Investment Apps: How to Get Started in the Stock Market

Discover how to use apps to simplify your entry into the financial market

The financial market has become more accessible, thanks to technological advances and the popularization of investment applications.

Today, anyone with a smartphone can start investing in the stock market, learning in the process and expanding their financial freedom.

If you're a beginner and want to know how these apps work, which ones are best to start with, and how to avoid common mistakes, this article has everything you need.

Let's explore the available tools, basic strategies, and how to use technology to your advantage.

Best Investment Apps for Beginners in Brazil and the World

With the popularization of investments and the increase in interest in the stock market, a series of applications were created to meet the needs of beginners.

These apps stand out for their intuitive interfaces, educational resources and low cost, making the investment process more accessible and practical.

Below, we highlight the best apps in Brazil and around the world, their main features and how they help beginners.

Brazil

1. NuInvest (formerly Easynvest): The platform is one of the best known in Brazil, with a focus on simplicity and accessibility for new investors.

Key Features:

• Zero brokerage fees on stocks and ETFs.
• It offers a wide range of products, including Treasury Direct, real estate funds and fixed income.
• Tools to track and manage investments in real time.
• Ideal for those who: Want an easy-to-use platform integrated into the Nubank ecosystem, with support for small investors.

2. Toro Investments: User-friendly interface and unique features for beginners.

Key Features:

• Zero brokerage fees on some products, such as shares and real estate funds.
• Integrated educational content for those who want to learn while investing.
• Personalized investment recommendation based on the user profile.

• Ideal for those who: Are you looking for personalized guidance and want to learn how to invest in a practical way?

3. XP Investments: One of the largest brokerage firms in Brazil, known for its robustness and wide variety of products.

Key Features:

• Access to shares, investment funds, Treasury Direct, fixed income and real estate funds.
• Advanced analysis tools for investors who want to go beyond the basics.
• Courses and educational materials to improve financial knowledge.

• Ideal for those who: Are you willing to invest in a reliable, comprehensive platform with support for continued growth?

4. Rico Investments: It offers a practical and focused experience for new investors.

• Key Features:
  • Easy access to Tesouro Direto, fixed income and shares.
  • Educational materials, such as videos and webinars, aimed at beginners.
  • Personalized alerts about market opportunities.
• Ideal for those who: Want to start small and value an educational approach.

5. Clear Broker: Total focus on stocks and zero brokerage fees.

• Key Features:
  • Access to a simplified yet efficient trading platform.
  • Great for day traders and investors focused on variable income.
  • Integration with graphical analysis tools.
• Ideal for those who: Want to explore stocks without extra costs and are looking for advanced trading features.

International

1. Robinhood (USA): Popular for democratizing access to investments with zero brokerage fees.

• Key Features:
  • Invest in stocks, ETFs and even cryptocurrencies without commissions.
  • User-friendly and practical interface, ideal for beginners.
  • Alerts and charts to monitor the market in real time.
• Ideal for those who: You are in the United States and want to get started with simplicity and zero cost.

2. eToro: It integrates the concept of social investing, allowing users to copy strategies from experienced investors.

• Key Features:
  • Access to a wide range of assets including stocks, ETFs, forex and cryptocurrencies.
  • Demo account to practice without financial risk.
  • Copy trading tool, where you can replicate portfolios of other investors.
• Ideal for those who: Want to learn by observing and copying strategies from professionals.

3. Trade Republic (Europe): One of the top options for European investors, with low fees and simplicity.

• Key Features:
  • Zero commissions on stocks and ETFs, with small fixed fees for some transactions.
  • Real-time market monitoring.
  • Integration with bank accounts for greater convenience.
• Ideal for those who: Live in Europe and are looking for an accessible and intuitive platform.

4. Webull (USA): Advanced features for beginner and intermediate investors.

• Key Features:
  • Detailed graphical analysis tools.
  • Access to stocks, ETFs and cryptocurrencies with no brokerage fees.
  • Demo account to simulate investments before using real money.
• Ideal for those who: Want to explore the market with more analytical tools, even if you are a beginner?

