Acorns is a US-based investment platform launched in 2012. This SEC-registered firm aims to make investing more accessible for anyone looking to start small, catering to a range of savings goals. With over 9 million clients, the firm has earned a strong reputation and is backed by a number of well-known investors and economists.
Fidelity is a popular financial services firm that provides investment accounts and pensions with access to thousands of stocks, ETFs and mutual funds to clients based in the US, Europe and Asia. Fees vary by asset and account country, but are generally competitive, with zero-commission trading available on US stocks.
Bonus Offer
$5
None
Comment by Reviewer
"Acorns will meet the needs of US traders looking for flexible investment portfolios with simple flat fees and low entry requirements."
"Fidelity is a great match for long-term investors who want an affordable platform to build their pension or investment portfolios. The SEC and FCA oversight are also good signs that the brokerage is regulated and trustworthy."
Pros
Acorns Visa debit card included with all subscriptions plus a banking and investing app
Earn bonus investments from popular brands when you shop their offers using your Acorns card
Strong regulation from the SEC and membership with FINRA/SIPC, plus FDIC insurance up to $250,000
Flat $3 monthly fee, plus no hidden charges, minimum balance fees or overdraft penalties
Five risk levels from Conservative to Aggressive and a range of savings accounts
Bitcoin-linked ETF offering exposure without owning BTC
Welcome bonuses and financial incentives
Excellent list of stocks and funds to choose from
Very competitive pricing compared to largest rivals
Good list of account types to suit various types of investor
Uninvested cash is automatically put into a money market fund
Trusted global brand with strong regulation from SEC & FCA
Tax-efficient vehicles are available including ISAs
Cons
Cannot manually change or choose investments
Narrow choice of trading instruments with no forex
Monthly fee might be high for those with smaller balances
US clients accepted only
No forex or CFD trading
There is no demo account
Less suitable for short-term day trading
Presentation of data is overly complicated
No trading platform for non-US clients
The $1000 minimum deposit for international clients is high
Awards
Boring Money Best Buy 2021 – Pension
Boring Money Best for Beginners Pension 2021
Boring Money Best for Beginners ISA 2021
Boring Money Best for Low - Cost Pension 2021
Online Personal Wealth Awards - Best Retirement Adviser 2021
Shares Awards 2020 - Best Execution-Only Stockbroker of the Year
Instruments
Stocks, ETFs, Bonds
ETFs, Mutual Funds, ISAs, Pensions, Stocks, Indices