You’ve probably heard of online stock brokers. They cost a lot less because trades are made electronically. You don’t have to call up brokers or pay for services you don’t want. The problem is you might not know what they have to offer. Here are some investment ideas you can use with an online broker.

Individual Stocks

Of course, you can purchase individual stocks through a stock broker. Whether you plan to buy a few for a long term strategy or you’re a day trader, this is a great option. Before buying any stocks, learn as much as you can about them and about how to build a strategy to ensure that you make the best investment choices possible.

Derivatives

Derivatives include such as investments as futures and options. They are a more complicated type of investing. Many investment professionals say that you can do just as well or better investing in stocks as most do, but some believe there is something more to derivatives. Either way, you still have the option to purchase them through an online broker.

Mutual Funds

Mutual funds are a popular investment because they are so easy. You don’t have to read annual reports from a couple dozen corporations, you don’t have to keep up on the news for different companies, and you don’t need to analyze ratios. Mutual funds are perfect for the average investor who wants to make money with stocks, bonds, and other securities but who does’t want to make it a second job. You can also set up retirement accounts with mutual funds such as a 401K or an IRA.

Bonds

Not all stock brokers offer bonds, too, but some do. You can also find brokers that specialize in only bonds. Bonds are a great way to diversify your portfolio and to add more conservative investments. However, be aware that not all bonds are conservative.