First Trust includes 10 commission-free ETFs from three providers. The broker requires a 30-day holding period, with a 10 share minimum per trade.
TD Ameritrade shows 101 options from nine fund providers and also requires a 30-day holding period.
Lastly, Charles Schwab offers 119 ETFs from six fund sponsors, and it does not require a minimum holding period. [Schwab’s OneSource Continues Impressive Asset Gathering]
However, there are some caveats to consider. The commission-free list is not set in stone and can change. For example, Fidelity gave investors a grace period to sell some ETFs commission-free before they were taken off the list, but traders would be stuck with a capital gains bill.
Moreover, the commission-free ETF list varies from broker to broker. Investors should not invest in something just because it is free to trade. Instead, people should consider all options available and choose the investment to fit their needs.
“Getting an incentive to use one fund and a disincentive to use another is problematic, since investors may not be choosing the right fund in the first place,” Gary Gordon, a CFP professional and president of Pacific Park Financial, said in the article.
For more information on ETFs, visit our ETF 101 category.