Summary: Activision Blizzard is a well-known video game developer that’s owned by Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT). A convenient way of investing in this company involves purchasing MSFT stock through a reputable brokerage platform like eToro.
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About Activision Blizzard
Activision Blizzard, Inc. is a leading American video game holding company headquartered in Santa Monica, California. The company was formed in 2008 through the merger of Activision, a well-known game publisher, and Blizzard Entertainment, a legendary developer with iconic franchises.
Activision Blizzard boasts a diverse portfolio of popular games that span various genres, including action, adventure, role-playing, and sports. Some of their most notable franchises include Call of Duty, Diablo, and the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) World of Warcraft.
Activision Blizzard IPO
Activision went public on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol ATVI in the early 90s. In 2008, it merged with Blizzard, continuing to trade under the same symbol until it was acquired by Microsoft on October 13, 2023, for $69 billion, which trades on the NASDAQ stock exchange under its ticker symbol MSFT.
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How to buy Activision Blizzard stock: Step-by-step
Since Microsoft is Activision Blizzard’s parent company, the only way to invest in it is to buy MSFT stock. If you wish to do so, you can follow our step-by-step guide below:
Step 1: Choose a broker
To buy Microsoft stock, you need to open an account with a reputable brokerage firm. However, it’s key to choose a broker that suits your needs, offers competitive fees, and provides a user-friendly trading platform.
In this case, our go-to brokerage is eToro. It stands out with a vast user base of over 30 million registered accounts worldwide. The platform also holds licenses from reputable authorities such as FinCEN, ensuring a secure and regulated environment for investors. Also, some of the compelling features that eToro offers to investors include:
- Commission-free stock trading;
- Access to over 2,000 stocks from 17 different exchanges;
- The option to purchase fractional shares;
- A user-friendly platform that simplifies the trading experience.
Highly Rated Stock Trading & Investing Platform
-
Invest in 2,800+ stocks and other assets including 70+ cryptocurrencies and commodities.
-
0% commission on buying stocks - buy in bulk or just a fraction from as little as $10. Other fees apply. For more information, visit etoro.com/trading/fees.
-
Copy top-performing traders in real time, automatically.
-
eToro USA is registered with FINRA for securities trading.
Step 2: Fund your account
Once you’ve picked a broker, you’ll need to fund your trading account. This typically involves transferring money from your bank account to your brokerage account. Therefore, just follow your broker’s instructions for depositing funds.
Step 3: Place an order
After your account is funded, and you’ve done your research, it’s time to place an order to buy Microsoft stock. Log in to your brokerage account, search for Microsoft, or use the ticker symbol MSFT, and select Buy. Enter the number of shares you want to purchase and set the type of order (market or limit) based on your preferences.
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Step 4: Monitor your investment
Once your order is executed, you’ll officially own Microsoft stock. Yet, it’s important to keep an eye on your investment and stay informed about the gaming industry’s developments and Microsoft’s financial performance.
Pros and cons of buying Microsoft stock
Pros
- Strong financials: Microsoft is a financially stable and well-established company with a strong balance sheet. It generates substantial revenue and profit, which can be reassuring for investors;
- Diversified product portfolio: Microsoft has a diverse product and service portfolio, including Windows, Office, Azure cloud services, Xbox, and more. This diversification can help the company weather economic downturns in various sectors;
- Dividend payments: Microsoft pays dividends to its shareholders. If you’re looking for regular income from your investments, Microsoft can provide this through dividends;
- Growth potential: Microsoft has been growing steadily over the years, especially in the cloud computing sector with Azure. As more businesses and individuals adopt cloud services, there is potential for continued growth;
- Competitive position: Microsoft is a major player in the technology industry, competing with other tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Apple. Its competitive position can be seen as a pro, as it has the resources to stay relevant and innovate.
Cons
- Valuation: Microsoft’s stock may be considered relatively expensive by some valuation metrics, which can make it less attractive for value investors;
- Market risk: Like all stocks, Microsoft’s share price is subject to market fluctuations. If the broader market experiences a downturn, Microsoft’s stock can be affected;
- Regulatory and legal issues: Technology companies like Microsoft face regulatory and legal challenges, which can result in fines and regulatory changes that impact their operations;
- Competition: The technology industry is highly competitive, and Microsoft faces competition from both established players and startups. Competing with the likes of Apple, Google, and Amazon can be challenging;
- Dependence on specific products: While Microsoft has a diversified product portfolio, it still relies heavily on certain products, such as Windows and Office. Any decline in the popularity or demand for these products can impact the company’s financial performance.
MSFT stock price today
What to avoid when buying stocks
When buying ATVI stock or any other, it’s key not to rush things without conducting thorough research. You should, instead, understand the company’s financials, competitive position, and growth prospects, as well as avoid making common mistakes like:
- Overleveraging: Avoid investing more money than you can afford to lose. It’s essential to have a diversified portfolio to mitigate risk;
- Ignoring diversification: Don’t put all your money into a single stock. Diversifying your investments across different sectors and asset classes can reduce risk;
- Emotional investing: Avoid making investment decisions based on emotions or short-term market fluctuations. Stick to your long-term investment strategy.
Disclaimer: The content on this site should not be considered investment advice. Investing is speculative. When investing, your capital is at risk.
FAQs about how to buy Activision Blizzard stock
Can I buy Microsoft stock directly from the company?
No, you can’t buy Microsoft stock directly from the company. You can, however, use a brokerage account like eToro to buy and sell Microsoft stock.
How do I choose the right brokerage for buying stocks?
Research different brokerages to find one that aligns with your investment goals and offers competitive fees.
Are there any taxes I should be aware of when selling Microsoft stock?
Yes, capital gains taxes may apply when you sell your stock. You should, hence, consult a tax professional for guidance.
Highly Rated Stock Trading & Investing Platform
-
Invest in 2,800+ stocks and other assets including 70+ cryptocurrencies and commodities.
-
0% commission on buying stocks - buy in bulk or just a fraction from as little as $10. Other fees apply. For more information, visit etoro.com/trading/fees.
-
Copy top-performing traders in real time, automatically.
-
eToro USA is registered with FINRA for securities trading.
