Brokers account

Each online brokerage has its own strengths and weaknesses. Who you are and what you value will steer you to the one that’s best for you.

Actual forex bonuses

What Type of Brokerage Account Is Right for You, brokers account.

For instance, some people may value the convenience of having all of their financial accounts under the same roof. Others may value interactive charting. Still, others may value access to ipos. For example, capital one, citibank, or wells fargo all offer investing platforms. Almost twenty years into the 21st century, most of the discount brokerage space has consolidated into online investing.

What type of brokerage account is right for you?

A broker, also known as a brokerage, is a company that connects buyers and sellers of investment vehicles like stocks and bonds. A brokerage account is often where an investor keeps assets. Which type of brokerage to choose is a matter of the investor's needs and preferences.

Quick history of brokerages

Before the middle of the twentieth century, access to stock and bond markets was restricted to the affluent who had enough money to invest and who could afford the services a human broker to place trades and act as an investment advisor.

In the 1970s and 1980s, a range of so-called discount brokerage firms, such as vanguard and charles schwab, sprang up. They were willing to take on a less affluent clientele because their business models sought to accumulate a large number of small clients.

The late 1990s saw the rise of the internet, and online brokerages such as E*TRADE and FOREX.Com were founded to seize the opportunity new technology offered. They extended the discount brokerage model by reducing commissions and minimum balances. That's because they had far less overhead in terms of physical space and human brokers placing trades, so they could pass these savings on to the consumer.

The rise of self-directed investing and online brokerage

With lower trading costs, the online brokerage account also brought with it the self-directed investor—the investor who conducts investment research on their own and then chooses which stocks and bonds to buy for their portfolio.

Today, there are a wide array of traditional, discount, and online self-directed brokerage platforms available, each with their own pros and cons.

In addition, a new development over the past few years has been the advent of the robo-advisor. These are automated software platforms, often available as mobile apps, that take care of nearly all of your investment decisions at a very low cost.

Arguably the first robo-advisor, betterment launched in 2010 after the great recession. Since then, robo-advising has seen exponential growth in adoption and a flurry of both startups and existing brokerages adding a robo-advisor arm.

With all of these choices, then, let’s look at which type of brokerage is best suited for what type of investor.

Human brokers and financial advisors

Some people prefer to have a human handle their finances. If this is you, then a traditional human advisor may suit you better than a robo-advisor. Human brokers and financial advisors have been around since the beginning of modern stock markets, and they've carved out a space in today’s competitive landscape by catering to the more affluent investor (typically with $100,000 or more to invest) or those who prefer human interaction.

Effective financial advisors not only build and monitor investment portfolios, but they offer financial advice in all areas of their clients’ lives and provide auxiliary services such as insurance, estate planning, accounting services, and lines of credit, either themselves or via a referral network.

Customers of these brokers can expect to pay around 1% a year or more of assets under management to the advisor, or up to $50 per trade for individual transactions. Many advisors claim that these fees are well worth the extra value that they bring, whether it be their ability to pick stocks appropriate for their clients’ portfolios, their access to unique products and offerings, or a comprehensive financial plan.

Many advisors are available by phone or email and quite responsive. They also usually make a point to meet their clients in person when appropriate.

When comparing this set of brokerages, pay attention to independence. Ask if your advisor is compelled to sell a particular product or service (for example the one offered by their particular company), or if they're able to offer you the best products regardless of which fund family it came from.

Also, pay attention to fees. If they’re charging more than 1%, ask why and judge for yourself whether the extra cost is worth it. Professional certifications such as the CFP or CFA designation show that your broker has been trained and has passed a series of rigorous exams related to financial markets and planning.

Customers should use FINRA’s brokercheck tool to see if their broker has been subject to regulatory complaints or ethics violations.

Online self-directed broker accounts

Online self-directed platforms include the likes of E*TRADE, TD ameritrade, and robinhood, among many others. Today, most financial institutions and even many banks offer their customers a self-directed online brokerage account.

For example, capital one, citibank, or wells fargo all offer investing platforms. Almost twenty years into the 21st century, most of the discount brokerage space has consolidated into online investing.

For the most part, these platforms leave it up to you to figure out which investments are the best, but they typically offer a suite of research and analysis tools, as well as expert recommendations and insights, to help you make informed decisions. You are then on your own to execute the trades to build your portfolio through their website or mobile app.

These platforms charge a per-transaction commission, usually ranging from $4.95 to $9.95 per stock trade, and an extra $.50 to $1.00 per options contract. They let you trade on margin, create options strategies, and invest directly in mutual funds as well as individual stocks, foreign exchange (forex) and exchange-traded funds (etfs).

Online brokerages are best for the self-directed investor who knows about the markets or knows how to conduct their own research to choose a portfolio best suited for their goals. If you’re only going to make a few trades a year, you may want to pay a little bit more per trade in order to get access to higher quality research and analysis. If you’re a day trader, you’ll probably want to consider a site that hands out free trades to their most active users.

Each online brokerage has its own strengths and weaknesses. Who you are and what you value will steer you to the one that’s best for you. For instance, some people may value the convenience of having all of their financial accounts under the same roof. Others may value interactive charting. Still, others may value access to ipos.

Robo-advisors

Robo-advisors automate investing and use technology to manage your portfolio. Since betterment launched in 2010, there has been a proliferation of both startups and existing financial companies offering this sort of algorithmic trading service.

Unlike the trading algorithms that power the high-frequency trading (HFT) desks at hedge funds and banks, robo-advisors are likely to put your money to work using low-cost, indexed etfs. In fact, it is the convergence of ultra-low-fee etfs with low-cost technology solutions available on mobile platforms that make robo-advising possible.

You can now invest with as little as $1 on some platforms for as little as 0.15% per year in fees. Some platforms don't charge an advisory fee at all, but they charge for optional add-on services.

Before robo-advisors, if you had only a few hundred dollars or even a few thousand dollars to invest, you’d have to go online to a self-directed platform. Now, you can put your $200 or $2,000 to work without having to conduct any investment research, pick any individual stocks, or worry about rebalancing your portfolio.

Algorithm-based robo-advisors aim to place you in an efficient and diversified passive portfolio. Many of these platforms will even tax-optimize your portfolios with tax-loss harvesting, a process by which an investor sells losing positions to offset the capital gains generated by winning positions. The algorithms themselves are a proprietary company secret of robo-advisors.

Robo-advisors are an ideal option for new or young investors who have little to invest. Minimum balances for robo-advisor accounts are quite low, and some will let you start with as little as $1. These platforms are also good for people who are fans of passive investment strategies since most often you’ll find your robo-advisor develops a portfolio of indexed etfs on your behalf.

Robo-advisors also shine for those long-term investors who simply are too busy (or unmotivated) to do their own research on which ETF has the best risk/return characteristics combined with their associated fees, costs, and tax implications.

