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Top 8 Penny Stocks to Watch on Robinhood in May 2024

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Written by Timothy Sykes
Updated 4/30/2024 30 min read

 

Robinhood penny stocks trade at $5 or less per share, and they hold opportunities for traders building small accounts. These stocks are cheap and often sketchy, and they require different strategies from larger stocks. For beginners, Robinhood is an accessible starting point for trading penny stocks, thanks to its zero fees and no minimum deposit policy. Traders with more experience should consider switching to brokers that cater to advanced trading needs.

Table of Contents

8 Robinhood Penny Stocks To Watch

My top Robinhood penny stock picks for May — rated on chart pattern, price action history, and news — include the following:

Stock TickerCompanyPerformance (YTD)
NASDAQ: AMSTAmesite Inc+ 44.68%
NASDAQ: MLECMoolec Science SA- 43.39%
NASDAQ: NIVFNewGenIvf Group Ltd- 16.67%
NASDAQ: EDBLEdible Garden- 44.22%
NASDAQ: MTTRMatterport Inc+ 80.50%
AMEX: INDOIndonesia Energy Corp Ltd+ 57.04%
NASDAQ: CGCCanopy Growth Corp+ 139.87%
NASDAQ: PEGYPineapple Energy Inc- 90.70%

The penny stocks on this list are some of the wildest movers on the market …

Trading any of these stocks should be approached with a clear strategy and an understanding of the risks involved. I don’t trade until I see a setup I like.

Jump ahead to get to my trading plans for these top Robinhood penny stocks!

Trading on Robinhood

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Robinhood is an easy-to-use, no-commission trading platform accessible to just about anyone. It also offers zero minimum deposits … You can even buy partial stock with its fractional shares feature.

Robinhood gives you access to over 5,000 U.S. listed stocks and ETFs, as well as ADRs in foreign listed companies. As of this year, Robinhood now allows trading in select OTC stocks as well.

Can You Buy Stocks Under $1 on Robinhood?

Yes, you can definitely buy stocks under $1 on Robinhood. Listed penny stocks will often fall beneath the $1 minimum listing threshold.

The OTC stocks that Robinhood allows access to are often on the pricier side.

Buying penny stocks is as easy as buying any other stock on the app, too. Just choose your stock, pick your order type, input how many shares you’re buying, and submit your order.

Penny Stocks on Robinhood Under 10 Cents

Looking to trade the cheapest stocks on Robinhood? Penny stocks under 10 cents will occasionally pop up, but not too often.

If you’re looking to trade stocks under 10 cents, the OTC markets have the biggest selection. Unfortunately, Robinhood doesn’t allow trading of the sketchiest OTC stocks.

Learn how I choose which stocks to trade in this guide. Use this stock scanner to further improve your trading game.

Robinhood Penny Stocks Market

Many stock traders use Robinhood to buy penny stocks because it doesn’t charge fees. This has led to runs on certain penny stocks, because of Robinhood’s limited selection.

How to Find Penny Stocks on Robinhood

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Robinhood has curated stock lists under its “Trending Lists” section, but, unfortunately, it doesn’t feature a list of penny stocks. You might need to play around with some filters on Robinhood to see these cheap stocks.

Here’s how you access penny stock lists on Robinhood:

  1. Log into your Robinhood account.
  2. Select the magnifying glass, and click on the “Trending Lists” menu.
  3. Select the business sector of your choice and sort in ascending order to see the cheapest stocks listed. Alternatively, you can push the filter button and set a maximum share price of $5, so you only see penny stocks.

You can rinse and repeat these steps to find the best penny stocks on any curated list Robinhood creates. If you’re confused because you find duplicate stocks across the lists, you can just write down which companies offer penny stocks and create a custom penny stock list.

Finding penny stocks on Robinhood is just the beginning of your trading journey. Understanding the market trends and sectors can significantly enhance your trading strategy. For those interested in diving into specific sectors like biotech, additional resources can be valuable. Explore the hot sector of biotech penny stocks to diversify your trading. These insights can provide a more comprehensive view of the market and help you make informed decisions.

What Is a Good Penny Stock to Buy on Robinhood?

