Investing is one of the best ways to grow your wealth, but it can seem overwhelming for people who aren’t familiar with the process. Fortunately, several fintech startups are breaking down those barriers by offering micro-investment solutions that make it easy and accessible, even for beginners with little money to spare.
Today, you can start investing with just your smartphone, and many of these apps are perfect for new investors or anyone interested in casually exploring stock trading.
How Much Do You Need to Start?
Surprisingly, not much. Thanks to innovations in fintech, you can begin building an investment portfolio with as little as $10 or ₦1,000.
Here are some of the top fintech apps that let Nigerians invest in U.S. stocks:
Bamboo offers access to over 3,000 stocks listed on both the Nigerian and U.S. stock exchanges. You can start trading with just $20 and even gift stocks to others through the app.
1. Bamboo
Pros:
- Investments are protected by SIPC and FINRA (up to $500,000).
- Easy and secure access to U.S. stock markets.
- Clean user interface and great customer support.
Cons:
- No stock price alerts.
- Only available on mobile (no web version).
- Withdrawals can be slow.
- Only supports a dollar wallet.
- App may experience downtime during U.S. market open.
Availability: Android and iOS | 100,000+ downloads
2. Trove
Trove lets users invest in U.S., Chinese, and Nigerian stocks, as well as bonds and ETFs, starting from just ₦1,000 or $10. You can fund your account via card or bank transfer and cash out directly from the app.
Pros:
- Flat fee of $2 or 1% commission (above $200).
- Offers both Naira and Dollar wallets.
- Invest in both local and international assets.
- Also supports cryptocurrency trading.
- User-friendly interface and responsive customer support.
- Fastest withdrawal processing time.
Cons:
- App performance may slow during market openings.
- Account verification can take time.
Availability: Android and iOS | 10,000+ downloads
3. Rise (Risevest)
Rise is a mobile-based global asset management platform that allows Nigerians to invest in U.S.-based, dollar-denominated assets from as little as $10. The app offers pre-curated portfolios in stocks, real estate, and fixed income.
Pros:
- Offers expert-backed portfolios for simplified investing.
- Sleek interface and beginner-friendly.
- Strong user community via Telegram.
Cons:
- Withdrawals can be slow.
- Limited customization options for your investment portfolio.
Availability: Android and iOS | 100,000+ downloads
4. Chaka
Chaka allows users to invest in Nigerian and global stocks, including companies in over 40 countries. You can start investing from just ₦1,000 or $10.
Pros:
- Wide access to local and global markets.
- Low minimum deposit requirements.
- Faster withdrawal times.
- Standard 1% commission on trades above $200; $2 for smaller trades.
Cons:
- App may crash occasionally.
- Customer support response can be slow or automated.
Availability: Android only | 100,000+ download.
Each of these fintech apps has its strengths and limitations, but Bamboo and Rise appear to be the most popular based on user feedback.
Whether you’re a cautious investor or a seasoned risk-taker, these platforms provide a range of investment opportunities tailored to different risk appetites. Your ideal choice will depend on your investment goals and how hands-on you want to be.
