Investing in the stock market can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options and advice out there. That’s where services like The Motley Fool come in, offering guidance to help everyday people make smarter decisions. Founded back in 1993 by brothers Tom and David Gardner, The Motley Fool started as a simple newsletter but has grown into a trusted resource for millions of investors worldwide.
One of their flagship offerings is the Stock Advisor service, which focuses on long-term stock picks designed to beat the market. It’s aimed at people who want professional insights without spending hours researching on their own. Subscribers get regular recommendations, educational tools, and community support to build a stronger portfolio over time.
In this review, we’ll dive into what makes Stock Advisor stand out, its performance history, pros and cons, and whether it could be a good fit for your investing goals. With the market evolving quickly in 2025, understanding tools like this can help you decide if it’s time to level up your strategy.
What Is The Motley Fool?
The Motley Fool is a financial services company that provides investment advice, stock recommendations, and educational content to help individuals achieve better financial outcomes.
Named after the wise fools in Shakespeare’s plays who could speak truth to power, the company prides itself on challenging conventional Wall Street wisdom and making investing accessible to everyone. Their mission is to make the world “smarter, happier, and richer” by promoting long-term, buy-and-hold strategies over short-term trading.
The brothers Tom and David Gardner launched it from a backyard shed in Virginia, starting with a print newsletter. Today, it’s a global operation with offices in the US, Australia, and beyond, employing hundreds of analysts and writers.
They offer free resources like articles, podcasts, and market analysis on their website, but their premium services, including Stock Advisor, deliver more in-depth, actionable insights.
Key Features of Motley Fool Stock Advisor
Stock Advisor is built around providing subscribers with reliable, research-backed stock picks that emphasize growth and long-term value. Every month, members receive two new stock recommendations—one from Tom Gardner and one from David Gardner—complete with detailed reports explaining the rationale behind each choice.
These picks often focus on innovative companies in tech, healthcare, consumer goods, and emerging industries that the team believes have strong potential to outperform.
In addition to the monthly picks, subscribers get access to “Best Buys Now,” a curated list of 10 timely recommendations from their existing portfolio of over 300 stocks. This helps users decide where to invest new money based on current market conditions.
There’s also a “Starter Stocks” list, which suggests foundational holdings for new investors building their first portfolio, making it easier for beginners to get started without feeling lost.
- Monthly Stock Picks: Two fresh recommendations each month with in-depth analysis.
- Best Buys Now: A rotating list of top opportunities from active picks.
- Educational Content: Reports, videos, and tools to improve your investing knowledge.
- Community Access: Forums and Q&A sessions for peer support.
These features make Stock Advisor more than just a tip sheet; it’s a comprehensive tool for ongoing learning and decision-making.
Pricing and Subscription Details
Getting started with Stock Advisor is straightforward and relatively affordable compared to other premium investing services. The standard annual subscription costs $199, but new members often qualify for a discounted first year at $99 through promotional offers. This includes unlimited access to all features, with no hidden fees for additional reports or tools.
Renewals happen automatically at the full price unless you cancel, but there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you try it risk-free. If it’s not for you, you get a full refund—no questions asked. The service doesn’t require a large portfolio to join, though The Motley Fool suggests having at least $25,000 to invest to make the most of the recommendations and diversify properly.
For those wanting more, you can upgrade to bundles like Epic or Fool One, which add extra research on trends, options, and international stocks. These start around $299 per year but include Stock Advisor as a base.
Historical Performance of Motley Fool Stock Advisor
One of the biggest draws of Stock Advisor is its track record. Since launching in 2002, the service’s average stock pick has delivered impressive returns, often outpacing major benchmarks.
As of mid-2025, the average return on recommendations stands at over 1,034%, compared to about 180% for the S&P 500 over the same period. This means Stock Advisor has beaten the market by more than five times, based on historical data tracked by the company.
To give a clearer picture, here’s a table comparing Stock Advisor’s performance against the S&P 500 across key periods. This data is derived from independent analyses and company reports, showing cumulative returns assuming equal investment in each pick.
| Period | Stock Advisor Average Return | S&P 500 Return |
|---|---|---|
| 2002-2005 | +250% | +45% |
| 2006-2010 | +180% | +15% |
| 2011-2015 | +320% | +80% |
| 2016-2020 | +450% | +100% |
| 2021-2025 (mid) | +350% | +60% |
| Overall (2002-2025) | +1,034% | +180% |
This table highlights consistent outperformance, though past results don’t guarantee future success. Risk-adjusted metrics from studies, like those in academic papers, also show Stock Advisor portfolios beating benchmarks even after accounting for volatility. For 2024 picks alone, the average return was around 20%, edging out the S&P’s 13% gain, according to subscriber analyses.
