What are the types of Brokerage Firms?

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A Brokerage Firm may be a huge corporation with hundreds of brokers, or a small company with only one broker or any size in between. A Brokerage Firm could also be classified from full-service to a discount firm. It’s important to learn the difference.


• A full-service Brokerage Firm:


o Goes over your financial situation in some detail.


o Is used when you don't have the time to manage your own account and do the necessary research.


o Does the research on a particular stock for you.


o Analyzes stock market trends and performance.


o Provides a wide range of financial services, including financial planning, asset management, and educational programs.


o Provides useful tax advice.


o Actively manages and builds up your account—anything from conservative to aggressive growth.


o Usually is a larger firm.


o Charges high fees and commissions--the biggest disadvantage.


• A discount firm:


o Won’t help you pick a stock or tell you when to sell. You are on your own.


o Setting up accounts is far less personal.


o May provide some investment information on their websites.


o Could be an online broker, encouraging customers to trade electronically.


o Has fewer financial services.


o Charges much lower commissions and fees.



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