Moneytology

M1 Finance vs Fidelity: Which Brokerage Is Best? (2024)

m1 finance vs fidelity

When it comes to choosing an online brokerage, two popular options that often come up are M1 Finance and Fidelity. While both offer investment opportunities, they have distinct features that set them apart. In this article, I will compare M1 Finance and Fidelity to help you determine which brokerage is best suited for your needs.

Key Takeaways:

  • M1 Finance is an online brokerage known for its algorithmically managed portfolios and customizable portfolios called “Pies.”
  • Fidelity is a full-service trading platform that offers access to a wide range of financial assets, including stocks, bonds, and options contracts.
  • M1 Finance does not charge commissions or trading fees, while Fidelity now uses a no-fee trading model for most mainstream assets.
  • Both M1 Finance and Fidelity prioritize customer service and provide support options such as chat, email, and phone support.
  • Consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and desired level of control when choosing between M1 Finance and Fidelity.

Investment Options

When it comes to investment options, M1 Finance and Fidelity offer distinct features tailored to different investor preferences.

M1 Finance

M1 Finance offers a unique approach to investing with its portfolio-based system called “Pies.” Investors have the flexibility to create their own portfolios or choose from pre-built and managed portfolios. This allows for a customized investment strategy that aligns with individual goals and risk tolerance.

  • M1 Finance supports a wide range of financial assets, including stocks and ETFs. This provides investors with ample opportunities to diversify their portfolios and capitalize on market trends.
  • Additionally, M1 Finance offers fractional shares, making it accessible for small investors who may not have the capital to purchase full shares of expensive stocks.

Fidelity

Fidelity, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive trading platform with an extensive range of investment options.

  • Investors can access a variety of financial assets, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, and options contracts, offering diverse opportunities to build a portfolio.
  • Fidelity also offers retail investors access to its own crypto ETF, allowing them to participate in the growing trend of cryptocurrency investments.

By offering a wide array of investment options, Fidelity appeals to investors who value choice and want to take advantage of various asset classes.

Fees

When it comes to fees, M1 Finance distinguishes itself by offering a no-commission and no-trading-fee structure. This means that investors can trade stocks and ETFs without incurring any additional charges. The only fees associated with M1 Finance are minor incidental costs, such as a $5 fee for paper account statements. Additionally, M1 Finance offers a premium service called M1 Plus, which provides extra perks such as lower borrowing rates and cashback rewards. M1 Plus has an annual fee of $125.

On the other hand, Fidelity has adopted a no-fee trading model for most mainstream assets. Investors can trade stocks, ETFs, and most mutual funds without paying any commission or trading fees. However, there are certain exceptions to this model. Fidelity charges fees for options contracts and certain mutual funds. Additionally, Fidelity offers financial advising services, which come with their own fees. The specific fees for these services vary based on the level of assistance and expertise required by the investor.

Performance

When it comes to evaluating the performance of investment options, both M1 Finance and Fidelity provide investors with the necessary tools and resources. These platforms offer various features that enable users to research, analyze, and make informed investment decisions. However, it is worth noting that there is no specific data available comparing the performance of portfolios or individual assets between M1 Finance and Fidelity.

The performance of investments is influenced by several factors, including market conditions, asset allocation, and individual investor decisions. It is essential for investors to carefully consider these factors and conduct their own research to determine which investments align with their financial goals and risk tolerance.

In investing, it is crucial to remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. Market conditions can change, and the performance of investments can fluctuate accordingly.

Risks and Rewards

Investing in the financial markets carries inherent risks, and it is important for investors to assess their risk tolerance and make investment decisions accordingly. Higher-risk investments may offer the potential for greater returns, but they also come with increased volatility and the possibility of significant losses.

On the other hand, more conservative investment strategies may provide stability and lower volatility but may generate more modest returns over time. Each investor’s risk profile and financial goals will be unique, and it is crucial to evaluate investments in light of personal circumstances and objectives.

Research and Analysis

Both M1 Finance and Fidelity offer a range of research and analysis tools to support investors in making informed decisions. These tools can include access to historical price data, real-time market news, company profiles, and financial statements.

