By Tim Mahoney — Researched and published by 46 Wall Street

Investing was once seen as a pursuit reserved for professionals and the wealthy. Today, however, fintech platforms like Robinhood, Acorns, and Stash are bringing the world of investing to the masses. With commission-free trades, user-friendly interfaces, and even spare-change round-up features, these apps have lowered the barriers to entry for millions of everyday people.

Robinhood made headlines by offering commission-free stock trading, forcing traditional brokerages like Charles Schwab and Fidelity to follow suit. Meanwhile, Acorns introduced a simple idea—rounding up spare change from purchases and investing it automatically—that resonates with younger users new to wealth building. Stash combines micro-investing with education, helping people invest as little as $5 at a time.

The result is a surge of first-time investors, many of whom are younger and more diverse than the investor base of previous generations. While critics caution that gamification of trading can encourage risky behavior, these apps have undeniably shifted the culture of investing.

At 46 Wall Street, our research highlights the importance of accessibility in financial markets. By democratizing investing, fintech platforms are empowering individuals to take control of their financial futures—something that was once far less attainable for the average person.