With this launch, E*TRADE is among the first online financial services firms in the Netherlands to offer Dutch investors competitive access to the US markets. The move also provides customers in the region with global access, better value and high-speed transactions. Commissions start from as low as US$9.99 per trade, with 2-second execution guarantees on S&P 500 stocks and ETFs available through E*TRADE Securities, advanced trading tools and research, and priority customer service through a dedicated team of Relationship Managers.

"We provide extensive access to American markets, an area in which the capabilities of the local Dutch firms do not match E*TRADE's product, services, and experience. We believe there is a need for an online broker offering direct access to American markets, with competitive prices, and the tools and research that are important to Dutch investors," stated Mathias Helleu, Executive Vice President of International Retail, E*TRADE FINANCIAL.

Helleu added, "Our commitment to the international markets places E*TRADE in a unique position to open up world markets to investors who seek growth opportunities and value. Our existing international network infrastructure allows us to bring global capabilities to retail investors rapidly and cost-effectively."

E*TRADE Securities Limited, Netherlands Branch will be led by Country Manager, Barry van der Laan. Mr. van der Laan is an experienced broker with over 10 years of international experience in the online brokerage industry. He states, "E*TRADE provides a unique opportunity and value for active traders, and we are confident that Dutch traders will embrace its arrival into this market."

With foreign affiliates that provide access to 42 international markets, as well as 16 international branded Web sites and eight physical locations outside the US, E*TRADE FINANCIAL is uniquely positioned to provide retail customers with access to foreign markets. In addition to providing online access today to six global markets, E*TRADE offers broker-assisted access to an additional 36 markets.