How to get started?

[klaja26]

Ive always looked at investing into stocks and never really got into it. The only trading ive done is Forex but i just used Paypal (i thought i was clever when i realised you could make money by just changing the type of money you have until i realised there is a huge market for it).

So now i want to get into some real stock trading but its something ive never really looked into how to do without a broker. Can anyone suggest anywhere to get started online. I dont want to have to deal with a broker all the time, i just want to be able to log in and do it myself. Also i probably wont be investing too much to start with, ive always been good with stock games but i dont think i want to take a big risk until i get a bit more used to it.

So where do i go, how much do i have to pay, what else do i need to know to get started?

[mav]

My friend recently brought up the idea of purchasing stock. I am definitely interested. However, I was just reading an article in the news yesterday that said bonds may be the way to go...

[JWinvestments]

fx Pro is what the professionals usually use for Forex.
GFT is better for Forex education whilst trading.

I personally use Charles Schwab for stocks.

If you're looking for cheap & cheerful:OptionsHouse or Zecco
(Tradersroom is free — but it is shocking)
If you want a general good'n - Scotttrade
If you want less-hands on (e.g broker) - go for Merill Lynch (although the fee is $30+)

[JWinvestments]

Changed above so it is more helpful to future readers - aren't I great :P

[klaja26]

Thanks for that info. Ill take a look into those and see what im come out doing.