Are you a beginner in the world of investments, looking for ways to grow your financial portfolio? Look no further! In this article, we will be exploring the top five investment apps that are specifically designed to cater to beginners. These user-friendly apps not only provide valuable information and resources, but also allow you to easily invest and track your progress, all from the convenience of your smartphone. Whether you are a seasoned investor or just starting out, these apps are sure to empower you in making informed financial decisions. So let’s dive in and discover the top five investment apps for beginners!
1. Robinhood
Overview of Robinhood
Robinhood is a popular investment app that has gained traction among beginners and experienced investors alike. With its intuitive interface and zero-commission trades, Robinhood has disrupted the traditional brokerage industry. The app allows users to buy and sell stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options, and cryptocurrencies without any fees.
Features and benefits
One of the main features of Robinhood is its zero-commission trades, making it an attractive option for individuals who want to invest with smaller amounts of money. The app also offers a vast selection of investment options, including individual stocks, ETFs, and options. Additionally, Robinhood provides real-time market data and customizable watchlists to help users stay on top of their investments.
User experience and interface
Robinhood’s user interface is clean and user-friendly, making it easy for beginners to navigate the app. The app’s intuitive design allows users to quickly and easily execute trades and monitor their portfolio. The straightforward interface is especially beneficial for first-time investors who may be intimidated by complex financial terminology and processes.
Pricing and fees
As mentioned earlier, Robinhood offers zero-commission trades, meaning users can buy and sell stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies without any fees. While this is a significant advantage for beginners who are just starting to invest, it’s essential to note that there may still be regulatory and exchange fees associated with certain trades.
Pros and cons
One of the main advantages of Robinhood is its zero-commission trades, which make it a cost-effective option for beginners. The app also provides a user-friendly interface and extensive investment options. However, some drawbacks of Robinhood include limited research and educational resources compared to more traditional brokers. Additionally, Robinhood only offers taxable brokerage accounts, so investors looking for retirement accounts may need to consider other options.
2. Acorns
Overview of Acorns
Acorns is an investment app that aims to simplify investing for beginners. The app’s main feature is its “round-up” feature, which automatically invests your spare change from everyday purchases. Acorns also offers pre-built portfolios based on your risk tolerance and investment goals, making it an ideal option for individuals who want a hands-off approach to investing.
Features and benefits
The round-up feature is one of the main benefits of Acorns. It allows users to invest small amounts of money without even thinking about it. Acorns also offers pre-built portfolios, which are diversified across different asset classes and risk levels. This can be especially beneficial for beginners who may not have the knowledge or time to create their own investment strategy.
User experience and interface
Acorns’ user interface is simple and straightforward, making it easy for beginners to use. The app provides a clear overview of your portfolio and investment performance. The round-up feature is seamlessly integrated, and users can easily set their risk tolerance and investment goals.
Pricing and fees
Acorns offers three different subscription plans: Lite, Personal, and Family. The Lite plan is the most basic and costs $1 per month. The Personal plan costs $3 per month and includes access to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) and a checking account. The Family plan, priced at $5 per month, offers additional features such as investment accounts for children.
Pros and cons
One of the significant advantages of Acorns is its ease of use, making it an excellent option for beginners who want a hassle-free investment experience. The round-up feature also encourages consistent investing, even with small amounts of money. However, some drawbacks of Acorns include higher fees compared to other investment apps and limited control over your investment choices.
3. Stash
Overview of Stash
Stash is an investment app that aims to educate and empower individuals to start investing. The app offers a wide range of investment options, including fractional shares of individual stocks, ETFs, and themed portfolios. Stash also provides educational content to help users make informed investment decisions.
Features and benefits
Stash offers a unique feature called “Stock-Back®,” which allows users to earn fractional shares of stock when they make purchases with their linked debit card at participating merchants. This feature is a creative way to incentivize and reward users for their everyday spending. Stash also provides personalized investment recommendations based on your risk tolerance, goals, and values.
