|
Well first of all I know this sounds dumb but I really like the layout of Etrade's site over Ameritrade. I know it sounds ridiculous, but I've got alot of money invested, and I always hated that cheesy layout that Ameritrade had/still has(?). Etrade has a much more professional looking website, and I actually consider that important.
Second, Etrade has amazing customer service. I've called them up for all sorts of questions and they actually have friendly and knowledgeable customer service reps who aren't outsourced or anything. This really comforts me because I like knowing if anything happens (such as questions about day trader status being placed on my account), I can call someone up at ETrade and they'll actually listen to my problem and explain everything.
Third, I don't know if any other brokerage service has begun to offer this, but Etrade gives you a free SecurId device to ensure your account stays in your hands. I read somewhere that of all the accounts reported that had been stolen, only .05% of them were accounts that also used a SecurId tool. (SecurId is a small little device you keep. It displays a new 6 number password every 60 seconds, and when you log into etrade, you have to type your login along with your password + SecurId #). It makes your account virtually unattainable even to phishers.
-----
I'm not much of a trader, I stick mostly to short term investments so I don't really care for or know which broker has the better tools. But I use Etrade's command center type program and it definitely gets the job done for the basic needs.
As for commissions, yes they are higher than most brokerages, but once again I don't make that many trades so this doesn't bother me as much. Further, I feel like the extra cost of the commission is worth it for the service I receive. Although I do believe that if you make a certain amount of trades per quarter your commission fee drops to 6-7 dollars instead of 10 dollars.
|
.
Linear Mode
