Buying and selling stocks is easier than ever in 2026 — thanks to commission-free trading, user-friendly apps, and fractional shares (buy part of a share for as little as $1). Whether you're starting with $100 or building a retirement portfolio, here's a practical, updated guide for beginners. Step 1: Choose the Right Broker for You You can't buy stocks directly from exchanges like NYSE or Nasdaq — you need a broker (online platform) to place trades. Main options: Online/Dis
