Who Should Consider Robinhood?
Robinhood is ideal for new investors looking for an easy-to-use platform with minimal barriers to entry. Its straightforward interface and low fees make it appealing to those who want to begin trading without a steep learning curve. However, Robinhood’s simplicity can encourage frequent trading, which comes with significant risks, especially for those unfamiliar with the potential downsides of active trading.
How Robinhood Works
Robinhood’s mission is to democratize access to financial markets by offering an affordable platform for those with little experience or capital. Its appeal lies in a game-like interface that simplifies trading. Since launching in 2013 with zero-commission trades, Robinhood has rapidly grown, boasting 23 million users by 2023.
Trading on Robinhood
Robinhood allows users to trade stocks, ETFs, options, cryptocurrency, and American Depository Receipts (ADRs). It also supports fractional share trading. However, the platform does not offer trading for foreign exchange-listed stocks, mutual funds, bonds, or the ability to short stocks.
Basic services are commission-free, while more advanced features like lower interest margin accounts and access to additional research materials are available through the premium Robinhood Gold subscription.
Robinhood Options Trading
Robinhood has simplified options trading, making it accessible to more users. After setting up an options account, users can trade by selecting a security, choosing “Trade Options,” and swiping to open or close orders.
Withdrawing Money
Funds from stock sales on Robinhood can be withdrawn after the standard settlement period—two trading days for stocks and one trading day for options.
Robinhood Fees
Robinhood revolutionized the brokerage industry with its commission-free stock and options trading. For those seeking additional features, Robinhood Gold is available for $6.99 per month or $75 annually, offering lower margin interest rates and research tools. Gold users also benefit from a 3% match on eligible IRA contributions and $1,000 in margin credit. Without Robinhood Gold, the margin interest rate is 12%, which drops to 8% with a subscription.