Online discount brokerage E*Trade is launching a free software application designed specifically for Blackberry handheld devices which enables users to access their accounts, view streaming real-time data and make trades.
The E*Trade Mobile Pro system, which is currently in beta mode, provides customers with a complete view of their accounts and the ability to trade equities and options.
Once logged in with a user ID and password, traders can view streaming real-time quotes, create watch lists and receive alerts, trade confirmations and account updates and view news and market commentary.
The system also lets customers view the performance of their portfolios in real time, check order status and history and shift funds between accounts.
"E*Trade customers are always on the go, and are always looking for new ways to leverage technology in order to achieve their financial goals," says Michael Curcio, MD, E*Trade Securities. "With Mobile Pro, customers have real-time access to their accounts and the information that can move markets."
The application, which works with all new Blackberry models, will be made available to all E*Trade customers in July.
E*Trade has let customers move funds between their bank and securities' accounts, view balances and pay bills with Web-enabled phones since 2000. E-Trade spokeswoman Pam Erickson told reporters that m-trading via the Mobile Pro would be much easier than using a Web site through a mobile phone.