How to Look Up Stocks Based on Price
Current prices can be a starting point for stock market analysis.
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Price is often a prime consideration when implementing an investment strategy. Funds on hand determine whether you can invest in a stock, how many shares your dollars will buy and may indicate a need to reallocate stocks you already own in order to free up money. Looking up stocks based on price can show you what is available in your price range and either satisfy your curiosity or provide a starting point for further research and analysis.
Process
Step 1Enter the term “Stock Screener” in your favorite Internet search engine. This is an interactive tool for identifying stocks that fit specific criteria such as price. Expect to see a variety of free screeners on sites such as MarketWatch and the Wall Street Journal.
Step 2Review the available screeners and find one that suits your needs. Some such as the MarketWatch screener are quite simple while others such as the screener on the Wall Street Journal site provide a variety of “search by price” options.
Step 3Enter your search criteria and start the search. You may, depending on the site you choose, be able to enter criteria such as a straight price range, a price range based on percentage -- increase or decrease – within a specific time period or a price based on trading volumes on the opening screen. Others may require that you first select a category – “Base” or “Share Data” are both good choices -- and then define specific criteria such as “Closing Price,” “Price Increase/Decrease” or “Earnings Per Share.”
Step 4Customize how you will view results, if applicable, and see a list of stocks that match your search criteria. For example, if you are using the MarketWatch screener you have 12 customization options. If you choose the Wall Street Journal, the screen defaults to a display that includes only the ticker symbol and company name.
References
Tips
- Stock screeners can provide a variety of information in addition to searching by price. Play with the scanner to uncover additional ways you can use it to your benefit.
Writer Bio
Based in Green Bay, Wisc., Jackie Lohrey has been writing professionally since 2009. In addition to writing web content and training manuals for small business clients and nonprofit organizations, including ERA Realtors and the Bay Area Humane Society, Lohrey also works as a finance data analyst for a global business outsourcing company.