A few of the stocks I’ve been watching lately are accessible to Robinhood traders. Just remember …

This is only a watchlist. I have no plans to trade these stocks — and I won’t unless they fit into one of my preferred setups.

I want you to focus on my process, not my stock picks. If you want to become a self-sufficient trader, you’ll need to create your own watchlists.

Get a new no-cost watchlist sent to you each week by signing up here.  

Can You Become Rich Just Trading Penny Stocks On Robinhood?

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Repeat after me: small gains add up. Can you become rich trading penny stocks on Robinhood? It’s a question, and one that requires a level-headed analysis. You can find hundreds of penny stocks on platforms like Robinhood, and while some Wall Street analysts tout them as undervalued assets, the reality is often more complex. Penny stocks are often speculative and lack the capitalization that more established stocks offer. With the right strategy, tools like a stock screener, and an eye on breaking news, gains are possible. But don’t expect instant riches. Think of Robinhood Gold, offering extended trading hours, but it can’t transform an unstable investment into gold overnight.

What Are the Risks Associated with Trading Penny Stocks on Robinhood?

Still with me? Good. Let’s dig into the risks. Trading penny stocks on Robinhood or other brokers can be a game of swings and roundabouts. Illiquidity and volatility can be a trader’s nightmare. The lack of depth in the market cap of these stocks means wild price swings are common, and if you’re not careful, losses can accrue quickly. Even with Robinhood’s simplicity and user-friendly interfaces, it doesn’t eliminate the risks associated with speculative investments in categories like marijuana penny stocks. Be mindful of the reality and keep your portfolio balanced. Don’t put all your eggs in the penny stock basket; diversify with other assets, products, or services.

8 Robinhood Penny Stocks to Watch on Robinhood May 2024

My top 8 Robinhood penny stocks to watch in May 2024 are:

  • NASDAQ: AMST — Amesite Inc — The AI Product Launch Penny Stock
  • NASDAQ: MLEC — Moolec Science SA — The USDA Approval Fake Meat Penny Stock
  • NASDAQ: NIVF — NewGenIvf Group Ltd — The Reverse Merger Wellness Penny Stock
  • NASDAQ: EDBL — Edible Garden — The Reverse Split Agritech Penny Stock With Strong Earnings That’s Still in Delisting Danger
  • NASDAQ: MTTR — Matterport Inc — The Ex-SPAC Tech Stock That’s Being Acquired for a 207% Premium
  • AMEX: INDO — Indonesia Energy Corp Ltd — The Oil Stock Benefitting From the Oil Shock
  • NASDAQ: CGC — Canopy Growth Corp — The Legal Weed Stock With the Huge Catalyst
  • NASDAQ: PEGY — Pineapple Energy Inc — The Energy Penny Stock With the Crappy Catalyst

The following are some of the stocks that people on Robinhood have been trading more than most of the market…

There’s no guarantee I’ll trade any of these stocks. I’m watching them to see if they match my preferred setups — only then will I trade them.

The best traders watch more than they trade — that’s what I’m trying to model here.

Here’s some background info on Robinhood penny stocks:

  • What is the most promising Robinhood penny stock?

A stock with a lot of volatility like Amesite Inc (NASDAQ: AMST) is a good bet for the most promising Robinhood penny stock. Remember, we’re traders, not investors. We’re watching the stocks on this list for short-term moves, not predicting which of these stocks will still be around in 2030.

  • What are the top 3 Robinhood penny stocks to buy now?

My top 3 Robinhood penny stocks to buy now (as long as their price action is strong) are Amesite Inc (NASDAQ: AMST), Moolec Science SA (NASDAQ: MLEC), and NewGenIvf Group Ltd (NASDAQ: NIVF).

  • Which Robinhood penny stocks have a “Strong Buy” analyst rating?

Analysts don’t give any Robinhood penny stocks “strong buy” ratings. These stocks are sketchy and unstable, and should never be investment targets. Always trade with a plan.

Let’s get to the picks …

Amesite Inc (NASDAQ: AMST) — The AI Product Launch Penny Stock

My first Robinhood penny stock pick is Amesite Inc (NASDAQ: AMST).

