Timely information is critical when trading stocks, particularly in times of market volatility. The internet makes getting access to information quick and easy. read on to learn how to get real time stock quotes onine
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional financial advice. Please contact your financial adviser before using the information presented here.
Introduction
- Whether you're tracking existing investments, or trying to time the market, real time quotes make sure that your decisions are based on current information. Traders on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange have real time data at their finger tips—and you can have access to the same information no matter where you are. In order to get real time stock quotes online, you'll need access to the Internet as well as access to a website that provides real time feeds.
Step 2: Real Time vs. Streaming Quotes
(Creative Commons photo by lapideo)Most online stock quotes are streaming feeds and are delayed 15 or 20 minutes. If you're just looking for general information, that may be sufficient for your needs.
If you are looking to trade, however, a 15-minute lag is really providing historical information, which is not a good basis for these kinds of decisions. You'll want to make sure that whatever site you select specifically identifies the feeds as being "real time."
Step 1: Access the Internet
- If you'll be using the data at your desk, the Internet connection that you use on your computer will be fine. If you want to be able to act on a moment's notice, however, you'll want to invest in a portable device such as a Blackberry, a Treo, or an iPhone that has a subscription to a mobile data plan. After you've logged on, you can search for sites offering real time information.
Step 3: Be Prepared to Pay
Although there are many sites on the Internet that provide streaming data that lags the market, you may need to subscribe to a premium service in order to get real time data. If you have an account with a brokerage that has online trading capability, however, your online account will usually include access to real time stock quotes at no charge.
MSN Money also has free access to real time quotes, although you will need to set up an account (which is also free) and agree to terms of use before being able to access the information.
Conclusion
In order to benefit from real time quotes, you'll need a device that will access the Internet from wherever you'll be when you need the information. Make sure that the quotes you are looking at are in fact real time, not streaming feeds with a delay. Although most real time quotes are provided as a premium service, you may be able to get the information as part of an account with an online brokerage service.