5. Interactive Brokers (Global): One of the most respected platforms on the market, with access to global markets.

• Key Features:
  • Investments in stocks, options, ETFs and forex from various exchanges around the world.
  • Competitive rates, especially for long-term investors.
  • Robust tools for market analysis and portfolio management.
• Ideal for those who: Want to invest globally and have access to a complete and professional platform.

What Are Investment Apps and How Do They Work?

Investment applications, or investment apps, are digital tools that allow users to access and manage the financial market directly from their smartphones or tablets.

They were developed to simplify the investment process, eliminating the need for physical intermediaries, such as bank branches or traditional brokerages, making the financial market more accessible to everyone.

These applications act as a bridge between the investor and the stock exchanges or financial markets, allowing the purchase and sale of assets, such as shares, real estate funds, ETFs and even cryptocurrencies.

Additionally, they offer additional features such as real-time market tracking, graphical analysis, and educational materials.

Main Features of Investment Apps

1. Simplified Access to the Financial Market:
   • With just a device connected to the internet, you can access different markets and carry out asset purchase or sale operations.
2. Diverse Features:
   • Real-Time Monitoring: View quotes, charts and market trends.
   • Execution of Orders: Buy or sell assets directly in the app, with just a few clicks.
   • Financial Education: Many apps include tutorials, webinars, and articles to teach users basic investing concepts.
3. Integration with Banks and Digital Wallets:
   • Most apps allow you to easily transfer money from bank accounts or digital wallets to your investment account.
4. Customization and Advanced Tools:
   • Many apps use artificial intelligence to offer recommendations based on the user's profile and financial goals.

Advantages of Using Apps to Invest in the Stock Market

Investment apps have revolutionized the financial market, making the stock market accessible to people with different profiles and levels of knowledge.

They offer a series of advantages that make the investment process simpler, more practical and efficient. See the main benefits of using these digital tools.

1. Accessibility for All

Previously restricted to professionals or large investors, the stock market is now within reach of anyone with a smartphone.

• Low Initial Cost: Many apps allow you to start investing with reduced amounts, such as R$ 10 or R$ 100, ideal for beginners.
• Intuitive Interface: Modern apps are designed to be simple to use, with clear tutorials and explanations.
• Elimination of Intermediaries: You no longer need a physical agent; all operations can be done directly in the app.

2. Practicality and Mobility

With apps, you can manage your investments from anywhere, anytime.

• Investment in the Palm of Your Hand: Buy and sell assets, monitor your portfolio or receive market notifications, all from your cell phone.
• Real Time Updates: Quotes, charts and alerts are available instantly, enabling quick, informed decisions.
• Time Saving: Eliminates the need to travel to brokerages or banks.

3. Cost Reduction

Investment apps have significantly reduced the costs associated with the stock market.

• Zero Brokerage: Many apps offer free brokerage fee-free buying and selling of stocks and ETFs.
• Cost Transparency: The apps clearly display all fees, such as custody or administration.
• Accessibility to Diversified Products: Fixed income, real estate funds and shares can be accessed at reduced prices.

4. Integrated Financial Education

For those just starting out, many apps offer educational content that makes learning easier.

• Tutorials and Webinars: Explanatory videos and courses teach the fundamentals of the financial market.
• Investment Simulators: Tools that allow you to test strategies without risking real money.
• Personalized Tips and Strategies: Investment suggestions based on the user's risk profile.

5. Personalization and Advanced Technology

Investment apps use cutting-edge technology to offer a personalized and efficient experience.

• Automated Recommendations: Algorithms analyze your behavior and suggest assets aligned with your goals.
• Detailed Graphs and Reports: Visual information helps monitor investment performance.
• Alerts and Notifications: Real-time alerts on market changes or asset expirations.

6. Diversification and Access to Different Markets

The apps allow you to invest in a wide variety of assets, offering more possibilities for diversification.

• Available Products: Stocks, ETFs, real estate funds, fixed income and even cryptocurrencies.
• Global Access: Some apps allow you to invest in international markets, such as American or European stocks.
• Ease of Diversification: Distributing capital across different sectors and asset types helps reduce risk.

7. Total Security and Control

With advanced authentication and robust systems, the applications offer security to manage your investments.

• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of protection for access and transactions.
• Total Control: You monitor your assets in real time and have the autonomy to make decisions without intermediaries.
• Transaction History: Clear reports allow you to track all operations performed in the app.

How to Choose the Ideal Investment App for Your Profile?

Choosing the right app to start investing is an essential step to achieving your financial goals safely and efficiently.

With so many options available on the market, it is important to consider factors such as fees, features and your own investor profile.

Here are the main points to analyze to make the best choice.

1. Understand Your Investor Profile

The first step is to know how you deal with risk and what your financial goals are.

• Conservative: Prefers security and stability, seeking options such as fixed income and Treasury Direct.
• Moderate: Accept some risk in exchange for a higher potential return by investing in stocks and real estate funds.
• Bold: Focused on high profitability, he is willing to take greater risks with assets such as volatile stocks and cryptocurrencies.

Choose an app that offers products that are aligned with your profile. For example, apps like NuInvest and Rico are great for conservative investors, while Toro and Clear are good for bold investors.

2. Evaluate Fees and Costs

Costs can directly impact the results of your investment, so it is essential to consider:

• Brokerage Fee: Many apps offer zero brokerage fees for stocks and ETFs, such as NuInvest and Clear.
• Custody Fee: Check if there are any costs to holding assets in the account.
• Other Fees: Some apps charge for additional services, such as premium reporting or consulting.

Choose apps with transparent and competitive costs, especially if you plan to start with smaller amounts.

3. Check Application Security

Protecting your data and money should be a priority when choosing an investment app.

• Regulation: Make sure the app is linked to institutions regulated by bodies such as CVM (Securities and Exchange Commission) or BACEN (Central Bank).
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): An extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access.
• Data Encryption: Ensures your financial information is protected from fraud.

Examples such as XP Investimentos and Toro offer a high level of security and are reliable in the market.

4. Evaluate the Available Features

Each app offers different features, which can be decisive in your choice:

• Real-Time Monitoring: For quick decisions, choose apps that update quotes and prices in real time.
• Market Analysis: Graphical tools and detailed reports help more experienced investors.
• Integrated Education: Beginners benefit from tutorials, courses and simulators offered by apps like Toro and eToro.
• Custom Alerts: Notifications about market changes, expirations or targets help you manage investments efficiently.

5. Consider Usability and Interface

A simple and intuitive interface makes navigation easy and the experience more enjoyable, especially for beginners.

• Test Before Investing: Download the app and explore its features before depositing money.
• Customization: Some applications allow you to customize reports or dashboards to meet your specific needs.

Apps like NuInvest and Robinhood are known for their user-friendly and accessible interfaces.

6. Diversity of Available Products

Opt for an app that offers a wide range of investment options:

• Fixed Income: Direct Treasury, CDBs and LCIs for conservative investors.
• Variable Income: Stocks, ETFs and real estate funds for those seeking greater profitability.
• International: Some apps, such as Interactive Brokers and eToro, allow you to invest in global markets.
• Cryptocurrencies: For adventurous investors, apps like Robinhood and Binance offer easy access.

7. User Support and Service

Having efficient support can be decisive, especially in times of doubt or technical problems.

• Chat or Phone: Check if the app offers real-time support.
• Knowledge Base: A hub with frequently asked questions and tutorials can make it easier to resolve queries.

Brokers such as XP Investimentos and Rico are known for offering quality service.

Key Features Offered by Investment Apps

The best investment apps have features that cater to both beginners and experienced investors. Some must-have features include:

• Real-Time Monitoring: View real-time asset quotes and prices, ensuring faster, more accurate decisions.
• Investment Simulators: Try out strategies and simulate gains and losses without risking real money.
• Financial Education: Many apps include courses, articles, and videos to help users learn about the financial market.
• Market Alerts: Receive notifications about price changes, opportunities or asset expiration.
• Portfolio Analysis: Monitor your investments and see how each asset is performing.

Step by Step Guide to Start Investing in the Stock Market Using an App

If you are just starting out, follow these simple steps:

1. Choose and Download an App: Install a trusted and regulated app, such as NuInvest, Toro or XP Investimentos.
2. Register: Enter your personal details and create an account. Some apps require you to submit documents for verification.
3. Deposit Funds: Transfer money to your account in the app. Most accept PIX or bank transfers.
4. Meet the App: Explore the features and read educational materials offered.
5. Buy Your First Asset: Choose a stock, ETF or real estate fund. Start with small amounts and learn little by little.

