Online Stockbrokers
There are plenty of online brokers out there offering instant market access for a set fee. Look carefully at a number before you take the plunge. A low per trade cost may be a great incentive - especially if you plan to trade more than once or twice a month - but issues like reliability are just as, if not more important. I've had trade windows slam shut because my online broker's web site has been down for maintenance. Often arecommendation from a friend in the know is the best bet and a backup account should problems be encountered, a nice fall back position.
Fastrade
Fastrade is the online share dealing arm of Charles Stanley Stockbrokers. They offer a customisable interface including real time pricing and trades beginning at £9.99.
Selftrade
offers a flat £12.50 for online and phone trades whatever the security or market. Allows users to invest in equities from the UK and 18 international markets, plus investment trusts, exchange traded funds, unit trusts, gilts, corporate bonds, covered warrants and certificates. Heard lots of good things.
TD Waterhouse
offers the investor/trader the opportunity to deal in UK and international equities, funds, Bonds, Gilts, ETFs, Covered warrants, contracts for difference, and financial spread betting. For those looking for more data for their quid TD Waterhouse offer level 2 data via their ProTrader account. Online trades from £9.95.
Barclays Stockbrokers
Barclays - of the banking game - offer £12 trades online with the fee dropping to £7.50 for those who trade more than ten times a month. Telephone commissions are decidely higher but a handy fall-back option should you encounter problems online.