But robo-advisors are certainly not for everyone. If you're an active trader, you may find them boring or unsophisticated. While robos are adapting to this by allowing for more customizability of portfolio choice (for example, most robos will now let you adjust your allocation weights away from their initial recommendation), it defeats the purpose of these products to start speculating on hot stocks or volatile companies within these platforms. Likewise, if you're a sophisticated investor who needs margin, options trading and technical charts, a robo-advisor is probably not for you.

If you choose a robo-advisor, the factors to consider are primarily cost, reputation, and added services. Monitor the cost of extra services: some are free but others add an extra cost.

What is a brokerage account?

Definition & examples of a brokerage account

A brokerage account is a taxable investment account that allows individual investors to buy and sell many different kinds of investment securities, such as stocks, bonds, etfs, and mutual funds.

Learn how brokerage accounts work, why investors use them, and which type of brokerage account will best fit with your financial goals.

What is a brokerage account?

A brokerage account is a type of taxable investment account that can be opened with a brokerage firm. The account holder can order trades, such as buying or selling stocks, and those orders are executed by the brokerage firm.

Brokerage accounts are the more basic alternative to retirement investment accounts, like 401(k) plans and roth iras. Unlike retirement accounts, which have special rules and tax advantages, brokerage accounts have very few restrictions, and any gains or losses (including dividends) are reflected on your taxes for that year.

How does a brokerage account work?

Brokerage accounts are easy to open—similar to opening a checking account with a bank. Someone who wants a brokerage account files an application with a brokerage firm. The application will ask for basic personal information, such as your name, address, and social security number.

Once your application is approved, you deposit money into the account by writing a check, wiring money, or transferring money from your checking or savings account. After your deposited funds settle, you can use the money to buy different types of investment securities.

In exchange for executing your buy and sell orders, you may pay the brokerage a commission fee. Fees vary by brokerage, so, before opening an account, shop around and pick a brokerage with a fee structure that works best for you.

There is no limit to the number of non-retirement brokerage accounts you are allowed to have. You can have as many, or as few, brokerage accounts as you want (unless an institution chooses not to allow you to open a brokerage account). You can have multiple brokerage accounts at the same institution, segregating assets by investing strategy. You can have multiple brokerage accounts at different institutions, diversifying your relationships and exposure.

As you shop for a brokerage, take note of the financial strength of your broker and the extent of its SIPC coverage. This is the insurance that compensates investors if their stock brokerage firm goes bankrupt. Different types of assets have different levels of coverage, and some—like commodities—have no coverage at all.

What can you trade with a brokerage account?

You can trade more than a dozen types of investment products within a brokerage account. these investment products include, but are not limited to:

Common stocks and preferred stocks, which give investors partial ownership in a company

Bonds, including U.S. Treasury securities, savings bonds, corporate bonds, tax-free municipal bonds, and agency bonds

Mutual funds, such as index funds, which are pooled investment portfolios that combine funds from many investors to buy more shares than investors could buy on their own

Exchange-traded funds (etfs), which are a type of security that combines elements of both stocks and mutual funds

Real estate investment trusts (reits), such as hotel reits, which are a type of ETF that deals with real estate investments

Stock options and other derivatives

Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin

Master limited partnerships (mlps), which are complex partnerships with tax advantages (and potential tax consequences)

Money markets and certificates of deposit (cds), which are generally regarded as safer investments designed to protect cash while earning some income

Some brokerage accounts will also allow you to hold membership units in a limited liability company or limited partnership units in a limited partnership. These products are typically tied to investing in a hedge fund, so it may be difficult for new investors or less-wealthy individuals to access these options.

Types of brokerage accounts

While brokerage accounts have fewer special rules than retirement accounts, there are a few different kinds of brokerage accounts. When you're shopping for a brokerage account, pay attention to whether the account falls into one of the following categories.

Discount brokerage account

A discount brokerage account, or discount broker, is the most common form of brokerage account for casual investors who are just starting out. It may be an online-only brokerage, or there may be a few branch offices around the country. Everything is pretty much do-it-yourself and you have to execute your own trades. As a result, you save on fees.

Full-service brokerage account

A full-service brokerage account is a brokerage account that pairs you with a dedicated broker who knows you, your family, and your financial situation. You can pick up the phone and speak to them, or walk into their office and regularly have meetings to discuss your portfolio. In exchange for that personalized service, you'll pay higher fees. These fees may be bundled into your commission fees, or they may be charged to your account in some other form.

Some financial institutions offer both discount and full-service brokerage accounts.

Cash brokerage account

A cash brokerage account is one that requires you to deposit cash before you can start trading. In other words, the brokerage won't lend you any money, and you can't spend what you don't have. If you want to buy a stock worth $20, you have to deposit at least $20 into your account and use those funds to complete the trade. This limits traders to basic trades—they can't short a stock, for instance.

Cash accounts can be either discount or full-service accounts.

Margin brokerage account

A margin account, as opposed to a cash account, allows you to borrow money to make trades. The broker essentially doubles as a lender, giving you what amounts to low-interest loans for the specific purpose of making trades. these loans allow for more advanced trades, such as shorting.

As with cash accounts, margin accounts can be either discount or full-service brokerage accounts.

While borrowing money to make trades enhances your potential gains, it also adds to your risk. Only experienced traders should consider using a margin account. consider these factors:

A share dealing account could help you to add value to your portfolio whether you are a new or experienced trader. Compare platform fees and the price per trade to find cheaper investing.

Your investments are not guaranteed; they can decrease in value as well as increase and you may not get back
the full amount you put in.

Show me affiliated products first

The listings above are affiliated with us

Most popular

Share dealing

Online trading

Execution only

More from share dealing

Certificated

Share dealing guides

Who we compare

A share's a unit of ownership in a company. To work out the value of a share, you divide the value of a company by the number of shares available. It's important to understand this when you're choosing the best shares to buy.

If a company's valued at Ј50 million and there are 25 million shares available, the share value is Ј2. But this value can rise and fall, depending on how the stock market performs and other economic factors.

Share dealing is a form of investment trading. It lets you buy and sell shares in publicly listed companies using a share dealing account.

How to buy shares

If you're wondering how to buy shares and sell shares online here's a step-by-step guide:

Find an online share dealing account. Use this share dealing comparison table to compare different accounts. This'll help you find the right one for you.

Open your chosen share dealing account. Transfer in however much money you want to use for buying shares.

When you're ready to buy shares, choose which ones you want and buy them through your account. Then you can start share trading. That's when you buy shares and sell them through your chosen trading platform.

If you're interested in how to buy shares in other ways, you could use a traditional stockbroker, financial adviser or investment manager. You can find out more about share dealing here.

