant financial products.
Interactive Brokers is a globally recognized brokerage firm known for its sophisticated trading platforms and extensive range of investment options. Catering to both individual investors and institutional clients, Interactive Brokers offers access to a vast array of financial markets and products.
- Low Fees: Minimal to no additional costs such as spreads or ticket charges.
- Global Market Access: Clients can trade in over 150 global markets, making it ideal for international investors.
- Advanced Trading Tools: IBKR BestX™ and a variety of free and premium trading tools help investors enhance their trading strategies.
- Comprehensive Platform: Available on mobile, web, and desktop, the platform is suitable for all levels of investors.
- No Account Minimums: Making it accessible to a broader audience.
- Complexity: The platform may be overwhelming for beginners due to its advanced features and professional tools.
- Focus on Active Traders: Its tools and services are tailored more toward active traders and institutional clients, potentially limiting its appeal to casual investors.
Fidelity Investments
Fees:
- $0 Commission on U.S. Stock Trades: Fidelity does not charge any commission on online U.S. stock, ETF, and options trades, with the exception of a $0.65 fee per options contract.
- Activity Assessment Fees: For sell orders, Fidelity may charge an activity assessment fee ranging from $0.01 to $0.03 per $1,000 of principal.
- ETF Service Fee: A limited number of ETFs are subject to a transaction-based service fee of $100.
- Options Regulatory Fee: Options trading is subject to a regulatory fee applied to both buy and sell transactions.
Offer:
- Commission-Free Trading: Enjoy commission-free trading on select assets, including U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options.
Trading Platforms:
- $0 Commission Trading: Fidelity offers commission-free online U.S. stock, ETF, and options trading, making it cost-effective for investors.
- Wide Investment Options: Access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options, fixed income, and international trading in 25 countries.
- Fractional Shares: The “Stocks by the Slice” feature enables purchasing fractional shares with as little as $1.
- $0 Commission for U.S. Stock Trades: Fidelity offers commission-free online U.S. stock trades, ETFs, and options trading, making it highly cost-effective for U.S. investors.
- Wide Investment Options: Provides access to a variety of assets, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options, fixed income, bonds, and CDs, as well as international trading in 25 countries with 16 currencies.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Fidelity offers a range of professional trading tools, including Active Trader Pro, with options for margin trading, options trading, short selling, and more.
- Fractional Shares: The “Stocks by the Slice” feature allows users to purchase fractional shares of their favorite companies or ETFs with as little as $1, making high-priced stocks accessible to everyone.
- Mobile Trading: The Fidelity Mobile® app allows users to trade stocks, ETFs, options, and more, while managing portfolios and watchlists on the go.
- IPO Participation: Fidelity allows participation in initial public offerings (IPOs), follow-on offerings, and secondary offerings.
- Educational Resources: Offers comprehensive research and educational tools such as coaching sessions, trading strategy desks, and resources to help traders improve their skills.
Fidelity is a renowned investment platform offering a vast range of investment products, from U.S. stocks and ETFs to international trading and bonds. Known for its zero-commission policy on U.S. stock trades, it caters to both beginner and experienced investors. Fidelity provides access to advanced trading tools, fractional shares, and a user-friendly mobile app, making it easy to manage investments anywhere. It also emphasizes education, offering a rich array of learning resources and interactive coaching to help users build their investment knowledge.
- Zero Commission on U.S. Stock Trades: Fidelity provides $0 commission on U.S. stock trades, ETFs, and options trading, which benefits both small and large investors.
- Wide Range of Investment Options: From U.S. stocks to international trading, Fidelity offers a comprehensive selection of financial instruments, including fixed income, IPOs, and fractional shares.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Active Trader Pro and the web platform offer tools for professional traders, including margin and options trading.
- Fractional Share Trading: Investors can buy fractional shares for as little as $1, making it accessible for small-budget investors.
- Comprehensive Research: Fidelity offers access to third-party research and tools to help users make informed decisions.
- Platforms: Less robust digital platforms compared with competitors.
Robinhood
Fees:
- Commission-Free Trading: No fees for U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options trades.
- Robinhood Gold: $5 per month for access to premium features, including margin trading and professional research.
- Crypto Fees: Although crypto trading is commission-free, users should be aware that cryptocurrencies held through Robinhood are not protected by FDIC or SIPC insurance.
Offer:
- Referral Offer: A referral program is available, providing rewards for referring new users to the platform.
Trading Platforms:
- Commission-Free Trading: Robinhood offers $0 trading fees for U.S. stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies.
- Fractional Shares: Users can start investing with as little as $1, making high-priced stocks accessible.
- Educational Resources: Robinhood Learn provides tools and insights for both beginner and experienced investors.
- Commission-Free Trading: Robinhood offers commission-free trading for U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options, making it highly attractive to retail investors.
- Fractional Shares: Users can invest in fractional shares, allowing them to start with as little as $1, which makes high-priced stocks accessible.
- Cryptocurrency Trading: Offers commission-free trading of popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), Shiba Inu (SHIB), and more.
- Cash Card: Robinhood provides a prepaid cash card through Sutton Bank, offering FDIC-insured spending accounts.
- Robinhood Gold: A premium subscription-based service providing advanced features like margin investing and access to professional research reports for a monthly fee.
- Robinhood Learn: A comprehensive educational platform to help new and experienced traders improve their investing knowledge.
- Protection and Security: The platform offers multi-factor authentication, 24/7 account monitoring, and account protection from unauthorized activity.
