How to Get Stock Alerts and Set Them Up

Stock alerts are automated notifications designed to inform individuals about specific changes or events related to a particular stock. These alerts allow investors to stay updated on market movements without the need for constant, manual monitoring of stock prices or news. By providing timely information, stock alerts help individuals make informed decisions, potentially assisting with identifying trading opportunities or managing risk.

Understanding Alert Types

Stock alerts can be categorized by the specific criteria that trigger their notification. Price-based alerts are common, notifying users when a stock reaches a predetermined price target, experiences a certain percentage change, or hits a 52-week high or low. For instance, an alert might trigger if a stock’s value rises or falls by 5%, or if it crosses a specific price point.

Volume-based alerts signal unusual trading activity, such as a significant increase or decrease in the number of shares traded. High relative volume, for example, can indicate heightened investor interest or important news surrounding a company.

News and event alerts provide notifications related to company-specific announcements or broader market developments. This category includes alerts for earnings reports, dividend declarations, merger and acquisition news, or changes in analyst ratings. Such alerts keep individuals informed about fundamental events that could influence a stock’s valuation.

Technical indicator alerts are based on specific patterns or metrics derived from a stock’s price and volume data. Examples include alerts for moving average crossovers, where a short-term average crosses a long-term average, or when a technical indicator like the Relative Strength Index (RSI) reaches overbought or oversold levels.

Choosing Alert Platforms

Various platforms offer the ability to set up and receive stock alerts, each with its own set of features and integration levels. Most online brokerage firms provide integrated alert features directly within their trading platforms, accessible through web browsers or mobile applications. This offers the convenience of having alerts linked directly to one’s trading account, allowing for quick action when an alert is triggered.

Beyond brokerage platforms, numerous dedicated stock alert applications and websites specialize in market monitoring. These third-party tools often provide more advanced customization options, a wider range of alert types, and broader market coverage. Many of these services offer real-time data and can be tailored to specific investment strategies.

Additionally, many prominent financial news websites and applications offer alert services as part of their content. These platforms typically integrate alerts with their news coverage, notifying users about significant market events or company-specific headlines.

Steps to Set Up Alerts

Configuring stock alerts generally follows a similar process across different platforms, though specific navigation may vary. The initial step typically involves accessing the alert feature, often found on a stock’s detailed quote page or within a dedicated “Alerts” section of the platform.

Once in the alert setup interface, individuals select the desired alert type from available options. This could include choosing a price alert, a volume alert, a news-based alert, or one tied to a technical indicator.

The next action involves defining the precise criteria that will trigger the alert. For a price alert, this means inputting a specific target price or a percentage change threshold. For news alerts, one might specify keywords or types of company announcements to receive notifications.

After setting the criteria, individuals select their preferred notification method. Common options include push notifications directly to a mobile device, emails to a registered address, or SMS text messages. Some platforms may even offer phone calls for high-priority alerts.

Finally, it is advisable to review all the configured alert settings to ensure accuracy before confirming and activating the alert. Many platforms allow users to view and manage their active alerts, providing an opportunity to modify or deactivate them as needed.