How to Choose the Best Broker?

Introduction

The history of stock market brokerage dates back to the times of the Roman Empire, where share brokerage was an organised profession. Stock market brokerage as an organised profession is then found much later during the European Renaissance, especially in the Italian cities of Genoa and Venice. The profession flourished even more in the Dutch financial markets. The Dutch East Indies Company publicly auctioned its stocks in the Amsterdam Exchange in 1602, the first instance of company stocks being sold publicly. Later on, in the 18th century, the London Stock Exchange would fully usher in brokerage into the modern financial world. India’s first exchange was the Bombay Stock Exchange, established in 1875.

How to choose the best broker

The best broker for trading or investment is always subjective to the individual. Each one of you has needs and goals that are often in conflict with each other. Thus, no broker can accommodate all types. You must first understand your financial needs and goals before venturing out in the market for a broker.

The important things to look out for a while in search of the best broker are:

• The trading costs involved with using a particular broker could be different. These could include brokerage charges, transaction charges, demat charges and taxes, among others. Charges are usually applied by brokers in two forms, charges based on a percentage of individual trade value or at a fixed flat price regardless of the value of transactions.
• Another essential factor to consider is the trading platforms being offered by a particular stockbroker. Since one’s trading experience would depend upon the features and platforms provided by the broker, it is best to consider brokers with advanced features such as market scanners.
• Another factor to consider, especially for new investors, is the availability of market education and research. Reading such materials can often reveal whether a firm knows the trade or not. It will also show whether they are likely to take their client’s interests seriously.
• The range of services and facilities included in an offer is also an important consideration. What kind of trade portfolios a firm is offering will help one decide whether it is suited for one’s needs or not.
• Hidden charges, if allowed, will often eat away the capital for investments and minimise profits. You must choose a firm with little to no hidden charges and discloses any hidden charge at the time of the deal.
• Fund transfer is another critical factor to consider. You must pick a brokerage firm with easy to use and fast fund transfer projects efficiency, essential for hassle-free trade transactions.
• Availability of local physical branches would reveal the extent of customer service and how quickly they might respond. While online helplines have come a long way since their inception, those who are more cautious might choose a broker with physical facilities available.

Additional Read: 5 smart tips for beginners in the Stock Market

Conclusion

Choosing a stockbroker can often be tedious, involving extensive research and analysis of both brokers and the individual’s own financial needs. That may become even more confusing without the information on what exactly one must look for in a broker. Thus, individuals must turn to advisories that provide them with accurate data for the same.

Additional Read: Open Demat Account Online for FREE

Disclaimer:

ICICI Securities Ltd. ( I-Sec). Registered office of I-Sec is at ICICI Securities Ltd. - ICICI Centre, H. T. Parekh Marg, Churchgate, Mumbai - 400020, India, Tel No : 022 - 2288 2460, 022 - 2288 2470. The contents herein above shall not be considered as an invitation or persuasion to trade or invest.  I-Sec and affiliates accept no liabilities for any loss or damage of any kind arising out of any actions taken in reliance thereon. The contents herein above are solely for informational purpose and may not be used or considered as an offer document or solicitation of offer to buy or sell or subscribe for securities or other financial instruments or any other product. Investments in securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. The contents herein mentioned are solely for informational and educational purpose.