Full-Service Broker vs. Discount Broker: Which Is Right for You?
Updated
If you're on a Galaxy Fold, consider unfolding your phone or viewing it in full screen to best optimize your experience.
Brokerage accounts are a gateway between the investor and the investment professional. When it's time to choose a full-service or discount broker, dozens of companies will compete for your business -- so it can be challenging for any investor to pick the right broker.
Below, we'll look at the full-service vs. discount broker toss-up more closely, presenting pros and cons you can use to make an informed choice.
There's a big distinction between full-service and discount brokers. You'll find differences in the level and types of services as well as costs when you consider a full-service vs. discount broker. The choice you make can have a big impact on your investing experience as well as how much you have to pay to invest.
A discount broker is a company that typically allows you to buy and sell stocks or other investments online. Think of this as a self-service option for investors. Despite their name, discount brokers tend to have many favorable traits such as low commissions and trading fees, and easy-to-use online trading platforms. Many discount brokers also have educational tools and resources available to help guide your investing, but there's typically not an advisor placing your orders.
Discount brokers are a great option for many, if not the majority of investors -- especially beginners looking for a brokerage.
In a fully managed investment account, the brokerage company has full discretion to trade on your behalf. This often appeals to busy people who don't have the time or inclination to manage their own investments.
The main downside to a full-service brokerage is the high cost. Commission rates aren't quite as high as they once were, but you can still expect to pay a lot more per trade with this kind of service than you will with a discount broker. Those who take advantage of management services often pay a percentage of their total assets in fees each year. Typical full-service offerings are priced from 1% to 2% or more. You could pay thousands of dollars in annual management expenses for a $100,000 brokerage account.
For some, that might seem well worth the cost not to have to worry about investments. But as you'll see below, investing with a discount broker isn't as hard as you might think.
$0 for stocks, $0 for options contracts
$0
This brokerage is a clear standout for its well-rated mobile app and also has unique investment offerings like IPOs, options, and fractional shares.
On SoFi Invest's Secure Website.
$0 for stocks, ETFs, and options
$0
Robinhood is a simple, low-cost brokerage with a few rare perks. It matches retirement deposits like an employer, the interface is gorgeous, and it's extremely affordable. No matter what or how you trade, Robinhood fees tend to match or beat the competition. It's worth a look.
On Robinhood's Secure Website.
Commission-free; other fees apply
$0
E*TRADE offers low fees and tons of account types. If you need it, chances are, E*TRADE has it. You can access advanced features through its popular Power E*TRADE platform. Open an E*TRADE account to trade fee-free mutual funds and do all your investing in one place.
On E*TRADE's Secure Website.
The full-service vs. discount broker decision depends on the level of service you want and how much you're willing to pay for it. In the end, either type of broker can help you reach your investing goals. Select the choice that will match up best with your preferences.
You might want to give a discount broker a try if these are true for you:
By contrast, a full-service broker is worth a look if these characteristics fit your situation:
For most investors, choosing between a full-service and a discount broker is straightforward. A discount broker is often the better choice. Given how expensive typical full-service brokers are, you have a big financial incentive to learn how to use a discount broker effectively. Not only will you save on costs, but you will hopefully end up smarter about managing your money.
Uncover the names of the select brokers that landed a spot on Motley Fool Money's shortlist for the best online stock brokers. Our top picks pack in valuable perks, including some that offer $0 commissions and big bonuses.
One main disadvantage to working with a discount broker is that there is probably no one with fiduciary responsibilities reviewing your transactions. Fiduciaries have a legal responsibility to act in your best financial interests. If you place trades yourself, you aren't likely to be warned about the risk level of your investment choices.
Fidelity Investments, Charles Schwab, and Robinhood are all examples of discount brokers.
We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Motley Fool Money is 100% owned and operated by The Motley Fool. Our knowledgeable team of personal finance editors and analysts are employed by The Motley Fool and held to the same set of publishing standards and editorial integrity while maintaining professional separation from the analysts and editors on other Motley Fool brands. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page.