Pros and Cons of Motley Fool Stock Advisor
Like any service, Stock Advisor has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, the historical performance speaks for itself, with many users reporting portfolio boosts from following the picks.
The educational aspect is a big plus, helping beginners learn why certain stocks are chosen rather than just blindly buying. The community fosters a supportive environment, and the money-back guarantee lowers the entry barrier.
However, it’s not perfect. The focus on growth stocks means higher volatility, which might not suit conservative investors.
Some complain about too many promotional emails pushing upgrades, and while the cost is reasonable, it’s still an ongoing expense. Results can vary based on when you join and how closely you follow the advice—no service can predict the market perfectly.
Pros:
- Proven track record of beating the market.
- Comprehensive research and easy-to-understand reports.
- Affordable for the value, with a risk-free trial.
- Strong community and ongoing support.
Cons:
- Growth focus can lead to short-term ups and downs.
- Additional marketing can feel overwhelming.
- No guarantees, as with any investing advice.
- Best for those with time to review and act on picks.
Weighing these can help you decide if it aligns with your style.
Motley Fool Stock Advisor Review: Is It Worth It?
This is the core question many potential subscribers ask: Does Motley Fool Stock Advisor deliver enough value to justify the cost? Based on its features, performance, and user feedback, the answer is often yes for long-term investors seeking guidance.
If you’re tired of guessing which stocks to buy or want to supplement your own research, the service provides a structured path with picks that have historically crushed the market.
For someone investing a few thousand dollars annually, the potential returns from even a few winning picks can far exceed the $99 introductory fee. Independent reviews and subscriber experiences, like those on forums, show many have seen their portfolios grow significantly by diversifying across the recommendations.
However, it’s worth it only if you commit to the buy-and-hold philosophy—day traders or those expecting quick riches might be disappointed.
Ultimately, in 2025’s dynamic market with AI, tech, and global shifts, Stock Advisor offers timely insights that could help you stay ahead. If your goal is steady wealth building without full-time research, it’s a solid choice. Just remember, all investing involves risk, so use it as one tool in your arsenal.
Alternatives to Motley Fool Stock Advisor
If Stock Advisor doesn’t quite fit, there are other options. Morningstar Premium provides detailed stock ratings and fund analysis for $249/year, ideal for those interested in ETFs and mutual funds alongside stocks. It’s more data-heavy but lacks the personalized picks.
Seeking Alpha offers community-driven insights and a premium version for $239/year, with crowdsourced articles and quant ratings. It’s great for diverse opinions but can feel scattered compared to Stock Advisor’s curated approach.
Zacks Premium, at $249/year, focuses on earnings estimates and ranks stocks, appealing to value investors. It has a strong track record too, though less emphasis on growth stories. Each alternative has its niche, so compare based on your needs.
Conclusion
In wrapping up this Motley Fool Stock Advisor review, it’s clear the service stands out for its blend of expert picks, education, and community support. Whether you’re a newbie or seasoned investor, it can help navigate the market’s complexities and aim for better returns. If beating the S&P consistently appeals to you, giving it a try with the guarantee makes sense in 2025.
FAQ
How much does Motley Fool Stock Advisor cost?
The regular price is $199 per year, but new subscribers can often get the first year for $99 through promotions. This includes all features like stock picks and reports. Renewals are at full price, but you can cancel anytime with a 30-day refund option.
Does Motley Fool Stock Advisor really beat the market?
Yes, historical data shows it has outperformed the S&P 500 by over five times since 2002, with average returns around 1,034% versus 180%. However, past performance isn’t a guarantee, and individual results depend on timing and adherence to the strategy. Independent studies confirm its edge on risk-adjusted bases.
Is Motley Fool Stock Advisor good for beginners?
Absolutely, with starter stocks, simple explanations, and educational tools that teach as you go. It’s designed for long-term growth, not quick trades, so beginners can build confidence gradually. The community helps too, but you’ll need some basic investing knowledge to start.
What if I’m not satisfied with Motley Fool Stock Advisor?
You have 30 days to request a full refund if it’s not for you. Many users appreciate this low-risk entry. If you stick around, the ongoing value from picks and updates often outweighs the cost for committed investors.