When starting to invest, choosing the right broker or investment platform is crucial, as it impacts costs, convenience, and support. Here’s a comparison of three popular UK platforms: AJ Bell, Hargreaves Lansdown, and Vanguard.

1. AJ Bell:

• Fees: Low annual platform fee (starting at 0.25%), with separate dealing charges (£9.95 per trade).
• Ease of Use: User-friendly platform with a wide range of investment options, including funds, stocks, bonds, and ETFs.
• Support: Good customer service and educational resources for beginners.
• Best for: Investors seeking a low-cost platform with diverse investment options.

2. Hargreaves Lansdown:

• Fees: Higher platform fee (up to 0.45%) and dealing fees (£11.95 per trade), but no dealing charge on funds.
• Ease of Use: Highly regarded for ease of use, offering a robust app and online platform.
• Support: Excellent customer support and comprehensive research tools, including investment advice and guides.
• Best for: Investors willing to pay a premium for top-tier service and tools.

3. Vanguard:

• Fees: Among the lowest in the industry, with a 0.15% platform fee and no trading fees for its own funds.
• Ease of Use: Simple, no-frills platform focused mainly on index funds and ETFs.
• Support: Limited compared to AJ Bell or Hargreaves Lansdown but sufficient for passive investors.
• Best for: Passive investors focusing on low-cost, long-term index fund investing.

Factors to Consider:

• Fees: Platform, dealing, and fund charges vary. Lower fees mean more money stays invested.
• Ease of Use: Look for a platform that’s intuitive and suits your investment style.
• Investment Options: Ensure the platform offers the types of assets you want to invest in.
• Support and Research Tools: Consider platforms with strong customer service and educational resources if you need guidance.

The right platform depends on your priorities, whether it’s low fees, extensive tools, or simplicity.