[KFC911]

Just to clarify (in case there is confusion)....I don't do equity funds anymore as I am very "hands on", but the OP is talking about the custodian of his friend's IRA. I'm sure Vanguard is just fine, but I think a Fidelity IRA can buy Vanguard funds (my Fidelity 401K can), and I think a Vanguard IRA could purchase Fidelity funds if one desired. BTW, I do have a couple of Fidelity bond funds...both were near the expense ratio of their Vanguard counterparts. I've owned Vanguard funds in the past, but have no clue about their online "interface" and how it's user presentation looks. I really do like Fidelity's Brokerage account in that regard. Wouldn't go wrong with either imo...just a personal preference thing.

ps: My annual expense ratio is extremely small...it's as if it doesn't exist, which is absolutely a good thing and something to be VERY cognizant about.