I would like to get into some minor investment and stock trading, but I know absolutely nothing about it. I have a good understanding of economics and the general terms and whatnot, but when it comes to the stock market I know nothing (don't even know what a portfolio is or why it's necessary, etc)

Anyone have any good resources to direct a n00b to, like a good place to start (how-tos, self help, articles/websites, etc)? I don't want to jump right into Ameritrade or the NYSE or anything like that without having a decent idea of what I'm doing. Are there any "fake" trading places that are based on realtime market stats to give me some practice before I start playing with my real, hard-earned money?

Any help or direction at all would be appreciated

Edit: And yes, I know google is my friend...but google also doesnt have any personal learning experience and that's what I'm looking for from you folks

[Edited on February 8, 2006 at 10:02 AM. Reason : .]

2/8/2006 10:01:21 AM

http://www.einvesting.com/
you will get a shitload of spam though so use an email address you dont care about

2/8/2006 10:06:06 AM

this thread will make you rich:

http://www.thewolfweb.com/message_topic.aspx?topic=378159

2/8/2006 10:09:12 AM

I'm dead 100% serious here. Enroll in BUS 320 w/ Sloan. This is the most informative course I've ever taken and Sloan is actually enjoyable to listen to. He deals investments for a living, so he knows his junk.

2/8/2006 12:50:02 PM

while we're on NCSU resources for money, stay away from huggard's class, he's fuuuuuuulllll of shit that will get you in financial trouble!

2/8/2006 1:14:17 PM

Research IPO's. I'm still learning about them so I don't have any real advise to give. All I can say is look up CROX today on a stock ticker +$9, opened around $21.

However, I've read how there are large fee's in place to stop people from buying IPO's and selling them the same day they are realeased, forcing people into into a longer term investment.

Once I learn some more, I'm definetly going to start investing in them.

2/8/2006 4:22:19 PM