Robinhood is a popular online brokerage that pioneered commission-free trading, offering users access to a variety of investment products, including stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. The platform caters to both beginners and experienced investors, providing fractional share trading, cryptocurrency trading, and access to advanced financial tools through Robinhood Gold. Known for its user-friendly mobile app, Robinhood has reshaped how retail investors engage with the stock market.
- Commission-Free Trading: No fees on U.S. stock, ETF, options, and crypto trades, making investing more affordable.
- Fractional Shares: Users can buy fractions of stocks, enabling them to diversify their portfolios with small investments.
- Cryptocurrency Trading: Robinhood offers access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies without additional fees.
- Easy-to-Use Platform: The mobile and web platforms are intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible for beginners.
- Protection and Insurance: Robinhood offers multi-factor authentication and protection against unauthorized account activity.
- Limited Advanced Trading Features: While great for beginners, professional traders may find Robinhood lacking in advanced tools compared to other platforms.
- Margin Investing Risks: Robinhood Gold includes margin investing, which can lead to significant losses if not managed properly.
eToro
Fees:
- Account Fees: Free account opening; $5 withdrawal fee for USD accounts; no fee for GBP/EUR.
- Stocks: $1 or $2 commission depending on stock exchange.
- Currency Conversion: 0.95% for USD conversions.
- Inactivity Fee: $10/month after 12 months of inactivity.
- ETFs: Commission-free trading.
- Crypto: 1% fee for buying/selling, 2% for transfers to crypto wallet.
- CFDs: Variable spreads and overnight fees on leveraged positions.
Offer:
- No Active Offer: Currently, there are no promotional offers available.
Trading Platforms:
- Social Trading: eToro’s CopyTrader™ allows users to replicate the trades of successful investors.
- Diverse Assets: Access to over 6,000 instruments, including stocks, ETFs, crypto, and forex.
- Commission-Free Trading: Offers $0 commission on U.S. stock trades, appealing to retail investors.
- Social Trading: eToro’s innovative CopyTrader™ feature allows users to automatically replicate the trades of successful investors, providing a unique way to participate in the markets.
- Wide Range of Assets: Access to over 6,000 financial instruments including stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, commodities, forex, and more.
- Commission-Free Stock Trading: eToro offers commission-free trading for U.S. stocks, making it appealing to retail investors looking to avoid high trading fees.
- Advanced Trading Platforms: eToro supports both web and mobile platforms with intuitive interfaces and detailed charting tools for technical analysis.
- eToro Academy: A comprehensive educational hub offering courses, webinars, and podcasts to help users enhance their trading knowledge.
eToro is a global trading and investment platform known for its social trading features, allowing users to follow and copy the trades of successful investors. Founded in 2007, eToro provides access to a wide range of financial markets, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, commodities, and ETFs. The platform combines traditional trading with a social networking aspect, making it accessible for both new and experienced traders.
- Social Trading: Enables users to copy the trades of experienced investors, making it easier for beginners to learn and invest.
- Wide Range of Assets: Offers a diverse selection of financial instruments, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive platform design suitable for both novice and seasoned traders.
- No Commission on Stocks: Commission-free trading for stocks helps reduce overall trading costs.
- Spreads and Fees: While stock trading is commission-free, other assets like cryptocurrencies and forex have wider spreads and additional fees.
- Limited Research Tools: Compared to some other platforms, eToro offers fewer in-depth research and analysis tools.
- Withdrawal Fees: Charges a withdrawal fee, which can be a drawback for frequent withdrawals.
- Customer Support: Some users have reported slow response times from customer support.
Tastytrade
Fees:
- Options on Stocks and ETFs: $1.00 per contract to open, $0 to close (capped at $10 per leg).
- Futures Contracts: $1.25 per contract to open/close.
- Micro Futures Contracts: $0.85 per contract to open/close.
- Stocks and ETFs: No commission for unlimited shares.
- Cryptocurrency: No commission on trades, but a 35 basis point (bp) markup/markdown on the executed price is applied.
Offer:
- Cash Bonus: Receive a cash bonus on qualified deposits, based on the deposit amount.
Trading Platforms:
- Low-Cost Options Trading: TastyTrade offers $1.00 per contract to open options trades with no commission to close, capped at $10 per leg for equity options.
- Diverse Trading Instruments: Supports trading in stocks, ETFs, options, futures, micro futures, and cryptocurrencies, catering to varied market interests.
- Educational Resources and Tools: Provides free trading tutorials, platform demos, and advanced risk analysis tools for strategy development and decision-making.
- Low-Cost Options Trading: TastyTrade offers competitive rates for options trading, with a $1.00 per contract fee for opening options trades and no commission to close.
- Capped Commissions: For equity options, commissions are capped at $10 per leg, ensuring that costs are kept low even for high-volume traders.
- Wide Range of Trading Instruments: TastyTrade supports trading in stocks, ETFs, options, futures, micro futures, and cryptocurrencies, providing access to diverse markets.
- Advanced Trading Platform: Offers an intuitive, user-friendly platform designed to facilitate quick trade execution with advanced risk analysis tools.
- Educational Resources: TastyTrade provides free access to platform demos, trading tutorials, and financial education resources, helping traders develop their strategies.
- Cutting-Edge Risk Analysis Tools: Traders can benefit from advanced tools that help assess and manage risk, improving decision-making in volatile markets.
- No Fees on Cryptocurrency Trades: TastyTrade does not charge commissions on cryptocurrency trades, although it applies a markup/markdown on prices.