This stock has its feet in two hot sectors:

  1. The biotech industry.
  2. The AI industry.

These are probably the two hottest sectors in the stock market right now. We’ve seen individual AI and biotech spikes since early 2023.

AMST pulls momentum from both of these sectors, that’s one of the main reasons I’m excited about this stock.

Here’s the news that sent it higher:

On April 24 the company announced it successfully launched an AI app that will reportedly empower 5.2 million nurses. Share prices spiked 110% that day,

I grabbed 15% of the move with a starting stake of $14,742. My trade notes are below:

Source: Profit.ly

The reason I was able to trade this stock so early is because Breaking News alerted me to the move.

Now, this stock is still in play … But make sure you’re watching Breaking News for the next stock to start spiking.

AMST’s price action shows sideways consolidation right now … The consolidation is a hint that the price could spike higher!

On the chart below I drew a line that shows the $3 support level on AMST, every candle represents 10 minutes:

AMST chart multi-day, 10-minute candles Source: StocksToTrade

Plus, StocksToTrade shows that the float is only 1.7 million shares.

Stocks with a float below 10 million shares are considered to have a low supply. And the low supply of shares will help prices spike higher when demand increases.

AMST is still deciding whether it wants to break out …

But all of the factors point toward an explosive push upward.

Moolec Science SA (NASDAQ: MLEC) — The USDA Approval Fake Meat Penny Stock

My second Robinhood penny stock pick is Moolec Science SA (NASDAQ: MLEC).

On April 22, MLEC announced USDA approval for its plant-grown animal protein.

For a few years now, there’s been a push toward more sustainable animal protein. As it turns out, the meat industry produces quite a bit of pollution. Not to mention the higher prices of grocery store meat amid sticky inflation across the entire economy. Plant grown protein could offer lower costs in the long term.

There are attractive aspects of the fake-meat industry. And for a penny stock, any government approval can act as a HUGE catalyst.

When MLEC announced the USDA news, prices spiked 130% in one day. I snagged a quick 5% before the momentum switched.

These plays can be fast!

My trade notes are below, with a starting stake of $15,405:

Source: Profit.ly

The stock dipped after the initial day of spiking. It wasn’t able to hold support like some of these multi-day runners …

But I’m still watching it because past spikers can spike again.

We’ve already seen MLEC react well to bullish news. All it takes is another bullish catalyst to get things moving.

NewGenIvf Group Ltd (NASDAQ: NIVF) — The Reverse Merger Wellness Penny Stock

My third Robinhood penny stock pick is NewGenIvf Group Ltd (NASDAQ: NIVF).

On April 22, NIVF announced a reverse merger with European Wellness Investment Holdings.

For those who are unaware: A reverse merger is when a private and public company combine, thereby bringing the private company public without the need for an IPO.

Two companies combined are theoretically always more valuable than either company alone. That’s what makes this a bullish catalyst.

NIVF’s total spike as a result of the news measures 280% … so far.

I traded the momentum on day one. My notes are below, with a starting stake of $11,220:

Source: Profit.ly

I alluded that NIVF might not be done spiking …

StocksToTrade shows us that the float is only 6 million shares. Plus, the multi-day chart shows consolidation above $1.25. On the chart below every candle represents 10 minutes:

NIVF chart multi-day, 10-minute candles Source: StocksToTrade

There’s a solid breakout level around $3.

Pay attention to more support levels as the stock climbs toward a potential breakout. That’s how we plan trades on volatile runners.

Edible Garden (NASDAQ: EDBL) — The Reverse Split Agritech Penny Stock With Strong Earnings That’s Still in Delisting Danger

My fourth Robinhood penny stock pick is Edible Garden (NASDAQ: EDBL).

On April 2, EDBL announced an incoming 1-for-20 reverse split.

For those who are unaware: A reverse split lowers the overall supply of shares. As a result, each individual share becomes more expensive.

Sketchy penny stocks tend to use reverse splits as a tool to inflate their share prices. See, stocks on exchanges like the Nasdaq have to adhere to certain listing requirements. One of them being a minimum share price above $1.

