Barclays Stockbroker

Barclays has come a long way since the takeover of Schwab, with a wide though not exhaustive range of online tradable securities (LSE, AIM, OFEX; European IRS stocks; UK gilts and corporate bonds; CFDs).

Standard dealing costs are moderate at £12 per trade for up to 10 deals per quarter. Frequent Trader rates are more generous at £7.50 per deal for over 10 deals per quarter. Watch out for the quarterly inactivity charge. Certificated shares can be traded by telephone (ShareDeal service) at 1.5% up to £15k and at 0.85% for higher considerations (min £25).

Deal at quote (real-time with price improver), at best, and at limit (including covered warrants) or at stop loss (good for up to 30 days), with a full range of tax shelters (ISA, PEP transfer and SIPP). Research tools include a stock screener and interactive charting. Any of nine Market Insight reports can be e-mailed to you daily.