- No Account Minimums: There are no minimum deposit requirements to open or maintain an account, making it accessible for traders of all levels.
TastyTrade is a U.S.-based online brokerage platform designed for options traders and investors who want low-cost access to a variety of markets, including stocks, futures, and cryptocurrencies. Known for its user-friendly platform and capped commissions, TastyTrade caters to both beginner and advanced traders. The platform offers competitive fees for options trading, a simple yet powerful interface, and comprehensive educational resources, making it a strong choice for traders seeking to minimize fees while maximizing trading opportunities.
- Low Commissions on Options: Only $1.00 per contract to open an options trade, and no commission to close, making it ideal for active traders.
- Capped Commissions: For equity options, commissions are capped at $10 per leg, helping high-volume traders keep costs under control.
- Diverse Product Offering: Access to options, futures, micro futures, stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies ensures that users can trade a wide range of assets.
- No Account Minimums: No minimum deposit requirement to open or maintain an account, allowing new traders to start with small amounts.
- Free Educational Resources: Offers comprehensive tutorials, trading strategies, and market insights to help traders improve their skills.
- Risky for Inexperienced Traders: Given its focus on options and futures, which involve leverage, TastyTrade may not be ideal for inexperienced traders unfamiliar with these instruments.
- Cryptocurrency Not FDIC or SIPC Insured: Cryptocurrencies traded through TastyTrade are not protected by FDIC or SIPC, adding an extra layer of risk for crypto traders.
E*TRADE From Morgan Stanley
Fees:
- $0 Commissions: No fees for U.S.-listed stock, ETF, and mutual fund trades.
- Options Fees: $0.65 per options contract (reduced to $0.50 for traders who make at least 30 trades per quarter).
- Futures Trading: $1.50 per contract, plus exchange fees.
- Managed Portfolios: E*TRADE’s Core Portfolios have an annual advisory fee of 0.30%, with a minimum balance of $500.
- Broker-Assisted Trades: $25 for trades placed through a broker.
Offer:
- Promotional Offer: New clients who open and fund an account by January 31, 2025, can receive up to $1,000 depending on the qualifying deposit.
- Minimum Deposit Required: A minimum deposit of $1,000 is required to qualify.
- Promo Code: Use promo code
OFFER24
to take advantage of this offer.
Trading Platforms:
- Commission-Free Trading: $0 commissions on U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options trades.
- Diverse Investment Options: Wide range of assets, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, and futures.
- Advanced Platforms: Offers ETRADE for general users and Power ETRADE with advanced tools for active traders.
- Commission-Free Trading: E*TRADE offers $0 commissions for online U.S.-listed stock, ETF, mutual fund, and options trades, making it highly appealing for retail investors.
- Wide Range of Investment Options: Users can invest in stocks, options, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, CDs, futures, and prebuilt portfolios, providing extensive diversity for portfolio building.
- Multiple Platforms: ETRADE offers the standard ETRADE platform as well as Power E*TRADE, which includes advanced charting and technical analysis tools tailored to active traders.
- Core and Managed Portfolios: E*TRADE provides both core automated portfolios and professionally managed portfolios, with an annual advisory fee of 0.30% and a minimum balance of $500 for the Core Portfolio.
- Retirement Accounts: E*TRADE offers a variety of retirement accounts, including IRAs, Roth IRAs, and small business retirement plans.
- Research and Insights: Access to comprehensive market research and analysis through Morgan Stanley’s equity research services, along with timely insights and trading ideas.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Power E*TRADE delivers an advanced platform with robust trading tools, including options analytics, futures trading, and risk management tools.
ETRADE, now part of Morgan Stanley, is a well-established online brokerage offering a wide variety of investment products and services, including commission-free trading for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options. The platform caters to a broad range of investors, from beginners to active traders, with intuitive tools, powerful platforms, and in-depth research provided by Morgan Stanley. ETRADE’s advanced tools, along with its educational content and retirement planning resources, make it a one-stop platform for traders and investors of all levels.
- Commission-Free Trading: Offers $0 commissions on U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options trades, which is highly beneficial for both casual and frequent investors.
- Powerful Trading Platforms: ETRADE’s platforms, including Power ETRADE, cater to both beginner and advanced traders, offering a variety of features such as risk analysis and technical charting.
- Diverse Investment Products: A wide selection of assets, including stocks, bonds, options, mutual funds, and futures, allows for diverse portfolio management.
- Comprehensive Research and Tools: Provides access to top-tier research from Morgan Stanley, as well as advanced trading tools for active traders.
- No Account Minimums: E*TRADE does not require an account minimum for its standard brokerage accounts.
- Options Trading Fees: While stock and ETF trades are commission-free, options trades incur a fee of $0.65 per contract (or $0.50 for active traders), which could add up for frequent options traders.
- Complexity for Beginners: The advanced tools and research may be overwhelming for new investors who may not need all the functionalities offered.
- Fees on Broker-Assisted Trades: Trades placed through a broker incur a $25 fee, which could be costly for users who prefer hands-on support.
Plus500
Fees:
- Commissions: $0.89 for standard & E-Mini contracts, $0.49 for micro contracts.
- Liquidation Fee: $10 per contract.
- Withdrawal/Deposit Fees: No fees for wire transfers, deposits, or withdrawals.
- Other Fees: No platform, data, or routing fees. No inactivity fee.
