Luis Pazos 
{If you’re new to investing, Public offers a straightforward way to get started with stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies—all without trading commissions. Here’s why you should consider Public:
- You can open an account with zero dollars.
- Public lets you invest using fractional shares, so you only need a few bucks to build a portfolio.
- A social community on the platform allows you to exchange ideas with other investors.
- Public is always expanding its features, including a Premium version and future options for investing in cultural assets like art.
About Public:
Public is an online platform where you can trade stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, with no commissions on most trades. It also provides market info, real-time analysis, and educational programs to help you invest wisely. What sets Public apart is its social community—millions of investors share ideas and learn from each other, including high-profile personalities like Will Smith and Tony Hawk. Launched in 2019 and based in NYC, Public has already made a mark.
Is Public Legit?
Absolutely. Known officially as Open to the Public Investing, Inc., it’s registered with the SEC and FINRA. It boasts an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, where it’s accredited since 2020. It also receives high ratings from users on both the App Store and Google Play.
How to Make Money With Public:
With Public, you can make money by buying and selling stocks, ETFs, options, or cryptocurrencies. Plus, you can earn dividends from your investments and even get interest on cash balances. There are also several bonus programs such as the New Member Reward Program, Account Transfer Bonus, and Referral Program that can boost your returns.
Public Account Types:
Public currently offers only taxable brokerage accounts—no retirement or custodial accounts. But you can trade stocks, ETFs, and crypto commission-free. Even though there’s no phone support, Public provides plenty of assistance via the platform.
Public Premium:
For $10 a month, Public Premium offers advanced data, market metrics, analyst insights, and VIP customer support. There’s a waitlist for Premium, but access is granted on a rolling basis.
How Public Works:
Investing with Public is simple: choose your category (stocks, ETFs, crypto), select an asset, and click the "Invest" button. Public also supports crypto trading with more than 25 options available, including Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Public Social Community:
Public adds a social twist to investing by enabling you to share strategies, successes, and failures with other users. You can message individuals or groups and even earn a Public Invest Hat for productive participation.
How Public Makes Money:
Public doesn’t charge trading commissions but earns through optional tipping, securities lending, interest on cash balances, instant withdrawal fees, and subscription fees for Public Premium.
Public Features:
- Minimum Account Balance: $0
- Investments: U.S. stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies
- Trading Fees: Zero for stocks/ETFs, 1-2% for crypto
- Customer Support: Available via in-app or web chat, seven days a week
- Safety: SIPC insurance up to $500,000, multiple security features
Public Promotions:
Public offers several promotions for new members, referrals, and account transfers, providing opportunities to earn additional assets and bonuses.
How to Sign Up:
You can sign up for Public via their website or mobile app. You’ll need to provide personal details like your email, phone number, and citizenship status. Once approved, you can fund your account via bank transfer, debit card, check, or wire transfer, and then start investing.
Is Public Safe for Beginners?
Yes, Public is ideal for beginners with its no-minimum investment requirement, social community, and commission-free trades. Your account is protected by SIPC insurance, and the platform uses robust security measures.
Why Open an Account With Public?
Public’s user-friendly platform and social community make it a strong choice for new investors. It’s especially appealing for those interested in fractional shares and crypto. However, more seasoned investors might find its offerings limited compared to larger firms that provide mutual funds, bonds, and more comprehensive customer service.
Final Thoughts:
Public is a great option for newbie investors, thanks to its commission-free trades, no minimum investment, and a rich social community. Although it lacks some advanced features, it’s an excellent starting point for those new to investing.
