Stockbroker definition - Investhub.com Finance Glossary

Definition 3.

An individual registered with the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) who is authorized to buy and sell securities for his/her customers. Finding a good stockbroker isn''t easy. Your first step is to ask for names from friends and colleagues whose business judgment you respect. Your lawyer or accountant may be able to provide names as well.After you have a list of four or five candidates, schedule an interview with each broker at the broker''s office. The most important factor here is comfort: You need someone who you can communicate with, respect and trust. Ask the broker for the names and telephone numbers of three or four of his existing clients to see how satisfied they have been with his performance and service.It''s generally best to select a broker with at least five or six years of experience. If they''ve been working that long, they have seen both market rallies and corrections and (hopefully) know how to react in each one.Also make sure you understand the broker''s investment philosophy and be sure that it matches your own. For example, if you''re a conservative investor who''s looking for long-term growth, you don''t want to hook up with a broker who likes to trade constantly in an effort to beat the market. Ask the broker how he might invest $10,000, $25,000 or whatever amount you have available.Of course, you should also ask how much the broker''s services would cost. Get specifics about commissions and fees, preferably in writing. And, above all, don''t be afraid to ""Just say ''No.'' "" Don''t feel that you have to open an account just because the broker spent some time with you, and shun a broker who insists that you sign a brokerage agreement right there on the spot.