Q: This question comes from Brittany: I want to begin investing in stocks, but I'm unsure how to start. Is a broker necessary for buying stocks?
A: Kudos on your investment ambitions! You're among many who share this goal. Data shows that in 2024, 70% of women held stocks, marking an 18% rise from the previous year.
As for your question, the answer is no. You don't need a broker to buy stocks. In the past, investors relied on brokers to execute trades for them, often paying hefty commissions. Nowadays, most transactions can be handled independently.
Instead, you can use online brokerage platforms like Vanguard or Fidelity. There are also robo-advisors available that simplify investing for newcomers and manage rebalancing automatically. Take your time to research and find a platform with a solid reputation and low fees. Check out our curated list of top-rated services to kickstart your investment journey.