Safety Tips When Using Investment Apps

Investing via mobile phone is convenient, but it also requires extra attention to security. Since these apps deal directly with financial data and monetary transactions, protecting your information and money should be a priority.

Here are the main tips for using investment apps safely and avoiding problems such as fraud or unauthorized access.

1. Choose Trusted and Regulated Apps

Make sure the app you are using is from a recognized and regulated institution.

• Look for Accreditation: Check if the platform is registered with bodies such as CVM (Securities and Exchange Commission) or BACEN (Central Bank of Brazil).
• Rate Reputation: Read reviews from other users and research the reliability of the app before creating an account.
• Avoid Unknown Apps: Do not use apps from untrusted sources or that are not available in official stores such as Google Play and App Store.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security that protects your account even if your password is compromised.

• How it works: In addition to the password, you will need to confirm your identity using a code sent to your mobile phone or an authenticator app.
• Benefit: Reduces the risk of hacking, even if your password is discovered.

3. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Your password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access.

• Create Difficult Combinations: Include upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid Reusing Passwords: Never use the same password across multiple apps or websites, especially those related to finance.
• Change Regularly: Update your passwords periodically to increase security.

4. Keep the App Updated

Application updates include security improvements that protect against new vulnerabilities.

• Check Regularly: Make sure you are using the latest version of the app.
• Enable Automatic Updates: This ensures that the app is updated as soon as a new version is released.

5. Avoid Public Wi-Fi Networks

Public networks, such as those in cafes or airports, are more susceptible to cyberattacks.

• Prefer Private Networks: Whenever possible, use your mobile data connection or a secure Wi-Fi network.
• Use VPN: If you need to use a public network, use a reliable VPN to secure your connection.

6. Protect Your Device

The security of the device where the application is installed is essential.

• Use Passwords or Biometrics on Your Cell Phone: Lock your smartphone with passwords, facial recognition or fingerprint.
• Enable Remote Lock: If you lose your phone, tools like “Find My Device” (Android) or “Find My Device” (iOS) allow you to erase data remotely.
• Avoid Apps from Dubious Sources: Only install trusted applications and avoid clicking on suspicious links that may contain malware.

7. Monitor Your Account Regularly

Be alert to any suspicious activity on your account.

• Check Transactions: Please check your transaction history in the app frequently.
• Access Alert: Many apps notify you when there is a login from an unknown device.

8. Be Wary of Suspicious Offers or Links

Investment-related scams are increasingly common.

• Avoid Promises of Easy Returns: Legitimate apps do not guarantee exorbitant profits.
• Beware of Phishing: Never enter your credentials into websites or links sent via unsolicited email or messages.

9. Use the App's Own Security Features

Many investment apps offer additional protection tools:

• Activity Notifications: Set up alerts to be informed about suspicious logins or transactions.
• Operations Limits: Set limits on transfers or purchases, making unauthorized actions difficult.

Basic Investment Strategies for Beginners

Getting started investing can seem intimidating, but some basic strategies can help:

• Diversification: Don't put all your money in a single asset. Distribute it between stocks, funds and fixed income.
• Buy and Hold: Invest in solid companies and hold assets for the long term.
• Set Goals: Invest with a clear purpose, such as retirement or purchasing a property.

Costs and Fees: What to Look for in Investment Apps?

Before you start, check the costs involved:

• Brokerage Fee: Charge for each purchase or sale of an asset.
• Custody Fee: Amount paid to keep assets at the brokerage.
• Other Fees: Some apps may charge fees for additional services.

Choose apps with low costs, but without sacrificing quality.

Conclusion

With the rise of investment apps, getting started with investing has never been easier or more accessible. With the right tools and a thoughtful approach, you can explore the financial markets, learn continuously, and build your financial future.

If you are concerned about digital security while investing, check out our article “Digital Privacy: How to Protect Your Data in a Connected World” and protect your information in the online environment.