Investors can utilize these resources to evaluate the fundamentals of potential investments, such as earnings growth, revenue, and valuation metrics. Additionally, many investors leverage technical analysis techniques, such as chart patterns and indicators, to identify trends and potential entry or exit points.

Tracking Performance

Investors can track the performance of their investments on both M1 Finance and Fidelity platforms. These platforms provide users with portfolio performance reports, including overall returns, individual asset returns, and breakdowns by asset class or sector.

Additionally, investors can set up alerts and notifications to stay updated on significant market movements or changes in their portfolio’s performance. Regularly reviewing and analyzing performance can help investors make data-driven decisions and adjust their investment strategy as needed.

While M1 Finance and Fidelity provide the necessary tools and resources to track investment performance, it is important for investors to remember that performance can be influenced by various factors, and there are no guarantees in the financial markets.

Factors Affecting Investment Performance Impact on Performance
Market Conditions Market fluctuations can significantly impact the performance of investments.
Asset Allocation The allocation of investments across different asset classes can affect overall portfolio performance.
Investor Decisions Individual investor decisions, such as buying or selling at specific times, can influence investment performance.
Economic Factors Changes in economic conditions, such as interest rates or inflation, can impact the performance of certain investments.

m1 finance performance

Investors should carefully consider their investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making investment decisions. Seeking guidance from a financial advisor or conducting thorough research can help investors navigate the complexities of investment performance and make informed choices.

Support

When it comes to support, both Fidelity and M1 Finance prioritize providing assistance to investors. Fidelity offers a range of support options, including access to financial advisors through its online system and physical retail locations. This personalized support allows investors to consult with experts who can provide guidance and advice tailored to their individual needs. Additionally, Fidelity offers various educational and research-based resources to help investors make informed decisions.

On the other hand, while M1 Finance does not offer access to financial advisors, it has a robust customer support system in place. Investors can receive instant help through chat, email support, and phone support. This ensures that users can promptly resolve any issues or receive assistance when needed. M1 Finance prioritizes providing efficient and reliable customer support to enhance users’ overall experience.

Both brokerages understand the importance of customer service and strive to provide comprehensive support to investors. Whether you prefer personalized advice or responsive customer support, both Fidelity and M1 Finance are committed to assisting you throughout your investment journey.

Fidelity M1 Finance
Access to financial advisors No access to financial advisors
Educational and research-based resources Robust customer support system
Online and physical retail support options Instant help through chat, email, and phone support

Features

When it comes to features, both M1 Finance and Fidelity offer unique offerings designed to enhance the investing experience.

M1 Finance Features

M1 Finance provides a range of features that appeal to different investor preferences:

  • Automated portfolio rebalancing: M1 Finance’s automated portfolio rebalancing feature ensures that your portfolio stays aligned with your desired asset allocation.
  • Fractional shares: With M1 Finance, you have the option to invest in fractional shares, making it accessible for investors with smaller budgets.
  • Dividend reinvestment (DRIP): M1 Finance allows for automatic dividend reinvestment, ensuring that your dividends are reinvested back into your portfolio to maximize growth.
  • Expert-created portfolios: M1 Finance offers expert-created portfolios that you can invest in, taking advantage of the expertise of professionals in the industry.

Additionally, M1 Finance has a unique feature that sets it apart from other brokerages—an innovative cashback credit card. With this credit card, you can earn cashback when shopping at companies you have invested in, providing you with an additional way to grow your wealth.

Fidelity Features

Fidelity also offers a range of features designed to cater to the needs of different investors:

  • 24/7 customer service: Fidelity provides round-the-clock customer service, ensuring assistance is available whenever it’s needed.
  • Robo-advisor service (Fidelity Go): Fidelity’s robo-advisor service offers automated portfolio management, taking the guesswork out of investing for those looking for a hands-off approach.
  • Full-service brokerage options: Fidelity offers a comprehensive suite of financial products, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, and options contracts, providing a one-stop solution for investors looking for a wide range of investment options.
  • In-person branches: For investors who prefer face-to-face interactions, Fidelity has in-person branches where dedicated professionals can provide personalized support and guidance.
  • DRIP for automatic dividend reinvestment: Similar to M1 Finance, Fidelity offers automatic dividend reinvestment, allowing you to put your dividends to work immediately.

