Best Fidelity Competitors

Jeremy Biberdorf Image
Updated
Jan 15, 2025
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Quick Breakdown

Best Fidelity Competition


  • Best for beginners and commission-free trading.

  • Best for automated investing and customizable portfolios.

  • Best for integrated financial services and beginner-friendly investing.
Investing in the stock market has become more accessible and diverse than ever before, thanks to the proliferation of online brokerage platforms. Among these platforms, Fidelity has long been a household name, known for its comprehensive services and robust investment options.

However, with the dynamic nature of the financial markets and the evolving needs of investors, many are exploring alternatives to Fidelity. This article delves into what Fidelity offers and examines some of the top competitors in the space, each bringing unique features and benefits to the table.

What is Fidelity?

Fidelity Investments, commonly referred to as Fidelity, is a multinational financial services corporation based in Boston, Massachusetts. Renowned for its extensive range of investment products, Fidelity offers services that cater to individual investors, financial advisors, and institutional clients.

Fidelity's offerings include mutual funds, retirement planning, wealth management, trading and brokerage services, and much more. The platform is lauded for its user-friendly interface, comprehensive research tools, and exceptional customer service.

Established in 1946, it has grown to become one of the largest asset managers in the world, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to investor success and market innovation.

Fidelity Pros & Cons

Pros

● Research tools and resources.

● Wide range of investment options including mutual funds, ETFs, and stocks.

● Advanced trading platform.

● Customer support and educational resources.

● Strong track record and industry reputation.

Cons

● Higher fees compared to some competitors.

● The platform can be overwhelming for beginners.

● Limited access to international markets.

● Some advanced tools may be unnecessary for casual investors.

● Minimum investment requirements for certain funds.

Why Seek Alternatives to Fidelity?

While Fidelity is a powerhouse in the investment world, it may not align perfectly with every investor's needs. Some investors might seek platforms with lower fee structures, more focused services, or specialized investment options like cryptocurrencies.

Beginners may find simpler, more intuitive platforms appealing, whereas experienced traders might look for platforms with advanced trading capabilities and unique analytical tools. The quest for a platform that aligns with specific investment styles, risk tolerance, and financial goals drives the search for Fidelity alternatives.

In this dynamic market, where technology is rapidly evolving and new investment strategies are emerging, exploring these alternatives can open doors to new opportunities and potentially better align with individual investment objectives.

Top 3 Fidelity Competitors

Robinhood

4 stars
Account Minimum $0
Best For Commission-free trading
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Commission-free trades.
  • User-friendly mobile app.
  • No account minimums.
  • Offers stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies.
  • A streamlined interface is ideal for beginners.
  • Access to IPO investments.
  • Fractional shares are available.
  • Robinhood Gold for premium features.
Robinhood has revolutionized the brokerage industry with its commission-free model and user-friendly platform, particularly attractive to new and casual investors. It democratizes stock market investing by eliminating trading fees and offering a simplified trading experience.

The platform supports trading in a variety of assets including stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. Its minimalistic design is perfect for those new to investing, while still providing enough functionality for more experienced users. Robinhood has been instrumental in making investing more accessible to a broader audience.

Fidelity vs Robinhood comparison article

Founded in 2013 by Vladimir Tenev and Baiju Bhatt, Robinhood is headquartered in Menlo Park, California. The company was born out of a vision to make financial markets more accessible. Robinhood quickly gained popularity, particularly among younger investors, for its sleek design and cost-effective approach to trading.

Despite facing regulatory challenges and controversies, it remains a popular choice for retail investors, particularly those interested in a straightforward and affordable investing experience.

M1 Finance

4.6 stars
Account Minimum $0
Best For DIY Investors
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Automated investment with custom portfolios.
  • No trading fees or commissions.
  • Offers fractional shares.
  • User-friendly platform.
  • Diverse portfolio options with expert pies.
  • Retirement accounts like IRAs are available.
  • Robust portfolio rebalancing features.
  • No minimum balance for basic accounts.
M1 Finance blends the benefits of automated investing with the flexibility of a customizable portfolio, making it a unique player in the investment space. Launched in 2015, M1 allows users to create their portfolios, called “pies,” from a variety of stocks and ETFs.

It automatically rebalances portfolios, ensuring alignment with users' investment goals. M1 Finance stands out for its no-fee structure and the ability to invest in fractional shares, making it accessible for investors with varying budgets.

Headquartered in Chicago, M1 Finance was founded with the mission of simplifying the investment process. Under the leadership of founder Brian Barnes, M1 has carved out a niche by combining elements of robo-advisors with the customization typically seen in traditional brokerages.

It caters to both DIY investors and those preferring a more hands-off approach, offering a range of tools and services that strike a balance between automation and personalization.

Sofi Invest

4 stars
Fees $0
Best For Beginners
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Zero-commission trades.
  • Automated and active investing options.
  • Access to financial planners.
  • Cryptocurrency trading is available.
  • Integrated with other SoFi products.
  • Educational resources for beginners.
  • Mobile app for on-the-go trading.
  • Community events and webinars.
SoFi Invest, a segment of the broader SoFi (Social Finance Inc.) ecosystem, offers a comprehensive investment platform suitable for both active traders and those looking for automated investment options.

Launched in 2011, SoFi Invest provides commission-free trading in stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious investors. The platform stands out for its educational resources and user-friendly mobile app, catering to the needs of novice investors.

Full comparison of Sofi vs Fidelity

SoFi was founded by a group of Stanford business students with a vision to create more inclusive financial services. Originally focused on student loan refinancing, SoFi has diversified to offer a range of financial products, including investment services through SoFi Invest. The San Francisco-based company has made a name for itself by using technology to simplify financial processes and democratize access to financial services.

Final Thoughts

Fidelity is a solid choice for a wide array of investors, particularly those who value comprehensive research tools, a broad range of investment options, and strong customer service. However, for investors seeking alternatives, platforms like Robinhood, M1 Finance, and SoFi Invest offer unique advantages.

Robinhood is ideal for those starting or preferring commission-free trades. M1 Finance is best suited for investors who want a blend of automated and custom investing, while SoFi Invest caters to those looking for an all-encompassing financial platform with a strong educational focus.

Each of these platforms addresses different investor needs and preferences, underscoring the importance of choosing a brokerage that aligns with your investment goals and style.

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Jeremy Biberdorf

About the Author:

Jeremy Biberdorf is the founder of Modest Money. He’s a father of 2 beautiful girls, a dog owner, a long-time online entrepreneur and an investing enthusiast.