Is E*TRADE or Merrill Edge better?

E*TRADE and Merrill Edge both provide top-notch investing services at competitive rates. Despite a few flaws, E*TRADE looks to have the edge instead of Merrill.

Is E*TRADE a decent place to invest?

Depending on your investment, either might be a terrific broker for an IRA. Merrill Edge may win out for having reduced stock commission charges, but those who bank with Bank of America may appreciate its seamless connectivity with your current accounts. Even for traders who qualify for volume-based reductions, commissions on E*TRADE's fee-free mutual funds and commission-free ETFs are higher.

Is E*TRADE suitable for individual retirement accounts (IRA)?

Regarding fees and investing options, not all online brokers are made equal. The good news is that the cost of each trade is unaffected by the brokerage you choose. The average spread between E*TRADE and Merrill Edge is about $3, with smaller spreads for less frequent traders.

How does the new merger with Morgan Stanley effet my E*TRADE account?

E*TRADE brokerage, stock plan, and managed accounts are still held at E*TRADE, with a new name, E*TRADE, from Morgan Stanley. All E*TRADE Bank accounts, including Checking, Max-Rate Checking, and Premium Savings Accounts, are now held at Morgan Stanley Private Bank. You should continue using the same log-on information to access your accounts on etrade.com, the E*TRADE mobile app, and the Power E*TRADE platform and app.