6 Best Online Stock Brokers for Beginners of 2024

Investing

Ready to get started investing but not sure where to start? We’ve compiled a list of the best online stock brokers for beginners that we recommend for 2024.

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Whether it is customer service, affordability, or platform versatility, each of these online brokers shines in its own way.

Be sure to compare the most important differentiators, such as trading costs and account minimums before you make your choice. As a beginner, you may also place more value on educational resources and customer support while you’re still learning the ropes.

6 Best Online Stock Brokers for Beginners

Robinhood

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Robinhood is aptly named, offering commission-free stock and ETF (exchange-traded funds) trades. Not just some of the time—all the time.

On top of this, they don’t have an account minimum. If you want to get started trading, there’s no reason to wait. Robinhood also offers fractional shares.

Robinhood has a great mobile app team. It’s so good there’s no reason for you to ever hop on a PC. It takes new investors five minutes to set up and only an hour for them to activate your brokerage account.

By industry standards, that’s pretty fast. (Keep in mind this is a brokerage account, not a Twitter account you’re setting up.)

When you transfer $1,000 to Robinhood, it is available immediately for you to invest. If you upgrade to Robinhood Instant (a free upgrade), any proceeds you make from selling stocks or ETFs can be immediately used to buy stocks or ETFs elsewhere.

Read our full review of Robinhood.

Merrill Edge

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Merrill Edge is a great option for beginning investors. You can open an account with $0 minimum investment. They also offer excellent customer service, strong education and research, and low fees.

You can get unlimited free online stock, ETF, and options trades with their Preferred Rewards program, or pay just $2.95 per trade with no trade or balance minimums.

Merrill Edge offers flexible tools with customizable features and the best part is they are there to guide you step-by-step.

They have dedicated advisors who will work with you one-on-one to help you build a comprehensive financial strategy.

Their advisors can give you recommendations based on your needs to help you grow and preserve your wealth.

If you prefer to meet with them in person, Merrill Edge has over 2,000 Bank of America locations where an advisor will be more than happy to work with you.

Charles Schwab

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There are only a few online brokers out there where we can honestly say are well suited for both beginning and advanced investors, but Charles Schwab is one of them. It has the tools to satisfy anyone, no matter their level of expertise.

Are ETFs your thing? Charles Schwab offers over 200 commission-free ETFs. Are you an absolute beginner? Schwab objectively selects what it believes to be the best ETF in every category, so you don’t have to go down rabbit holes of information and research.

On top of this, if you are just starting to build your portfolio, Schwab also offers recommendations based on your chosen risk tolerance. Take the safe road and know that your money is in good hands.

If you need to speak with a representative, you may do so no matter the time of day, via phone or online chat. That said, Schwab is a full-service broker that has a pretty large brick and mortar presence. You can schedule an appointment to speak with a representative or attend invaluable workshops.

A downside to Schwab is that they do have an account minimum. While several online brokers we’ve discussed require no account minimums, Schwab does require that its investors maintain at least $1,000 with them.

If you don’t have that, you can have the minimum waived when you sign up for an automatic monthly deposit of $100.

Vanguard

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Perhaps one of the best online stock brokers for low-cost investing, Vanguard is frequently utilized by buy-and-hold and retirement investors with high account balances.

Its expense ratios on index funds and ETFs are quite below the national average, so it is the go-to broker for long-term investors.

Retirement-minded investors can find many resources with Vanguard through its website. They list safe and healthy investment options that promise long-term growth.

It also gives helpful hints on where you should prioritize your time and energy if you’re just getting started.

They also have a sophisticated program that can estimate when you’ll be able to retire and can help calculate your monthly expenses (sudden or otherwise) once you do.

If you have some money to invest, you can save by choosing Vanguard. For brokerage accounts with at least $50,000, trades only cost $7 regardless of how big they are. When the brokerage account hits $500,000, trades only cost $2. When it surpasses a million dollars, many trades become free.

Want to make active trades? Keep looking.

If you’re an active trader and don’t have nearly that amount of money lying around, however, Vanguard isn’t the best stock broker. It doesn’t have any software to support its traders (meaning there aren’t any trading tools or platforms to utilize).

Furthermore, investors who frequently trade (say, more than 25 times a year) are penalized with fees (assuming, of course, they don’t have $1 million invested with Vanguard).

Fidelity

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With low $4.95 commissions per trade, Fidelity is one of the most affordable online stock brokers, considering what it offers to its customers.

Utilizing top-notch research from over 20 companies, Fidelity provides its investors with some of the best investment advice that money can buy.

It could be a lot of information to wade through, but after a few quick questions, Fidelity can match you up with providers that resonate with your personal investment style.

Though it’s not considered the best customer support in the industry, Fidelity still offers some pretty sharp service for its customers. Investors can meet with representatives in physical branch locations, as well as attend investor seminars throughout the year for free.

The seminars cover a wide array of topics, such as Social Security and technical analysis. Plus, if in person doesn’t appeal to you, you can still study and expand your knowledge via webinars.

Looking for a solid online broker? Fidelity is truly among the best.

