When it comes to gift-giving, I love finding options that feel meaningful, lasting, and a little unexpected. A stock portfolio checks all those boxes—and more. It’s a gift that grows in value, teaches financial literacy, and is a powerful way to say: I believe in you and your future.
We started a stock portfolio for my daughter when she was a baby. We made our first investments in companies that were already a part of our lives (Diapers! Baby food! Apple because we FaceTime with Grandma!), very much along the lines of Warren Buffett’s advice to invest in businesses you know and believe in. Every year, we add a little more to it—choosing companies that reflect her own interests, our family values, or celebrating other strong women (e.g. direct stocks or mutual funds that invest in women-led companies). Now, it’s not just an investment in her future but also a reflection of her story.
Why a Stock Portfolio Makes an Incredible Gift
- It’s Educational. A portfolio introduces the recipient to investing, teaching them the basics of ownership, growth, and how markets work. For younger recipients, it’s a chance to learn hands-on financial skills they’ll use for life. (Though I did learn the hard way that now my daughter reminds me she’s a shareholder in Roblox whenever I ask her to stop gaming and get off the iPad.)
- It’s Personalized. You can customize the portfolio to align with their interests or life story. Maybe it’s a share of their favorite brand, a company tied to a memory you share, or one led by inspiring leadership.
- It’s Long-Lasting. Unlike toys or gadgets, a stock portfolio doesn’t get lost, broken, or forgotten. It grows with time and remains a thoughtful reminder of your gift for years to come.
- It’s Flexible. You don’t need a huge budget to get started. Even a single share of stock can be a meaningful gift that inspires curiosity and engagement.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Choose the Basics.
If you’re gifting to a child, coordinate with their parents about how to structure the gift. A custodial account is a great way to invest for kids. You could also give or start simply with a check earmarked for investing or a contribution to their college fund. You can pair this with a book or note explaining your vision for the gift.
Step 2: Pick Meaningful Stocks
Choose stocks that reflect the recipient’s interests, milestones, or shared values. For kids, consider companies they recognize, and/or, you can focus on stocks that embody your values—like investing in women-led businesses (e.g., I can explain why we hold Ulta vs. Sephora) or eco-conscious brands.
Step 3: Add Over Time
A stock portfolio becomes even more meaningful when you contribute to it regularly. Consider adding to the portfolio each year, especially for milestones or special occasions (e.g. a share of stock in lieu of a piece of plastic for the 3rd birthday). This not only helps the investment grow but also reinforces the idea of long-term financial planning.
A Gift That Keeps Growing
Giving a stock portfolio can be a thoughtful, long-term gesture, going beyond the moment. So, this year, skip the stuff that won’t last and give something that will. A stock portfolio might just be the most magical gift they never expected.