Both M1 Finance and Fidelity offer unique features that cater to different investor preferences. Whether you value automated portfolio management, fractional shares, expert-created portfolios, or additional credit card perks, M1 Finance has you covered. If round-the-clock customer service, a wide range of investment options, and face-to-face support are essential to you, Fidelity is the go-to choice.

m1 finance features

Feature Comparison

M1 Finance Fidelity
Automated Portfolio Rebalancing N/A
Fractional Shares N/A
Dividend Reinvestment (DRIP)
Expert-Created Portfolios N/A
Cashback Credit Card N/A
24/7 Customer Service N/A
Robo-Advisor Service (Fidelity Go) N/A
Full-Service Brokerage Options N/A
In-Person Branches N/A
DRIP for Automatic Dividend Reinvestment N/A

Please note that the “N/A” values indicate that the particular feature is not available in that respective brokerage. The table provides a quick overview of the features offered by M1 Finance and Fidelity, allowing you to assess which features align with your investment goals and preferences.

Online and Mobile User Experience

When it comes to the online and mobile user experience, both M1 Finance and Fidelity offer user-friendly platforms that cater to the needs of investors. Whether you prefer managing your investments on a computer or on-the-go with your mobile device, both platforms have you covered.

Starting with M1 Finance, they have a well-designed website and a mobile app that allows for seamless portfolio management. The platform provides a streamlined process for adjusting your portfolios, making it easy to rebalance or make changes as needed. With its intuitive interface and straightforward navigation, M1 Finance offers a user-friendly experience for investors of all levels.

On the other hand, Fidelity also offers a user-friendly website and mobile app. However, it’s worth noting that the app may have some limitations due to the smaller screen size. That said, Fidelity’s desktop version provides more robust tools and real-time analytics, making it a great option for investors who prefer a more in-depth analysis of their investments.

In summary, both M1 Finance and Fidelity provide convenient and user-friendly online and mobile experiences. Whether you choose M1 Finance for its streamlined portfolio management or Fidelity for its comprehensive tools and analytics, you can confidently manage your investments with ease.

m1 finance mobile app

Benefits of Online and Mobile User Experience

  • Effortless portfolio management
  • User-friendly interface
  • Intuitive navigation
  • Convenient access to investments

Security

Ensuring the security of your investments and personal information is crucial when choosing a brokerage platform. Both M1 Finance and Fidelity have implemented robust security measures to protect their users.

M1 Finance Security

M1 Finance takes security seriously by employing industry-standard practices to safeguard your assets. Here are some key features of M1 Finance’s security:

  • Two-Factor Authentication: M1 Finance utilizes two-factor authentication to provide an additional layer of protection for your account.
  • Military-Grade Encryption: Your data is encrypted using advanced encryption algorithms, ensuring that your information remains secure.
  • Registered and Insured: M1 Finance is registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). This provides an additional layer of protection for your investments.
  • Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Coverage: Cash deposits with M1 Finance are insured by the FDIC up to $250,000, providing peace of mind for your deposited funds.
  • Investment Protection: In the unlikely event that M1 Finance goes out of business, your investments are insured up to $500,000.

Fidelity Security

Fidelity, as a trusted brokerage platform, prioritizes the security of its users. Here are some important security measures implemented by Fidelity:

  • Advanced Technology and Encryption: Fidelity employs advanced technology and encryption to protect your assets and personal information.
  • Customer Protection Guarantee: Fidelity offers a Customer Protection Guarantee, which reimburses users for any unauthorized activity in their accounts.

Whether you choose M1 Finance or Fidelity, you can have confidence that both platforms have taken significant measures to ensure the security of your funds and personal information.

m1 finance security

Security M1 Finance Fidelity
Two-Factor Authentication N/A
Military-Grade Encryption
Registered with FINRA and SIPC N/A
FDIC Coverage (Cash Deposits) N/A
Investment Protection N/A
Customer Protection Guarantee N/A

Customer Service

When it comes to customer service, both M1 Finance and Fidelity prioritize providing responsive and helpful support to their investors. Whether you have inquiries or concerns, both platforms offer multiple customer service options to assist you.

