Platform Comparison

Public vs WellsTrade

Compare Public and WellsTrade on fees, DRIP, fractional shares and research for dividend investing.

Higher Rated
PB

Public

★4.4

A transparent, community-focused investing platform that rejects payment for order flow in favor of optional tipping—putting your interests first.

Full Review
WF

WellsTrade

★3.8

WellsTrade is Wells Fargo's self-directed brokerage (not the advisor-led Wells Fargo Advisors) for existing customers who want banking and investing under one roof—basic but functional.

Full Review

Public vs WellsTrade: Fees, Minimums & DRIP Compared

FeaturePublicWellsTrade
Our Rating4.4/53.8/5
Trading Commissions$0$0
Account Minimum$0$0
Fractional Shares$1 minimumYes (min $10)
DRIPFreeFree
Research ToolsBasicBasic
Best ForTransparency-Focused InvestorsWells Fargo Banking Customers

Public vs WellsTrade: Pros and Cons

Public

Pros

  • + No payment for order flow—potentially better trade execution
  • + Commission-free stocks, ETFs, and options trading
  • + Fractional shares starting at just $1
  • + Free dividend reinvestment with fractional share support
  • + High interest rate on uninvested cash

Cons

  • - No mutual funds available
  • - Limited research and screening tools
  • - Extended hours trading costs $2.99 per order (non-Premium)
  • - Penny stocks cost $2.99 per trade (non-Premium)

WellsTrade

Pros

  • + Commission-free online stock and ETF trades
  • + Free dividend reinvestment with per-security selection
  • + Fractional shares through Stock Fractions program (min $10)
  • + Integration with Wells Fargo banking accounts
  • + No management fees for self-directed accounts

Cons

  • - Very basic investing platform with limited tools
  • - High margin rates (8.5%-12.5%)
  • - No pre-market trading available
  • - Limited after-hours trading (mobile only, until 6:30 PM)

Which Is Better for Dividend Investors: Public or WellsTrade?

Choose Public if you...

  • Are in Public's core audience: transparency-focused investors
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

Choose WellsTrade if you...

  • Are in WellsTrade's core audience: wells fargo banking customers

Want the full breakdown of fees, DRIP, and research tools? Read our Public review and WellsTrade review.

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Investment Disclaimer

Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.