How to buy Apple shares

Apple is the world's most iconic tech company, revolutionising the way we live with products like iPhone, AirPods, Macbooks and more. In this article we explore how you can invest in the US tech giant.

How to buy shares in Apple

1. Pick a platform. There are a wide range suited to different audiences, we've picked out some of the best ones below.
2. Open an account. Get your details ready, and follow the sign up process
3. Confirm payment details. To fund your purchase, you'll need a debit or credit card.
4. Search the platform for stock code: AAPL in this case.
5. Buy your shares. Either buy the stock now, at its current price, or set an order which will execute when it reaches a specific price. It's that simple.

The whole process could take as little as 15 minutes. All you need is a smartphone or computer, internet, your passport or driving licence, and a means of payment.

Best platforms for buying Apple shares

1. eToro - eToro is a user-friendly social trading platform for all levels of investors, offering the ability to follow and copy successful traders. While it has fees, its simplicity appeals to those looking for an easy entry into trading.
2. Freetrade - FreeTrade is a similarly user-friendly investment platform, providing commission-free trading of stocks and ETFs. Ideal for beginners, it offers a straightforward approach to investing without traditional trading fees.
3. IG - IG is a versatile trading platform catering to various assets, including stocks, forex, and cryptocurrencies. Designed for beginners and experienced traders, IG offers a range of features with varying costs, depending on the type of trades and assets involved.

Alternative ways to invest in Apple

Instead of purchasing Apple stock individually, you can also invest in Apple through tech-stock ETFs, a US-based index fund, or even more broadly, through a global stock tracking index fund.

Popular ETFs which include Apple:

1. Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ): This ETF tracks the Nasdaq-100 Index, which includes many technology companies, including Apple.
2. Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK): This ETF focuses on technology stocks and may include Apple in its holdings.
3. Vanguard Information Technology ETF (VGT): This ETF aims to track the performance of the Information Technology sector, and Apple is often a significant component.
4. iShares U.S. Technology ETF (IYW): This ETF seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of U.S. equities in the technology sector, and Apple is likely among its holdings.
5. Fidelity MSCI Information Technology Index ETF (FTEC): This ETF seeks to track the performance of the MSCI USA IMI Information Technology Index, and Apple is usually part of it.

Popular US index funds which include Apple:

1. Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund (VTSAX): This fund aims to track the performance of the CRSP US Total Market Index, providing exposure to the entire U.S. stock market.
2. Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF (SCHB): This ETF seeks to track the performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Broad Stock Market Index, offering broad exposure to the U.S. equity market.
3. iShares Russell 3000 ETF (IWV): This ETF seeks to track the performance of the Russell 3000 Index, representing the total U.S. stock market.
4. SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY): This ETF aims to track the performance of the S&P 500 Index, which includes 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the U.S.
5. Fidelity Total Market Index Fund (FSKAX): This fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond to the total return of a broad range of U.S. stock markets.

Frequently asked questions

Does Apple stock pay dividends?
Yes, Apple Inc. (AAPL) pays dividends. The company reinstated its dividend in 2012 and has been regularly paying dividends to its shareholders since then.

Can I buy Apple stock in the UK?
Yes, you can buy Apple stock in the UK through all brokerage platforms.

How much does it cost to buy an Apple share?
The cost of buying one Apple share depends on the current market price, which can fluctuate. As of now, you can check the real-time stock price and buy Apple shares accordingly.

Can I buy $50 worth of Apple stock?
Yes, you can buy $50 worth of Apple stock, as long as the current share price allows you to purchase a fraction of a share through a brokerage platform that supports fractional investing.

What will Apple shares be worth in 10 years?
Predicting the future value of stocks is uncertain. The value of Apple shares in 10 years will depend on various factors, including the company's performance, market conditions, and global economic trends.

Is Apple stock a good buy for 2024?
The attractiveness of Apple stock as an investment in 2024 depends on market conditions, economic factors, and the company's performance. Consider consulting with a financial advisor and conducting thorough research before making investment decisions.

How much is $10,000 invested in Apple 20 years ago?
The value of $10,000 invested in Apple 20 years ago would depend on the stock's historical performance and any dividends received. You can calculate the returns by comparing the initial investment to the current or historical stock price.

What is Apple's 5-year return?
To determine Apple's 5-year return, compare the current stock price to its price five years ago, considering any dividends received. Financial platforms or investment tools can provide this historical performance data.

How much would I have if I invested in Apple 20 years ago?
The current value of an investment made in Apple 20 years ago would depend on the stock's historical performance. You can calculate this by comparing the initial investment amount to the current or historical stock price. At the time of writing, if you invested £1,000 in Apple stock 20 years ago, it would today be worth almost £530,000.