User experience and interface
Stash’s user interface is visually appealing and easy to navigate. The app provides clear information about your portfolio, investment performance, and educational content. Stash focuses on simplifying the investment process for beginners, providing a seamless user experience.
Pricing and fees
Stash offers three subscription plans: Beginner, Growth, and Stash+. The Beginner plan costs $1 per month and includes a personal investment account, access to Stash’s educational content, and fractional shares. The Growth plan, priced at $3 per month, offers additional features such as a retirement account and a monthly market insights report. The Stash+ plan costs $9 per month and provides additional benefits like a metal debit card and custodial accounts for minors.
Pros and cons
One of the main advantages of Stash is its focus on financial education, making it an excellent option for beginners who want to learn more about investing. The Stock-Back® feature is also a unique benefit that encourages users to invest and engage with the app. However, the fees associated with Stash’s subscription plans can be higher compared to other investment apps. Additionally, some users may find the investment options to be limited compared to larger platforms.
4. Betterment
Overview of Betterment
Betterment is an investment app that offers a robo-advisor service. The app uses advanced algorithms to create and manage portfolios tailored to individual investors. Betterment aims to simplify the investment process and provide personalized advice based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Features and benefits
One of the main features of Betterment is its robo-advisor service, which allows users to create and manage a diversified investment portfolio automatically. Betterment also offers tax-efficient strategies, such as tax-loss harvesting, to maximize after-tax returns. The app provides personalized investment advice and goal-based planning tools to help users stay on track.
User experience and interface
Betterment’s user interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy for beginners to navigate. The app provides a clear overview of your portfolio, investment goals, and progress. Betterment focuses on simplicity and automation, making it an attractive option for individuals who want a hands-off investment experience.
Pricing and fees
Betterment offers two main pricing plans: Digital and Premium. The Digital plan has an annual fee of 0.25% and provides access to Betterment’s robo-advisor service. The Premium plan, priced at 0.40% per year, offers additional features like unlimited access to certified financial planners. The fees charged by Betterment are competitive compared to traditional financial advisors but may be higher than some other investment apps.
Pros and cons
One of the significant advantages of Betterment is its personalized advice and goal-based planning tools, making it a valuable resource for beginners who need guidance in their investment journey. The app’s tax-efficient strategies can also help users optimize their returns. However, the fees charged by Betterment may be higher compared to other investment apps, especially for the Premium plan. Additionally, some users may miss the ability to pick individual stocks, as Betterment primarily focuses on ETFs.
5. Wealthfront
Overview of Wealthfront
Wealthfront is an investment app that provides a robo-advisor service to automate and optimize your investment portfolio. The app uses advanced algorithms to create and rebalance portfolios based on your risk tolerance and financial goals. Wealthfront also offers additional features such as cash management and financial planning tools.
Features and benefits
Wealthfront’s main feature is its automated investment management service, which creates and manages a diversified portfolio on your behalf. The app also provides additional features like tax-loss harvesting and direct indexing to maximize after-tax returns. Wealthfront offers cash management options, including a high-yield cash account and a line of credit against your investment portfolio.
User experience and interface
Wealthfront’s user interface is sleek and user-friendly, making it easy for beginners to navigate. The app provides a clear overview of your portfolio, investment performance, and financial planning tools. Wealthfront focuses on simplicity and automation, allowing users to set their preferences and let the app handle the rest.
Pricing and fees
Wealthfront charges an annual advisory fee of 0.25% for its investment management service. The cash management features, including the high-yield cash account and line of credit, are also available to Wealthfront clients without any additional fee. The fees charged by Wealthfront are competitive compared to traditional financial advisors.
Pros and cons
One of the main advantages of Wealthfront is its automated investment management service, which simplifies the investment process for beginners. The additional features like tax-loss harvesting and cash management options provide added value to users. However, Wealthfront’s focus on automation may not be suitable for individuals who prefer more control and customization over their investments. Additionally, Wealthfront’s investment options may be limited compared to other platforms.
