Comparing Brokers

Planning to buy a few hundred--or even a few--shares of stock? You would be wise to do a little comparing of brokerage fees and services. The cost of trading can vary widely among investment houses--sometimes even among ones that provide comparable products and services to investors. But in some cases, the cheaper alternatives simply won’t offer the services--such as research reports and advice--that you might need.

Here’s a work sheet to help you compare three brokerages:

Stock to be purchased:

Number of shares:

Per share market price:

*

Brokerage No. 1:

Trading fees:

(yes or no)

Provides investment reports?

Gives needed and valuable advice?

Answers questions about financial markets and/or asset allocation?

Is helpful and responsive?

Understands and accommodates your specific investment needs and goals?

*

Brokerage No. 2:

Trading fees:

(yes or no)

Provides investment reports?

Gives needed and valuable advice?

Answers questions about financial markets and/or asset allocation?

Is helpful and responsive?

Understands and accommodates your specific investment needs and goals?

*

Brokerage No. 3:

Trading fees:

(yes or no)

Provides investment reports?

Gives needed and valuable advice?

Answers questions about financial markets and/or asset allocation?

Is helpful and responsive?

Understands and accommodates your specific investment needs and goals?