When you’re just getting started with investing, the first challenge is knowing where to begin. With thousands of stocks and funds available in the U.S. stock market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, technology has made the search process easier than ever.
As a new investor, you might have already heard the term ETF mentioned in articles, apps, or conversations. But what exactly is an ETF, and why do so many experts recommend it for beginners?
Once you’ve found a stock or ETF that interests you, the next step is to understand what you’re looking at. On most investing apps and websites, clicking on a stock or ETF brings up a detailed page with lots of numbers, charts, and information.
You’ve explored investing apps, learned what ETFs are, and now you know how to read prices and charts. The next step in your journey is placing your very first order—actually buying a stock or ETF.
Now that you’ve learned how to find stocks and ETFs, understand their data, and place different types of orders, you might feel eager—but also a bit nervous—about actually buying your first investment.