I agree that many brokers I worked with would burn and churn,...

I agree that many brokers I worked with would burn and churn, the classic was "Hi look buy BHP and sell RIO or sell NAB and buy CBA on flimsy reasoning, but the bottom line was they were making 1.5% commission on a $200,000 share trade, making themselves $1,500.

Those days are over as now you can do your own research and pay $20. However the majority of stockbrokers have (like myself) a BSc in Economics, 30 years experience as a institutional trader both in stocks/currencies and futures and now has frequently stated I have retired due to my experience! In terms of P/E, NAV's, EPS, ROI etc Stockbrokers have this knowledge and it is still wise to take advice even if you make the trade yourself

If this was a medical forum and I noticed a Doctor giving advice rather than a totally unqualified and inexperienced posters I would respect and follow the qualified Doctor's opinion.

I can only assume that you have like many no doubt been badly burnt with b/s advice from brokers who are purely looking to finance their retirement.

But please don't put us all in the same basket.

PS: It's very notable brokers on Your Money Your Call really do slag off HC users