Fund expenses
Management expenses and other fund costs reduce the return received by investors.
Costs compound too
A small annual percentage can become a large long-term difference.
Understand what you pay to buy, hold, receive advice, exchange currency and leave an account.
Advice or management fees
Understand the service, calculation method, tax treatment and whether other product costs also apply.
Transaction costs
Trading commissions, bid-ask spreads and frequent activity can increase costs.
Currency conversion
Foreign-exchange spreads and conversion charges may apply to foreign assets or dividends.
Administration and transfer
Account, inactivity, withdrawal or transfer fees may apply depending on the provider.
Tax consequences
Taxes are not fees, but after-tax outcomes can differ by account, income type and personal circumstances.