It offers both online and mobile support, and if you are an active trader, you can even get real-time feeds displayed on your desktop. Each trading platform is intuitive and easy to use and provides tools to help you get a leg up on your competition.

For those interested, Fidelity also offers a premium tool called Wealth Lab Pro, which offers customizable strategies and 20 years of historical data.

Ally Invest

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If you’re a seasoned investor, you may never have heard of Ally Invest, but its newness to the scene shouldn’t make you discredit it.

In 2016, Ally invest bought out TradeKing and has only recently emerged into the online brokerage game. That said, it’s quickly become very clear that everything that was great about TradeKing has only gotten better.

Ally offers automated portfolio management and forex trading. There is no account minimum, commissions on trades are $4.95.

Are you a frequent investor?

Ally Invest offers discounts to members who trade 30 or more times per quarter. At that point, the fee drops to $3.95.

Whether you use a PC or a smartphone, Ally has a great online stock trading platform for its users. Trade fast, get current, 24-hour quotes and data, make your own unique dashboard, and get a diverse set of trading tools at your disposal.

Here are some of our favorite helpful features:

  • Profit-and-loss calculator
  • Maxit Tax Manager, which informs you of any changes to your taxes based off of trades
  • Probability calculator to tell you of the likelihood of your desired targets for each share

Worried about trading from work? Don’t be. Ally Invest’s web platform doesn’t require you to download anything.

Simply log in and you are ready to trade. Considering everything they offer online, this is quite an achievement in and of itself.

Why Beginners Should Consider Online Stock Brokers

Diving into the world of stock trading can be both exciting and intimidating. As a beginner, you might have certain apprehensions, especially with traditional stock trading often being associated with experienced and wealthy individuals.

However, with the advent of online brokerages, the investment landscape has dramatically transformed, making it more accessible for everyone. So why should you, as a beginner, consider going the online route? Let’s break it down.

Leveling the Playing Field

Traditionally, stock trading was a complex system with many barriers to entry. It was time-consuming, requiring regular phone calls with brokers, and often demanded a substantial initial investment.

However, online stock trading platforms have simplified this process, allowing anyone with an internet connection to participate in the market. They’ve effectively democratized stock trading, enabling a broader demographic to engage in investment activities.

Cost-Effectiveness

Cost has been one of the biggest hurdles for beginners interested in stock trading. High brokerage fees were once a significant barrier to entry. Online stock brokers have dramatically reduced this burden by offering lower trading fees compared to their traditional counterparts.

Many even offer commission-free trades, which is especially beneficial for those who are just dipping their toes in the investment waters and may not have a significant amount to invest yet.

Flexibility and Control

With an online broker, you get the advantage of real-time trading from the comfort of your home, or anywhere else for that matter. You have more control over your trades, with the ability to review and modify your orders whenever you see fit. This flexibility can be a game-changer for beginners who are still learning the ropes and need the freedom to make adjustments as they see fit.

Access to Tools and Education

Most online brokers provide a wealth of resources to help you understand the stock market better. These resources often include educational articles, webinars, video tutorials, and even simulated trading environments. You can learn at your own pace, apply your knowledge in a risk-free environment, and then proceed with more confidence when you’re ready.

Busting the Myth: Stock Trading is Not Just for Experts

You might be thinking, “Sure, these benefits sound great, but isn’t stock trading still a field best left to the experts?” This is a common misconception, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. While knowledge and experience undoubtedly play a role in successful investing, the barrier to entry has significantly decreased with online brokerage accounts.

They’ve built platforms that cater to investors of all experience levels, with easy-to-use interfaces, educational content, and customer support to guide you through your investment journey. In fact, the rise of online trading has given birth to a new generation of investors who’ve started with little to no knowledge of the stock market.

Choosing Your Online Broker: Essential Criteria to Consider

Selecting an online broker as a beginner can seem daunting. However, by focusing on the right criteria, you can make a well-informed decision that suits your individual needs and goals. Here are the key factors you should consider when choosing your online stock broker.

User-Friendly Platform

As a beginner, the last thing you want is to grapple with a complicated platform while trying to understand the intricacies of stock trading. Hence, a user-friendly interface is essential.

An intuitive platform will make navigation a breeze, allowing you to focus on your investment decisions rather than struggling with complex tools. Look for brokers that offer clear layouts, easy-to-find features, and streamlined processes for trading.

Educational Resources

Education is paramount when you’re getting started in investing. The best online brokers provide various learning materials, including tutorials, webinars, articles, and even a glossary of trading terms.

These resources can help you understand complicated financial concepts, making it easier for you to understand market trends and make informed decisions. Ensure the broker you choose places a strong emphasis on education and continuous learning.

Customer Support

No matter how user-friendly a platform is, you’re likely to encounter queries or issues that need resolution. This is where robust customer support comes in.

A good online broker should offer responsive, efficient, and friendly customer service, ready to assist you via multiple channels – be it phone, email, or live chat. Remember, as a beginner, having readily available support can be a significant confidence booster.

