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August 2025Top Stock Trading Platforms of 2025

Best Online Brokers of 2025
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Last offers update: August 2025

1    OUR #1 CHOICE
Coupon

Bond Account - 6% yield*
Locked in.

  • Invest in stocks, bonds, options and more
  • Open a Bond Account and earn 6% + yield*
  • User-friendly and fully-featured mobile app
  • 1% match on all IRA transfers, rollovers, and contributions
9.9
Exceptional
  • Invest in stocks, bonds, options and more
  • Open a Bond Account and earn 6% + yield*
  • User-friendly and fully-featured mobile app
  • 1% match on all IRA transfers, rollovers, and contributions
9.9
Exceptional
Coupon

Bond Account - 6% yield*
Locked in.

Bond Account - 6.0% yield*. Locked in.
2    BEST OVERALL
Coupon

Build a diversified portfolio with 11,000+ stocks & ETFs — commission-free

  • Trade stocks & ETFs commission-free—powerful investing with no fees
  • Diversify with over 350 tokenized assets incl. BTC, ETH & XRP while earning up to 16% APR
  • Stay protected with 24/7 support & industry-leading security
  • Join the fun: win up to $2.5K in daily prizes on Kraken
9.8
Exceptional
  • Trade stocks & ETFs commission-free—powerful investing with no fees
  • Diversify with over 350 tokenized assets incl. BTC, ETH & XRP while earning up to 16% APR
  • Stay protected with 24/7 support & industry-leading security
  • Join the fun: win up to $2.5K in daily prizes on Kraken
9.8
Exceptional
Coupon

Build a diversified portfolio with 11,000+ stocks & ETFs — commission-free

**Securities and brokerage services offered by Kraken Securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Digital asset services offered ... Show more
3    MOST POPULAR
Coupon

Brokerage accounts designed as a convenient entry point for beginners

  • Start investing with as little as $1 with no commission fees
  • Get an extra 3% match with Robinhood Gold
  • Lowest Margin Rates Among Leading Brokerages
  • Get Margin Rates Starting at 5.75%
9.7
Very Good
  • Start investing with as little as $1 with no commission fees
  • Get an extra 3% match with Robinhood Gold
  • Lowest Margin Rates Among Leading Brokerages
  • Get Margin Rates Starting at 5.75%
9.7
Very Good
Coupon

Brokerage accounts designed as a convenient entry point for beginners

Start trading stocks with just $1
4    
Coupon

8.1% APY* on uninvested cash + up to $1000 NVDA

  • Up to $1,000 in NVDA stock for new deposits
  • 8.1% APY on idle cash (4.1% base + 4% bonus for 3 months)
  • Trade crypto and stocks in one platform
  • 24/7 online support for seamless trading
  • Trade with as little as $5 on fractional shares
9.6
Very Good
  • Up to $1,000 in NVDA stock for new deposits
  • 8.1% APY on idle cash (4.1% base + 4% bonus for 3 months)
  • Trade crypto and stocks in one platform
  • 24/7 online support for seamless trading
  • Trade with as little as $5 on fractional shares
9.6
Very Good
Coupon

8.1% APY* on uninvested cash + up to $1000 NVDA

Get up to $1,000 in NVDA stock + 8.1% APY on idle cash

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Our Best Overall Provider

1     OUR #1 CHOICE
Coupon

Bond Account - 6% yield*
Locked in.

  • Invest in stocks, bonds, options and more
  • Open a Bond Account and earn 6% + yield*
  • User-friendly and fully-featured mobile app
  • 1% match on all IRA transfers, rollovers, and contributions
9.9
Exceptional
  • Invest in stocks, bonds, options and more
  • Open a Bond Account and earn 6% + yield*
  • User-friendly and fully-featured mobile app
  • 1% match on all IRA transfers, rollovers, and contributions
9.9
Exceptional
Coupon

Bond Account - 6% yield*
Locked in.

Bond Account - 6.0% yield*. Locked in.
Review Our Top Stock Trading Platform Picks

Public

Reviews 3,200

Years in Business

5–9 years

9.00

Account Minimum

$0 required

10.00

Mobile Experience

Top-rated mobile app

9.50

Investment Products

Stocks, ETFs, Tokenized Assets, Bonds

9.60

Support Quality

FINRA-licensed specialists

9.70
Start Trading

Public arrow

Public offers a modern investing experience designed for transparency, education, and simplicity. With access to stocks, ETFs, tokenized assets, and bonds, it's a powerful all-in-one platform. Their new bond account offers up to 6% yield, and the mobile app is intuitive for both beginners and experienced traders. FINRA-licensed support specialists are available to help, making Public a reliable and user-friendly choice.

Start Trading

Kraken

Reviews

Years in Business

14+ years

9.40

Account Minimum

$0

10.00

Assets Offered

11,000+ Stocks, ETFs & 350+ Tokenized Assets

9.80

Customer Support

24/7 chat & phone support

9.70

Security & Regulation

FINRA/SIPC brokerage, industry-leading security

9.90
Start Trading

Kraken arrow

Kraken now offers commission‑free access to over 11,000 U.S. stocks & ETFs—seamlessly integrated with its tokenized assets platform. With no account minimums, round‑the‑clock stock order placement, and the same top-tier security Kraken is known for, it's a smart choice for investors who want everything in one secure place.

