What are some of the best online trading firms?

Hi guys! I would like to trade online, buy/sell stocks, in US. What are some of the best legitimate online trading firms? That are affordable, would help me with the research on the companies I want to invest in, has customer service, etc...

And how would the whole process work?

Thanks a lot for your help, I really appreciate it!

Public Comments

1. All major brokerage firms provide their clients with on-line services, including trading platforms, latest market & financial news and research. However, since you want to be an on-line customer don't expect a lot of hand holding for your needs.

Customer need to select the site that is best for them. Traders have requirements in a site, while investors have other requirements.
Although most sites are geared to general securities and commodities, however customers may have special needs for the types of products they trade, and the markets in which they trade. For example I use Fidelity for investing. Scottrade for equities trading and ThinkorSwim for option trading

It seems that the most popular firms for on-line investing/trading all of which provide excellent platforms and services are; Scottrade; Chas.Schwab; TDAmeritrade; Fidelity; E-Trade and Thinkorswim.

You should visit various firms to get aq feel for their websites. All firms have the same format for opening an account, some may require a larger deposit than others. You have to decided what's best for you.

2. For great customer service, good services, fair pricing and good for new traders;
Charles Schwab
Fidelity Investments
Ameritrade

3. There are many firms out there. But all you need to concern about is the brokerage. If you are going to be trading on Currencies then check if that broker spreads. They start with 2 as per my understanding. Go to BIG G (google) and check if that broker is legit. Read reviews about that broker. Go to forex peace army (Search this in google) this is one best site that I came across. Any broker who is legit and any broker who is scam every thing is listed here. Once you are ready with the broker call them find if there are any additional charges involved while trading. Get a demo account and trade for sometime with your system. Make sure you are confident before you trade in LIVE. Also if you need any information related to forex currency trading check the below site. Hope this clarifies your doubt..!