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• Online investing has made it much easier for the average individual to trade and purchase stocks and bonds and invest in mutual funds. Most brokers now offer an online investing feature for their clients, and "discount brokers" such as E*Trade, Ameritrade, Scottrade and Fidelity have gained in popularity due to ease of use, reasonable rates and fees, and increasing awareness via advertising on radio, television and other popular media.

  Investors who want complete control over their investments, who do not want to pay a brokerage fee, and who want to cut out the middle-man may want to consider pursuing an online investment plan. Below is a breakdown of some of the higher-profile online investing services' rates and features.

• E*Trade

  1. Per trade transaction cost: $6.99-$9.99
  2. Special: First 100 trades free
  3. Cost per options contract: 75c
  4. Online trading seminars available

• Ameritrade

  1. Per trade cost: $9.99
  2. Special: First 30 days trading free
  3. Cost per options contract: 75c
  4. Broker-assisted trading cost: $44.99

• Scottrade

  1. Per trade cost: $7.00
  2. Minimum to open: $500
  3. Special: Free checking account available
  4. Cost per options contract: $1.25

• Fidelity

  1. Commissions range: $8-$19.95
  2. Cost per options contract: 75c
  3. Minimum to open: $2,500
  4. Automated trading available

  • Note: Information gathered in April 2008; All fees and specials are subject to change.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  How to Invest Online | How to Become Wealthy | How Do Mutual Funds Work | How to Choose a Mutual Fund | How to Buy Stocks | How to Read the Stock Market | How to Track Stocks | Investing | Mutual Funds | Personal Finance | SEC | Stock Market | Stocks | Wall Street | How to Buy Gold | How to Manage a 401(k) | How to Rollover an IRA | How to Buy Stocks Without a Broker

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