If the stock falls below $1, the company can always reduce the share supply to artificially push up prices. It’s a good sign for traders because we can see which stocks are willing to engage in shady activity that results in bullish volatility.

I don’t believe in the future of these stocks, I’m just riding the short term volatility.

The April 2 announcement and resulting volatility was a hint that this stock could spike again.

And sure enough, on April 17 the company spiked 170% after announcing first-quarter produce-revenue grew year-over-year by 40%. And cut-herb revenue grew by 200% within the same period.

The spike didn’t last long. Prices are on a bearish trajectory right now, back toward $1 …

Which means, it’s only a matter of time until we see EDBL try to spike the price again.

It shouldn’t be too difficult, since StocksToTrade shows the float is only 295k shares.

Matterport Inc (NASDAQ: MTTR) — The Ex-SPAC Tech Stock That’s Being Acquired for a 207% Premium

My fifth Robinhood penny stock pick is Matterport Inc (NASDAQ: MTTR).

On April 22, we learned that CoStar Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CSGP) would acquire MTTR for an equivalent value of $5.50 per share.

At the time of the announcement, MTTR was trading below $2. The price spiked 180% that day but never pushed above $5 …

When there’s an announcement that includes a definitive share valuation, we have to be careful about the spike.

Whereas other catalysts might mention value added, the news from MTTR mentioned a $5.50 per share valuation. We don’t know whether the stock will run that high, but it’s an important level to keep an eye on.

Currently, the stock is consolidating under $5. A break of that level could send it to $5.50 within a single day.

On the chart below, every candle represents fifteen minutes:

MTTR chart multi-day, 15-minute candles Source: StocksToTrade

Use StocksToTrade to set a price alert on MTTR.

If it trades near the $5 level, we’ll get a notification!

Indonesia Energy Corp Ltd (AMEX: INDO) — The Oil Stock Benefitting From the Oil Shock

My sixth Robinhood penny stock pick is Indonesia Energy Corp Ltd (AMEX: INDO).

We’ve seen oil stocks spike as a result of rising global tensions in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

  • The war between Ukraine and Russia.
  • The war between Israel and Hamas.

INDO is a perfect example.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. INDO share prices spiked 1,800% as a result.

Fast forward to April 12, 2024, we learned of an incoming offensive against Israel from Iran. It signaled an escalation of the war in the Middle East. And INDO share prices spiked 140% in response.

The chart below shows consolidation above $4 after INDO’s most recent spike. Every candle represents 15 minutes:

INDO chart multi-day, 15-minute candles Source: StocksToTrade

Unfortunately, the conflicts overseas don’t show any signs of cooling.

As traders, it’s our job to take advantage of volatile price action caused by hot catalysts. Keep an eye on this oil runner as the world continues to navigate dangerous war-time catalysts.

Canopy Growth Corp (NASDAQ: CGC) — The Legal Weed Stock With the Huge Catalyst

My seventh Robinhood penny stock pick is Canopy Growth Corp (NASDAQ: CGC).

The weed sector comes and goes. It’s never been the strongest batch of runners, but we have to respect CGC’s price action. The stock already spiked 231% between March and April.

This price action isn’t random.

There’s been a lot of talk about marijuana legalization recently. Both in the U.S. and worldwide:

  • POTUS Biden and VPOTUS Harris both recently expressed an interest in reforming the U.S. approach toward marijuana.
  • Germany decriminalized marijuana.

But CGC is also running thanks to a catalyst that was announced on March 14.

  • There was news of a potential acquisition. The vote deadline for the acquisition was April 10. On April 15 we learned of a successful shareholder vote to endorse the acquisition.

I snagged a profit on March 22 thanks to the potential acquisition news. The price started running before we even learned of a successful vote.

Take a look at my trade notes below, with a starting stake of $21,420:

Source: Profit.ly

And now that the acquisition is successful, there’s a chance the price pushes even higher.

Below, a multi-month chart of the run shows support at $6. Every candle represents one trading day:

CGC chart multi-month, 1-day candles Source: StocksToTrade

This stock is in play as long as it stays above $6!

