Investing has never been more accessible, thanks to a wide range of investment apps designed for beginners. Whether you’re looking to invest in stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, or even alternative assets, these apps provide user-friendly interfaces, educational resources, and automated tools to help you build wealth. Here’s a guide to the best investment apps for beginners and how they can help you grow your money.
1. Robinhood – Best for Commission-Free Stock Trading
Robinhood is one of the most popular investment apps for beginners due to its zero-commission trading and easy-to-use interface. It allows users to invest in stocks, ETFs, options, and even cryptocurrencies with no account minimums.
Key Features:
- Commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs
- Fractional shares for small investors
- Crypto trading available
- Simple and intuitive mobile app
Best For: Beginners who want an easy way to trade stocks without worrying about fees.
2. Acorns – Best for Hands-Off Investing
Acorns is a micro-investing app that helps beginners grow their money effortlessly. It rounds up your everyday purchases and automatically invests the spare change into a diversified portfolio.
Key Features:
- Automatic round-up investing
- Pre-built portfolios based on risk tolerance
- Retirement and checking account options
- Educational content for new investors
Best For: Those who prefer a hands-off approach to investing with small amounts of money.
3. Stash – Best for Learning While Investing
Stash is designed for beginners who want to invest while learning about the stock market. The app offers fractional shares, personalized recommendations, and financial education to help users build their portfolios.
Key Features:
- Invest with as little as $5
- Fractional shares available
- Automatic investing and budgeting tools
- Themed investment portfolios (e.g., green energy, tech, etc.)
Best For: New investors who want to learn while growing their portfolio gradually.
4. Betterment – Best for Robo-Advisor Investing
Betterment is a top robo-advisor that automatically manages your investments based on your financial goals. The app creates a personalized portfolio of ETFs and adjusts it over time to optimize returns.
Key Features:
- Automated portfolio management
- Low management fees (0.25% annually)
- Goal-based investing (retirement, home buying, etc.)
- Tax-efficient strategies for maximizing returns
Best For: Beginners who prefer a hands-off approach to investing with professional management.
5. Webull – Best for Advanced Beginners
Webull is a commission-free trading app that offers more advanced tools for beginners looking to expand their investment knowledge. While it may be more complex than Robinhood, it provides detailed market data and research.
Key Features:
- Commission-free stock, ETF, and options trading
- Extended trading hours
- Advanced charting tools for analysis
- No minimum deposit required
Best For: Beginners who want to take their investing to the next level with more in-depth tools.
6. M1 Finance – Best for Customizable Portfolios
M1 Finance blends robo-advisory services with self-directed investing. Users can build custom portfolios (called “pies”) with stocks and ETFs, or choose from expert-curated portfolios.
Key Features:
- Commission-free investing
- Automated rebalancing
- No management fees
- Customizable portfolios for different investing goals
Best For: Investors who want more control over their portfolios with automated features.
7. Public – Best for Social Investing
Public combines investing with social networking, allowing users to follow and learn from other investors. It offers commission-free stock and ETF trading with fractional shares.
Key Features:
- Social investing community
- Fractional shares
- No commissions on stocks and ETFs
- Beginner-friendly educational tools
Best For: Those who enjoy a community-driven approach to investing.
Investing Beyond Stocks: Alternative Assets
While investment apps focus on stocks and ETFs, many beginners also explore alternative investments like precious metals. If you’re interested in diversifying your portfolio, gold bars Melbourne can be a valuable addition, serving as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.
Choosing the right investment app depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and investing style. Whether you prefer a hands-off robo-advisor like Betterment, a commission-free stock trading app like Robinhood, or a learning-focused platform like Stash, there are plenty of great options to help beginners grow their money. With the right tools and knowledge, you can start investing with confidence and build a strong financial future.
