: Future platforms may use blockchain for settlement to increase security, reduce hacking risks, and lower transaction times.

: Digital platforms have largely eliminated high broker commissions, with many like NerdWallet reporting top brokers now charging $0 for stock trades.

: Accessibility peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic, with US stock trading participation jumping from 15% in 2019 to 25% by 2021. Advantages for Modern Investors

: The "gamification" of trading apps can make investing feel like gambling, potentially leading to addictive behaviors and impulsive overtrading .