e the ones who research funds and buy or sell transactions. Depending on the online broker's level of service, portfolio management tools may be available to help keep a portfolio growing.
             Accessibility. Online investors can review trading activity 24-hours-a-day. The benefits of 24-hour accessibility are apparent if, for example, their day job limits them from keeping on top of the markets and keeping in touch with an investment advisor.
             *sum* Convenience. Investors can review their accounts and place transactions from anywhere in the world, 24-hours-a-day, every day. Also online brokers may promote and sell "no-load funds" (funds which do not have sales fees) as an added service, even though the broker receives no compensation from the fund company if these funds are purchased.
             As Forrester Research (a U.S.-based research firm) predicted in 1997, the advantages of online trading will lure more and more investors of mutual funds and stocks in the next few years. Forrester predicts that assets managed online will reach $688 billion (U.S.) by the year 2002, while the number of online trading accounts will jump to 14.4 million, up from three million in 1997 (http://www.forrester.com). In North America, the growth in the number of online stock and mutual fund accounts has been rapid. As the Web grows and online financial tools improve, personal assets managed online is also expected to rise.
             Traditionally, the only way to purchase stock was through an intermediary such as a brokerage house where stockbrokers manage investment portfolios. These stockbrokers have to pass an exam and register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The commissions they charge customers vary, but they can charge hefty fees per transaction. They use computers to complete some of the exchanges but the typical process is illustrated as such: contact the broker and place and order of 1000 shares of PopCola if the price is between 10 and 12 ...