Charles Schwab Corp. has entered into a strategic alliance with Broadridge Financial Solutions that will enable the discount broker to expand its global investing offerings.  By early 2012, Schwab clients should be able to begin trading in foreign currency - and at that point, they'll be able to trade in 12 markets and 8 currencies.

Previously, Schwab launched OTC foreign stocks trading.  In doing so, Schwab reportedly saw client numbers grow significantly - by more than 300% in the first quarter of 2011 over the prior year.  At the current level, Charles Schwab offers country and sector-based research for investors, and plans to  introduce global currency and macro-economic commentary from its own advisers and third-party experts. Furthermore, the company intends to offer customer service and provide support to clients for trading internationally in both equities and currencies.

Broadridge, based in New York, provides securities transaction processing, clearing and settlement services to retail and institutional brokerage firms, global banks, mutual funds, annuity companies, institutional investors, specialty trading firms, and clearing firms, as well as to corporate issuers.  Broadridge will come up with technology support needed in currency trade processing, accounting and reporting.   [Zacks Equity Research,  714/11]