Which are the best shares to buy?

When you're buying and selling shares, you'll need to think carefully about what you choose to invest in.

You should think about how much you want to invest; how long you want to invest for; and how much risk you're willing to take.

If you're looking for help on which companies or stocks to invest in, it's a good idea to get the advice of a financial adviser or broker.

If you're thinking about how to buy stocks, UK investors sometimes like to use a specialist broker. They act as a middleman between you and the stock market.

A broker will buy stocks and shares, and sell them, on your behalf. They'll be aiming to get the best price possible for you.

There are three types of share dealing brokers who can buy shares on your behalf. If you want to use a broker, you'll need to know how to buy and sell shares through each type before you choose one.

Execution only brokers follow your instructions to buy shares - and sell them - without giving you any financial advice.

Advisory brokers advise you on the best shares to buy and sell but leave the final decision up to you.

Discretionary broker take complete control of buying stocks and shares for you. But they usually have higher share dealing charges on their services.

If someone else is going to be buying shares on your behalf, you'll need a brokerage account.

If you're interested in buying shares online, you'll need to choose an online share dealing platform. The share dealing account comparison above shows brokers that let you make share dealing trades online.

When you're deciding which platform to buy shares on ask yourself these questions:

How often do you want to trade?

How much money do you want to invest?

It's important to think about your own personal needs and goals when choosing a share dealing platform.

Buying and selling shares

You'll use your trading platform to buy and sell stocks and shares.

When you want to sell, you can either sell a specific number of shares, or sell your shares by their value.

If you want to sell all the shares you own in a company, you'll have to sell them by number.

It's important to know that when you sell your shares, you might be quoted a price that's lower than what you originally paid.

Once you make the order to sell, the transaction's done. The money from the sale will then appear in your trading account.

Paying tax on shares

You will not need to pay tax on your profit or purchases if your shares are held in an ISA. If they are not, you may need to pay capital gains tax and stamp duty.

You will need to pay 0.5% of the trade's value in stamp duty reserve tax (SDRT) if you buy UK shares that are settled through CREST (the UK electronic settlement system).

If you buy shares that cannot go through the CREST system (known as 'residual securities') you will still need to pay 0.5% SDRT, but rounded up to the nearest multiple of Ј5 and only on trades with a value of over Ј1,000.

When you sell your shares, the amount of capital gains tax you pay will depend on which income tax bracket you are in and how much money you make from the sale. In the 2020-21 tax year, capital gains tax is 10% for basic rate taxpayers and 20% for higher and additional rate taxpayers.

For the 2020/21 tax year there is a capital gains tax-free allowance of Ј12,300. Your gains would need to exceed this in order for you to be required to pay capital gains tax.

Before you open a share account and start looking at how to buy shares, there are some share dealing costs to think about.

The charge per trade is how much you pay for making a single share dealing trade.

The frequent trader rate is a discounted charge per trade for doing a minimum number of deals each month. It's a good way to save on your share trading.

Platform fees are an annual cost for transferring money in or out of your stock account. But not all accounts charge these - most accounts are free.

It's important to look at share dealing fees before you make any decisions.
The share dealing comparison shows how much each share dealing account charges you per trade.

How can shares earn you money?

When you start buying shares and selling them, there are a couple of ways you can earn money.

One way is through growth. That's when your shares increase in value and you can sell them at a profit.

The other way is through dividends. These can be paid out a few times a year, based on company performance. Remember that not all shares offer dividends. If yours do, the amount they'll pay out is based on how many shares you own.

A brokerage account is the first step to becoming an investor, allowing you to buy stocks, bonds, and other securities

Looking to get started in the stock market? Your first step: open a brokerage account.

Want to open an IRA to build a retirement nest egg, or participate in your company's 401(k) plan? You have to have a brokerage account.

Feel like trading gold or some other exotic asset? You do so via a brokerage account.

In short, if you want to invest money, instead of just saving it, you need a brokerage account.

Brokerage accounts are a type of financial account that investors use to hold, buy, and sell financial assets and publicly traded securities, like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. They are held at financial institutions, called brokerages or broker-dealers, whose professionals are licensed to do the actual trading of the assets, under the investor's direction.

Here's a brokerage-account-for-beginners guide: how these accounts work, what the different types are, and how you can open one.

What is a brokerage account?

A brokerage account is an investment account: the place where you keep financial products. Like a bank account, they are offered by a financial institution.

But they offer a much wider range of investment options.

Investments you can hold in a brokerage account include:

Stocks

Government and corporate bonds

Mutual funds

Exchange-traded funds (etfs)

Commodities

Real estate investment trusts (reits)

Some brokerages also offer access to proprietary investment products, like mutual funds that are exclusive to them or a particular investment firm.

Brokerage accounts and the investments within them are considered liquid assets — meaning, they are easily sold and converted to ready money. Don't confuse them with cash, however.

Your money in traditional bank accounts is available in cash — it can be withdrawn immediately. But money in a brokerage account is invested, tied up in individual assets. So if you sell something, it may take a day or two before everything clears and you actually receive the funds.

How a brokerage account works

To invest via a brokerage account, an individual deposits funds with a licensed firm, directing the broker on which assets to invest in. The broker is then responsible for executing an investor's orders.

The client receives notices of transactions, and monthly statements — either paper, or, increasingly, electronically.

Brokerages typically charge annual fees to service and maintain your account. Clients may also be expected to pay commissions on transactions — the actual purchase or selling of the securities.

A variety of firms offer brokerage accounts, including traditional broker-dealers, like edward jones, merrill lynch, and TD ameritrade; investment companies like blackrock and the vanguard group, which sponsor and manage mutual funds and exchange-traded funds; online trading platforms/apps like betterment, E*trade, and wealthfront, and financial services companies like fidelity investments and charles schwab.

Are brokerage accounts insured?

Yes, brokerage accounts can be insured by the securities investor protection corporation (SIPC). This coverage means that if the brokerage fails or goes bankrupt, the SIPC will refund or replace your money, up to $500,000 per account holder. It's similar to what the FDIC does with bank accounts.

Are brokerage accounts taxed?

In most cases, brokerage accounts are taxable. That is, income earned from these accounts is subject to federal and state income tax, in the year they generate it — regardless of whether or not it's actually withdrawn from the account. The same goes for capital gains — that is, profits from a rise in your investments. However, you aren't taxed on these profits until you actually realize them, by selling the investment.

The basic types of brokerage accounts

You can have more than one brokerage account, and different types of brokerage accounts serve different purposes.

A standard brokerage account is the most common. It is a taxable account that gives investors access to a variety of investments. Investors can trade, deposit, withdraw or shut down their accounts at any time.

A margin account is a special subset of a standard account. It allows you to borrow money, or margin, from the brokerage to buy stocks and other securities.

