How to Start Investing

Stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, S&P-500, DCA, IRA, Roth, HSA

Where to buy stocks?

To start investing in the stock market, you must open an account with a stockbroker. Some well-known US stockbrokers include Schwab, Fidelity, Vanguard, E*Trade, Ally Invest, and Interactive Brokers.

Young investors might prefer newer trading platforms like WeBull, Robinhood, and Cash App Investing.

For passive investing, platforms like M1-Finance and Stash are great options.

If you’re looking for a completely hands-off approach, consider using robo-advisors like Betterment, Wealthfront, or Acorns.

What accounts to open?

• Regular taxable account: Can be individual or joint; taxes apply to dividends and realized capital gains.
• Roth IRA: Offers tax-deferred growth and tax-free withdrawals for qualified distributions.
• Traditional IRA: Provides upfront tax deductions, but withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-deferred, and spending on qualified medical expenses is tax-free.