Offer:
- Trading Bonus for New Users: New users can receive a bonus based on their initial deposit, ranging from $20 for a $100 deposit up to $200 for a $10,000 deposit.
- Bonus Usage: The bonus is applied to cover trading commissions and fees.
Trading Platforms:
- Global Market Access: Offers futures trading across diverse markets, including crypto, forex, energy, and equity indices.
- User-Friendly Platform: Simplified trading experience tailored for beginners, with a free demo account to practice strategies.
- Low Commissions: No platform or market data fees, with cost-effective trading commissions.
- Global Market Access: Plus500 offers futures trading across various markets, including crypto, agriculture, metals, forex, interest rates, energy, and equity indices.
- Low Commissions: No platform or market data fees, and trading commissions are designed to be cost-effective.
- Easy to Use: The platform is tailored for beginners and retail clients, with a user-friendly app that simplifies futures trading.
- Free Demo Account: Users can try out trading strategies with live quotes without risking real money through a demo account.
- Flexible Account Setup: Start trading with as little as $100 and scale up when ready.
- Educational Resources: Plus500 offers a Futures Academy with educational content like articles and videos to help traders learn the ins and outs of futures trading.
- 24/7 Support: Customer support is available round the clock to assist users with their trading needs.
Plus500 is a globally recognized platform for futures trading, offering a wide range of instruments including futures on equity indices, crypto, metals, forex, and more. The platform focuses on ease of use and low commissions, making futures trading accessible to both beginners and more experienced traders. Backed by over 20 years of experience, Plus500 provides professional customer support and emphasizes security by keeping client funds in segregated accounts. Plus500 is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a full member of the CME Group and the National Futures Association (NFA).
- No Platform or Market Data Fees: Users enjoy low commissions without the burden of platform or data fees.
- Beginner-Friendly: Designed for ease of use, even for traders new to futures.
- Global Market Coverage: Offers access to a wide range of futures across different asset classes and markets.
- Free Demo Account: The demo account allows users to test strategies without risking real funds.
- Low Minimum Deposit: Start trading with just $100, making the platform accessible for new traders.
- Limited Asset Types: The platform focuses primarily on futures and does not cater to other traditional investment products like stocks or bonds.
J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing
Fees:
- Stocks/ETFs: $0 online commission; $25 call-in fee. U.S. listed trades have a small regulatory transaction fee ($0.01-$0.03 per $1,000 principal).
- Options: $0 online base + $0.65 per contract; $25 call-in fee + $0.65 per contract.
- Mutual Funds: $0 online; $20 call-in.
- Bonds: $10 per trade + $1 per bond (up to $250).
- Other Fees: $75 for account transfers/closures; $25 wire transfer; $10 overnight mail.
Offer:
- New Customer Bonus: Receive up to $700 when you open and fund a J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing account by January 23, 2025.
- Bonus Tiers:
- $50 bonus for deposits between $5,000 and $24,999.
- $150 bonus for deposits between $25,000 and $99,999.
- $325 bonus for deposits between $100,000 and $249,999.
- $700 bonus for deposits of $250,000 or more.
Trading Platforms:
- Commission-Free Trading: Unlimited $0 online trades for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options, with a $0.65 per contract fee for options.
- Comprehensive Investment Options: Access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options, fixed income products, and retirement accounts like IRAs.
- Wealth Management Tools: Features like the J.P. Morgan Wealth Plan® and market insights to help manage investments with personalized strategies.
- Commission-Free Trading: J.P. Morgan offers unlimited $0 commission online trades for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options. Options trades have a $0.65 per contract fee.
- Account Options: Provides access to a variety of account types, including general investment accounts and retirement accounts (Traditional and Roth IRAs).
- Investment Products: Users can invest in stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options, and fixed income products.
- Wealth Management Tools: Includes the J.P. Morgan Wealth Plan®, which gives a 360-degree view of finances, helping users manage their investments with personalized insights.
- Mobile and Online Access: Investors can manage their portfolios easily through Chase Mobile® and the J.P. Morgan website, with access to educational resources and market commentary.
- Retirement Planning: Supports retirement planning with account rollovers, traditional and Roth IRAs, and tools like the 401K/IRA calculators.
- Market Insights: Provides market commentary and research from J.P. Morgan specialists to help users stay informed and make strategic investment decisions.
J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing is an online platform that offers commission-free trading for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options, making it an attractive choice for investors who want control over their portfolios. It provides access to general investment accounts and retirement accounts, including Traditional and Roth IRAs. The platform features tools for comprehensive wealth management and retirement planning, supported by market insights from J.P. Morgan specialists. Investors can easily manage their portfolios through the Chase Mobile® app and online, with seamless integration for J.P. Morgan customers.
- Commission-Free Trading: Unlimited $0 commission on U.S. stocks and ETFs makes it cost-effective for active traders.
- Diverse Investment Products: Offers a broad range of investment options, including mutual funds, fixed income, and options.
- Comprehensive Wealth Tools: The J.P. Morgan Wealth Plan provides personalized insights and helps track financial goals.
- Integration with Chase: Convenient integration with Chase’s mobile and online banking platforms makes managing investments and banking seamless.
- Retirement Planning Support: Provides a variety of retirement accounts and tools for planning and managing retirement savings.
- Options Trading Fees: While stock and ETF trades are commission-free, options trades incur a $0.65 per contract fee.
- Limited Features for Advanced Traders: Professional traders may find the platform lacks some advanced tools and features available on specialized trading platforms.