A retirement account is a brokerage account that has special tax status, with money growing in the account tax-free. In many cases, you get a deduction for money deposited in the account as well. Withdrawals are often strictly limited until the investor reaches a certain age. 410(k) plan accounts and iras are examples of retirement accounts.

Education accounts, like 529 savings plans, are commonly used to fund academic-oriented expenses. These are tax-advantaged accounts, and withdrawals are tax-free if used to cover tuition, books, and room and board.

Custodial accounts are investment accounts for minors, people under the age of 18 or 21, depending on the state. Though held in the child's name, these accounts are managed by an adult custodian (typically a parent or guardian) until the individual reaches the age of majority.

Managed or discretionary accounts are like any of the other brokerage accounts with one key difference: they give professional investment advisors the power to manage the account, executing transactions on their own, without checking with the client first. They usually operate using a certain investment strategy.

How to open a brokerage account

When it comes to opening your own brokerage account, the opportunities are endless — well, almost. Brokerage accounts can be opened in-person or online, via traditional broker-dealers, investment companies, online trading platforms, and financial services companies.

Fees and balance requirements vary greatly. The exclusively online brokerages tend to be cheaper because they have less overhead than the traditional, bricks-and-mortar firms. Some brokerages require a minimum deposit before opening an account; others let you start at zero.

Here are a few things to look for when evaluating a brokerage:

Commissions: some brokerages charge commissions, or transaction fees, whenever you buy or sell any of your holdings.

Maintenance fees: many firms charge a small annual amount to maintain and service your account. Note: this is different from the annual fee, called an expense ratio, that a particular mutual fund or ETF often charges you.

Management fees: these apply mainly to discretionary accounts, the ones in which a professional is actively making investment decisions for you. Their fee is usually structured as a percentage of assets under management.

Balance requirements: these are minimum account balances that must be maintained to avoid being charged an additional fee.

Investment options: not all brokerages offer the same services or types of investments. They might not let you deal in commodities or over-the-counter stocks. So it's important to make sure the firm you select can accommodate your investment needs.

Account statements: most brokerage firms are required to provide account statements detailing completed transactions each month. They are also required to submit tax statements and forms annually — copies of information sent to the IRS — to help investors prepare their returns.

The financial takeaway

Brokerage accounts give investors the opportunity to buy and sell a wide range of securities. This is the place where you hold your investments, or how you buy and sell them.

Brokerage accounts can be opened via traditional broker dealers, investment companies, online trading platforms, and financial services companies.

Brokerage accounts come in many variations, including standard accounts, retirement accounts, and managed accounts. They can be used to either meet long-term financial needs — like money to live on in retirement — or to accomplish specific goals, like buying a house or paying for college.

But whatever their form, brokerage accounts all do one basic thing: make it possible for you to become an investor — and start to build your wealth.

Invest with an awarded broker invest with an awarded broker

We offer more than just low fees. Join more than 1 million clients that place their trust in us.

Best mobile sharedealing and best low cost stockbroker

We are honoured to have been recognised four years in a row at the investors chronicle and financial times’ awards. This year, we won the award for both best mobile sharedealing and best low cost stockbroker.

Power up your investments with DEGIRO

Check out our new knowledge centre to learn more about what investing entails, what kind of trader you are, different strategies and how you can use our tools to your advantage.

Invest how you want.

Investing at DEGIRO = investing worldwide. Access global exchanges anytime, anywhere, and on any device. We give you the tools and the possibilities. You're in charge of your financial future.

You can register an account entirely online. The registration process is simple and there is no minimum deposit needed. If you have any questions, our service desk would be happy to assist.

Invest worldwide at unprecedented low rates.

More than 1 million investors across 18 countries already invest with us.

Join more than 1 million clients that place their trust in us.

More than just low fees.

Discover the many benefits of DEGIRO.

Secured

DEGIRO is committed to providing clients a secure environment to trade. Data protection and safekeeping of clients assets are our priority.

Innovative platform

At DEGIRO, innovation is the standard. Our investment platform is at the forefront of the industry but we are not content to stop improving. We are continuously expanding our services.

At DEGIRO, innovation is the standard. Our investment platform is at the forefront of the industry.

Worldwide investment possibilities

No longer are investors limited to only their home market. With DEGIRO you can access exchanges worldwide for truly global investing.

No fine print

At DEGIRO, we believe in transparency. Our fees can be found within the fee schedule, allowing the possibility to calculate the cost upfront before performing your trade.

Investing can be rewarding but it is not without risk. You can lose (a part of) your deposit. At DEGIRO, we are open and transparent about the risks that come with investing. Before you start to invest, there are a number of factors to consider. It helps to think about how much risk you are willing to take and which products are best suited for your needs. Additionally, it is not advisable to invest using money that you may need in the short term or to enter into positions which could cause financial difficulties. It all starts with thinking about what kind of investor you want to be. You can read more about the risks of investing in our investors services information documents or our dedicated risk page.

In 2013 DEGIRO introduced dutch retail clients to the possibility of investing with institutional fees. Making global trading accessible and affordable.

Expansion to 9 countries

In 2014 DEGIRO began their expansion, offering services within 9 european countries. DEGIRO also strengthened their dutch market by winning the ‘best broker’ award.

DEGIRO enters north europe & italy

2015 brought the continued expansion across northern europe and italy, winning many international awards along the way, including the prestigious “golden bull award” in the netherlands.

Largest broker in the netherlands

In 2016 DEGIRO, became the largest online broker in the netherlands in terms of transactions per year handled. Additionally, switzerland was welcomed into the DEGIRO family making it the 18th country to benefit from low transaction fee trading.

More than 200,000 clients

In 2017, DEGIRO surpassed 200,000 clients and became one of the five largest brokers in europe based on transactions per year. DEGIRO continued to win numerous awards including best broker in germany from the handelsblatt broker comparison.

More than 350,000 clients and 40+ awards

In 2018 DEGIRO surpassed 350,000 clients. Thanks to the clients, DEGIRO has won over 40 broker awards internationally, including the best broker and best mobile app award, given by the financial times & investors chronicle.

In 2019 DEGIRO launched its new trading platform based on client feedback and the changing technology. Thanks to these clients, DEGIRO has won multiple international awards again this year. On top of that, more than 1.000.000 milion clients now benefit from DEGIRO's services.

In 2020, we joined forces with flatex AG, becoming one of the biggest brokers in europe. Together, we are able to improve and widen our product offering. We are now collectively serving more than 1,000,000 investors.

DEGIRO has won
66 international
awards

Start investing today.

Incredibly low fees.

Comprehensive tools, capabilities, and service.

Worldwide. Anytime and anywhere.

Secure structure.

Incredibly low fees.

Comprehensive tools, capabilities, and service.

Worldwide. Anytime and anywhere.

