Full-Service Retail Broker

A Full-Service Retail Broker is a type of stockbroker who primarily caters to individual investors rather than institutional clients. Unlike discount brokers that only provide a trading platform, full-service retail brokers offer a wide variety of value-added services such as investment advisory, detailed market research, wealth management, retirement planning, and portfolio management.

They guide retail investors in making informed decisions about equity, commodities, mutual funds, bonds, and other investment products. Many full-service retail brokers also provide access to initial public offerings (IPOs), insurance, and tax planning solutions. Their aim is to simplify investing for individuals who may lack deep knowledge of financial markets.

Typically, these brokers charge higher brokerage fees or commissions compared to discount brokers. The charges are justified by the personalized services and expert insights provided. They often maintain physical branches, relationship managers, and customer support systems to assist clients.

In short, a full-service retail broker is not just an execution platform for trades but a trusted financial partner for individual investors. They focus on delivering convenience, expertise, and tailored investment advice, helping retail clients grow and manage wealth efficiently.