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M1 Finance is primarily an investment platform that offers commission-free trading for thousands of stocks and ETFs. The app provides basic research tools, pre-built model portfolios called “Pies,” margin lending, and a high-yield cash account.
Pies are the standout feature: curated groups of two to twelve low-cost ETFs and funds that you can buy or sell as a single investment. M1 lets you rebalance those allocations with one click and maintains your chosen asset mix automatically. Many Pies use low-fee funds from well-known providers like Vanguard, iShares, and WisdomTree; some specialty options, such as ARK portfolios, carry higher fees and more risk.
The platform covers more than 6,000 stocks and ETFs and offers simple screening by metrics like market cap, P/E ratio, dividend yield, sector, assets, and expense ratio. It also supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, though serious crypto traders may prefer a dedicated crypto exchange. If you want deep screening tools and third-party research, larger brokers such as Fidelity generally offer more robust options.
M1 Borrow provides low-interest margin loans and allows borrowing up to 50% of account value. The high-yield cash account earns a competitive rate that changes with market conditions. M1 has removed management fees for accounts with $10,000 or more or for customers with a loan; accounts under $10,000 pay a $3 monthly fee.
This platform suits beginners and intermediate investors who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach. The pre-made Pies and automatic rebalancing make it easy to build and maintain diversified portfolios without frequent trading. It’s also attractive if you want a high-yield cash account and low-cost margin borrowing.
M1 is less appropriate for active traders and sophisticated investors who need options trading, futures, forex, frequent trades, or advanced trading tools. Bond investors who want individual bonds rather than bond ETFs will find the platform limiting. If you want comprehensive customer service, in-person branches, or a wider range of investment products, larger firms like Fidelity or Schwab may be a better fit.
I use two M1 Pies—one focused on global dividend-paying companies and the other a 60/40 stock-bond split. I began with $6,000 in the account, and it has grown over time. Overall, M1 is a straightforward, low-cost option for investors who value easy portfolio construction and automated maintenance.