Secure structure.

Česká republika

Switzerland

Danmark

Deutschland

España

Ελλάδα

France

Ireland

Italia

Netherlands

Norge

Magyarország

Österreich

Polska

Portugal

Suomi

Sverige

United kingdom

To read the original english text, please see: www.Degiro.Ie.

DEGIRO is the first wholesale broker for private investors. An online investment platform for all types of investors. DEGIRO enables its customers to invest worldwide at unprecedented low rates. DEGIRO is investing globally for everyone. Previously, investing was often limited to stock exchanges in europe or the united states. Through one platform, all DEGIRO investors gain access to products and markets worldwide. This means that private investors can spread their investments much better. DEGIRO fits perfectly with the investor who manages his business online. For us, customers do not pay for the salary of unnecessary staff. DEGIRO takes away the last difference between professional and private investors; the fees. Essential for the return of private investors.

Deemed authorised and regulated by the financial conduct authority. The nature and extent of consumer protections may differ from those for firms based in the UK. Details of the temporary permissions regime, which allows EEA-based firms to operate in the UK for a limited period while seeking full authorisation, are available on the financial conduct authority’s website.

Best trading platforms in the UK (united kingdom) for 2021

We found 11 online brokers that are appropriate for trading united kingdom.

Best united kingdom brokers guide

United kingdom financial markets

This guide will help you find the best trading platform in the UK. The UK is also known as the united kingdom. England and great britain particularly the capital london has been a world financial center for many centuries.

Restructuring and deregulation has transformed the financial sector during the last 3 decades with important changes in the london stock exchange, insurance, banking, shipping, and commodity markets.

The united kingdom also known as the UK or great britain has a number of established reputable financial markets.

The main united kingdom securities markets include the london stock exchange which deals in officially listed stocks and shares,government issues, traded options, stock index options, currency options, foreign exchange, futures, metals, gold, silver, agricultural and other commodities.

UK brokers

The united kingdom is ranked among one of the top five economies in the world and this attracts global investors to trade stocks, cfds, forex, commodities and cryptocurrency. We have written an extensive guide here that will help you find a reputable UK broker.

When looking for a good and reliable broker in the united kingdom its not easy. It can be very confusing. Here we explain what your trading options are in the UK and what UK brokers can and cant offer you.

Stock trading

The united kingdom historically has been a huge influence on stock markets all across the world. Dating as far back as 1571 the london stock exchange is one of the most important financial exchanges in the world. The united kingdom has been a financial powerhouse for over 450 years!

Trading stocks and shares in the UK and england is highly regulated and considered very safe. But be aware any investment can go down as well as up.

Live forex trading

Forex is the biggest liquid financial market in the world with a daily turnover of more than $5 trillion (BIS data april 2016). It is a currency exchange of two different nations and thereafter managing the result position in which one currency gains and the other loses.

Live CFD trading

CFD or contract for difference is derivatives having a value determined by as asset traded. The formats of such assets include stocks, commodities and currencies.

Spread betting

It is derivative market speculation and you are not required to own the asset. Just a bet is done whether the price will increase or decrease. Usually, the UK brokers will show the prices and you have to spread bet on it.

Demo trading if you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with a demo trading that is funded with virtual money. It will simply improve your trading skills.

Why trade in the UK?

Internationally UK is considered as one of the worlds largest financial centers. In the united kingdom brokers are highly regulated, professional and supportive. However, below are some of the important things a trader should know:

Financial markets in the united kingdom are very mature and are seen are being trustworthy due to regulation and compliance by the the financial conduct authority, UK financial services authority, the prudential regulation authority and financial services compensation fund.

The platforms used by brokers in the UK are well tested and are highly rated.

Trading platforms in the united kingdom make sure the broker you decided to trade with has all of the below.

Easy to use platform

Availability of risk management tool

Good or instant execution speed

Better quality of charts

Capability of social trading

Timely online help or support

Challenges of trading in the UK

Even a little change in US economic markets may affect the UK markets as the UK and USA have huge trading partnerships and our economies are closely linked.

Similarly, the EU too impacts the UK markets significantly as it is a multi-nation trading block.

Since the brexit negotiations in 2016, the effect on british market has not always been positive.

Even though there are challenges in the UK markets, the overall financial scenario is very favorable for traders and UK brokers have a long history of being very supportive and fair when dealing with clients.

However, when trading with a UK broker we recommend checking that the broker is a LTD company and is FCA regulated, offering an industry-standard trading platform and any deposits are done through secured channels.

We've collected thousands of datapoints and written a guide to help you find the best best trading platforms in the UK (united kingdom) for you. We hope this guide helps you find a reputable broker that matches what you need. We list the what we think are the best united kingdom brokers below. You can go straight to the broker list here.

Trading in united kingdom

When trading in united kingdom you will need to know what your options with your united kingdom trading broker are.

We list below the trading account types available in united kingdom. If you are looking for brokers in united kingdom that are suitable for trading in the forex, CFD's, indices and etfs, cryptocurrencies (availability subject to regulation) or commodity markets; this united kingdom broker guide will explain the things you should check and be aware of before you invest.

Forex trading in united kingdom

Forex trading is growing in popularity in united kingdom. The volume of forex traded in united kingdom has increased year on year over the last five years.

Across the world $5.1 trillion USD in volume is traded every single day. This is a huge amount in comparison with other financial market sectors.

Advances in online technology, higher internet coverage in united kingdom and increased competition among brokerages have made forex trading more accessible and reduced the costs of trading generally.

Is forex trading legal in united kingdom?

Their is a misconception that trading forex on the financial market in united kingdom is considered unsafe. This is not the case, forex trading in united kingdom is very active.

Trading in forex is allowed in united kingdom as to conduct business currency must be exchanged. Forex is an integral part of import and export and investing internationally. The important thing is that when trading forex you pick a safe and reputable broker that is regulated. United kingdom forex trading is not banned, their are many international online brokers offering favourable trading conditions.

Do forex traders pay tax in united kingdom?

Once a traders profits reach a level where the income on the forex trading can be taxed in united kingdom the trader should make sure all taxes owed for a financial year are paid. United kingdom taxes should be filed even if there were losses on the year. If trading losses cannot be claimed against personal income taxes. A trader should file them with the proper government agency in united kingdom. You should seek advice with a united kingdom tax professional to ensure they are abiding by all proper tax laws in united kingdom. In united kingdom islamic accounts do not have additional restrictions on trades.

Cryptocurrencies in united kingdom

Cryptocurrency markets in united kingdom are relatively new and their availability are subject to local financial regulation. Because cryptocurrency works on decentralised assets in united kingdom things like interest rate changes and political instability do not affect cryptocurrencies as much as the currency markets in united kingdom for example.