Pineapple Energy Inc (NASDAQ: PEGY) — The Energy Penny Stock With the Crappy Catalyst

My eighth Robinhood penny stock pick is Pineapple Energy Inc (NASDAQ: PEGY).

The most recent spike on this stock wasn’t very good … but now we know that the company wants to inflate its price.

That can lead to great trade opportunities in the future!

On April 25 during after hours, this company commented on the Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement of $7 billion worth of awards within the Solar for All program.

PEGY didn’t win any of the cash. Instead, the company merely applauded the financial allocation and the general policy. Price launched 80% the next day but closed in the red.

I’m hoping to see a better catalyst from PEGY. One that shows more value added.

The recent volatility is a good sign!

I’m excited to watch this stock over the next few weeks …

Robinhood Stocks Under $5

The appeal of hot sector stocks accessible on platforms like Robinhood, especially those classified as penny stocks, is compelling for both novice and seasoned investors. The energy and technology sectors, for instance, are witnessing rapid growth and innovation, making stocks within these domains particularly attractive for those on the lookout for the next breakout investment. The allure lies in the potential for substantial returns on investment, as even minor developments or positive news within these sectors can lead to significant price jumps.

Nonetheless, it’s imperative to navigate these waters with caution and a well-thought-out strategy. The inherent volatility of penny stocks, combined with the speculative nature of emerging sectors like renewable energy and tech innovations, underscores the importance of a meticulous approach. Before diving in, ensure you’ve done your due diligence, looking past the initial excitement to assess the true potential and risks of these ventures. It’s wise to trade these stocks rather than invest long-term, given their unpredictable nature.

Success in trading hot sector stocks priced under $5 on platforms such as Robinhood hinges on a selective and strategic approach. The goal is to tap into the explosive growth potential of sectors like renewable energy and technology while implementing robust risk management practices. By zeroing in on companies poised for leadership within their specific niches, traders can seize opportunities for disproportionate gains. This strategy, coupled with a disciplined approach to maintaining a tight investment strategy and promptly cutting losses, can pave the way for trading success in these dynamic market segments.

What to Consider When Trading Penny Stocks

Penny stocks trades are volatile and unpredictable, so while there’s a chance of big gains, there’s also the risk of major losses. This means you shouldn’t invest in penny stocks — just trade them.

If you’re getting into penny stocks, it’s not enough just to read my stock picks. You need to build your own knowledge account so you can make informed decisions.

Here are four things to consider as a penny stock trader:

Price Action

A good way to see whether a penny stock is worth buying is to check its price history. If the stock’s chart shows that it has run before, there’s a good chance that it can run again.

Unusual Volume

The market is based on supply and demand. If there’s a lot of demand — more trading volume than usual — it can drastically affect price.

Besides for price, this is the single most important indicator in penny stock trading.

Real News

Stock prices usually move for a reason, and newsworthy changes often cause prices to rise. But look at how the market is reacting before you trade.

The penny stock world is rife with deception, which brings me to my last point …

Scam Possibilities

There’s always the possibility — heck, the probability — of scammers driving penny stock momentum. Pumps are especially common in this world, because it’s easier for gullible newbies to buy penny stocks than high-priced stocks.

If you see social media chatter about buying a popular penny stock, don’t buy it impulsively. Do your research and determine whether the stock is worth trading before making any decisions.

How to Buy Penny Stocks on Robinhood

Buying penny stocks on the Robinhood app or website is just like buying any other stock. Now that you’ve learned how to find penny stocks on Robinhood, here’s how to buy them:

  1. Log into your Robinhood account.
  2. Use your debit card or bank account to transfer funds into your Robinhood account.
  3. Choose a penny stock to buy.
  4. Select your order type (i.e., market, limit, stop loss, stop limit, or trailing stop order … I never use market orders for trading penny stocks).
  5. Input how many shares you want to buy.
  6. Review your order and ensure everything is correct.
  7. Confirm your trade.

Why Do Only Certain Penny Stocks Appear On Exchanges?

