E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) Review (2026)
Best for: Options traders and Morgan Stanley clients. Our Fintiex score is 4.3 / 5 based on commissions, account coverage, app quality, and research depth.
- +Power E*TRADE platform built for active options trading
- +Morgan Stanley research available to all customers
- +Paper trading to practice without real money
- +Prebuilt and customizable stock screeners
- +Strong options analytics and strategy tools
- -No fractional shares
- -$0.65/contract options (drops to $0.50 for 30+ trades/quarter)
- -Less emphasis on passive/index investing tools
- -Some futures require separate application
Overview
E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) earns a Fintiex score of 4.3 out of 5, placing it among the brokers we recommend to readers who fit the profile of "options traders and morgan stanley clients." Stock and ETF trades cost $0, options are $0.65 per contract, and the account opens with no minimum balance.
The mobile app rates 4.6 out of 5 on App Store reviews, and research quality is excellent. Fractional shares are not currently offered, which can be a drawback for investors building positions with small recurring deposits. The account supports 7 account types and 5 asset classes, covered in detail in the sections below.
Use this review alongside our full brokerage comparison to confirm whether E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) is the best fit for your goals or whether another broker on our list is more cost-effective for your trading style.
Account types supported
E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) supports 7 account types. If you need a specific structure (custodial for a minor, trust for estate planning), confirm eligibility before applying.
What you can trade
E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) gives you access to 5 asset classes. The broader the coverage, the less likely you will need to open a second account later.
Fees and minimums
- Stock and ETF trades$0
- Options per contract$0.65
- Mutual funds (NTF)$0
- Account minimum$0
- Fractional sharesNo
- Mobile app rating4.6 / 5
Options traders and Morgan Stanley clients. If that describes how you plan to invest, E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) is a strong fit.
- +Power E*TRADE platform built for active options trading
- +Morgan Stanley research available to all customers
- +Paper trading to practice without real money
No broker is a fit for everyone. Here is where E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) falls short.
- -No fractional shares
- -$0.65/contract options (drops to $0.50 for 30+ trades/quarter)
- -Less emphasis on passive/index investing tools
How to open an account
Opening a E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) account takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes online. You will need a Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and a linked bank account for funding. No hard credit pull is made for standard cash accounts.
- Visit the E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) application page
- Select your account type (taxable, IRA, Roth IRA, joint, etc.)
- Enter personal details and verify identity
- Link an external bank via routing and account number
- Fund the account via ACH transfer (1 to 3 business days)
- Place your first trade once funds settle
Frequently asked questions
Open your E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley) account
Options traders and Morgan Stanley clients. $0 stock trades, $0 minimum.