Due to a large young population in united kingdom with growing income levels and wide spread adaptation of online technology cryptocurrency trading volume is increasing greatly in united kingdom. $6 billion USD worth of bitcoin is traded daily around the world.

Commodity trading in united kingdom

In united kingdom commodity trading includes the trade in precious metals, energies and agricultural commodities.

Some commodities like metals are seeing exponential growth in united kingdom since 2002.

Fast growing countries like china and india have been growing rapidly over the last 3 decades. This has meant that countries like china and india have a vast requirement for many basic commodities and raw materials for their populations. Crops to feed people and metal to build infrastructure for example. This means countries like united kingdom are able to take advantage of this demand.

Islamic accounts in united kingdom

United kingdom brokers support islamic accounts or swap-free accounts. United kingdom islamic accounts have no rollover interest on overnight positions to comply the muslim faith. Traders of islamic faith are forbidden to pay interest. Brokers in united kingdom offer accounts that are suitable for islamic traders. These united kingdom brokers complies with sharia law.

Benefits of trading in united kingdom

United kingdom economy and population is growing. The middle class population in united kingdom is increasing which means a growing consumer base. Many business and financial opportunities exist in united kingdom. United kingdom has a young population educated in technology and the internet.

Concerns of trading in united kingdom

United kingdom digitisation of financial trading has made it easier to defraud unsuspecting investors across the internet. Make sure the broker you trade with is regulated and passes the checklist in this united kingdom guide. Educate yourself as much as possible open a demo account if necessary be you open a live trading account.

Learn about leverage when trading. United kingdom brokers offering high leverage trades in united kingdom can mean high profit margins. But this goes both was it can also mean huge losses. There are things like negative balance protection and stop loss accounts which some united kingdom brokers offer as a level of protection. You can learn more about further below on this guide.

Reputable united kingdom brokers checklist

There are a number of important factors to consider when picking an online united kingdom trading brokerage.

Check your united kingdom broker has a history of at least 2 years.

Check your united kingdom broker has a reasonable sized customer support of at least 15.

Does the united kingdom broker fall under regulation from a jurisdiction that can hold a broker responsible for its misgivings; or at best play an arbitration role in case of bigger disputes.

Check your united kingdom broker has the ability to get deposits and withdrawals processed within 2 to 3 days. This is important when withdrawing funds.

Does your united kingdom broker have an international presence in multiple countries. This includes local seminar presentations and training.

Make sure your united kingdom can hire people from various locations in the world who can better communicate in your local language.

It is not essential that your brokerage is local but they must have regulation from a tier 1 reputable country. In fact the brokers international regulation could be more reputable than your local region.

When deciding to trade and find a suitable united kingdom broker if you wish your broker to be 100% local check they are governed and regulated by the below.

Our team have listed brokers that match your criteria for you below. All brokerage data has been summarised into a comparison table. Scroll down.

Our brokerage comparison table below allows you to compare the below features for brokers offering united kingdom brokers.

We compare these features to make it easier for you to make a more informed choice.

Minimum deposit to open an account.

Available funding methods for the below united kingdom brokers.

What you are able to trade with each brokerage.

Trading platforms offered by these brokers.

Spread type (if applicable) for each brokerage.

Customer support levels offered.

We show if each brokerage offers micro, standard, VIP and islamic accounts.

Top 15 united kingdom brokers of 2021 compared

Here are the top united kingdom brokers (GB).

Compare united kingdom brokers min deposits, regulation, headquarters, benefits, funding methods and fees side by side.

All brokers below are united kingdom brokers. Learn more about what they offer below.

You can scroll left and right on the comparison table below to see more united kingdom brokers that accept united kingdom clients

Best online brokers of 2021

Originally posted january 23, 2021

Interested in the best online brokers of 2021? Whether you want to invest in boeing or tesla, you will need to get an online broker account first. An online platform allows you to trade from any location that has an internet connection. Because the brokerage automatically processes these trades, they do not have to charge as much as traditional brokerage firms.

An online broker basically serves as the middleman during your stock purchase. They help to mediate the exchange between a buyer and seller for different stocks, bonds and other financial instruments. While some of these brokers charge a fee for their services, there are also online brokers available who do not charge commission. To discover the best online brokers of 2021, read on.

The best online brokers of 2021

8. Interactive brokers

If you are looking for a low-cost platform, interactive brokers is the place to go. It is also a great place for trading options. While other online brokers have better interfaces, the platform at interactive brokers will do everything you need it to. While the interface is fairly simple, interactive brokers offers robust features. It was originally designed for advanced traders, which is one of the reasons why it offers volume-based discounts.

With interactive brokers, you can use the pro version or the lite version. The pro version charges $0.05 per share after your first 200 shares. If you buy less than 200 shares, you have to pay $1. The pro version also charges $0.65 per options contract. Meanwhile, the lite version does not charge you anything per trade.

Star rating: 4/5

Fees: $.005 per share with IBKR pro and $0 per share with IBKR lite

Account minimum: $0

7. Tradestation

Tradestation uses a web-based platform to help active traders conduct online trades. This platform can be downloaded on your desktop device. Traders love tradestation because of how robust it is. With this platform, you get an entire range of trading tools.

In addition to the desktop platform, you can also check out tradestation’s mobile app. This app allows you to pick price alerts and view watch lists. Plus, you can analyze stock charts through the platform. Depending on how much you deposit in your account, you can also receive $50 to $5,000 in rewards.

Star rating: 4/5

Fees: $0 per trade and $0.50 per option trade

Account minimum: $0

Already have an account with one of the best online brokers of 2021?
Click here to sign up for trade of the day+ and start making winning trades!

6. Merrill edge

Merrill edge is known for having some of the best analysts and researchers in the industry. The in-house team of analysts compiles detailed reports for different companies. New investors can also access merrill edge’s educational materials.

One of the advantages of using merrill edge is getting easy access to funds in your bank of america account as well. Because of this integration, you can easily move funds from your bank of america account to merrill edge for free.

Merrill edge often offers promotions, so you may be able to get extra money for opening an account. For example, one of the most recent promotions involved giving new clients $600 for depositing a certain amount of money in a new account. These promotions normally must meet certain requirements, so you should make sure to read the promotion’s rules before investing.

If you care about environmental, social and governance (ESG) research, merrill edge is the place to go. Fund story, stock story and portfolio story allow you to read up on the latest research. Plus, you can also get full ESG reports as well.

Owned by bank of america, merrill edge does not charge any fees for trading stocks or exchange-traded funds (etfs). Through merrill edge, users can enjoy some of the industry’s top rewards. The preferred rewards program gives users a variety of benefits, but you need to have a minimum account balance to qualify for the program.

