can you buy stocks at a bank? A practical guide

Can You Buy Stocks at a Bank?

Can you buy stocks at a bank? Yes — many retail customers buy stocks through their bank. Banks offer investing in several ways: in‑house brokerages or subsidiaries, affiliated broker‑dealers, white‑label partnerships with third‑party brokerages, and integrated banking‑brokerage platforms. This article explains how each model works, what accounts and products you can use, the typical costs and protections, advantages and disadvantages, and practical steps to open and fund a brokerage account at a bank.

As of 2026-01-21, according to reporting from Benzinga and StockStory, regional banks continue to expand wealth and brokerage revenue while posting mixed results across net interest income and fee businesses — a reminder that banking and brokerage operations are often integrated but perform differently across providers.

Overview

Banks commonly provide access to stock trading using one or more business models. Understanding these models helps answer “can you buy stocks at a bank?” and shows what experience to expect.

• In‑house or subsidiary brokerages: the bank owns a broker‑dealer that operates brokerage accounts tied to your bank relationship.
• Affiliated or partnered broker‑dealers: the bank works with a separate brokerage firm to provide investing under a partner brand.
• White‑label or third‑party integrations: the bank rebrands a third‑party platform and provides single sign‑on and account links.
• Integrated banking‑brokerage platforms: banking and investing are presented in one online/mobile experience with seamless transfers.

Each model affects pricing, account features, regulatory disclosures, and the channel you use to place trades (online, mobile, in‑branch, or phone).

Common Bank Offerings for Buying Stocks

In‑house or Subsidiary Brokerages (examples)

Many large and regional banks operate broker‑dealers or brokerage subsidiaries. These arms offer brokerage accounts that are linked to core deposit relationships and may provide special conveniences like same‑day transfers or consolidated statements.

Examples (illustrative):

• Merrill Edge (Bank of America): an in‑house brokerage that integrates with Bank of America checking and savings, offering online trading, advisory services through Financial Solutions Advisors, and consolidated views for customers.
• WellsTrade / Wells Fargo Advisors: Wells Fargo operates brokerage services including self‑directed trading (WellsTrade) and advisory/wealth management through Wells Fargo Advisors.
• ETRADE (now part of Morgan Stanley): historically a standalone brokerage, ETRADE’s integration under Morgan Stanley brings banking and lending features to brokerage clients.
• PNC Wealth / PNC Private Bank: PNC provides brokerage and wealth services through affiliated entities, tying investing services to private banking relationships.

In these models your brokerage account is subject to brokerage regulation (SEC, FINRA) and usually covered by SIPC protection for securities and cash held in the brokerage account (not FDIC for investment losses).

Partnered or White‑Label Brokerage Services

Some banks do not operate a brokerage themselves but partner with a third party. The bank may present the partner’s investing platform under the bank’s brand (white‑label) or provide links that let you open an account with the partner while maintaining a bank relationship.

This arrangement allows banks to offer investing without the operational and regulatory overhead of a broker‑dealer. From a customer perspective, you may get single sign‑on or embedded links between your deposit accounts and the partner brokerage.

Full Service vs. Self‑Directed Accounts

Banks typically provide both service styles:

• Full‑service/advisory and wealth management: clients receive managed portfolios, financial planning, and access to human advisors. Fees are usually asset‑based (AUM) or fixed advisory fees and may include account minimums.
• Self‑directed online brokerage accounts: customers place their own trades, use online research tools and mobile apps, and often face lower transaction costs.

When you ask “can you buy stocks at a bank?”, the practical answer depends on whether you want DIY trading or advisory services — banks tend to support both but package them differently.

How You Buy Stocks at a Bank (Channels & Processes)

Online and Mobile Platforms

Most bank brokerages offer online portals and mobile apps for trade execution. These platforms may provide:

• Real‑time quotes and charts
• Order types (market, limit, stop) and fractional share support at some providers
• Research reports, screeners, and educational content
• Single sign‑on linking bank and brokerage balances for quick funding

Examples of integrated experiences include a bank app that shows deposits, loans, and brokerage positions on one dashboard and allows instant transfers between linked accounts.

