In the past couple of decades, online brokerage companies have revolutionized the way that individuals invest in the stock market. With the use of automation and online interfaces, an individual investor can manage and diversify their portfolios, while receiving the same service that over-the-counter brokers could provide in the past.

Online brokerage companies allow investors to manage their investments with ease and convenience. Because the trading process is automated, investors can make trades quickly through secure websites, without having to contact an over-the-counter broker. This saves time and money for both the investor and the brokerage company.

Because investors don't rely on a middleman to facilitate their stock trades, they can generally get lower commission fees. In addition, the fee structure of online brokerage companies is often more transparent and easy to understand than that of traditional brokerages.

Another major advantage of online brokerages is that they typically offer investors a wide array of resources and tools to help them trade successfully. These resources, such as financial calculators, portfolio analysis, and research material, often come at no additional cost.

In addition, online brokers typically provide more flexibility than traditional brokerages. Brokerage firms typically require a certain minimum investment amount, but online brokers usually don't, allowing investors to start an account with as little as a few hundred dollars.

Finally, numerous online brokerage companies offer fantastic customer service, ensuring that their customers' needs are taken care of in a timely and professional manner.

Overall, online brokerages are an excellent choice for investors who are looking to manage their portfolios with convenience and efficiency. With low commissions, a wide array of resources, greater flexibility, and fantastic customer service, online brokerages are the perfect solution for individuals looking to invest in the stock market.