Attention to detail, that’s what you need when looking at why only certain penny stocks appear on exchanges. You’ll find some of them on Robinhood and other platforms, but why not others? Here’s the fact: Exchanges like the NYSE have specific requirements. Pink sheets, often home to Canadian penny stocks like Xela, operate with different rules. There’s a range of factors including capitalization, regulatory compliance, and partners’ links that determine what makes it to the public eye. In this diverse world of investments, there are types and categories of stocks that might not make it to the main stage. Knowing the difference and understanding where to look – be it newsletters, articles, or PDFs – can put you one step ahead in the game. Always keep an eye on the corner of the market that fits your strategy, but don’t lose sight of the entire playing field.

Trading Fees on Robinhood

Robinhood doesn’t impose trading fees on its users. However, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is legally obliged to charge a fee, which you have to pay, on stock sales.

The trading activity fee for stock sales is $0.00013/share and $0.00218/share for options sales, with a maximum fee cap of $6.49. Robinhood only charges this fee if you sell more than 50 shares in one penny stock transaction.

Quick Tips to Making Money With Penny Stocks

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Penny stock trading can bring in a lot of money, but it’s also a risky proposition — you could lose big if you aren’t careful. Here’s what you should do when you’re trading penny stocks:

  • Cut your losses quickly because penny stocks are volatile by nature.
  • Focus on small gains, and don’t overcommit to a stock.
  • Concentrate on day trading instead of holding penny stocks for long-term gains.
  • Research the company before buying its stock, and keep track of industry news.
  • Follow your trading plan.
  • Trade with money you can afford to lose. Even in the worst-case scenario of losing everything you spent on penny stocks, you’ll still have a safety net.

Making money with penny stocks requires a combination of strategy, research, and understanding of market dynamics. While focusing on small gains and cutting losses quickly is essential, staying updated with the latest trends and tools can also be a game-changer. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, continuous learning is key. Learn more about the most active penny stocks to keep an eye on here. It offers valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the ever-changing world of penny stocks.

Looking for more money-making tips with penny stocks? Learn from my 20+ years of experience by applying for the Trading Challenge and reading my FREE book right now.

What Is the Minimum Needed to Buy Penny Stocks?

Robinhood doesn’t have a minimum amount for penny stocks — or any stocks — that cost $1 or more. You can start trading fractional stocks when a stock reaches that threshold.

Key Takeaways

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© Millionaire Media, LLC

Penny stock trading is a great way to build your account as a new trader. Robinhood is an okay place to trade stocks as a beginner because it doesn’t have fees and minimum deposits. However, it’s missing many of the capacities I look for in a broker. I recommend you move to another broker as soon as you can.

Key Considerations:

  • A lot of penny stocks are shady. Risk in Robinhood penny stocks can be heightened due to limited company information and unsavory promotion.
  • There’s a possibility for big gains. I trade penny stocks because you can trade conservatively and still rack up gains. These stocks can go supernova at any time. Aim for “the meat of the move.”
  • These companies are often young. Some Robinhood penny stocks are newer companies, and can dramatically shift their market trajectory and valuation.

While I’ve given you eight stocks to watch on Robinhood, don’t just copy my penny stock picks blindly. Learn why I picked them and choose your own stocks to watch.

Have you traded penny stocks on Robinhood? Write “I always trade with a plan” in the comments!

Penny Stocks to Watch on Robinhood FAQs

In which countries is Robinhood available for trading penny stocks, and who are its main competitors?

Robinhood is primarily available in the United States but has been expanding to other countries. Its main competitors in the penny stock trading space include apps from Charles Schwab, E-Trade, and Webull. Availability might vary depending on regulations and market conditions in specific countries.

How is the page design on Robinhood’s app, and does it include any gamification elements (games) to engage users in penny stock trading?

Robinhood’s app is being designed with a sleek and user-friendly page layout that aims to make trading accessible to all. Some users feel that the app’s interface has gamification elements, including games and interactive visuals, making the trading experience more engaging, especially for younger investors.

How can one purchase penny stocks on Robinhood, and what are the payment options, including using a cash account or credit?

Purchasing penny stocks on Robinhood is a straightforward process that can be done through the app or web platform. Payment options include using a cash account or linking a credit/debit card. The purchase can be done with a few taps, and users can track their investments on the main page of the app.