Start Trading

Robinhood

Reviews 6,500

Years in Business

10+ years

9.20

Account Minimum

$1 to start

10.00

Commission Fees

Zero commissions on trades

9.80

Premium Perks

3% match with Robinhood Gold

9.60

Ease of Use

Ideal for beginners

9.70
Start Trading

Robinhood arrow

Robinhood offers a streamlined, beginner-friendly platform that lets you start investing with as little as $1. With commission-free trades on stocks, ETFs, options, and tokenized assets, a sleek mobile app, and exclusive perks like a 3% match on deposition with Robinhood Gold, it's a powerful choice for anyone looking to get started in the market quickly and affordably.

Start Trading

What Is a Brokerage Account?

A brokerage account is your entry point into the world of stock trading. It's a type of financial account that allows you to buy and sell a wide range of investment products such as stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and more. Opening a brokerage account doesn't require a large initial deposit, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned investors alike. Whether you prefer online trading platforms, robo-advisors, or full-service brokers, there's an option tailored to your needs and investing style.

Types of Investment Products You Can Trade

A brokerage account gives you access to a variety of investment vehicles. Here are some of the most common options:

  • Stocks - Ownership in a public company with potential for high returns
  • ETFs - A basket of securities offering diversification in a single trade
  • Mutual Funds – Professionally managed portfolios for hands-off investing
  • Bonds - Fixed income investments issued by corporations or governments
  • Certificates of Deposit (CDs) - Low-risk investments with a fixed return

Investing For
Those Who Take
It Seriously

Online Brokers vs. Traditional Brokers

Online brokers provide a user-friendly experience with lower fees and direct access to stock markets via apps or websites. They're perfect for self-directed investors who want control over their trades. Traditional brokers, on the other hand, offer personalized advice and full-service financial planning—ideal for those who prefer expert guidance.

Why Open a Brokerage Account?

Opening a brokerage account gives you the freedom to grow your wealth your way. With flexible investment options, low barriers to entry, and access to cutting-edge tools, a brokerage account is one of the best platforms for personal finance growth. There's no income limit or maximum contribution, and funds can typically be withdrawn whenever needed, making it a smart and liquid investment vehicle.

Smart Investing at Every Stage of Life

Your investment approach will change as your financial goals evolve:

  • Ages 20-30 - Take advantage of time and growth potential with stocks and ETFs
  • Ages 30-50 - Focus on diversification and balanced portfolios
  • Ages 50-65 - Shift toward stability with bonds and CDs
  • 65 and Beyond- Prioritize wealth preservation and income generation

Understanding Your Risk Tolerance

Not everyone is comfortable with the ups and downs of the market. Your personal risk tolerance—along with your age and goals—will shape how aggressively or conservatively you invest. From high-growth stocks to conservative bonds, there's a strategy that aligns with your comfort zone.

How to Open and Fund Your Brokerage Account

Getting started is simple. First, choose the right brokerage platform that fits your experience level and investment goals. Fill out an online application, provide your personal and financial information, and fund your account by linking it to your bank. Once your account is set up, you're ready to make your first trade.

Conclusion

Stock trading has never been more accessible. Whether you're building a retirement fund, saving for a major purchase, or just looking to grow your wealth, opening a brokerage account is a practical and flexible solution. Compare platforms, understand your goals, and choose the tools that help you succeed. Ready to start? Discover top-rated online brokers today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lot of money to start trading stocks?

No. Many online brokerages allow you to start trading with as little as $1 thanks to features like fractional shares. You can scale your investments as your financial confidence grows.

Can I access my funds anytime?

Yes, brokerage accounts are highly liquid. You can usually sell your investments and withdraw the funds without long waiting periods, though some trades may take a few days to fully settle.

What’s the difference between stocks and ETFs?

Stocks represent ownership in a single company, while ETFs are a bundle of multiple investments, offering greater diversification. ETFs can be a safer entry point for beginners.

Are online brokerages safe?

Reputable online brokers are regulated by agencies like FINRA and SIPC, offering investor protection. Always research a platform’s credentials before signing up.

How much do brokerages charge?

Many online brokers now offer commission-free trading. However, some may charge fees for advanced tools, managed accounts, or specific types of trades.

Can I trade on my phone?

Yes. Most online brokers provide mobile apps that allow you to buy, sell, and monitor your investments from anywhere.

What if I make a mistake while trading?

It’s common to make mistakes when starting out. Begin with small amounts, use demo accounts if available, and educate yourself using platform resources or consult financial advisors.

Can I automate my investments?

Yes. Many platforms offer automated investing through robo-advisors or auto-investing features, making it easier to stick to your investment strategy consistently.

Sign Up and Start Trading

Bond Account - 6% yield*
Locked in

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