trading fees

If you've never invested directly in the market before, the process of getting started can seem daunting. But if you think you may be ready to give stock investing a shot, the first question you'll have is likely to be: How much money do I need to begin?

Charles Schwab will likely come in below analysts' estimates when it releases fourth quarter earnings on Thursday. Among its problems: a slowdown in trading volumes and an acceleration of money market fund fee waivers.