Forum Archive Index - March 2000

["David Reid" <aspex@ix.net.nz>]

My understanding about UK on line brokers is that there are none.

Only the top FTSE100 shares are any closer to eliminating market makers which means that there is no direct trading possible without a person being in the line. Fastrade provide a quick and efficient service and confirm that they have taken your order in the meantime by auto email before emailing the contract note. They only operate on cash on hand or due from another sale.

As said in other replies ETrade in UK have a poor image based on performance issues.

There is something to be said for using telephone or faxed instructions and although dealing costs are higher, they are often able to deal outside the Normal Market Size as well as accept instructions that operate fror prolonged periods and are more complicated than just a "best price" or a limit. Payment can be arranged on up toT+25 sometimes without additional cost. Problem in spreading your options is that transfers between nominee accounts is an extra cost and the share is off market until CREST transfer has been completed.