Share Trading is probably the most common form of investment in terms of buying and selling shares directly. Stock Brokers - or share dealing companies can enable you to buy or sell shares (equities) yourself. In Share Trading, you own the actual share of a company, although these days you don't usually receive a share certificate. Share Dealing accounts can be opened as ISA accounts (which are tax efficient in the UK), SIPPs (for investing your pension), or just regular trading accounts (which attract tax if you make money). Most retail stock brokers are 'execution only' - which means that they simply provide the facility to buy or sell yourself, and don't provide guidance or advice.