grrizzli

You can buy any ETF* or individual stock on Merrill Edge, for free if you qualify. Fidelity has a limited list of free-trade ETFs that actually changes, so if you want to close or expand a position a year or two later, it may not be free.

*Vanguard ETFs are very much available to trade on Merrill Edge. There is such a thing as Admiral Shares with Vanguard that can only be purchased in the Vanguard account -- if you qualify. They my have lower expense ratios but you need to compare the expense ratios for any fund you consider -- I'm not convinced that even Admiral Shares Vanguard funds beat Schwab funds (and Schwab funds are available everywhere, including Merrill Edge). Whether you want to restrict yourself exclusively to the Vanguard universe or you value being able to trade something (anything) else, that's up to you.