: Using Robo-advisors (like SoFi Invest or Betterment) to automatically manage a diversified stock portfolio based on your risk profile. 2. Indirect Investing via Funds
Some methods bypass the open stock market and traditional brokers.
Instead of buying individual companies, you can buy "baskets" of stocks. different ways to buy stock
The primary way retail investors buy stock is through online brokerages and mobile apps .
: Automatically using cash dividends earned from stocks you already own to purchase additional shares or fractions of shares. 4. Options & Derivatives : Using Robo-advisors (like SoFi Invest or Betterment)
: Often found in 401(k) or IRA plans, these automatically shift from aggressive stocks to conservative bonds as you approach a specific retirement year. 3. Direct Purchase Methods
: Manually choosing individual stocks through platforms like Fidelity, Charles Schwab, or Robinhood. Instead of buying individual companies, you can buy
: Buying shares directly from the company itself through a transfer agent, though not all public companies offer this.