- Account Minimum for Advisory Services: Managed services with J.P. Morgan advisors require a minimum investment of $25,000.
Charles Schwab
Fees:
- Online U.S. Stock, ETF, and Options Trades: $0 commission.
- Options: A $0.65 per contract fee applies to options trades.
- Broker-Assisted Trades: $25 per trade.
- OTC Trades: $6.95 for online trades; additional fees for phone or broker-assisted transactions.
- Foreign Stock Transactions: $50 for online OTC trades, with higher fees for broker-assisted trades (greater of $100 or 0.75% of the principal).
Offer:
- No Active Offer: Currently, there are no promotional offers available.
Trading Platforms:
- Commission-Free Trades: $0 commission on online U.S.-listed equities, ETFs, and options trades.
- Diverse Investment Options: Access to stocks, options, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs with no account minimums.
- Advanced Platforms and Tools: Offers web, mobile, and software platforms with advanced trading and planning features.
- Commission-Free Trades: Schwab offers $0 commission on online listed equity trades, ETFs, and options trades in the U.S.
- Account Flexibility: You can open individual or joint brokerage accounts with no account minimums and no opening or maintenance fees.
- Diverse Investment Options: Schwab provides access to a wide range of financial products, including stocks, options, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs.
- Advanced Trading Platforms: Schwab offers web, software, and mobile platforms with advanced tools for managing your brokerage account and making trades.
- Research and Planning Tools: Schwab offers online tools to help you screen, evaluate, and plan your investments, providing comprehensive research options.
- 24/7 Support: Access Schwab’s financial professionals anytime by phone or at one of 300+ physical branches.
- Trading Education: Schwab offers extensive educational resources to help users grow their trading skills, including access to trading specialists.
Charles Schwab offers a broad array of financial services and investment options, catering to both individual and institutional clients. Its advanced trading platforms and tools support a wide range of securities, while its financial advisory services help clients plan for retirement and other financial goals. Schwab also provides extensive educational resources and market research, ensuring that clients have the information they need to make informed investment decisions. The firm emphasizes low-cost trading with $0 commissions on select trades.
- $0 Commission on Listed U.S. Stocks, ETFs, and Options: Provides cost-effective trading for individual investors.
- No Account Minimums: Schwab allows users to open and maintain accounts without any minimum deposit requirements.
- Diverse Product Offering: Access to a variety of investment products, including equities, bonds, mutual funds, and options.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Users can take advantage of Schwab’s powerful trading platforms across devices.
- Comprehensive Support: Schwab provides 24/7 phone support and access to 300+ branches for in-person assistance.
- Educational Resources: Schwab offers trading education and access to specialists, making it ideal for investors looking to expand their knowledge.
- Fees for Non-Listed Securities: Online OTC trades cost $6.95, and broker-assisted trades are subject to a $25 fee.
- Foreign Stock Fees: Foreign stock transactions carry a higher cost, with broker-assisted trades costing the greater of $100 or 0.75% of the principal.
- Broker-Assisted and Automated Phone Trades: Broker-assisted trades incur a $25 fee, and trades made via automated phone are charged $5.
Webull
Fees:
- Stock and ETF Trading: No commission fees on U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs.
- Options: A $0.55 per contract fee applies to certain index options trades, and regulatory fees may apply.
- Regulatory and Exchange Fees:
- SEC: $0.0000278 per trade amount (minimum $0.01).
- FINRA: $0.000166 per share for each equity sale (maximum $8.30 per trade).
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Trading: Additional fees for trading low-priced securities and foreign stocks via ADRs. For transactions over 100,000 shares priced under $1.00 per share, the fee is $0.0002 per share.
Offer:
Free Fractional Shares: Webull offers up to 75 free fractional shares when users deposit between $500 and $25,000 and maintain it for 30 days.
Transfer Bonuses: Earn a 2.0% cash bonus when you transfer non-IRA investments to Webull, and a 3.5% bonus on IRA transfers.
Futures Promotion: Deposit $500 and trade 50 contracts in the first 3 months to get commission-free trades on those contracts and free CME Group Level 2 Market Data for 3 months.
Trading Platforms:
- Commission-Free Trading: Zero fees for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options trades, including intra-day margin and short-selling.
- Advanced Platforms: Offers customizable tools, real-time quotes, and extended hours trading via Webull Desktop 8.0.
- Diverse Investment Options: Trade stocks, ETFs, options, ADRs, fractional shares, and futures, including Money Market Funds.
- Commission-Free Trading: Webull offers commission-free trading for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options, with no fees for intra-day margin or short-selling trades.
- Advanced Trading Platforms: Webull provides a desktop app (Webull Desktop 8.0) with customizable, advanced charting tools, real-time quotes, and extended market hours trading (4 AM-9:30 AM ET and 4 PM-8 PM ET).
- Wide Investment Options: Investors can trade a variety of products, including stocks, ETFs, options, ADRs, and fractional shares. Webull has also introduced Money Market Funds and offers futures trading on indices, crypto, and other assets.
- IRAs and Retirement Accounts: Webull offers Traditional, Roth, and Rollover IRAs with investment services that include cash management and robo-advisors.
- Community and Paper Trading: Webull has a community feature where users can share ideas, and it offers paper trading, allowing investors to test strategies without risking real money.
- New Features: Money Market Funds have recently been introduced, and Webull’s futures trading covers indices, cryptocurrencies, and FX, among others.
