Best & cheapest places to purchase stock online?

Question

And can I purchase stock directly from a company? Is it cheaper?

Answer 1

Zecco gives you 10 free trades a month as long as you have at least $2,500 in equity.  Not having to pay commissions really helps the bottom line.

Answer 2

In the United States, you must buy securities through a registered broker/dealer.

All major brokerage firms provide their clients with on-line services, including trading platforms, latest market & financial news and research.

Customer need to select the site that is best for them.  Traders have requirements in a site, while investors have other requirements.  

Although most sites are geared to general securities and commodities, however customers may have special needs for the types of products they trade, and the markets in which they trade.

It seems that the most popular firms for on-line investing all of which provide excellent platforms and services are; Scottrade; Chas.Schwab; TDAmeritrade; Fidelity; E-Trade and Thinkorswim.

Don't always go for the cheapest, since the cheapest is not always the best. - Remember you get what you pay for,

If you want to be a long term investor the cost of buying and selling becomes almost meaningless and the amount you are charged is immaterial to your over all profit and/loss,

There are times when you can buy directly from a company, but it is not inexpensive and in the long term can be very expensive.

Answer 3

scottrade or sharebuilder.