1. Type of Broker

• If you need margin trading, check the leverage options and interest rates.
• Ensure you understand the risks of margin trading before opting for it.

• Full-Service Brokers: Provide research, advisory, and trading services but charge higher fees. Suitable for beginners and long-term investors.
• Discount Brokers: Offer lower brokerage fees but minimal advisory services. Best for experienced traders or those who prefer self-trading.

2. Brokerage Fees & Charges

• Compare brokerage fees (per trade or percentage-based).
• Check for hidden costs like maintenance fees, withdrawal charges, etc.
• Some brokers offer zero-commission trading or flat-rate plans.

3. Trading Platform & Technology

• Ensure the broker provides a user-friendly and stable trading platform.
• Mobile apps and web-based platforms should have real-time data, research tools, and ease of execution.
• Look for features like technical charts, alerts, and automated trading.

4. Regulatory Compliance & Reputation

• Verify if the broker is registered with the stock market regulatory authority (e.g., SEBI in India, SEC in the U.S.).
• Check reviews, customer feedback, and complaints against the broker.

5. Investment Options

• If you plan to invest beyond stocks, check if the broker offers mutual funds, ETFs, commodities, forex, derivatives, IPOs, etc.

6. Customer Support

• Evaluate customer service quality, response time, and available support channels (chat, phone, email).
• Good customer support is essential during market volatility.

7. Margin & Leverage

8. Ease of Account Opening & Fund Transfer

• Choose brokers with a smooth online account opening process.
• Check deposit/withdrawal methods, speed, and transaction fees.

9. Educational Resources & Research Support

• Beginners should prefer brokers that offer learning resources, webinars, and research reports.
• Advanced traders may look for AI-based tools, technical analysis, and trading insights.

10. Additional Features

• Some brokers offer algo-trading, copy trading, or robo-advisory services.
• Look for unique benefits like zero account maintenance fees, referral bonuses, etc.