Webull is a commission-free online brokerage that offers U.S. stock, ETF, and options trading without fees, making it ideal for retail investors. With advanced trading tools, extensive research features, and support for fractional shares, Webull is designed to be user-friendly while also offering comprehensive features for more experienced traders. The platform is available on desktop, mobile, and web, with a focus on providing a seamless experience across all devices. Webull also supports a variety of IRAs and retirement accounts, making it a versatile platform for both short-term and long-term investment strategies.
- Commission-Free Trading: Zero commission on U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options trades makes it highly attractive to cost-conscious investors.
- Advanced Tools for Traders: Webull offers robust charting, analysis tools, and extended hours trading for active traders.
- Fractional Shares: Allows users to buy fractions of stocks, making high-priced shares accessible to small investors.
- No Minimum Deposit: You can open and trade with Webull without needing a minimum deposit.
- Community and Paper Trading: Users can engage with other investors and test strategies through Webull’s paper trading feature.
- Promotions and Bonuses: Webull offers attractive promotions, including free fractional shares for deposits and transfer bonuses for IRAs.
- Higher Fees for Some Services: While stock and ETF trades are commission-free, options trades have a contract fee, and there are transfer-out fees for moving stock out of Webull.
Ally Invest
Fees:
- Stocks and ETFs: No commission for U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs.
- Options: $0.50 per contract fee, which is relatively low compared to other platforms.
- Bonds: Bonds can be purchased for $1 per bond, with a minimum transaction of $0.
- Low-Priced Securities: A $4.95 base commission and $0.01 per share for stocks priced under $2.
- Personal Advice: For personalized financial advice, the fee is 0.85% per year, with a minimum balance of $100,000 required to access this service.
Offer:
- No Active Offer: Currently, there are no promotional offers available.
Trading Platforms:
- Commission-Free Trading: $0 commissions on U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options trades, appealing to cost-conscious investors.
- Automated and Self-Directed Options: Offers Robo Portfolios for hands-off investing and self-directed trading with no account minimums.
- Integration with Ally Bank: Seamless management of savings and investments with easy transfers.
- Commission-Free Trading: Ally Invest offers $0 commissions on most U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options trades, making it highly attractive for cost-conscious investors.
- Automated Investing: For those who prefer a hands-off approach, Ally provides Robo Portfolios, which can be tailored to specific goals and risk levels. A $100 minimum investment is required to start, and there is no advisory fee if you choose the cash-enhanced portfolio option.
- Self-Directed Trading: Investors who want to control their own investments can choose from a variety of assets, including stocks, ETFs, bonds, and options. No account minimum is required to start.
- Personalized Financial Advice: Ally offers personalized advice for higher-balance investors (starting at $100,000), which includes one-on-one guidance and a customized financial plan. There is a blended advisory fee of up to 0.85%.
- Education and Tools: Ally provides comprehensive educational resources, including articles and videos on topics like ETFs, mutual funds, and general investing tips. Charts, screeners, and expert analysis are available to assist in decision-making.
- Integration with Ally Bank: The platform integrates with Ally Bank, allowing users to manage their savings and investments in one place with easy money transfers.
Ally Invest is an online brokerage service offering a range of investment options, including commission-free stock, ETF, and options trading. The platform caters to different types of investors, from those looking for self-directed trading to those who prefer automated investing or personalized advice. Ally Invest stands out for its no-account-minimum policy, competitive pricing, and integration with Ally Bank, allowing users to manage both banking and investing in one view. With a user-friendly interface and robust educational resources, Ally Invest aims to make investing accessible to all levels of investors.
- No Commission on U.S.-Listed Securities: Ally Invest offers commission-free trading for most U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options, reducing costs for active traders.
- No Account Minimum: Investors can start with as little as $0, making it easy for beginners to start investing.
- Automated Portfolios Available: For investors who prefer a hands-off approach, the Robo Portfolios option allows for automated, goal-based investing with a low minimum requirement of $100.
- Integrated with Ally Bank: Users can manage their savings and investments together, offering convenience for existing Ally Bank customers.
- Low Fees for Options: Options trading is offered with a competitive fee of $0.50 per contract.
- Comprehensive Educational Resources: Ally Invest provides accessible and easy-to-understand resources to help investors build their knowledge base.
- Limited Advanced Trading Features: While Ally offers basic trading tools, professional traders might find the platform lacking in sophisticated features available on more advanced trading platforms.
- Advisory Services Require High Minimum Balance: Personalized financial advice requires a minimum investment of $100,000, which may not be accessible to small investors.
- Limited Mutual Fund Selection: No-load mutual funds are available commission-free, but the selection may not be as extensive as competitors.
Merrill Edge
Fees:
- $0 Commissions: There are no commissions for U.S.-listed stock and ETF trades made online.
- Options Fees: Online options trades cost $0.65 per contract. Broker-assisted options trades cost $29.95 per trade plus $0.65 per contract.
- Mutual Funds: No load, no transaction fee (NTF) funds are free to trade online, but transaction fee funds incur a fee of $19.95 per online transaction.
- Advisory Fees:
- Merrill Guided Investing has a 0.45% annual fee.
- Merrill Guided Investing with an Advisor has a 0.85% annual fee.
- Account Transfer Fees: Full account transfers have a $49.95 fee.
Offer:
- No Active Offer: Currently, there are no promotional offers available.
Trading Platforms:
- Commission-Free Trading: Unlimited $0 online trades for stocks and ETFs with no balance minimums.
- Integration with Bank of America: Combines banking and investing with rewards programs and seamless transfers.
