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Most investors view stockbrokers as trusted guides for making their financial transactions in the stock market. Many people look to investments as a means to building financial security over an extended period of time. Stockbrokers can provide the experience necessary for bringing stock buyers and sellers together.
Identification
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) says that brokers carry a fiduciary responsibility to execute transactions on the behalf of others. Discount brokers simply clear orders. Full-service brokers provide their clients financial advice.
Regulation
The Federal Reserve Board, Securities Exchange Commission and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority regulate financial intermediaries and brokers on multiple fronts. Hiring a broker allows you to bypass the time and expense required to register with authorities in order to deal in securities.
Execution
Stockbrokers maintain access to exchange trading floors and systems that match investors together at a set price. This infrastructure saves you the expense of physically locating trading partners.
Advice
Full-service stockbrokers put together financial plans and provide direction. These services are ideal for clientele that do not have the time, interest or skills to do so.
Warnings
Stay current in terms of events related to business and tax policy. Reconcile these trends with your financial goals to ensure that your portfolio stays on track.
Source:
SEC: Guide to Broker-Dealer Registration
Federal Reserve Board: All Regulations
More Information:
Federal Reserve Board: The Value of Financial Intermediaries
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