Hi. I have set up accounts with Degiro and Interactive brokers. Im having last minute doubts as to whether I should use an Irish stockbroker and if the shares I purchase should be in a crest account or certificated format. I know if I buy them online I will not hold the actual certificates. I have also read on here that if the online operators were to go bust this could in theory pose a risk to my stocks if creditors come after the online companies. I know both degiro and IB have been around a good few years now and perhaps my worries are unfounded. What do others use for secure purchase. Im looking to buy US shares and perhaps some ishares ETFs and hold them for 10 years. I want to at least reduce the risk of losing the shares if an online broker company goes belly up.