6. Comparison of app features
Ease of use
When it comes to ease of use, all the investment apps mentioned above strive to provide a user-friendly experience. Robinhood, Acorns, Stash, Betterment, and Wealthfront all offer intuitive interfaces that make it easy for beginners to navigate the apps and execute trades or manage their investments efficiently.
Investment options
In terms of investment options, Robinhood stands out with its wide variety of choices, including individual stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. Acorns, Stash, Betterment, and Wealthfront primarily focus on ETFs, with limited or no option to invest in individual stocks or cryptocurrencies. However, it’s important to note that the investment options offered by these apps are still sufficient for most beginners’ needs.
Account types
When it comes to account types, all five investment apps mentioned above offer personal investment accounts. However, Betterment and Wealthfront also provide access to retirement accounts (IRAs), making them suitable options for individuals who want to invest for their future.
Financial education resources
Stash and Betterment both offer educational content to help users make informed investment decisions. Stash’s focus on financial education is particularly strong, providing users with personalized recommendations and educational materials tailored to their goals and risk tolerance. Acorns, Robinhood, and Wealthfront also provide some educational resources, but they may be more limited compared to Stash and Betterment.
Customer support
When it comes to customer support, all five investment apps mentioned above offer varying levels of assistance. Robinhood and Acorns offer primarily email support, while Stash, Betterment, and Wealthfront provide email and phone support. Betterment and Wealthfront also offer access to certified financial planners as part of their premium subscription plans, providing personalized financial advice.
7. Considerations for beginners
Risk tolerance
Before selecting an investment app, it’s important to assess your risk tolerance. Some apps, like Acorns and Betterment, offer personalized recommendations based on your risk tolerance and investment goals, making it easier for beginners to make informed decisions. Understanding your risk tolerance will help you select an app that aligns with your comfort level.
Investment goals
Defining your investment goals is another crucial consideration for beginners. Are you investing for retirement, saving for a down payment on a house, or looking for short-term gains? Each app offers different features and investment options that may align better with specific goals. Taking the time to establish your investment objectives will guide you in choosing the right app for your needs.
Account minimums
Account minimums vary across investment apps. Some apps, like Robinhood and Acorns, have no minimum balance requirements, making them accessible for beginners with limited funds. On the other hand, Betterment and Wealthfront may require a minimum investment balance, especially for their premium services. Considering your initial investment capabilities will help you choose an app that fits your budget.
Automatic investing
Automatic investing is a feature offered by many investment apps that allows users to set up recurring deposits. This feature is particularly helpful for beginners as it encourages consistent investing and takes advantage of dollar-cost averaging. Apps like Acorns and Stash excel in this area, making it easy for users to set up automatic deposits and increase their investments over time.
Mobile vs. desktop experience
Considering whether you prefer a mobile or desktop experience is another factor to think about when choosing an investment app. All the apps mentioned above offer mobile apps that allow you to manage your investments on the go. Some, like Robinhood and Acorns, have a more mobile-focused approach, while others, like Betterment and Wealthfront, offer robust desktop platforms for users who prefer a larger screen or more advanced features.
8. Tips for using investment apps
Start with small investments
For beginners, it’s often recommended to start with smaller investments to get comfortable with the process. Investment apps like Acorns and Stash are great options for this as they allow users to invest small amounts of money through features like round-ups and fractional shares. Starting small also allows you to understand the app’s functionality and monitor how your investments perform over time.
Set up automatic deposits
To ensure consistent investing, it’s helpful to set up automatic deposits into your investment account. Apps like Acorns, Stash, and Betterment offer this feature, allowing you to schedule recurring transfers from your linked bank account. By automating your deposits, you are more likely to stick to your investment plan, even during busy or uncertain times.
Diversify your portfolio
Diversification is a key principle of smart investing. By spreading your investments across different asset classes, sectors, or geographic regions, you can reduce the risk associated with any single investment. Investment apps like Betterment and Wealthfront create diversified portfolios for you based on your risk tolerance and investment goals, making it easier for beginners to achieve diversification.
