It's absolutely clear that one of the most amazing innovations shaking up both the consumer retail and industrial sectors is 3D printing machinery, also known in the tech world as additive manufacturing (AM). This revolutionary process, turning digital blueprints into tangible objects, is something investors should have on their radar when researching the best 3D printing stocks to buy.
What might come as a surprise to many is the lengthy history behind this incredible invention. Originally, 3D printers made their debut in the technology sector during the mid-1990s. It wasn't until the early 2010s, however, that these machines began grabbing headlines again, this time seeing significant consumer-level interest and market penetration. But it’s only now, in recent times, that a truly compelling investment narrative for these stocks has emerged.
Today, we're diving deep into the world of 3D printing stocks, showing you the best picks in this booming sector.
Quick Look at the Best 3D Printing Stocks:
Overview
The journey of 3D printing from a concept to a utilitarian innovation is nothing short of astounding. While it's easy for today’s consumers to take this technology for granted, its origins can be traced all the way back to the 1970s, with the first experimental steps taken in 1981.
Over the following decades, several engineers from around the globe contributed to turning the dream of commercially viable AM machines into reality. By the mid-90s, companies like Stratasys, in collaboration with giants like IBM, brought 3D printers to the mainstream market. The result? A surge in interest and revenue in the late 2000s to early 2010s.
The spotlight shone even brighter on this burgeoning sector when it was mentioned by former President Barack Obama in his State of the Union address in 2013, sending several 3D printing stocks soaring. Yet, despite the initial excitement, high costs and technological limitations prevented widespread consumer adoption. However, the landscape is changing rapidly, with the global 3D printing market expected to explode to $62.79 billion by 2028. The reason? The technology's application ranges from healthcare and architecture to forensics and even archaeology.
Best Online Brokers for 3D Printing Stocks
In the early days, investing in cutting-edge technology required traditional brokers, presenting an ironic barrier at a time when the world was becoming increasingly innovative. Thankfully, the advent of mobile investment apps has transformed access to the capital markets, allowing for commission-free trading and other perks previously unheard of.
Choosing the best online broker for your 3D printing stock investments ultimately depends on personal preference, especially since the sector encompasses everything from blue-chip stalwarts to speculative SPACs. Below, we highlight some top brokers to consider for your portfolio.
Features to Look for in 3D Printing Stocks
- Multiple applications: The best 3D printing companies offer products and services across a range of industries, from healthcare to defense, ensuring multiple streams of revenue and broader market acceptance.
- Right timing: Investing in 3D printing stocks requires a keen sense of timing. With the sector known for its boom-bust cycles, being strategic about when to buy or sell is crucial.
- Fiscal endurance: Given the competitive nature of the 3D printing sector, look for companies with strong balance sheets or positive earnings, signaling the potential for long-term profitability.
Dramatic Upside if You Can Handle the Heat
From a niche market to a utility service affecting many aspects of modern life, 3D printing is revolutionizing numerous industries. For investors willing to navigate the sector's volatility, the potential rewards are significant, offering dramatic returns on investment for those who choose the best stocks at the right time.
Frequently Asked Questions
In the rapidly evolving world of 3D printing stocks, ensuring you're equipped with the latest information will be key to making informed investment decisions. As this sector continues to grow, keep an eye out for opportunities to capitalize on this transformative technology.
By understanding the landscape, timing your investments wisely, and selecting companies with the right attributes, you might just find that 3D printing stocks are the perfect addition to your investment portfolio, offering both excitement and substantial growth potential.