In‑Branch Advice and Broker Access

If you prefer face‑to‑face service, many banks let you place trades in a branch or meet a financial advisor who can execute trades on your behalf. Typical in‑branch services include:

• Introductory meetings to recommend account type and risk profile (note: not individualized investment advice unless you sign up for a managed or advisory service)
• Placing orders through a local financial center or connecting you to a brokerage desk
• Onboarding paperwork and help with transfers, IRAs, or custodial accounts

Phone and Automated Systems

Banks and their brokerage arms commonly provide phone trading and automated systems. Phone trading connects you with a broker or support agent, while IVR systems may support simple tasks and balance inquiries. Phone orders typically carry higher execution fees at some firms, so check the fee schedule.

Account Types and Products Available

Banks typically offer the same range of brokerage account types as standalone brokers. Common options include:

• Taxable brokerage (individual and joint)
• IRAs (Traditional, Roth, Rollover)
• 529 college savings plans (offered by some banks or affiliates)
• Custodial accounts (UGMA/UTMA)
• Trust and estate accounts

Investment products available through bank brokerages often include:

• U.S. and international stocks
• ETFs (exchange‑traded funds)
• Mutual funds
• Bonds and fixed‑income instruments
• Options (listed options trading) — may require approval levels
• Fractional shares (offered by some providers)
• IPO access or new‑issue platforms at a limited number of banks

Availability varies by provider and by whether accounts are full service or self‑directed.

Costs, Fees and Pricing Models

When deciding “can you buy stocks at a bank?” you should compare costs carefully. Pricing models vary widely across providers and account types.

Common cost elements:

• Commissions: many banks and brokerages now offer $0 online commissions for U.S. stock and ETF trades; options trades commonly have per‑contract fees.
• Options fees: typical per‑contract charges apply (check each provider for specifics).
• Advisory or managed‑portfolio fees: advisory services often charge an annual percentage of assets under management (AUM); these fees can be higher than DIY brokerage costs.
• Account fees and account minimums: some advisory or wealth services require minimum balances; self‑directed accounts often have low or no minimums.
• Miscellaneous service fees: wire transfers, paper statements, account transfers (ACAT out), and margin interest have separate charges.

Examples: several major banks’ brokerage arms offer $0 online stock and ETF trades for self‑directed accounts, while advisory services (e.g., Financial Solutions Advisors at some providers) may carry account minimums and management fees.

Always review the broker‑dealer’s current fee schedule. Pricing and promotions change frequently, so up‑to‑date provider pages are the authoritative source.

Regulation and Investor Protection

Understanding the protections that apply to investments held through a bank is essential when asking “can you buy stocks at a bank?”

• Brokerage regulation: broker‑dealers are regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and overseen by FINRA. Brokerage accounts follow securities rules, trade reporting, and suitability/disclosure requirements.
• SIPC: most brokerage accounts are protected by SIPC (Securities Investor Protection Corporation) for missing assets due to broker insolvency, subject to limits and conditions. SIPC does not protect against market losses.
• FDIC insurance: deposit accounts (checking, savings, CDs) at banks are typically FDIC‑insured up to applicable limits for principal and interest. FDIC does NOT insure securities held in a brokerage account, even if the brokerage is owned by a bank.

Clear disclosure: when you buy stocks at a bank, you should expect distinct legal protections for deposit accounts (FDIC) and brokerage accounts (SIPC). Firms provide written disclosures at account opening.

Advantages of Buying Stocks Through a Bank

Buying stocks at a bank can offer several advantages:

• Convenience: consolidated statements and the ability to see deposit, loan, and investment balances in one place.
• Integrated transfers: easier movement of funds between checking/savings and brokerage accounts, sometimes with instant or same‑day settlement links.
• Access to advice: banks commonly offer a range of advisory services and human advisors for clients who want guidance or managed portfolios.
• Research and tools: many bank brokerages provide proprietary research, market insights, and educational resources.
• Relationship benefits: some banks extend special pricing, credit, or lending options to clients with combined banking and investment relationships.

These benefits often appeal to customers who value a single financial relationship and prefer human support.