Star rating: 4.5/5

Fees: $0 per stock or ETF and $0.65 per options contract

Account minimum: $0

5. Ally invest

Ally invest is ideal if you are a customer at ally bank, but anyone can use this platform. This online broker charges nothing for its ETF and stock trades. With ally invest’s add-on feature, you can also get option contracts for $0.50. If you want to buy a mutual fund, you will have to pay $9.95 per trade.

Depending on your initial deposit, you can get up to $3,500 for starting an account with ally invest. This online broker does not have extensive educational resources like other companies, but it is known for having excellent customer support. Because ally invest is integrated with ally bank, it is a great option for traders who want all of their finances situated in one location.

Star rating: 4.5/5

Fees: $0 per stock and $0.50 per option contract

Account minimum: $0

4. E*TRADE

E*TRADE was originally started in 1982. It has the distinction of being the first online brokerage in the entire country. Other than its robust web platform, the company offers two mobile apps. Plus, the power E*TRADE platform is ideally designed for trading option contracts.

With E*TRADE, you can enjoy having excellent trading tools. While E*TRADE holds its own with stock trading, it really stands out with option contracts. Consistently ranked as one of the best web-based platforms, E*TRADE is a must have on our list of the best online brokers of 2021.

Star rating: 4.5/5

Fees: $0

Account minimum: $0

The top 3 online brokers of 2021

3. Charles schwab

Today, charles schwab has more than $3 trillion in client assets. In addition to serving as a full-service brokerage since 1973, the company is currently a top online broker as well. By using charles schwab, you can get easy access to top-notch trading tools, stock research and other benefits.

Since it was founded, charles schwab has focused on a customer-first approach. The online platform does not charge any fees for conducting stock trades. Plus, there is no account minimum for opening an account.

Other than its customer service, this online broker is popular because of its high-quality market research. Charles schwab uses 25 in-house experts to create its schwab insights. Plus, you can use a robo-advisor through the schwab intelligent portfolios feature or human advisors through the schwab intelligent portfolios premium program.

Star rating: 5/5

Fees: $0 per stock and $0.65 per option trade

Account minimum: $0

2. TD ameritrade (thinkorswim)

Thinkorswim is next on our list of the best online brokers of 2021. TD ameritrade uses the thinkorswim platform, which is known as one of the top desktop platforms available. This package is ideal for investors who want to have $0 trades and excellent resources. The education for beginners is some of the best in the industry, and the platform provides exceptionally reliable customer service.

Because of its many features, TD ameritrade is one of the best online brokers of 2021. If you are a beginning investor, this is an especially good platform to go with. It has the industry’s biggest selection of educational resources, so you can watch more than 200 instructional videos. The entire learning center is based on gamification, so learning is more enjoyable. Throughout the learning process, you can take quizzes to track how much you have learned and see your progress.

Once you understand how to invest, you can gain additional information using TD ameritrade’s television network. The platform also has a trader magazine that analyzes proprietary data. All of the data is combined in the social signals tool, which tweets out the platform’s latest analyses.

Best of all, TD ameritrade has some of the best technology in the industry. Instead of just using an app or a website, TD ameritrade works with multiple access points. You can access your account from facebook, apple chat, alexa and twitter.

Star rating: 5/5

Fees: $0.65 per contract

Account minimum: $0

1. Fidelity

With fidelity, you can trade online for $0. This platform offers top-notch trading tools and some of the best research in the industry. Many people also use the platform for their retirement savings.

Designed as a straightforward mobile app, this platform is currently used by 30 million clients. If you want to do investment research, fidelity offers 16 equity research reports. Plus, you can check out the in-house market analysis to gain a better understanding of the marketplace.

Fidelity really shines above the crowd because of its mobile app. The app can be downloaded in seconds, and it contains a range of trading tools. Additionally, it allows you to immediately access all of fidelity’s research from your mobile device.

This platform specifically targets new investors. In fact, TD ameritrade and fidelity are two of the best options out there for new traders. If you are struggling to figure out how to trade online, fidelity even has an education center.

At fidelity, you pay $0 per trade. In addition, fidelity does not require any minimum deposits. If you decide to trade options, you will have to pay a minor fee of $0.65 per contract.

Star rating: 5/5

Fees: $0

Account minimum: $0

Best online brokers reviews

For more information about the best online brokerages of 2021, sign up for our free investment U e-letter below.

Brokers account

Connect extranet

Secure smes cover via our connect etrade product suite

Eserve

Access your claims in real time

Esettlement

Complete your account reconciliations

Business interruption calculator

Creates a quick and accurate report of a business’ exposure to business interruption based on the insured’s own financial accounts

Instalment terms calculator

What you need to do when a client wants to pay by instalments

Not a broker?

If you are not a broker, visit our main site

Coronavirus hub for brokers

Welcome to AXA connect. Come on in…

We’ve created this dedicated website to connect with you, our brokers. Inside, you can find commercial and personal lines policy information, online tools, resources and much more. Take a look around. And if you can’t find what you need, one of our team will be more than happy to help.

Be empowered to support businesses

With our commercial lines proposition, you’ll discover tools to help you work more efficiently, be more competitive and offer more choice of market-leading solutions to your customers.

Quality off-the-shelf packaged products

Many of your customers’ needs can be met quickly with our packaged policies, so we can help by making that as quick and pain-free as possible. Access a suite of SME products that are designed to be traded digitally, offering you fast, comprehensive and competitive cover, all at the touch of a button.

The personal touch, when it’s needed

We know that certain clients and exposures need a more bespoke approach. That’s why we’ll always have someone you can meet and talk with to develop a solution that suits both you and your customer.

Your mid-market solution

AXA vantage gives your mid-market clients tailored, trade-specific products, supported by an award-winning and transparent claims service, market-leading in-house risk management, and a host of unique value-added services.

Schemes for commercial clients

Combining an entrepreneurial approach to deals, a choice of commission models with the opportunity to benefit from our new AXA growth lab and investment in specialist schemes expertise, we firmly believe we are the only commercial insurer who can offer a true partnership for growth.

The importance of getting personal

With a broad range of home insurance cover, flexible motor insurance products and a special travel insurance arrangement developed with brokers in mind, we have a personal lines solution to cover your customers’ every need.

Driving success

Our pricing sophistication, coupled with a flexible trading approach, allows us to deliver quality motor products in a way that suits you and your clients best. But more than that, we’ve worked with brokers and customers to really understand what makes the difference in the event of an accident or loss. It’s this service that helps us – and you – to stand out from the crowd.

Building foundations

Every customer is unique and a one-size-fits-all insurance product just isn’t good enough. That’s why we’ve created a range of home insurance products that caters for a broad range of customer needs. So, whether your customer is downsizing to a smaller house or purchasing a high value property, you can be sure their home is in safe hands.

