Fidelity

Fidelity's Trader+ family offers desktop, mobile and web routes with streaming updates and portfolio tools. On desktop, watchlists, charts, order entry and news can occupy separate windows across monitors. Columns, alerts and navigation are customizable. The web platform includes Symbol Search and filtering across positions and watchlists, which helps narrow a large collection of securities before opening a chart.

For a stock or ETF order in the Fidelity app, search for the symbol, choose Buy or Sell, select the order type and amount, then review it. On the website, use Preview order before submitting. Options, margin and international trading have separate agreements and approval requirements. Visible tools do not establish an account's permission to use them.

Account access and costs

Fidelity does not open new accounts for new customers living outside the U.S. Its standard adult brokerage route starts at 18. The application asks for identifying, address, employment and financial information; identity checks may require documents. There is no opening minimum, although individual investments can have one.

Trader+ is included without an additional platform fee. Standard online U.S. stock and ETF commissions are US$0. Online options have a US$0 base commission plus US$0.65 per contract, with additional charges for certain products and professional-trader classifications. Phone and representative-assisted orders have separate fees.

Fidelity can also charge up to US$5 quarterly on qualifying dormant residual balances. This has several conditions, including aggregate balances below US$100, no investments outside the core position, no linked current-employer workplace account and no money movement or investment activity for the preceding 12 months. Fund expenses and other transaction charges can still apply.