Tips for Beginners

If you've learned the basics about stocks, bonds, and mutual funds (see the "Basics for Beginners" series in the link boxes to the right) and are ready to invest some money, it might be time to consider whether you want to use a broker, and if so, how you should go about doing that.
You can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other types of investments through a variety of different investment professionals and institutions, including brokerages, banks, insurance companies, and individual mutual fund companies (Fidelity, Vanguard, etc.).

Opening a brokerage account is similar to opening a bank account. You'll sign a new account agreement, which you should read in full, no matter how boring. If there's something you don't understand, ask questions. This agreement determines your legal rights concerning your account.