Investing can seem daunting, especially if you’re just starting out or have limited knowledge about money management. However, with the rise of user-friendly investing apps, entering the stock market has never been easier. This list covers 20 different investment apps that cater to beginners and those looking to expand their investment habits—with handy features and great support! Whether you’re interested in stocks, cryptocurrencies, or even real estate, there’s an app perfect for you.
Acorns
Acorns is a fantastic app for beginners looking to start investing. It allows you to automate your investments by rounding up your purchases to the nearest dollar and investing the spare change. For example, if you buy a coffee for $3.50, Acorns will round it up to $4.00 and invest the extra $0.50 for you! This app is perfect for those who might find it challenging to come up with a lump sum to invest but are comfortable making small contributions consistently.
Robinhood
Robinhood is known for making stock trading accessible for everyone. With no commission fees and simple user-friendly design, it allows you to buy and sell stocks easily. You can start with small amounts of money, which is great for those who are just getting their feet wet in the investment world. The app also offers options trading and cryptocurrencies, expanding your investment opportunities.
Stash
Stash is perfect for beginner investors who want to learn while they earn. It breaks down the investing process into manageable pieces and allows you to learn about different stocks and bonds before investing. You can start with as little as $5, and it includes personal finance tips along the way, making it a complete educational tool for young investors.
Betterment
Betterment is great for those who prefer a hands-off approach to investing. It uses robo-advisors to automatically manage your portfolio based on your financial goals and risk tolerance. You can start with $0 and grow your investments over time while Betterment automatically rebalances your portfolio for you. This app is ideal for busy individuals who don’t have time to monitor their investments constantly.
Coinbase
If you’re interested in cryptocurrency, Coinbase is one of the best platforms to start with. It’s user-friendly and allows you to buy, sell, and store various cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many more. The app provides educational options to learn about crypto investments too, so it’s perfect for beginners looking to dive into the world of digital currency.
Wealthfront
Wealthfront is another excellent robo-advisor app that helps you invest on autopilot. It creates a personalized portfolio that fits your financial needs, and like Betterment, it rebalances your investments automatically. Wealthfront focuses on long-term growth, making it perfect for users who want to plan for the future without actively managing their investments.
M1 Finance
M1 Finance allows you to create your investment portfolio with a mix of stocks and ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) tailored specifically to your goals. You can customize your holdings, and the app automatically invests your money based on your preferences. It’s a unique way to have control over your investments while still benefiting from automation.
Cash App
While known primarily for peer-to-peer payments, Cash App also has a feature that allows you to buy and sell stocks. This can be a great option if you already use the app for your daily transactions. It’s an easy way to dabble in stocks without having to download multiple apps, making it very convenient for new investors.
TD Ameritrade
TD Ameritrade is a well-established name in the investing world. Their mobile app provides access to a wide array of investment options and educational resources tailored for both beginners and advanced investors. You can trade stocks, options, ETFs, and mutual funds seamlessly and easily on the go. They also offer paper money accounts for practice without risk.
Ally Invest
With Ally Invest, users get both a brokerage account and banking features all in one app. It’s perfect for people looking to manage their money effectively in one place. They offer commission-free trades on various investments, including stocks and ETFs, and have a user-friendly platform suitable for beginners. Additionally, you can access research tools to help make informed decisions.
E*TRADE
E*TRADE is another well-known investment app that provides a range of investment options from stocks to cryptocurrencies. Their app is user-friendly and supports both casual and active traders. With a robust suite of tools and educational resources, E*TRADE is a fantastic choice for those who want to learn while they invest, making it suitable for beginners and experienced investors alike.
Webull
Webull is a commission-free trading app that’s great for both beginners and seasoned investors. It provides advanced charting tools, real-time market data, and a strong community feature where you can discuss strategies with others. With no minimum required to open an account, it’s a great way to start investing without feeling pressured to commit a large sum.
Tastyworks
Tastyworks is a unique app for those interested in options trading. It’s designed specifically for investors focused on options, providing in-depth tools and educational materials to help you understand the mechanics of options trading. With a fun and engaging interface, Tastyworks is perfect for users who want to learn and grow in the options market.
Personal Capital
Personal Capital is an investment management app that also incorporates budgeting and financial planning features. It provides tools for tracking your investments, monitoring your spending, and planning for retirement. Users can visualize their overall financial health in one place, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a holistic view of their finances.
SoFi Invest
SoFi Invest allows users to invest in stocks, ETFs, and even cryptocurrencies. With a user-friendly app, you can start investing with as little as $1. SoFi offers unique features, such as the ability to set up automatic recurring investments, and it includes financial advice and career coaching, making it a great app for personal growth too.
Fundrise
Fundrise offers a unique approach to investing through real estate. This app allows you to invest in real estate projects without needing large sums of money. You can get started with just $500 and potentially earn monthly dividends as properties generate income. It’s an exciting way to enter the real estate market with a smaller investment.
Rally Rd
Rally Rd lets you invest in collectible assets like rare cars, watches, and artwork. This app democratizes alternative investing, allowing you to own a fraction of high-value items and diversify your portfolio. If you’re interested in diversifying away from traditional stocks, Rally Rd offers a fun and unique investing experience.
Investopedia Simulator
If you want to learn how to invest without the risk, the Investopedia Simulator is perfect for practice. It provides a simulated environment where you can trade stocks, ETFs, and more with virtual money. This is an excellent way for beginners to learn about trading strategies and market movements without any financial commitment.
ZyWave
ZyWave is an emerging app that focuses on sustainable and ethical investments. If you’re keen on investing in companies that positively impact the environment or society, ZyWave helps you find those options and tracks their performance. With easy-to-understand statistics and educational content, it’s a great app for socially-conscious investors.
Blavity Stocks
Designed with a focus on the Black community, Blavity Stocks aims to increase investment education and access for new investors. The app provides resources, articles, and a supportive community for users to learn and feel confident about their investment choices. It’s a great platform for those looking for a targeted approach to investing education.
Conclusion
Embarking on your investment journey is an exciting opportunity to grow your wealth and learn more about finance. With so many apps available, each with unique features and benefits, you can find the perfect fit for your investment style. No matter where you start, the essential part is to begin! Happy investing!
FAQ
What is the best investment app for beginners?
Apps like Acorns and Stash are excellent choices for beginners due to their user-friendly interfaces and educational features.
Do these apps charge fees?
While many apps offer commission-free trading, some may charge other fees or subscriptions, so it’s essential to read the fine print.
Can I start investing with little money?
Yes! Several apps allow you to start investing with as little as $1, making it accessible for everyone.
Is it safe to invest through mobile apps?
Reputable investment apps typically employ robust security measures, but always research the app and understand risks before investing.
What types of investments can I make using these apps?
Most apps offer various investment opportunities such as stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, and even real estate, depending on the platform.