With over two decades of stock picking history, The Motley Fool has earned a reputation for helping everyday investors outperform the market. But how well do their stock picks actually perform? And is their flagship service Stock Advisor really worth the subscription cost?
What Is the Motley Fool?
Founded in 1993, The Motley Fool is a financial media company known for providing stock recommendations, personal finance guidance, and investment education. Their Stock Advisor service delivers two stock recommendations per month, each chosen for long-term growth potential.
Motley Fool’s Track Record of Success
The performance numbers are impressive. Since its launch in 2002, Stock Advisor has delivered a cumulative return of over 950%, compared to about 178% from the S&P 500 over the same time period. That’s more than 5x the return of the market — a huge win for investors who followed their picks.
According to third-party audits, over 82% of Stock Advisor recommendations have been profitable when held for five years or more. This aligns with the service’s philosophy: invest in great companies and hold them long term.
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Is Motley Fool Worth It?
Whether Stock Advisor is worth subscribing to depends on your investment style. It’s ideal for:
- Beginner investors seeking expert guidance
- People who prefer long-term investing
- Busy professionals who don’t have time to analyze stocks
It’s not designed for day traders or those looking for short-term gains. Motley Fool emphasizes patience, and their best picks — like early recommendations of Amazon, Netflix, and Tesla — took years to fully mature.
Motley Fool vs. the S&P 500
Common Questions
Is Motley Fool Legit?
Yes, Motley Fool is a legitimate company that’s been around for over 30 years. It is widely respected in the investment community and is known for its transparency and long-term approach.
What’s the success rate of their stock picks?
Roughly 82-84% of their picks turn out profitable over a 5-year horizon, according to independent analysis. While not every pick is a winner, the long-term average is strongly positive.
Can you beat the market with their advice?
Many subscribers report that they’ve outperformed the market with Motley Fool’s picks. Historical data also supports this claim, especially when subscribers stick to the service’s long-term investment strategy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a straightforward, proven way to build long-term wealth through stock investing, Motley Fool’s Stock Advisor is a strong contender. Its consistent track record, high success rate, and affordable pricing make it one of the best values in stock research services.