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Timothy Sykes

Tim Sykes is a penny stock trader and teacher who became a self-made millionaire by the age of 22 by trading $12,415 of bar mitzvah money. After becoming disenchanted with the hedge fund world, he established the Tim Sykes Trading Challenge to teach aspiring traders how to follow his trading strategies. He’s been featured in a variety of media outlets including CNN, Larry King, Steve Harvey, Forbes, Men’s Journal, and more. He’s also an active philanthropist and environmental activist, a co-founder of Karmagawa, and has donated millions of dollars to charity. Read More

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* Results are not typical and will vary from person to person. Making money trading stocks takes time, dedication, and hard work. There are inherent risks involved with investing in the stock market, including the loss of your investment. Past performance in the market is not indicative of future results. Any investment is at your own risk. See Terms of Service here

The available research on day trading suggests that most active traders lose money. Fees and overtrading are major contributors to these losses.

A 2000 study called “Trading is Hazardous to Your Wealth: The Common Stock Investment Performance of Individual Investors” evaluated 66,465 U.S. households that held stocks from 1991 to 1996. The households that traded most averaged an 11.4% annual return during a period where the overall market gained 17.9%. These lower returns were attributed to overconfidence.

A 2014 paper (revised 2019) titled “Learning Fast or Slow?” analyzed the complete transaction history of the Taiwan Stock Exchange between 1992 and 2006. It looked at the ongoing performance of day traders in this sample, and found that 97% of day traders can expect to lose money from trading, and more than 90% of all day trading volume can be traced to investors who predictably lose money. Additionally, it tied the behavior of gamblers and drivers who get more speeding tickets to overtrading, and cited studies showing that legalized gambling has an inverse effect on trading volume.

A 2019 research study (revised 2020) called “Day Trading for a Living?” observed 19,646 Brazilian futures contract traders who started day trading from 2013 to 2015, and recorded two years of their trading activity. The study authors found that 97% of traders with more than 300 days actively trading lost money, and only 1.1% earned more than the Brazilian minimum wage ($16 USD per day). They hypothesized that the greater returns shown in previous studies did not differentiate between frequent day traders and those who traded rarely, and that more frequent trading activity decreases the chance of profitability.

These studies show the wide variance of the available data on day trading profitability. One thing that seems clear from the research is that most day traders lose money .

Millionaire Media 66 W Flagler St. Ste. 900 Miami, FL 33130 United States (888) 878-3621 This is for information purposes only as Millionaire Media LLC nor Timothy Sykes is registered as a securities broker-dealer or an investment adviser. No information herein is intended as securities brokerage, investment, tax, accounting or legal advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. Millionaire Media LLC and Timothy Sykes cannot and does not assess, verify or guarantee the adequacy, accuracy or completeness of any information, the suitability or profitability of any particular investment, or the potential value of any investment or informational source. The reader bears responsibility for his/her own investment research and decisions, should seek the advice of a qualified securities professional before making any investment, and investigate and fully understand any and all risks before investing. Millionaire Media LLC and Timothy Sykes in no way warrants the solvency, financial condition, or investment advisability of any of the securities mentioned in communications or websites. In addition, Millionaire Media LLC and Timothy Sykes accepts no liability whatsoever for any direct or consequential loss arising from any use of this information. This information is not intended to be used as the sole basis of any investment decision, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the investment needs of any particular investor. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future returns.

Citations for Disclaimer

Barber, Brad M. and Odean, Terrance, Trading is Hazardous to Your Wealth: The Common Stock Investment Performance of Individual Investors. Available at SSRN: “Day Trading for a Living?”

Barber, Brad M. and Lee, Yi-Tsung and Liu, Yu-Jane and Odean, Terrance and Zhang, Ke, Learning Fast or Slow? (May 28, 2019). Forthcoming: Review of Asset Pricing Studies, Available at SSRN: “https://ssrn.com/abstract=2535636”

Chague, Fernando and De-Losso, Rodrigo and Giovannetti, Bruno, Day Trading for a Living? (June 11, 2020). Available at SSRN: “https://ssrn.com/abstract=3423101”