When it comes to selecting a brokerage service, investors face an overwhelming number of options. Two prominent players in the field are ʼE*TRADE and Merrill Edge. Both platforms offer a myriad of features, investment options, and trading experiences tailored for various types of investors. This article will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two brokers, aiding you in determining which one aligns best with your unique investing needs.
Overview of ʼE*TRADE and Merrill Edge
Brief History and Background
*ʼETRADE** was founded in 1982 and has since become a leader in the online trading arena. It caters primarily to self-directed investors, providing a wide array of investment products, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options.
Merrill Edge, a part of Bank of America, made its debut in 2010, enabling customers to manage their investments alongside their banking needs. Catering to both self-directed and guided investing clients, Merrill Edge benefits from its affiliation with one of the largest banking institutions in the United States.
Target Audience
- *ʼETRADE:** Primarily targets self-directed investors, including frequent traders and individuals looking for retirement accounts and long-term investing.
- Merrill Edge: Appeals to a diverse clientele, including both novice investors needing guidance and experienced traders looking for a more integrated platform.
Features Comparison
Trading Platform and Tools
*ʼETRADE’s Trading Platform:**
- User-friendly design with intuitive navigation.
- Multiple platform options, including mobile trading apps and a desktop platform.
- Research tools include stock screeners, charting tools, and educational resources.
Merrill Edge’s Trading Platform:
- Features streamlined access to investment accounts and research tools.
- Integrates seamlessly with Bank of America’s banking services.
- Strong research offerings powered by Merrill Lynch, including comprehensive market insights and analysis.
Account Types
ʼE*TRADE Account Types
- Individual Brokerage Accounts
- Retirement Accounts (Traditional, Roth, SEP)
- Education Savings Accounts
- Managed Accounts
Merrill Edge Account Types
- Individual and Joint Brokerage Accounts
- Retirement Accounts (Traditional, Roth, SEP)
- Education Savings Accounts
- Self-Directed and Managed Accounts
Investment Options
Both brokers offer a range of investment options:
- Stocks: Both platforms allow trading in U.S. stocks.
- ETFs: A broad selection with zero commission on most ETFs.
- Mutual Funds: Thousands of mutual funds available, including no transaction fee funds.
- Options & Futures: Advanced traders can weild options strategies, although different fees may apply.
| Feature | ʼE*TRADE | Merrill Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Yes | Yes |
| ETFs | Yes | Yes |
| Mutual Funds | Yes | Yes |
| Options | Yes | Yes |
| Futures | Yes | No |
Fees and Commissions
ʼE*TRADE Fee Structure
- Stocks & ETFs: $0 commission on online trades.
- Options: $0.65 per contract.
- Mutual Funds: No fee for no-transaction-fee funds; $19.99 for other funds.
- Account Maintenance: No annual fees for standard accounts.
Merrill Edge Fee Structure
- Stocks & ETFs: $0 commission on online trades.
- Options: $0.65 per contract.
- Mutual Funds: No fee for no-transaction-fee funds; $19.95 for other funds.
- Account Maintenance: No annual fees for standard accounts.
Verdict on Fees
Both brokers offer competitive pricing with $0 commissions on stock and ETF trades. For options trading, the fees align, making them comparable. Therefore, the choice may depend more on other factors like account features and user experience.
Research and Educational Resources
ʼE*TRADE Research Tools
- Extensive educational content including articles and webinars.
- Stock reports and planning calculators tailored to various investment strategies.
Merrill Edge Research Tools
- Integration with Merrill Lynch’s investment research for in-depth analysis.
- Educational resources focused on both beginner and advanced traders.
Customer Service and Support
ʼE*TRADE Customer Service
- 24/7 support through phone, chat, and email.
- Hands-on assistance via in-person branches or dedicated services for wealth management.
Merrill Edge Customer Service
- 24/7 support primarily through phone and live chat.
- In-person service available through Bank of America branches.
Security and Regulation
Both brokerage firms are members of FINRA and SIPC, ensuring customer investments are protected up to $500,000 (including $250,000 for claims for cash). They employ advanced security measures like two-factor authentication and account access notifications.
User Experience
ʼE*TRADE User Interface
- Attractive design and easy navigation, favorable for beginner traders.
- Provides personalization options, enabling customized dashboards.
Merrill Edge User Interface
- Intuitive design ideal for investors who also manage banking accounts.
- Quick access to comprehensive market research through the app.
Pros and Cons
| Feature | ʼE*TRADE | Merrill Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Extensive features, user-friendly platform, extensive research | Strong banking integration, great research, no-commission trades |
| Cons | Less integrated banking features | Slightly fewer trading tools for options |
FAQs
Which platform is better for beginner investors?
Both brokers offer substantial educational resources, but Merrill Edge may be preferable for those seeking integrated banking alongside investing services.
Do both brokers charge for account management?
No, both ʼE*TRADE and Merrill Edge do not charge annual fees on standard brokerage accounts.
Which platform offers better research tools?
Merrill Edge leverages Merrill Lynch’s research capabilities, giving it an edge in in-depth market insights compared to ʼE*TRADE.
Conclusion
Choosing between ʼETRADE and Merrill Edge ultimately depends on your unique investing needs and preferences. If accessible trading tools and extensive research are your priorities, consider ʼETRADE. However, if you value integrated banking services along with your investments, Merrill Edge may be your better fit. Regardless of your chosen platform, both offer robust features to support your investment journey in today’s dynamic market.
For further reading and updated reviews, consider visiting NerdWallet and Investopedia for professional opinions and guidance.
