(NC) For many of us, investing in the stock market may feel like an activity reserved only for those with deep pockets and years of experience. On top of that, many of the stocks you might be interested in are expensive and out of reach.

But one option you may not have heard of could help you start building your portfolio and earning money you can use to save up for a down payment or retirement.

Trading partial shares, which is also referred to as fractional trading, is a perfect entry point. With as little as $5, you can own a fraction of a stock or an exchange-traded fund (ETF), making it easier to kick off your investments on your own terms.

A more accessible way to start investing

Trading partial shares, which TD Direct Investing recently launched, works just like regular stock or ETF trading, but with even more flexibility. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to diversify your portfolio, partial shares make it easy to invest in the stock market without a significant upfront financial commitment. They are designed with new and emerging investors in mind but can be a useful tool for anyone looking to expand a smart portfolio.

Flexibility meets affordability

You don’t need to wait until you’ve saved enough to buy a full share of a high-priced stock. Instead, you can buy a fraction that suits your budget, allowing you to gradually build a portfolio that aligns with your financial goals.

With dollar-based investing, you decide how much you want to invest, and that amount is used to purchase a portion of a share—no matter the stock’s price. It’s a great way to learn by doing, investing in companies and industries that interest you without putting too much at stake. Whether you’re starting with $5 or $500, you have the flexibility to invest at your own pace.

Diversification made easy

A well-diversified portfolio is key to managing risk, but diversification can seem out of reach for those with limited funds. With partial shares, it’s easier than ever to spread your investments across different sectors and assets. This means you can build a balanced, diversified portfolio, helping you manage risk and maximize potential returns regardless of your budget.

Learn more about fractional trading at td.com/directinvesting.