Question for a beginning investor...?

I would just like to know what may be available. It seems that alot of investing tools require a large minimum invesment; but I am limited in this regard. What I am looking for is something that requires a small initial deposit, but will also allow me to make regular monthly/bi weekly deposits.

One low cost brokerage with no minimum balance is sharebuilder. For a $4 fee, you can buy as much or as little stock as you like. You can also set up an automatic deposit from your bank account on a regular basis. I have two accounts with them so I can make birthday and Christmas presents to my grandchildren.

I use Ameritrade for the funds that I invest personally. I let an investment group do most of my investing but keep a little around for me to play with. This site gives you some good tools, a real time streamer and research either free or at a low monthly cost depending upon your investment. I think most of the tools come with a deposit of $2,000 or more.

I've said this here today many times, and am almost feeling like spamming, which I apologize. But here's something you can invest (or simply buy), with no account, no name, just money, and sell off again on eBay.

It's unlikely to depreciate but possible as anything else. No minimum, just invest what you can afford to lose (and it's never failed me, always beat CD rates of 5%)

Well, I know that http://www.fidelity.com allows you to open an IRA for only $250, provided that you add $250 per month. There are probably other investment firms that have similar programs.

Scottrade.com is a good place for the beginning investor. You might also want to create a "practice" portfolio at http://www.top10traders.com - it's free - each month the site ranks the best performing investors.