Find out how big an account your dealer expects you to maintain. Ask what steps the company takes to protect your personal information. Read any agreements carefully before you sign and make sure you understand the software features you have to use. Use limit orders For stock that is newly listed or whose price is changing rapidly, be sure to consider placing a limit order so that you don't end up paying a higher price than the one quoted on your computer screen. Confirm your order Double check if you believe your order has gone through before placing it again.
Screens are sometimes incorrect.
Some investors have wrongly understood that their order wasn't executed, placed another and ended up with twice the stock they intended. If you cancel an order, make sure the cancellation worked before placing a new trade. If you think you would like to work with a discount dealer, you will have to do your own research. The Internet is a powerful tool for investors but it also can attract fraudulent behaviour. Read Investing and the Internet , a brochure by the Canadian Securities Adminstrators.