Expanding horizons

We've made it quick and easy to arrange your customers’ travel insurance through a unique arrangement with specialist insurers, david oliver associates. Specifically designed for the broker market, with the ability to tailor limits within each policy and choose from flexible commission rates, you’ll find the right cover for you and your clients.

Take your investing
to the next level

IBKR provides clients from all over the globe with the
ability to invest worldwide at the lowest cost. 1

Lowest costs

Our transparent, low commissions, starting at $0 2 , and low financing rates minimize costs to maximize returns. 3

Global access

Invest globally in stocks, options, futures, currencies, bonds and funds from a single integrated account.

Premier technology

IBKR's powerful suite of technology helps you optimize your trading speed and efficiency and perform sophisticated portfolio analysis.

AWARD WINNING PLATFORM + SERVICES

Experience the lowest costs
in the industry 1

learn more

Discover a world of opportunities

Invest globally in stocks, options, futures, currencies, bonds and funds from a single integrated account. Fund your account in multiple currencies and trade assets denominated in multiple currencies. Access market data 24 hours a day and six days a week.

Graphic is for illustrative purposes only and should not be relied upon for investment decisions.

Leverage technology built to help you
get ahead

Powerful enough for the professional trader but designed for everyone. Available on desktop, mobile and web.

Spot market opportunities, analyze results, manage your account and make better decisions with our free trading tools.

100+ order types – from limit orders to complex algorithmic trading – help you execute any trading strategy.

Real-time trade confirmations, margin details, transaction cost analysis, sophisticated portfolio analysis and more.

New at interactive brokers

Interactive brokers launches innovative sustainable investing tool

Interactive brokers unveiled an innovative, interactive impact dashboard designed to help clients evaluate and invest in companies that align with their values.

Introducing the mutual funds marketplace

Interactive brokers' mutual funds marketplace offers availability to more than 37,000 mutual funds, including over 33,000 no load and 8,300 no transaction fee funds from more than 380 fund families.

Interactive brokers group donates $5 million to aid coronavirus response

Interactive brokers group, inc. Has donated $5 million to assist efforts to provide food and support for people hurt by the coronavirus in the united states, as well as to advance medical solutions.

IBKR launches interactive brokers ireland limited

IBKR received authorization by the central bank of ireland to launch interactive brokers ireland limited. IBIE was created to support our rapidly growing global client base.

Optimize lot matching to win at tax time

Interactive brokers' US clients have the freedom to choose the pricing plan best aligned with their investing needs and can switch between plans as their investing needs change.

Market commentary delivered to your inbox

IBKR's traders' insight provides daily market commentary, while the IBKR quant blog provides the latest news and sample code for data science and trading. Sign-up for delivery of either to your inbox.

Interactive brokers establishes central european office

IBCE is headquartered in budapest, hungary and was created to serve investors and wealth managers across the european economic area (EEA).

A broker you can trust

When placing your money with a broker, you need to make sure your broker is secure and can endure through good and bad times. Our strong capital position, conservative balance sheet and automated risk controls are designed to protect IBKR and our clients from large trading losses.

Excess regulatory capital*

Daily avg revenue trades*

*interactive brokers group and its affiliates. For additional information view our investors relations - earnings release section by clicking here.

Choose the best account type for you

Step 1

Complete the application

It only takes a few minutes

Step 2

Fund your account

Connect your bank or
transfer an account

Step 3

Get started trading

Take your investing to
the next level

FINRA brokercheck reports for interactive brokers and its investment professionals are available at www.Finra.Org/brokercheck

Rated lowest cost broker by stockbrokers.Com annual online review 2020. Read the full review.

IBKR lite provides commission-free trades in US exchange-listed stocks and etfs. For complete information, see ibkr.Com/commissions.

Lower investment costs will increase your overall return on investment, but lower costs do not guarantee that your investment will be profitable.

Average net benefit is calculated using IHS markit® price improvement and IBKR monthly execution statistics. For more information see ibkr.Com/info.

For complete information, see ibkr.Com/compare.

A message from our CEO regarding COVID-19

Dear clients, business partners, and colleagues of interactive brokers,

IBKR has been on the leading edge of financial services technology throughout its 35 year history and we have always taken pride in the innovative ways we bring a high value, high integrity, safe service to our clients around the world.

The COVID-19 global pandemic has triggered unprecedented market conditions with equally unprecedented social and community challenges. Like many people, companies and governments around the world, we have focused on how to navigate these uncharted waters.

We are committed to ensuring the highest levels of service to our clients so that they can effectively manage their assets, portfolios, and risks.

We are satisfied that our technical infrastructure has withstood the challenges presented by the extraordinary volatility and increased market volume. We understand that the dramatic increase in service inquiries has led to longer wait times, which has no doubt been frustrating. We encourage our clients to explore the wide range of online information services we provide on our public website and the client portal.

We traditionally take a conservative stance to risk and we have built risk management systems designed to weather even the current market turmoil. The financial health of the interactive brokers group, and all of its affiliates, remains robust.

We are a truly global broker, with offices and staff located around the world. We have the ability to run the business from a variety of our locations with minimal risk of disruption. If some offices must temporarily close due to the spread of COVID-19, we can continue to offer our core services from other offices.

We have been taking steps to protect the well-being of our employees, incorporating health and safety best practices into our strategy as rapidly as possible following published government guidelines. Our employees are an integral part of the IBKR community and are essential to our future.

We appreciate your business and the faith you have placed in us, and most importantly, we wish you safe passage through these uncertain times.

President and CEO, interactive brokers group

Interactive brokers ®, IB SM , interactivebrokers.Com ®, interactive analytics ®, IB options analytics SM , IB smartrouting SM , portfolioanalyst ®, IB trader workstation SM and one world, one account SM are service marks and/or trademarks of interactive brokers LLC. Supporting documentation for any claims and statistical information will be provided upon request. Any trading symbols displayed are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to portray recommendations.

The risk of loss in online trading of stocks, options, futures, currencies, foreign equities, and fixed income can be substantial.

Options involve risk and are not suitable for all investors. For more information read the characteristics and risks of standardized options, also known as the options disclosure document (ODD). To receive a copy of the ODD call 312-542-6901 or click here. Before trading, clients must read the relevant risk disclosure statements on our warnings and disclosures page. Trading on margin is only for sophisticated investors with high risk tolerance. You may lose more than your initial investment. For additional information regarding margin loan rates, click here. Security futures involve a high degree of risk and are not suitable for all investors. The amount you may lose may be greater than your initial investment. Before trading security futures, read the security futures risk disclosure statement. For a copy click here. Structured products and fixed income products such as bonds are complex products that are more risky and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, please read the risk warning and disclosure statement.

So, let's see, what we have: which type of brokerage to choose is a matter of the investor's needs and preferences. Find out the benefits of human, self-directed, and robo-advisors. At brokers account