Ulrich R.

Merrill Lynch/Bank of America's low-cost trading platform is a mediocre offering. It's not particularly easy to use nor is it any cheaper than other low-cost online brokers. I prefer TD Ameritrade or even Vanguard's online brokerage tool. Bank of America's retail banking customers are nudged into signing up but you would not be missing much if you took a pass on Merrill Edge.

I think Barron's is less about investing and more about speculation. A real long-term investor I do not think needs Barron's but rather can do all the research they need by looking at publicly filed reports and other sources. Save your money and time and look elsewhere for real "investing" information.