With M1 Finance, you can expect instant help through chat, email support, and phone support during normal trading hours. Their knowledgeable team is ready to address any questions you may have about navigating the platform, managing your investments, or resolving any issues that may arise.

Similarly, Fidelity offers a range of customer service options to cater to your needs. They have a virtual assistant that can help with basic questions, as well as live chat support during specific hours. In addition, Fidelity provides 24/7 phone support, ensuring that you have access to assistance whenever you need it.

Both M1 Finance and Fidelity strive to provide excellent customer service, as they understand the importance of supporting investors throughout their financial journeys. Whether you prefer the convenience of online chat, the efficiency of email support, or the personal connection of speaking with a representative over the phone, both platforms have you covered.

Pros of M1 Finance

When it comes to the advantages of M1 Finance, there are several key points to consider.

  1. No-fee trading model: One of the standout features of M1 Finance is its no-commission approach. Investors can place trades without having to worry about incurring additional fees, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to grow their wealth.
  2. Customizable portfolios: M1 Finance offers a unique portfolio-building system called “Pies.” This allows investors to create their own customized portfolios or choose from a selection of pre-built portfolios designed by experts. With this level of control, investors can align their investments with their individual financial goals and risk tolerance.
  3. Fractional shares: M1 Finance allows investors to purchase fractional shares, which means they can invest in high-priced stocks or ETFs with even small amounts of capital. This feature opens up investment opportunities for individuals with limited funds, enabling them to diversify their portfolios across multiple stocks or funds.
  4. Automated portfolio rebalancing: M1 Finance takes care of portfolio rebalancing automatically. As the value of individual assets changes, the platform will adjust the portfolio allocations accordingly, ensuring that investors’ portfolios stay in line with their target weightings. This feature helps maintain the intended balance of investments and can enhance overall portfolio performance.
  5. Access to expert-created portfolios: M1 Finance offers a curated selection of expert-created portfolios for investors who prefer a hands-off approach. These portfolios are designed by financial experts, providing investors with the opportunity to follow investment strategies developed by professionals in the field.

In addition to these advantages, M1 Finance prides itself on being user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for beginners in the investment world. The platform is intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing investors to manage their portfolios with ease. Furthermore, M1 Finance has a low account minimum, allowing individuals to start investing with a relatively small initial deposit.

Overall, M1 Finance offers a range of benefits, including no fees, customizable portfolios, fractional shares, automated portfolio rebalancing, and access to expert-created portfolios. These features, combined with its user-friendly interface and low account minimum, make M1 Finance an attractive choice for both novice and experienced investors.

Cons of M1 Finance

While M1 Finance offers numerous advantages for investors, there are also some cons to consider:

  1. Limited investment options: Compared to traditional brokerages, M1 Finance has a more limited selection of investment options. This may not be ideal for investors who are looking for a wide range of choices to diversify their portfolios.
  2. No tax-loss harvesting feature: One notable drawback of M1 Finance is the absence of a tax-loss harvesting feature. Tax-loss harvesting is a strategy that can help investors offset capital gains and reduce taxable income. Without this feature, investors using M1 Finance may need to explore other methods to optimize their tax liabilities.
  3. Absence of human advisors: Unlike some other brokerages, M1 Finance does not provide access to human advisors for personalized investment advice. This means that investors relying on expert guidance or in need of tailored portfolio recommendations may find this aspect lacking.
  4. Not ideal for active traders: Active traders who frequently engage in buying and selling securities may find M1 Finance less suitable for their needs. The platform is primarily designed for long-term investors and may not offer the advanced trading tools and features desired by active traders.
  5. Limited investment options: M1 Finance may not fulfill the requirements of investors seeking specific investment options that are not available on the platform. It’s crucial to thoroughly evaluate the available investment options to ensure they align with your investment goals and preferences.

Despite these cons, M1 Finance remains a popular choice for those who value hands-off investing, a user-friendly platform, and long-term portfolio management.

