Brokerage window

Brokerage Window

The ability for an account holder to have control over at least some of the investments made on his/her IRA or 401(k). That is, either the account holder or a designated representative has the ability to make investments with the contributions made to the account. This increases the potential return on a retirement account, but also increases the risk associated with it. See also: Self-directed IRA.

Brokerage window.

A 401(k) account that permits its plan participants to buy and sell investments through a designated brokerage account is said to offer a brokerage window.

Any securities trades you authorize for your account are made through this brokerage account. Transaction fees are subtracted as those orders are executed.