What are the latest incentives offered by brokerages?

Brokerage firms often offer bonuses as incentives to attract new customers or encourage greater account activity. These bonuses can vary widely in structure and value, so it’s essential to understand the current offerings to make an informed decision. Here are some common types of brokerage bonuses:
Sign-up Bonuses: These are frequently offered to new customers who open and fund a new brokerage account. The bonus amount usually correlates with the initial deposit size, with higher deposits yielding larger bonuses. For example, a brokerage might offer a $100 bonus for a $5,000 deposit or a $500 bonus for a $25,000 deposit.
Referral Bonuses: Brokerages often incentivize customers to refer new clients. Both the referrer and the new customer might receive a cash bonus or free trades once specific conditions are met, such as the new customer opening an account and depositing a certain amount.
Cash Back Offers: Some brokerages provide cash back for certain activities, such as executing a specified number of trades within a particular timeframe or maintaining a certain account balance.
Commission-Free or Discounted Trades: To entice new clients, some brokerages may offer a period of commission-free trading. These offers allow clients to trade without incurring brokerage fees, typically for a limited time.
Transfer Bonuses: If you transfer your account from another brokerage, you might receive a bonus. These bonuses generally depend on the portfolio’s value you’re transferring and are designed to compensate for any transfer fees you might incur.
Educational Credits or Premium Research Access: Some firms offer access to premium investment research or educational resources as part of their bonus offerings, though these are less direct than cash incentives.

It’s important to read the fine print on any brokerage bonus offer to understand the conditions you must meet to receive the bonus, including minimum deposit amounts, holding periods, and trade activity requirements. Offers can change regularly, so checking with the brokerage for any updates is advisable.