Ranking Methodology

The ranking of investment platforms requires a structured and objective approach. In this analysis, a methodology based on technical and market access criteria was applied to identify alternatives that offer a comparable or superior experience to Robinhood.

Criteria We Used

• Graphical Interface and User Experience: The evaluation considered platforms with a clear, intuitive, and responsive interface that facilitates both navigation and transaction execution. Visual design and usability focus were also taken into account, including more gamified proposals aimed at simplifying the experience for less technical user profiles.

• Security and Regulation: Priority was given to platforms with valid licenses in developed markets and with fund protection systems, such as segregated accounts and oversight by recognized regulatory bodies.

• Access to Asset Classes: The considered alternatives must offer most instruments available on Robinhood, such as stocks, options, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, and indices; however, as each platform operates under its local jurisdiction's regulations, the exact availability of assets will depend on what is legally permitted in that market.

• Cost Structure: Commissions per transaction were analyzed. Considering that Robinhood is known for being a "low-cost" broker (although this is not true), we paid close attention to ensure that operation opening costs are low or zero (as this is Robinhood's main selling point). You must be aware that there are other charges brokers apply, such as spreads, maintenance fees, and overnight rates that affect the investor's net performance.

• Allows Opening Accounts in Mexico: Evidently, to propose an alternative, we verified that accounts can be opened locally.

Key Considerations

Choosing a platform to invest is not a minor decision. It directly affects the security of your funds, access to relevant financial instruments, and your ability to execute your strategy effectively. Before selecting, it is vital to consider economic, regulatory, and operational factors that impact your daily life as an investor.

Economic and Operating Environment Factors

• Real Diversification: Not all platforms offer access to multiple sectors, regions, and asset classes. Choosing a broker that limits your investment universe restricts your ability to manage risk effectively.

• Local Regulatory Conditions: Each country has different rules. Some platforms like Robinhood, for example, do not open accounts to users outside the United States, although they are evaluating expansion. Meanwhile, there are regulated alternatives in other jurisdictions offering global access with similar or even superior standards.

• Base Currency and Conversion: Investing in international assets from an account in another currency involves currency risks (If you opened your account in USD and trade European stocks, for example). It is important that the platform clearly informs about conversions, fees, and the applied exchange rate.

• Technological stability is also key. In times of high volatility, some platforms collapse or limit operations. A solid alternative must ensure continuous access, execution speed, and tools that support the investor in demanding contexts.

Popular and High-Risk Instruments

• GameStop and AMC: Examples of stocks with speculative behavior that showed the impact of concentrated retail demand. High volatility, high risk.

• QQQ and SPY: Widely used ETFs to replicate indices like the Nasdaq 100 or the S&P 500. Useful tools for instant diversification.

• TSLA, NVDA: Stocks with strong historical growth and high media exposure. Trading them requires constant monitoring and a clear strategy.

• Financial Options: Derivative instruments that allow sophisticated strategies but carry high risk if not managed precisely.