Online brokerage has evolved: modern firms offer intuitive web and mobile platforms, commission-free trading for many US stocks and ETFs, integrated research, and both self-directed and managed-account options. Check fee schedules for options, margin, and premium services. Verify the current custodian if you held accounts under the Waterhouse name, and prioritize security, customer support, and the level of advisory services you need.

Welcome to modern online trading

If you remember Waterhouse as your online broker, the core decisions you faced then - platform, costs, support, and product mix - still matter. The tools and pricing have changed, so here's a concise update on what to expect from today's online brokerage services.

Why choose an online broker today

Online brokers give you control over trades, access to research and low-cost execution, and several managed-account alternatives if you prefer a hands-off approach. Most firms combine self-directed platforms with options for human advice or automated portfolio management (robo-advisors).

What modern platforms deliver

  • Intuitive web and mobile apps with real-time streaming quotes, market screeners, and trade simulators.
  • Integrated research: analyst reports, news feeds, earnings calendars, and economic data.
  • Order types and tools: limit/stop orders, conditional orders, option chains, and scanners for liquidity or volatility.
Platforms vary in depth: some prioritize simple mobile order entry while others deliver advanced charting, backtesting, and direct-access routing for active traders.

Costs and fees today

A major industry shift since 2019: most large brokerages now offer commission-free trading for US-listed stocks and ETFs. Brokers may still charge for:
  • Options (per-contract fees), broker-assisted trades, mutual fund loads, or some advanced order types.
  • Margin interest, account transfer fees, and premium research or data subscriptions.
Always read the current fee schedule for your broker before trading.

Account types and solutions

You can open taxable brokerage accounts, IRAs, custodial accounts, and margin accounts. For investors who want delegation, many brokers offer managed accounts and automated portfolios that charge asset-based fees rather than per-trade commissions.

Security and protections

Expect multi-factor authentication, device recognition, encryption, and fraud monitoring. Most US brokerage accounts are protected by SIPC for missing assets if a firm fails, but SIPC does not protect against market losses. Evaluate the broker's cybersecurity practices and insurance disclosures.

Customer service and education

Look for tiered support: chat, phone, and access to advisors or planning specialists. Quality brokerages also offer structured educational content, webinars, and practice (paper) trading to build skills.

About Waterhouse

Waterhouse no longer operates as the same standalone brand it was in the early online-trading era; its legacy has been absorbed into subsequent broker consolidation and rebranding efforts . If you still hold accounts or statements under a Waterhouse name, confirm the current custodian and account access with the financial institution shown on your paperwork.

Bottom line

Compare platforms on usability, product mix, fee structure, security, and the level of human advice you want. The basics from the Waterhouse era - clarity, low friction, and reliable support - remain the best criteria for choosing a broker today.
  1. Confirm the current corporate status and custodial arrangements for accounts that previously used the Waterhouse name.
  2. Verify any specific product named 'Amerivest' referenced in legacy Waterhouse materials and its current status or equivalent offerings.

FAQs about Waterhouse Online Stock T

Are online stock trades still $9.99?
No. Since 2019 most major brokerages moved to $0 commissions for trading US-listed stocks and ETFs. Fees still apply for options contracts, broker-assisted trades, margin interest, and some mutual funds or premium services - check the broker's fee schedule.
Does the Waterhouse brand still exist?
Waterhouse does not operate as the same standalone brand it once did; its business and customers were absorbed in later industry consolidation. If you have legacy Waterhouse paperwork, confirm the current custodian and account login shown on your statements .
What should I prioritize when choosing a broker?
Prioritize ease of use (web and mobile), fees for the trades you make, available products (stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, bonds), security practices, research tools, and the level of customer support or advisory services you want.
How safe are online brokerage accounts?
Most US brokerage accounts use encryption, multi-factor authentication, and fraud monitoring. SIPC protects assets if a brokerage fails (subject to limits) but does not cover market losses. Review the broker's security disclosures and any additional private insurance they offer.