Buying stocks

[Maryellen]

Hello all! Been lurking for a few days now trying to learn about about investing. And I wanted to ask a few questions. I really no nothing about investing, is there a good book I could read, or websites to help newbies like me? Also anyone have experiences with etrade or sharebuilder? They seem like they would be good for someone like me with no experience and low funds to start. Would love to hear any feedback anyone has. Thanks!

~Maryellen

[nck4857]

Briefly: I would recommend starting out investing periodically with Sharebuilder into a broad ETF (such as VTI). You'll own a piece over virtually every stock in the Country and you will Dollar Cost Average. There is really an endless supply of books and advice out there, but I would highly recommend a broad index based etf to start. Good Luck, you'll get differing opinions and such, but just look at your own situation and do what you feel is the best for you.

[Broken Arrow]

Here's a set of links from a previous poster.

In particular, if you don't want to spend money yet, the Investing Essentials is a free e-book/blog.

If want to a more generic, formal education while earning points, there is always the Morningstar Classroom.

If you want a quick and dirty answer, it's best to just focus on stock and bond mutual funds for right now as you build an investment foundation for yourself. Please don't buy individual stocks (or bonds) just yet. This process can be something as simple as opening an IRA account and buying a Target Retirement type fund.

Good luck.

[Maryellen]

Thank you both! I look forward to learning a lot!!