Disadvantages and Potential Conflicts

There are tradeoffs to consider when choosing to buy stocks at a bank:

• Fees for advisory services: full‑service advisory accounts can carry higher fees than low‑cost online brokers.
• Potential conflicts of interest: a bank and its investment advisors may have incentives to recommend proprietary funds or products that generate fees for the institution. Regulations require disclosure, but conflicts can still exist.
• Feature set: specialist brokers sometimes offer more advanced trading tools, lower margin rates, or faster order routing for active traders.
• Product availability: some banks restrict certain securities, OTC trades, or international products in retail accounts.

Weigh these factors against convenience and the need for advice when deciding where to open an account.

How to Choose Whether to Use a Bank for Stock Trading

When deciding whether to answer “can you buy stocks at a bank?” with a yes for yourself, evaluate these criteria:

• Fees: compare commission, options contract fees, advisory fees, and incidental charges.
• Tools and research: do you need advanced charting, algorithmic trading, or institutional research?
• Advice needs: want a DIY platform or a human advisor and financial planning?
• Account types: does the bank offer the retirement, custodial, or trust accounts you need?
• Mobile and online experience: check the app ratings, reviews, and single sign‑on functionality.
• Relationship advantages: would integrated banking benefits or special pricing matter?

These factors help you decide whether bank‑based brokerage service matches your investing goals and style.

Typical Steps to Open a Brokerage Account at a Bank

Opening a brokerage account at a bank typically follows these steps:

1. Choose an account type (individual taxable, joint, IRA, custodial, etc.).
2. Complete an online application or visit a branch. You'll provide personal information, tax ID, and employment/financial questions for regulatory reasons.
3. Verify identity (ID documents, Social Security number or tax ID).
4. Link funding sources: connect your bank deposit account, set up an electronic funds transfer (ACH), or initiate an account transfer (ACAT) from an existing broker.
5. Fund the account: initial deposit, transfer or rollover (for IRAs), or check/wire options.
6. Select preferences: margin vs cash account, options trading levels (if desired), and communication preferences.
7. Place trades via online platform, mobile app, phone, or in‑branch advisor.

Allow time for account verification and funding. Transfers from other brokerages may take several business days.

Alternatives to Buying Stocks at a Bank

If you decide not to buy stocks at a bank, alternatives include:

• Independent brokerages: full service or discount firms with broad product sets (examples: Charles Schwab, Fidelity — these offer robust trading platforms and research).
• Discount and online brokers: low fees, good for active or cost‑sensitive traders.
• Specialty trading apps: user‑friendly mobile experiences and fractional shares for small investors.

Tradeoffs include potentially less in‑person service but often lower costs and more advanced trading tools. If you use crypto or Web3 wallets, Bitget and Bitget Wallet are recommended for related digital asset needs within the Bitget ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are my investments FDIC insured if I buy stocks at a bank?

A: No. Investments in brokerage accounts are not FDIC insured. Brokerage accounts are typically protected by SIPC for missing assets if the broker fails, subject to limits and conditions. SIPC does not protect against market losses.

Q: Can I get personalized investment advice at a bank?

A: Yes. Many banks offer advisory and wealth management services with human advisors. These services often carry management fees and may require account minimums. Self‑directed accounts allow you to trade without advisory fees.

Q: Do banks charge more than online brokers?

A: It depends. Many bank brokerages now offer $0 online stock and ETF trades similar to discount brokers, but advisory services at banks can be more expensive. Compare fee schedules and service levels.

Q: Can I trade after hours through a bank brokerage?

A: Most modern brokerages, including many bank brokerages, offer extended‑hours trading (pre‑market and after‑hours). Check the provider’s trading hours and order type restrictions.

Q: Is it safe to move money between my bank account and brokerage?

A: Yes — banks and their brokerage affiliates typically provide secure links for transfers. Be sure to follow the provider’s identity verification and fund transfer procedures.

Examples and Provider Notes

Below are illustrative provider notes that show how banks commonly structure brokerage services (features and pricing change; check provider disclosures for current details):

• Merrill Edge (Bank of America): offers an integrated experience with single sign‑on, access to Merrill research, and advisory services via Financial Solutions Advisors. Merrill Edge provides both self‑directed trading and advisory solutions.
• WellsTrade / Wells Fargo Advisors: offers online trading via WellsTrade and full wealth management through Wells Fargo Advisors, with consolidated reporting across banking and brokerage relationships.
• ETRADE (Morgan Stanley relationship): ETRADE’s platform historically emphasized self‑directed trading and was integrated with Morgan Stanley’s wealth and banking product set after acquisition.
• RBC Direct Investing (Canada): example of a bank‑linked brokerage in Canada providing online trading to bank clients.
• Charles Schwab: included for comparison — Schwab is a full brokerage with extensive education and trading tools and also provides banking‑like deposit products.