- Sustainable Investing: Offers ESG-focused options to align portfolios with personal values.
- Commission-Free Trading: Merrill Edge offers unlimited $0 online trades for stocks and ETFs with no trade or balance minimums.
- Account Options: The platform provides several account types, including individual, joint brokerage, custodial, and trust accounts. Retirement options such as IRAs are also available.
- Managed Investing Options: Merrill offers both self-directed investing and managed portfolio services through Merrill Guided Investing, with the latter involving an annual fee and professional portfolio management.
- Integration with Bank of America: Merrill Edge integrates with Bank of America, offering perks like combined banking and investment accounts, rewards programs, and seamless money transfers.
- Mobile Investing: Merrill Edge offers a mobile app that allows users to trade, monitor investments, and manage their accounts on the go.
- Sustainable Investing: Merrill provides ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) investment options, allowing investors to align their portfolios with personal values.
Merrill Edge is an online brokerage offering commission-free trading for U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs, integrated with Bank of America for seamless banking and investing. It provides self-directed investing tools for those who want to manage their portfolios independently, as well as managed investing services for those seeking professional guidance. Merrill’s platform is designed to cater to both new and experienced investors, with an array of account types, easy-to-use tools, and an intuitive mobile app for managing investments.
- Unlimited Commission-Free Trades: Users can trade U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs with $0 commissions, which helps reduce costs for frequent traders.
- Integration with Bank of America: Combines banking and investing, offering seamless account management and the ability to benefit from the Preferred Rewards program.
- Comprehensive Investment Options: Access to stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, and more, along with ESG-focused investing options.
- Managed Portfolio Services: Merrill offers both guided investing with and without the help of an advisor, providing flexibility based on the user’s level of involvement and financial goals.
- Educational Tools: The platform provides research, insights, and educational content to help investors make informed decisions.
- Fees for Broker-Assisted Trades: Broker-assisted trades incur a fee of $29.95 per trade, which can be costly for users who prefer personalized assistance.
- Management Fees for Advisory Services: Merrill Guided Investing has an annual fee of 0.45%, while Merrill Guided Investing with an Advisor incurs a 0.85% fee, which could be higher than some competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
A brokerage account is an investment account that allows you to buy and sell a variety of investments, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs. Brokerage accounts are offered by brokerage firms, and the firm acts as an intermediary between you and the stock market.
Choosing a brokerage account depends on your investment goals, experience level, and the types of assets you want to trade. Consider factors like commission fees, account minimums, trading platforms, research tools, and customer service when making your decision.
Common fees include trading commissions, account maintenance fees, inactivity fees, and fees for additional services like wire transfers or paper statements. It’s essential to review the fee structure of a brokerage before opening an account to understand the total cost of investing.
Comparing broker accounts is useful because it helps you find the best fit for your investment needs and goals. Different brokers offer varying features, fee structures, and levels of service. By comparing options, you can identify a broker that offers the best combination of low fees, robust tools, excellent customer service, and the specific features you need for your trading strategy.
Some broker accounts are better than others because they offer superior features, lower costs, better customer support, or more comprehensive research tools. The best broker for you depends on your individual needs, such as whether you are a beginner looking for educational resources or an advanced trader needing sophisticated trading platforms. Evaluating factors like commission rates, ease of use, account minimums, and the availability of different investment products can help determine which broker is superior for your situation.
Common features of broker accounts include:
- Trading Platforms: Tools and software for executing trades and analyzing the market.
- Commission Rates: Fees charged for buying and selling securities.
- Account Minimums: The minimum amount required to open or maintain an account.
- Research and Educational Resources: Access to market research, news, and educational content.
- Customer Support: Availability of support through phone, email, or live chat.
- Investment Options: Variety of assets available for trading, such as stocks, bonds, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies.
To evaluate broker accounts, consider the following steps:
- Read Reviews: Look for customer reviews and expert analyses on financial websites and forums.
- Compare Fees: Check the commission rates, account maintenance fees, and any other charges.
- Test Platforms: If possible, use demo accounts or trial versions to test the trading platforms.
- Assess Customer Service: Contact customer support to evaluate their responsiveness and helpfulness.
- Review Resources: Examine the educational and research tools provided to ensure they meet your needs.
- Check Regulation: Ensure the broker is regulated by a reputable financial authority to safeguard your investments.
What to look for?
Here are some tips and important information to consider when choosing a brokerage account.
What are popular commission-free brokers in the US?
Robinhood, Webull, and E*TRADE offer commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options. Robinhood is known for its user-friendly platform and cryptocurrency trading, while Webull provides advanced charting tools and extended trading hours. E*TRADE offers a more comprehensive platform with additional tools for retirement planning and market analysis.
Which brokers are best for beginner investors?
For beginners, Robinhood and Fidelity Investments are ideal due to their intuitive platforms and easy-to-navigate interfaces. Robinhood is great for those looking to trade with minimal fees, while Fidelity offers extensive educational resources and financial planning tools, making it a solid choice for long-term investors.
What are the best brokers for advanced traders?
Advanced traders may prefer Interactive Brokers (IBKR), Charles Schwab, and Tastytrade. IBKR offers low commissions, global market access, and advanced trading tools, while Charles Schwab provides sophisticated platforms like StreetSmart Edge® with comprehensive market research. Tastytrade stands out for options and futures trading with educational content for active traders.
What are popular brokers for retirement planning?
