Investment Platform Notes

Objective: To give you hands-on experience by helping you open either a real or demo investment account on one of the recommended platforms: Robinhood, Fidelity, or Interactive Brokers. This activity is meant to remove fear and uncertainty by letting you see and interact with a real investment interface—even before putting in real money.

✅ Step 1: Choose Your Platform

Select one of the following platforms based on your location and goals:

🇺🇸 Robinhood (Best for U.S. beginners)
🇺🇸 Fidelity (Trusted, full-service platform for U.S. residents)
🌍 Interactive Brokers (IBKR) (Great for global users and has demo accounts)

✅ Step 2: Decide: Demo or Real Account?

Type of Account	Description	Ideal For
Demo Account	Simulates trading with fake money. No real risk.	Beginners who want to practice.
Real Account	Fully functional, with real money and access to real markets.	Ready to start investing for real.

⚠️ Note: Robinhood and Fidelity do not offer demo accounts. If you want to simulate trading, use Interactive Brokers (offers paper trading).

✅ Step 3: Follow the Instructions

Use the step-by-step KYC guide provided in this module to create your account.

For Interactive Brokers, after account creation:

Log into the client portal.
Go to "Settings" > "Paper Trading Account".
Request access to the demo version.

✅ Step 4: Explore the Platform

Take 15–30 minutes to do the following:

Navigate the app or web platform.
Search for a few company stocks (like Apple, Tesla, or Coca-Cola).
Check how to view charts, add to watchlist, or simulate a purchase.

✅ Step 5: Take Notes

Write down answers to these reflection questions:

What platform did you choose and why?
Was the process easier or harder than expected?
What did you find interesting or confusing inside the app?
Do you feel more confident about using the app again?

📷 (Optional) Send a Screenshot

If you’re doing this as part of a class or mentorship program, take a screenshot of your account dashboard (hiding any private info) and send it to your instructor or accountability partner.

✅ You’ve Completed the Activity!

This hands-on activity bridges the gap between theory and practice. Now you’ve experienced what it’s like to open and explore a real investment platform, setting the stage for your future trades with knowledge and confidence.