But no matter what a user's investing style, there are some features to expect from every online broker. One is speed. If a broker site can't execute a trade quickly, the investor could lose money. Trading screens, quotes, and charts should load quickly, and trades should be executed within seconds followed by quick online confirmations. The site should also be simple to navigate, with quotes accessible from the trading screen, along with charts and news.
Customer service is important, too.
Online brokers are known for their dealings in stocks. For novice traders, the brokerage sites offer informative tutorials and articles, as well as investment simulation games, interactive tools, and a basics section. Users can view their account histories by date and category, as well as trade stocks, bonds, options, and mutual funds, customize the homepage, and receive e-mail alerts when their stocks are on the move. Users can join discussion groups, sign up for free e-mail or a charge card, and read the news. Once a user has chosen a broker, it's time to open an account.