What is a brokerage account?

A brokerage account is an investment account that allows you to buy investments like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Many people have other investment accounts, such as a 401 (k) through an employer, an IRA (traditional or Roth), or a health savings account (HSA).

Why should you invest in a brokerage account?

Similar to other investing accounts, a brokerage account enables investing in stocks and other investments that have the potential to increase in value over time. Brokerage accounts also offer these additional features that could make them an attractive part of your overall investing portfolio.

What can you do with a brokerage account?

You can use your brokerage account to gain access to stocks and other types of investments. Opening a brokerage account is one of the first steps to building your personal investment portfolio. Buy and sell stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, and other securities. Take advantage of potential long-term growth.