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Overview of Charles Schwab Thinkorswim Platform
Compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, thinkorswim is one of the most comprehensive and robust trading platforms available, and it’s entirely free.
There are no extra fees for using the software, unlike many other brokerages, and it’s unquestionably on par with institutional software. What’s unique about
thinkorswim, and this separates it from many other trading platforms offered by retail brokerages, is that it’s downloadable, which means it inherently has more
capabilities. Having a program where an investor can logon to place trades is vastly superior to using a web browser to access a web-based trading platform,
and it comes with full customization.
Streaming of real-time data is smooth and seamless with no apparent memory leaks or issues loading data. Popping out and detaching level-II windows, customizing
and accessing 300 studies and strategies in the chart tab put the platform on a different level than its competitors.
The “Analyze” tab lets investors determine potential losses and profits, account for theta decay, and analyze the probability of profit for trades that haven’t been
submitted yet as well as analyze current account positions. Moreover, with thinkscript language, you can program and create your own studies and technical analysis.
In terms of the look and feel of the platform, there are specific options to adjust the font style/size, background color, and contrast to your liking.
Mobile Applications
With one of the highest rated mobile trading apps in the Apple Store, the thinkorswim mobile application offers many of the same capabilities as the desktop version.
If an investor prefers the simplicity of trading from the Charles Schwab webpage, however, there is an additional app available designed by TD. Although futures
cannot be traded through the Charles Schwab mobile app, it offers smooth access to equity and option trading as well as research reports and live news.
No Hidden Fees
There are no software fees for using any of the services or trading platforms offered by Charles Schwab. Trade Architect, thinkorswim, and the Charles Schwab webpage
trading terminal are 100% free with no forced paid-subscription services for data or news. In fact, all the platforms are loaded with live,
free real-time level-II data for futures and equities.
Ease of Access to Different Investment Products
Between equities, funds, forex, and futures, Charles Schwab offers access to every type of investment vehicle an investor could ever need. There
are only a handful of other brokerages that offer access to all of these products, and the process of entering the underlying or contract name is complicated and
confusing.
With Charles Schwab, it’s extremely straight forward. All the tradable futures are listed in publicly available watchlists where the symbols, initial
margin requirements, tick value and tick size are displayed. Individual futures can be searched and traded by entering a forward slash and then the product symbol.
For example, Light Sweet Crude Oil is, “/CL”. For many other major brokerages, the symbols are not this straightforward and simple. The expiration month and other dashes and parentheses must be entered
further complicating and slowing down the trading process.
Commissions
While monthly trading volume and account size may ultimately determine the commission rates an individual investor can get, there are different levels of commission
rates available – if you ask. Current Charles Schwab commissions are $0 for stocks, and $2.25 per contract for futures.
Although these rates are not the lowest in the industry, you truly do get what you pay for (better technology, better customer service, diverse range of products for
trading, etc.).
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Physical Branch Locations
Charles Schwab is not solely an online brokerage, they have over 100 branch locations in 34 states in the US. As opposed to many retail brokerages who conduct business
solely online, having a branch that clients can physically visit is reassuring and convenient when dropping off forms or asking for account assistance.
Best Brokerage Firm
For all the above reasons in 2024 we have rated Charles Schwab the
"Best Broker" for self-directed investors.
24/7 Customer Service
With a customer service rep always just a phone call, email, or live chat message away, investors and traders know that they can get the help they need
precisely when they need it the most with Charles Schwab. It can be 9:30 AM on a Tuesday in the middle of the market opening or 2:00 AM on a Saturday, someone from
Charles Schwab will be there to assist you. On top of this, Charles Schwab customer service representatives, and especially the trade desk, are extremely knowledgeable
and patient when helping clients. Not only can they assist with technical account issues, but they can also explain the nuances of complicated investment products,
and they’re available to do this 24/7.
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