Could I get some advice as to what platform & additional tools/setup would be recommended for a beginner? I currently do LIGHT trading w/ my discount Muriel Siebert account, which obviously is not enough for when I start to thicken it up. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
I would really look at IB, or I believe Trade Station has a new platform and low commissions. I use Nextrend and like it, my set up is $100 a month. In my opinion keeping commissions as low as possible and being profitable before taking huge size is the best way to start. You can trade 100 share lots for $1 at IB, so it only takes a .03 move to make a profit. vs .20 with most discount brokers just to break even.
Tradestaton is a nice all in one package. Charts, strategy testing, and brokerage.. $100 month. Good commish too.
Keep your costs low when you start. Most people wont make it because they have too high expenses. Brandon
i began trading with efloortrade. they have an excellent staff. you should check them out. competitive with rates as well