Bachelor #2 and then some

Back on March 11, I mentioned the cost per trade of E*Trade (12.99 + 75 cents). Now it's time to interview the other bachelors.

This information is critical to my plan, which from the start has been to make purchasing stocks the biggest part of my economic stimulus. I need to be ready to jump into the stock market by the time my $600 arrives. To this end, I need to learn more about the other companies.

TD Ameritrade charges 9.99 per trade (no minimum balance)
Charles Schwab charges 12.95 per trade (for balance under $1 million. That's me!)
Zecco charges 4.95 per trade (for balance under $2,500)
Scottrade charges $7 per trade but is a bit confusing. (Good news is you only need $500 to start an account -- first company that states a minimum that low.)
Fidelity charges 19.95 per trade (can drop to 12.95 and $8 if assets top $25K)

Zecco's graphics look a bit like E*Trade. Instead of green, it uses pink. How pretty! Are they targeting women? Too bad it's not pink and green! I bet it's popular with the Lilly Pulitzer crowd! If those preppies have even heard of it. I must learn more!

Not sure I should even consider the cheapest trading company, let alone one I've never heard of. Who is Zecco?

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Also of note this week, if you signed up to get your 2007 tax return via direct deposit, you're likely to get your economic stimulus disbursement quicker. Check it out. Of course, we're still looking at a May delivery date. Sphere: Related Content