Pros of Fidelity

When it comes to Fidelity, there are several advantages that make it a top choice for investors. Here are some of the key pros of using Fidelity:

Full-Service Trading Platform

Fidelity offers a comprehensive trading platform that caters to all types of investors. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, Fidelity provides the tools and resources you need to manage your investments effectively.

Wide Range of Investment Options

With Fidelity, you can access a diverse range of investment options. From stocks and bonds to ETFs, mutual funds, and options contracts, Fidelity gives you the flexibility to build a well-rounded investment portfolio that aligns with your financial goals.

Access to Financial Advisors

For those who prefer personalized guidance, Fidelity offers access to financial advisors. These experts can provide valuable insights, help you create a customized investment strategy, and offer advice based on your specific financial situation and goals.

24/7 Customer Service

Fidelity understands the importance of reliable customer service. That’s why they provide 24/7 support to assist investors with any questions or concerns they may have. Whether you need help with account management, technical issues, or general inquiries, Fidelity’s customer service team is available around the clock.

In-Person Branches

Fidelity goes the extra mile by offering in-person branches for investors who prefer face-to-face interactions. These physical locations provide an opportunity to meet with financial experts, attend seminars, and receive hands-on assistance with your investment needs.

Overall, Fidelity’s full-service trading platform, extensive investment options, access to financial advisors, 24/7 customer service, and in-person branches make it a compelling choice for investors seeking a comprehensive and supportive brokerage experience.

Pros of Fidelity
Full-Service Trading Platform
Wide Range of Investment Options
Access to Financial Advisors
24/7 Customer Service
In-Person Branches

Cons of Fidelity

While Fidelity offers a range of benefits, it’s important to consider the limitations and drawbacks of the platform as well. Here are some cons of Fidelity:

  1. Fees for certain investment services: Fidelity charges fees for options contracts and certain mutual funds, which can add to the overall cost of investing.
  2. Outdated platform compared to other online brokerages: Fidelity’s platform may not offer the same level of modernity and user-friendly interface as some other online brokerages, which can impact the overall investing experience.
  3. Higher fees for larger portfolios: As your portfolio grows, the fees charged by Fidelity can increase, which may make it less cost-effective for investors with larger account balances.

It’s important to note that Fidelity may not be the ideal choice for investors seeking a completely fee-free trading experience or those with smaller account balances. However, despite these drawbacks, Fidelity still offers a wide range of investment options and access to financial advisors, making it a viable option for many investors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when comparing M1 Finance and Fidelity, it ultimately comes down to individual investor preferences and needs. Both brokerages offer unique features and services that cater to different types of investors.

M1 Finance is a great choice for those who prefer a no-fee trading model, customizable portfolios with the pie investing system, and a user-friendly platform. It appeals to beginners and small investors with its fractional shares and automated portfolio rebalancing. M1 Finance also offers the option to invest in expert-created portfolios for a more hands-off approach.

Fidelity is a solid option for investors who value access to a wide range of investment options and financial advising services. With Fidelity, you have the ability to execute your own trades and tap into the expertise of their financial advisors. Fidelity also provides 24/7 customer support and offers in-person branches for those who prefer face-to-face interactions.

When deciding between M1 Finance and Fidelity, consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and desired level of control over your portfolio. It’s important to choose a brokerage that aligns with your needs and provides the tools and support you require to effectively manage your investments.

Investing Disclaimer: Please remember that investing in securities involves risk and you should only invest what you can afford to lose. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Always do your own research and consider seeking professional advice before making any investment decisions.

Wrapping Up

In the world of online brokerages, choosing between M1 Finance and Fidelity can be a tough decision. Both platforms offer unique features and services that cater to different types of investors, making it important to consider your investment goals, preferences, and fees when making a choice.

M1 Finance is well-known for its no-fee trading model, allowing investors to trade without worrying about commissions or trading fees. Additionally, M1 Finance offers customizable portfolios with its unique pie investing system, making it easy for investors to build and manage their portfolios according to their own preferences. The user-friendly platform is designed to make investing accessible and straightforward, especially for beginners.

On the other hand, Fidelity offers a wide range of investment options that go beyond stocks and ETFs. With access to financial advising services and 24/7 customer support, Fidelity aims to provide comprehensive support to investors. Although Fidelity may have certain fees, such as those for options contracts and some mutual funds, the platform offers more traditional brokerage services and additional resources for investors.