Regularly review and rebalance
As your investment portfolio grows and market conditions change, it’s important to regularly review and rebalance your investments. This involves selling or buying assets to bring your portfolio back in line with your target allocation. Apps like Betterment and Wealthfront automatically rebalance your portfolio, saving you the hassle of manual adjustments. However, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your investments and make any necessary changes.
Take advantage of educational resources
Many investment apps offer educational resources to help beginners learn about investing and make informed decisions. Take advantage of these resources to increase your financial literacy and gain a better understanding of investment concepts. Betterment and Stash are particularly strong in this area, providing personalized recommendations and educational content tailored to your goals.
9. Additional investment apps for beginners
Fidelity Go
Fidelity Go is an investment app that offers a robo-advisor service, similar to Betterment and Wealthfront. The app uses algorithms to create and manage a diversified investment portfolio based on your risk tolerance and goals. Fidelity Go also provides access to financial advisors for an additional fee, making it suitable for beginners who want personalized advice.
Wealthsimple
Wealthsimple is an investment app that offers a robo-advisor service, similar to Betterment and Wealthfront. The app creates and manages a diversified investment portfolio based on your risk tolerance and goals. Wealthsimple also offers additional features like a high-yield savings account and socially responsible investing options, making it suitable for socially conscious beginners.
TD Ameritrade
TD Ameritrade is a well-established brokerage firm that also offers a mobile app for beginners. The app provides access to a wide range of investment options, including stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds. TD Ameritrade’s educational resources are particularly robust, making it an excellent option for beginners who want to learn more about investing.
E*TRADE
ETRADE is another popular brokerage firm that offers a mobile app for beginners. The app provides access to various investment options, including stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds. ETRADE’s user-friendly interface and educational resources make it a suitable option for beginners who want to take a hands-on approach to investing.
M1 Finance
M1 Finance is an investment app that offers a unique combination of robo-advisor services and individual stock trading. The app allows users to create custom portfolios, called “pies,” and automatically invest based on predetermined allocations. M1 Finance also offers fractional shares, making it accessible for beginners with smaller amounts of money.
10. Conclusion
Summary of top 5 investment apps
To recap, the top 5 investment apps for beginners are Robinhood, Acorns, Stash, Betterment, and Wealthfront. Each app has its strengths and features that cater to different investor preferences.
Robinhood stands out with its zero-commission trades and broad selection of investment options, making it an attractive option for beginners who want to make individual stock trades or dabble in cryptocurrencies.
Acorns simplifies the investment process by offering a round-up feature that automatically invests your spare change. This feature, combined with pre-built portfolios, makes it ideal for individuals who prefer a hands-off approach to investing.
Stash focuses on financial education and providing personalized recommendations, making it a great option for beginners who prioritize learning and guidance. The Stock-Back® feature is an added incentive that rewards users for their everyday spending.
Betterment and Wealthfront are both robo-advisor services that provide automated investment management. Betterment excels in personalized advice and goal-based planning tools, while Wealthfront offers additional features like tax-loss harvesting and cash management options.
Factors to consider when choosing an app
When choosing an investment app, there are several factors to consider. These include your risk tolerance, investment goals, account minimums, preference for automatic investing, and whether you prefer a mobile or desktop experience. Assessing your needs and preferences will help you select the app that best aligns with your goals.
Next steps for beginners
If you’re a beginner looking to start investing, the first step is to educate yourself about the basics of investing. Take advantage of the educational resources offered by the investment apps mentioned above or consider online courses or books on investing for beginners.
Once you feel comfortable with the basics, select an investment app that aligns with your goals and preferences. Consider factors such as the app’s fees, investment options, and user experience.
Start with small investments and set up automatic deposits to ensure consistent investing. Diversify your portfolio and regularly review and rebalance your investments based on changing market conditions.
Lastly, take advantage of the educational resources provided by the investment app to continue learning and improving your investment knowledge. Remember, investing is a long-term journey, and continuous education and adaptation are key to success.