Fees and Commissions

Even the smallest fees can add up over time and eat into your returns. So, it’s essential to understand the fee structure of any online broker you consider. This can include trading fees, account maintenance fees, withdrawal fees, and more. Many online brokers now offer commission-free trades, which can be particularly advantageous for beginners starting with a smaller investment.

Account Minimums

Some online brokers require you to deposit a minimum amount to start trading. This can be a hurdle for beginners who are looking to start small. Therefore, finding a broker with low or no account minimums can be a significant advantage when you’re just getting started. It allows you to dip your toes into investing without committing a substantial sum upfront.

Diverse Investment Options

While you might start with trading stocks, having a range of investment options can be beneficial as you grow and diversify your portfolio. Look for an online brokerage account that offers various investment products, such as bonds, ETFs (exchange-traded funds), mutual funds, and more. Having these options at your disposal allows for more flexibility in your investment strategy.

Security

With the increasing number of cyber threats, security has never been more critical. You want to ensure that the online broker you choose uses top-tier encryption and security measures to protect your personal information and investments. This can include two-factor authentication, biometric recognition, and advanced encryption technologies.

Tips for Getting Started With Online Stock Trading

Stepping into the world of online stock trading can be thrilling. The possibility of seeing your money grow can be enticing, but it’s also crucial to approach this journey with a strategic and educated mindset. Here are some practical tips to get you started on the right foot.

Understand Your Investment Goals

Before you make your first trade, take some time to understand your investment goals. Are you saving for retirement, a down payment on a house, or your child’s college education? Having a clear idea of your goals will help you make informed decisions about the types of investments you want to make.

Start Small and Gradually Increase Your Investments

As a beginner, it’s wise to start small. You might be eager to dive in, but starting small allows you to get a feel for trading without risking too much. As you become more comfortable and experienced, you can gradually increase your investments.

Diversify Your Portfolio

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Diversification, or spreading your investments across various assets, is a key strategy to manage risk. By diversifying your portfolio, you can protect yourself from significant losses if one of your investments underperforms.

Practice with a Demo Account

Many online brokers offer demo or “paper” trading accounts. These accounts allow you to practice trading with virtual money. It’s a great way to learn the ropes, try out different strategies, and understand the dynamics of the market without risking real money.

Keep Emotions in Check

Investing can be an emotional rollercoaster. The value of your investments can go up and down, but it’s crucial to stay calm and stick to your investment plan. Avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market fluctuations.

Develop a Disciplined Investment Strategy

Having a disciplined investment strategy means making thoughtful and researched decisions rather than chasing ‘hot’ tips or trends. This strategy involves regularly reviewing and adjusting your portfolio, reinvesting dividends, and not being swayed by market volatility.

Embrace Continuous Learning

The investment world is dynamic and ever-changing. Make an effort to learn continuously about different investment products, market trends, and trading strategies. Take advantage of the educational resources offered by your online broker.

Consult a Financial Advisor

While online stock trading can be done independently, consulting a financial advisor can be beneficial. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions for Online Stock Trading Beginners

Here are some commonly asked questions that beginners often have when they’re starting out with online stock trading.

What is a brokerage account?

A brokerage account is an arrangement between an investor and a licensed brokerage firm that allows the investor to deposit funds with the firm and place investment orders through it. Essentially, it’s the account you use to make trades and hold your investments. The brokerage acts as the intermediary between you and the markets.

In a typical brokerage account, you can invest in a wide variety of securities, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs (exchange-traded funds). There are also different types of brokerage accounts, like individual or joint accounts, retirement accounts, and education savings accounts, each serving different investment purposes and offering varying tax benefits.

Why should I consider online stock trading?

Online stock trading offers a host of benefits, including easy access to financial markets, lower transaction costs, real-time trading, a wealth of educational resources, and the ability to trade at your own pace and convenience.

How much money do I need to start online trading?

The amount needed to start online trading can vary greatly depending on the broker you choose. Some online brokers require minimum deposits, while others do not. It’s possible to start trading with a small amount, but remember that it’s crucial to only invest money that you can afford to lose.

What are the risks of online stock trading?

Like any investment, online stock trading comes with risks. The value of your investments can fluctuate based on market conditions, which can lead to losses. It’s also possible to lose money due to poor investment decisions. It’s important to educate yourself, develop a solid investment strategy, and consider diversifying your investments to manage these risks.

What is a stock broker?

A stock broker is a professional who executes buy and sell orders for stocks and other securities on behalf of clients. Online stock brokers offer platforms where you can conduct these transactions yourself.

How do online stock brokers make money?

Online stock brokers make money in several ways. Some charge commissions on trades, while others offer commission-free trades but may charge other types of fees, such as account maintenance fees or withdrawal fees. Some brokers also earn money from interest on cash in trading accounts or by lending out securities in margin accounts.

What is diversification?

Diversification is a risk management strategy that involves spreading your investments across various types of assets, such as stocks, bonds, ETFs, etc. The idea is to reduce risk by investing in different areas that would each react differently to the same event.

Is my money safe with online brokers?

Most reputable online brokers are members of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), which provide certain protections for investors. However, while these protections can safeguard your money if the brokerage fails, they do not protect against losses from trading.

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