Discount Brokers Explained: How They Work, Types, and Examples

What is a discount broker?

A discount broker is a stockbroker who carries out buy and sell orders at reduced commission rates compared to a full-service broker. However, a discount broker does not provide investment advice or perform analysis on a client’s behalf, unlike a full-service broker.

The evolution of discount brokers

Before the emergence of better communications technology, only individuals with a far above average annual income could afford a broker and access the stock market. However, the Internet has brought an explosion of discount online brokers that allow individuals with smaller capital to trade for lower fees and with less capital. In terms of the stock market, most discount brokers operate through online platforms. As a result, a discount broker is nearly synonymous with online brokerages.

Understanding discount brokers

Discount brokers carry out orders at less cost, but they typically just execute orders for their clients. These brokers do not offer personal consultations, advice, research, tax planning, and estate planning services for customers. The lack of these services, and because they do not spend money closing deals with high-net-worth individuals, means that discount brokers can offer lower fees. Additionally, most discount brokers operate their businesses online where the overheads are low. So low, in fact, that beginning in 2019, many discount brokers even went so far as to forego commissions altogether for certain types of securities.

Services provided by discount brokers

In the securities industry, discount brokerages provide clients with their own accounts to enter orders for execution. These investors usually do not interact with a live broker. If they do, the communication is minimal and only engaged in trade executions. The services provided by discount brokers are aimed at self-directed traders and investors, and the electronic trading platforms are built in a way that is beneficial for active traders with charting and position monitoring services.

Choosing between full-service and discount brokers

Whether an investor opts for a discount broker or a full-service broker depends on their investing knowledge, market experience, financial goals, and current financial status. Since commissions typically take a healthy chunk out of investment and trading returns, some individuals opt to go for products offered by discount brokers instead.

Who should choose discount brokers?

Discount brokers are particularly useful to investors and traders who actively buy and sell securities on a frequent basis. Investors who frequently trade benefit from the lower commissions discount brokers charge. Investors who don’t need advice, have small portfolios, or just want their trades executed are also usually better off using discount brokers.

Discount brokers in other industries

Discount brokers can also be found in the real estate and other financial services fields. Discount brokers in the real estate industry help individuals buy and sell properties. These discount brokers also have access to the same home listings as full-service real estate agents and help clients to access that directly for a fee, but they do not take the client through the purchase as a traditional realtor would.

Discount brokers may also sell insurance products—although, again, they do not provide professional financial advice. In general, if you know exactly what you need and want, you can probably find a discount broker that will do as you instruct for less money than an advice-oriented broker would charge.

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary difference between a discount broker and a full-service broker?

The main difference lies in the services offered. Discount brokers focus on executing orders at lower costs and do not provide investment advice or personalized financial services, while full-service brokers offer a wide range of services, including advice and research.

Why are discount brokers popular among active traders?

Active traders prefer discount brokers because of their lower commission fees, making it cost-effective for frequent trading. Additionally, the online platforms provided by discount brokers are tailored to the needs of active traders.

When should I consider using a discount broker?

You should consider a discount broker if you have a good understanding of your investment strategy, do not require extensive advice, and are looking to save on commission costs. They are suitable for self-directed investors with smaller portfolios.

Are discount brokers suitable for long-term investors?

Discount brokers are more commonly associated with active trading, but they can also be a cost-effective choice for long-term investors. If you’re a hands-on, self-directed long-term investor, using a discount broker can help you minimize fees while managing your investments.

What types of securities can I trade with a discount broker?

Most discount brokers offer a wide range of securities for trading, including stocks, bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options, and mutual funds. Make sure to check with your chosen discount broker to confirm the specific securities they support.

How do I open an account with a discount broker?

Opening an account with a discount broker typically involves providing personal information, proof of identity, and financial details. You’ll also need to fund your account. The process may vary slightly between brokers, so it’s advisable to visit their website or contact their customer service for detailed instructions on account setup.

Do discount brokers provide any educational resources for traders?

Many discount brokers offer educational resources, such as webinars, articles, and tutorials, to help traders improve their skills and knowledge. These resources can be especially helpful for beginners and those looking to expand their trading expertise.