I’m thinking of joining the ranks of corporate clones that follow/invest in the stock market. Actually, I’d just like to buy a few stocks now and then.
Of course, I have no fraking clue how to about doing it. I’ve checked out a few online sites but it’s all greek to me. If any kind knowledgable soul out there has any tips, I’d be much appreciative. Basically, I don’t want a monthly bill or to stock some online power brokerage account w/money. I just wanna buy a few stocks online and keep up w/them online.
Any suggestions?
I’ve had a 401K for 12 years and I don’t think I’ve made a penny from it 🙁
Moby,
Before you start investing, I would recommend reading this book:
The Random Walk Guide to Investing: Ten Rules for Financial Success by Burton Malkiel.
It’s a very easy (and quick) read and will teach you a lot about investing. I would caution you to stay away from “day trading” but if you just want to hold some stocks for a longer term in companies that you are knowledgeable about, I’d recommend AmeriTrade (now owned by TD PriceWaterhouse) or ShareBuilder. Those are two of the “cheaper” individual investor-oriented trading houses. I’d start there.
Good luck!
Most of it depends on how much you want to invest and how much risk you are willing to bear. I live off my investments so I don’t do risk.