Ultimately, the choice between M1 Finance and Fidelity depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the investment options, fees, support, and features offered by each platform to determine which one aligns better with your investment strategy. Whether you choose M1 Finance or Fidelity, both platforms provide opportunities for investors to enter the market, grow their wealth, and achieve their financial goals.

FAQ

What is the difference between M1 Finance and Fidelity?

M1 Finance is an online brokerage that offers algorithmically managed portfolios and the ability to add individual assets. Fidelity is a full-service trading platform that allows investors to execute their own trades and provides access to financial advisors.

What investment options are available with M1 Finance and Fidelity?

M1 Finance supports stocks and ETFs, and also offers fractional shares. Fidelity offers a wide range of financial assets, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, and options contracts.

What fees are associated with M1 Finance and Fidelity?

M1 Finance does not charge any commissions or trading fees, but there are miscellaneous costs such as a paper account statement fee and an annual fee for its premium service. Fidelity now uses a no-fee trading model for most assets, but fees are charged for options contracts and certain mutual funds. Fidelity also charges for access to financial advising services.

How does the performance of M1 Finance and Fidelity compare?

There is no specific data available comparing the performance of their portfolios or individual assets. Investment performance will depend on factors such as market conditions, asset allocation, and individual investor decisions.

What support options are available with M1 Finance and Fidelity?

M1 Finance offers instant help through chat, email support, and phone support, while Fidelity offers access to financial advisors through its online system and retail locations. Both platforms aim to provide assistance to investors as needed.

What features does M1 Finance offer?

M1 Finance offers automated portfolio rebalancing, fractional shares, dividend reinvestment, and the option to invest in expert-created portfolios. It also has a cashback credit card program.

How is the online and mobile user experience with M1 Finance and Fidelity?

Both M1 Finance and Fidelity offer user-friendly online and mobile experiences, but Fidelity’s desktop version offers more robust tools and real-time analytics.

How is security ensured with M1 Finance and Fidelity?

Both M1 Finance and Fidelity use advanced technology and encryption to protect assets and information. They are also registered with FINRA and members of SIPC, providing additional investor protection.

What customer service options are available with M1 Finance and Fidelity?

M1 Finance provides instant help through chat, email support, and phone support during normal trading hours. Fidelity offers a virtual assistant, live chat support, and 24/7 phone support.

What are the pros of using M1 Finance?

Some pros of M1 Finance include its no-fee trading model, customizable portfolios, fractional shares, automated portfolio rebalancing, and access to expert-created portfolios.

What are the cons of using M1 Finance?

Some cons of M1 Finance include limited investment options, no tax-loss harvesting feature, and no human advisors for personalized investment advice.

What are the pros of using Fidelity?

Some pros of Fidelity include its full-service trading platform, access to a wide range of investment options, financial advising services, and 24/7 customer support.

What are the cons of using Fidelity?

Some cons of Fidelity include fees for certain investment services, an outdated platform compared to other online brokerages, and higher fees for larger portfolios.

Which brokerage, M1 Finance or Fidelity, is better for me?

The choice between M1 Finance and Fidelity depends on individual investor preferences and needs. Consider factors such as fees, investment options, customer service, and platform features when making your decision.

What should I consider when choosing between M1 Finance and Fidelity?

When choosing between M1 Finance and Fidelity, consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, desired level of control over your portfolio, and fees associated with each brokerage.

Which brokerage, M1 Finance or Fidelity, provides a better user experience?

Both M1 Finance and Fidelity offer user-friendly online and mobile experiences, but the choice may depend on individual preferences and the specific features needed for investing.

How do M1 Finance and Fidelity prioritize security?

Both M1 Finance and Fidelity take security measures such as encryption, authentication, and investor protection programs to ensure the safety of investors’ funds and personal information.

What customer service options are available with M1 Finance and Fidelity?

M1 Finance provides instant help through chat, email support, and phone support during normal trading hours. Fidelity offers a virtual assistant for basic questions, live chat support, and 24/7 phone support.

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Kostadin

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