I've had good experiences with Sharebuilder so far. A while ago, I took advantage of their $50 bonus to receive $46 in a free ETF ($50 minus a $4 transaction fee).

There is a new promotion code that will provide you with $50 after your first trade. Visit ShareBuilder through this link, and open and fund your account. Make sure you enter the promotion code ENTERTAIN50. Choose your investment and set up the purchase.

When I set my account up, I chose iShares US Telecom Sector Index (IYZ) because I have high hopes for the telecommunications industry -- and if it doesn't work out, it was only $50 of free money. You could invest in any stock, fund, or ETF of your choosing, even in one of the new gold ETFs. The only reason I was willing to participate in the promotion was that ShareBuilder has no inactivity fees. Unfortunately, there is a fee for selling shares, but it's still free money.

4-6 weeks after your transaction takes place, ShareBuilder will credit your account with $50. You can invest the funds or withdraw the free cash to your bank account. They'll keep you in the loop throughout the process of claiming the free $50, and it's very easy.

If you like, comment here after you open an account and describe your investment choice.

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