Fewer, simpler priorities than an experienced trader would weigh — here's what to actually check first.
1Low or no minimum deposit
2Simple, transparent fee structure
3Clear educational material & documentation
4Responsive customer support
5Regulation & investor protection in your country
What should a beginner ignore when comparing brokers?
Advanced platform features (API access, complex order types, algorithmic tools) — they don't matter until you actually need them, and weighing them early just adds noise to the decision.
Is a bigger, more established broker always safer for a beginner?
Size isn't a proxy for safety — regulation status is. A smaller, properly regulated broker offers the same investor protection as a larger one; check the regulator register directly rather than assuming from brand recognition.