Learn how to buy stocks and Vanguard ETFs® online at www.vanguard.com.

This example is for illustrative purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell a particular security.

Brokerage assets are held by Vanguard Brokerage Services, a division of Vanguard Marketing Corporation, member FINRA and SIPC.

All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.

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How to Buy Stocks and Vanguard ETFs

Investing in stocks and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) can be an excellent way to grow your wealth and achieve long-term financial goals. With numerous options available, it’s important to understand the process of buying stocks and ETFs. This article will guide you through the steps involved in purchasing stocks and Vanguard ETFs.

1. Educate Yourself
Before venturing into the stock market, it’s crucial to gain knowledge about investing. Familiarize yourself with basic investment terms, stock market dynamics, and different investment strategies. Numerous resources are available online, including books, courses, and articles, offering insights into the world of investing.

2. Determine Your Investment Goals
Clearly defining your investment objectives will help you make informed decisions. Ask yourself questions like: Are you looking for short-term gains or long-term investment? What is your risk tolerance? What sectors or industries interest you? By determining your goals, you will be able to focus on the appropriate stocks or ETFs.

3. Consider a Brokerage Account
To buy stocks and ETFs, you’ll need a brokerage account. Research and compare different brokerage platforms based on their fees, user experience, available investment options, and customer service. Vanguard is a renowned brokerage with its own line of ETFs and offers a user-friendly platform for investors.

4. Open an Account
Once you have selected a brokerage, visit the company’s website and open an account. Provide the required personal details, identification, and funding information as requested by the brokerage. The account approval process may vary, but it usually takes a few days to get your account up and running.

5. Fund Your Account
After your account is approved, deposit funds into your brokerage account. You can transfer money from your bank account to your brokerage account electronically. Different brokerages have different minimum deposit requirements, so make sure to check the specifics.

6. Research and Select Stocks or ETFs
Now comes the exciting part: selecting stocks or ETFs to invest in. Conduct thorough research on the companies you are interested in, considering their financials, performance history, growth potential, and market trends. For ETFs, focus on expense ratios, diversification, and the underlying index or asset class.

7. Place an Order
Once you have made your investment choices, navigate to the trading section of your brokerage account. Select the option to buy stocks or ETFs and provide the ticker symbol or company name along with the quantity you wish to purchase. Choose your order type (market order, limit order, etc.) and review the transaction details before finalizing the purchase.

8. Monitor and Manage Your Investments
After your purchase, regularly monitor the performance of your stocks and ETFs. Stay updated with market news and economic trends that may impact your investments. Regularly review your portfolio and consider rebalancing it over time to maintain your desired asset allocation.

Keep in mind that investing in stocks and ETFs involves risks, and the value of your investments may fluctuate. It’s advisable to consult a financial advisor or do extensive research before making any investment decisions.

The world of investing can be both rewarding and challenging. By following these steps to buy stocks and Vanguard ETFs, you’ll be well on your way towards building a well-diversified investment portfolio.