You Want a Piece of the Google Pie? How to Buy Google Stock (Without Selling Your Soul)
Let's face it, Google practically runs our lives these days. From Gmail romances to YouTube cat videos (research purposes, obviously), they've got their digital fingers in everything. So, it's only natural that you might want a slice of that Google pie, also known as company stock (and no, they won't start delivering cookies to your house).
But hold on there, cowboy (or cowgirl, times are a-changin')! Buying Google stock isn't quite like picking up a bag of Skittles at the checkout. Fear not, this trusty guide will walk you through the process like you're taking a stroll through Google Maps (on your Google phone, no doubt).
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
 |
| How To Buy A Google Stock |
Step 1: Find Yourself a Stock Broker
Think of a stockbroker as your financial wingman (or wingwoman). They'll help you navigate the stock market, open an account, and answer all your burning questions (except maybe why that weird video of a banana playing the bongos keeps popping up in your YouTube recommendations). There are a bunch of online brokers out there, so do some research and pick one that tickles your fancy (and doesn't charge a fortune in fees).
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
Subheading: Warning! Don't Be That Guy (or Gal)
Let's get one thing straight: Don't go with your uncle Tony's "foolproof" stock picking strategy that involves throwing darts at a dartboard plastered with company logos (unless said dartboard is also a work of modern art, then it becomes an investment opportunity, discuss). Do your own research, understand the risks, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
Step 2: Look for Alphabet (Google's not-so-secret identity)
 |
Here's the thing: Google is actually owned by a company called Alphabet. Yes, they named a multi-billion dollar corporation after the first letter of the alphabet. Creative geniuses, those guys. Anyway, to buy Google stock, you'll need to search for Alphabet's ticker symbol, which is either GOOG or GOOGL (don't ask me the difference, that's what your broker is for).
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Step 3: Place Your Order and Watch the Magic Happen (Hopefully)
Once you've found Alphabet, it's buying time! You can either place a market order, which means you buy shares at the current price (whatever that may be), or you can get fancy with a limit order, where you specify the price you're willing to pay. Then, with a tap or a click, you'll officially be a Google stockholder (or rather, an Alphabet stockholder, but who's keeping score?).
Step 4: High Five Yourself (and Maybe Your Broker)
Congratulations! You're now a part-owner of Google (well, Alphabet). Now you can walk around feeling smug, knowing you're invested in the company that practically runs the internet (and maybe, just maybe, those targeted ads will finally start showing you things you actually want to buy).
Remember: Buying stocks can be a wild ride, so buckle up and enjoy the journey. And if things go south, well, at least you'll have plenty of funny cat videos to distract you.
 |
