Best Brokerage Accounts USA December 2024
Introduction
Choosing the right brokerage account can maximize your investment returns while aligning with your financial goals. Whether you're a beginner starting small or an advanced trader seeking global markets, the right platform provides:
- Low-cost, commission-free trading
- Access to stocks, ETFs, and fractional shares
- Tools for passive investing and advanced trading
- Fast and secure withdrawals
What is a brokerage account? Watch this quick explainer to get started:
In this guide, we break down the Top 5 brokerage accounts in the USA for December 2024. We’ll also highlight other strong contenders in a quick comparison table.
Looking to avoid common mistakes as you begin investing? Check out our guide: The 10 Most Common Personal Finance Mistakes and How to Avoid Them.
Top Features to Look for in a Brokerage Account
When selecting a brokerage account, prioritize these key factors:
- Trading Costs: Look for commission-free platforms with low fees.
- Investment Options: Access to stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, and global markets.
- Platform Usability: Intuitive mobile and desktop interfaces.
- Withdrawals: Fast and safe access to your funds.
- Customer Support: Reliable assistance when you need it.
Best Brokerage Accounts USA December 2024 – Top Picks
1. Charles Schwab – Best Overall Platform 
Key Features:
- $0 commissions on U.S. stocks and ETFs.
- Industry-leading research tools and educational resources.
- Multiple trading platforms for all investor levels.
- 24/7 customer support.
Why We Chose It:
Charles Schwab offers a balanced mix of advanced tools, beginner-friendly features, and robust customer service, making it the best overall platform.
👉 Visit Charles Schwab
2. Fidelity – Best for Beginners 
Key Features:
- No commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options.
- Start investing with as little as $200.
- High-quality educational resources.
- Strong customer support with 24/7 availability.
Why We Chose It:
Fidelity makes investing easy for beginners with its tools, low minimums, and helpful resources.
👉 Visit Fidelity
3. Interactive Brokers – Best for Global Trading 
Key Features:
- Access to 150+ global markets with ultra-low fees.
- Advanced trading tools for professionals.
- Low margin rates for active investors.
Why We Chose It:
Ideal for traders seeking international diversification, Interactive Brokers combines low costs with global market access.
👉 Visit Interactive Brokers
4. Robinhood – Best for Commission-Free Trading 
Key Features:
- $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options.
- Fractional shares and cryptocurrency trading.
- Beginner-friendly mobile app.
Why We Chose It:
Robinhood’s simplicity and cost-free trades make it perfect for beginners or investors with smaller budgets.
👉 Visit Robinhood
5. ETRADE – Best for Taxable Accounts <img src="/images/blog/Etrade.png" alt="ETRADE Logo" style="width: 100px; height: auto; display: inline-block; vertical-align: middle; margin: 0;"></a>
Key Features:
- Commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options.
- User-friendly interface for managing taxable brokerage accounts.
- Robo-advisory tools for passive investing.
Why We Chose It:
ETRADE is an excellent platform for investors focused on building taxable portfolios.
👉 [Visit ETRADE](https://www.etrade.com)
Other Strong Contenders in 2024
| Brokerage | Best For | Key Features | Fees | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Webull | Mobile Trading | $0 commissions, virtual trading simulator | $0 per trade | Webull |
| Moomoo | Advanced Tools | Advanced charting, mobile-first platform | $0 per trade | Moomoo |
| J.P. Morgan Self-Directed | Chase Bank Customers | Seamless integration with Chase accounts | $0 per trade | J.P. Morgan |
| Public | Social Investing | Fractional shares, alternative assets | $0 per trade | Public |
| SoFi Active Investing | Fractional Shares & IPO Access | Beginner-friendly, integrates SoFi tools | $0 per trade | SoFi |
| Tastytrade | Options Trading | Low contract fees, advanced options tools | Low fees | Tastytrade |
| Merrill Edge | Bank of America Customers | Strong research, seamless BoA integration | $0 per trade | Merrill Edge |
| Firstrade | Options & International Investors | $0 commissions, tools for options traders | $0 per trade | Firstrade |
Conclusion
The right brokerage account can help you minimize fees, diversify investments, and grow your portfolio efficiently. Platforms like Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and Interactive Brokers offer excellent tools for beginners and advanced traders alike.
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