For retirement planning, Fidelity Investments, Charles Schwab, and Merrill Edge provide excellent options. All three offer a variety of account types like Traditional and Roth IRAs, along with tools for retirement savings and planning. Fidelity is known for its low fees and extensive retirement services, while Merrill Edge integrates seamlessly with Bank of America accounts for streamlined fund transfers.
Disclaimer
Always verify details directly with the provider, as information may change and become outdated. Investments carry the risk of loss, including the potential to lose more than the original investment. Conduct thorough research before selecting any financial provider, and consider consulting with a licensed professional if needed. The content on this page may be outdated, inaccurate, or incorrect.
Summary
Here’s an overview of brokerage accounts covered on this page.
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)
Interactive Brokers is a globally recognized brokerage firm known for its sophisticated trading platforms and extensive range of investment options. Catering to both individual investors and institutional clients, Interactive Brokers offers access to a vast array of financial markets and products.
Fidelity Investments
Fidelity is a renowned investment platform offering a vast range of investment products, from U.S. stocks and ETFs to international trading and bonds. Known for its zero-commission policy on U.S. stock trades, it caters to both beginner and experienced investors. Fidelity provides access to advanced trading tools, fractional shares, and a user-friendly mobile app, making it easy to manage investments anywhere. It also emphasizes education, offering a rich array of learning resources and interactive coaching to help users build their investment knowledge.
Robinhood
Robinhood is a popular online brokerage that pioneered commission-free trading, offering users access to a variety of investment products, including stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. The platform caters to both beginners and experienced investors, providing fractional share trading, cryptocurrency trading, and access to advanced financial tools through Robinhood Gold. Known for its user-friendly mobile app, Robinhood has reshaped how retail investors engage with the stock market.
eToro
eToro is a global trading and investment platform known for its social trading features, allowing users to follow and copy the trades of successful investors. Founded in 2007, eToro provides access to a wide range of financial markets, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, commodities, and ETFs. The platform combines traditional trading with a social networking aspect, making it accessible for both new and experienced traders.
Tastytrade
TastyTrade is a U.S.-based online brokerage platform designed for options traders and investors who want low-cost access to a variety of markets, including stocks, futures, and cryptocurrencies. Known for its user-friendly platform and capped commissions, TastyTrade caters to both beginner and advanced traders. The platform offers competitive fees for options trading, a simple yet powerful interface, and comprehensive educational resources, making it a strong choice for traders seeking to minimize fees while maximizing trading opportunities.
E*TRADE From Morgan Stanley
ETRADE, now part of Morgan Stanley, is a well-established online brokerage offering a wide variety of investment products and services, including commission-free trading for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options. The platform caters to a broad range of investors, from beginners to active traders, with intuitive tools, powerful platforms, and in-depth research provided by Morgan Stanley. ETRADE’s advanced tools, along with its educational content and retirement planning resources, make it a one-stop platform for traders and investors of all levels.
Plus500
Plus500 is a globally recognized platform for futures trading, offering a wide range of instruments including futures on equity indices, crypto, metals, forex, and more. The platform focuses on ease of use and low commissions, making futures trading accessible to both beginners and more experienced traders. Backed by over 20 years of experience, Plus500 provides professional customer support and emphasizes security by keeping client funds in segregated accounts. Plus500 is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a full member of the CME Group and the National Futures Association (NFA).
J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing
J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing is an online platform that offers commission-free trading for U.S.-listed stocks, ETFs, and options, making it an attractive choice for investors who want control over their portfolios. It provides access to general investment accounts and retirement accounts, including Traditional and Roth IRAs. The platform features tools for comprehensive wealth management and retirement planning, supported by market insights from J.P. Morgan specialists. Investors can easily manage their portfolios through the Chase Mobile® app and online, with seamless integration for J.P. Morgan customers.
Charles Schwab
Charles Schwab offers a broad array of financial services and investment options, catering to both individual and institutional clients. Its advanced trading platforms and tools support a wide range of securities, while its financial advisory services help clients plan for retirement and other financial goals. Schwab also provides extensive educational resources and market research, ensuring that clients have the information they need to make informed investment decisions. The firm emphasizes low-cost trading with $0 commissions on select trades.
Webull
Webull is a commission-free online brokerage that offers U.S. stock, ETF, and options trading without fees, making it ideal for retail investors. With advanced trading tools, extensive research features, and support for fractional shares, Webull is designed to be user-friendly while also offering comprehensive features for more experienced traders. The platform is available on desktop, mobile, and web, with a focus on providing a seamless experience across all devices. Webull also supports a variety of IRAs and retirement accounts, making it a versatile platform for both short-term and long-term investment strategies.
Ally Invest
Ally Invest is an online brokerage service offering a range of investment options, including commission-free stock, ETF, and options trading. The platform caters to different types of investors, from those looking for self-directed trading to those who prefer automated investing or personalized advice. Ally Invest stands out for its no-account-minimum policy, competitive pricing, and integration with Ally Bank, allowing users to manage both banking and investing in one view. With a user-friendly interface and robust educational resources, Ally Invest aims to make investing accessible to all levels of investors.
Merrill Edge
Merrill Edge is an online brokerage offering commission-free trading for U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs, integrated with Bank of America for seamless banking and investing. It provides self-directed investing tools for those who want to manage their portfolios independently, as well as managed investing services for those seeking professional guidance. Merrill’s platform is designed to cater to both new and experienced investors, with an array of account types, easy-to-use tools, and an intuitive mobile app for managing investments.