Fidelity
Unmatched research depth and customer care. The go-to broker for investors who value quality research and human support.
Score Breakdown
Six dimensions assessed across a 15-year investment horizon.
Protection & Custody
Investor Protection
SIPC + excess coverage
$500,000 (SIPC) + unlimited excess
Excess coverage through Lloyd's with no aggregate limit
Track Record
80+
Years in operation since 1946
Total Cost of Ownership
“Low cost with premium research included”
Commission
$0 (stocks/ETFs) / $0.65 per options contract
Spread
Included in routing
Inactivity Fee
$0
Withdrawal Fee
$0 (ACH) / $10 (wire)
FX Conversion
N/A (USD accounts only)
Est. Monthly Cost
~$0–$5/month for most investors
Order Flow & Execution
Does not receive PFOF for equities
Fidelity is notable for NOT accepting PFOF for equity orders, routing to exchanges instead. May receive PFOF for options.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Best-in-class research from 20+ providers
- 24/7 US-based customer service
- 3,700+ no-transaction-fee mutual funds
- Fidelity Zero funds with 0% expense ratio
Cons
- Active trader platform (Active Trader Pro) feels dated
- No futures or commodities trading
- Higher options contract fee ($0.65) vs some competitors
Unmatched research depth and customer care. The go-to broker for investors who value quality research and human support.