A browser interface for providing financial services is provided. The interface comprise a toolbar; a menu for presenting one of an application menu and a market data function menu; and at least one view window for presenting information from at least one of an application and a market data function. Also provided is a network based financial service system comprising a client computer having Internet access; a browser interface operable on the client computer, the browser interface having a toolbar, a menu for presenting one of an application menu and a market data function menu, and at least one view window for presenting information from at least one of a financial application and a market data function; and a server having access to a plurality of applications and a plurality of market data functions, the applications and functions being accessible from the browser interface of the Internet access. The interface and system provides timely, proactive financial advice. Users are afforded the opportunity to set and achieve investment goals based on real-time financial data and the ability to access financial applications.