These examples illustrate common integration patterns: online trading platforms for self‑directed investors plus advisory/wealth channels for clients seeking human advice.

Regulation and Industry Context (selected market note)

As of 2026-01-21, reporting from Benzinga and StockStory highlights that regional banks vary in how wealth and brokerage businesses contribute to revenue. For example, F.N.B. Corporation reported Q4 CY2025 revenue and profitability metrics that underscore how bank‑owned wealth businesses can be an important, albeit variable, source of non‑interest income. Such results reinforce that bank brokerages are a strategic business line for many banks and that financial performance and incentives differ across institutions.

(Reporting date: As of 2026-01-21, source: Benzinga and StockStory.)

Advantages and Risks Revisited — Practical Checklist

Before you open an account, use this checklist to evaluate whether a bank is the right place to buy stocks:

• Do they offer the account types and securities you need?
• Are commission and advisory fees competitive for your expected trading frequency?
• Does the platform provide the research, education, and tools you use?
• If you want advice, what are the advisor credentials, fees, and conflicts disclosures?
• How easy are transfers between deposit and brokerage accounts?
• What protections (SIPC) and disclosures are provided at account opening?

Answering these questions helps you make an objective choice.

Practical Example: Day‑to‑Day Flow When You Buy Stocks at a Bank

1. Log into the bank’s integrated platform (web or app).
2. View your combined balances (checking, savings, brokerage) and choose your brokerage account.
3. Fund the brokerage account via an instant transfer or scheduled ACH from your linked bank account.
4. Search for the stock or ETF, enter order type (market or limit), and submit the trade.
5. Receive trade confirmation; positions appear in your brokerage ledger and consolidated statement.
6. If using margin or options, ensure required approvals are in place before trading.

This flow demonstrates how integration can simplify the operational side of trading.

Security and Best Practices

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two‑factor authentication on bank and brokerage accounts.
• Be wary of phishing and confirm communications come from official provider channels.
• Review trade confirmations and monthly statements promptly to detect unauthorized activity.
• Understand settlement timelines (T+2 for many equity trades) and how that affects funding and withdrawals.

See Also

• Brokerage account (basic definitions and types)
• SIPC protection (what it covers and limits)
• FDIC insurance (deposit protection rules)
• Online brokers (comparison of self‑directed platforms)
• Managed portfolios and advisory services (how they work and fee structures)

References

• Merrill Edge — official brokerage product and advisory information (provider page). (As of 2026-01-21.)
• WellsTrade / Wells Fargo Advisors — brokerage services and account features (provider page). (As of 2026-01-21.)
• E*TRADE / Morgan Stanley — platform features and integration notes (provider page). (As of 2026-01-21.)
• Charles Schwab — brokerage services and investor education resources (provider page). (As of 2026-01-21.)
• StockStory reporting on F.N.B. Corporation Q4 CY2025 results and bank industry context. (As of 2026-01-21.)
• Benzinga market and banking news summary. (As of 2026-01-21.)

Note: fee schedules, product availability, and platform features change frequently; always consult the provider’s current disclosures and official pages for up‑to‑date details.

Final Notes and Next Steps

If you still wonder “can you buy stocks at a bank?” — the short answer is yes, and many investors choose bank brokerages for convenience and access to advice. If integration and human guidance matter to you, explore your bank’s brokerage options and compare fees and services.

For hands‑on investors who prioritize low trading costs or advanced tools, compare bank brokerages to independent online brokers. If you are exploring crypto alongside traditional investing, consider Bitget and Bitget Wallet for Web3 asset needs within the Bitget ecosystem.

Ready to explore further? Review your bank’s brokerage disclosures, compare fee schedules, and consider whether you prefer a self‑directed account or an advisory relationship. For more on trading platforms and account types, explore Bitget resources and investor education materials.