Understanding U.S. Stock Prices and Single-Share Purchases

Introduction

The U.S. stock market, one of the largest and most dynamic financial markets globally, attracts investors worldwide, including those from China seeking to understand stock prices and trading mechanisms. This article addresses two key questions: the prices of major U.S. stocks and whether investors can purchase stocks one share at a time. Based on a recent inquiry, we provide a comprehensive overview using real-time market data as of August 23, 2025, and practical insights into single-share purchases.

Major U.S. Stock Prices as of August 23, 2025

The U.S. stock market comprises major indices like the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), and Nasdaq Composite, which reflect the performance of leading companies. Below is a snapshot of key indices and select stocks based on real-time financial data and market updates:

Key Indices

• S&P 500 (SPY): Closed at 645.31 USD, up 1.53% from the previous day's close of 635.55 USD. The index hit a daily high of 646.50 USD and a low of 637.25 USD, with a year-to-date range of 481.80 USD to 646.50 USD.
• Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA): Reached a record high, closing at 45,631.74 points, up 846.24 points or 1.89%.
• Nasdaq Composite (IXIC): Closed at 21,496.53 points, gaining 396.22 points or 1.88%.
• S&P 500 Index (US500): Ended at 6,466.91 points, up 96.74 points or 1.52%.

Notable Stocks

Several major stocks drove market performance, influenced by macroeconomic factors like anticipated Federal Reserve interest rate cuts:

1. Tesla (TSLA): Jumped approximately 5% on August 22, 2025, driven by optimism around solid-state battery technology and vehicle price increases. The stock saw a weekly gain of 6.22%, with an estimated price range of 350–400 USD (exact price requires real-time verification).
2. Nvidia (NVDA): Traded at around 181 USD (based on unverified X posts), with a 1.3% daily increase and a remarkable 2.7x return in 2024, fueled by its leadership in AI.
3. Apple (AAPL): Rose over 2% year-to-date, trading around 207.39 USD, boosted by AI-driven upgrades like an enhanced Siri.
4. Goldman Sachs (GS): Gained 3% weekly, benefiting from positive sentiment in the financial sector following Federal Reserve stress tests and shareholder return plans.
5. Northrop Grumman (NOC): Hit an intraday high of 600.99 USD, a 31-year peak, before closing down 0.9%, driven by defense sector interest amid geopolitical tensions.

Market Drivers

The market rally was propelled by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s hints at a potential September rate cut, with market pricing for a cut rising to 91.1%. A declining U.S. dollar (down 1.3%), falling Treasury yields, and rising gold and oil prices further supported risk assets. Financial, energy, and AI-related stocks outperformed, while consumer cyclical stocks lagged.

Note on Data

Stock prices fluctuate in real time, and investors should consult platforms like Yahoo Finance or Bloomberg for precise quotes. The S&P 500 (SPY) data is sourced from financial dashboards, while individual stock prices draw from web and social media insights, requiring verification for accuracy.

Can You Buy U.S. Stocks One Share at a Time?

A common question for new investors, particularly from regions like China, is whether U.S. stocks can be purchased individually, unlike markets with minimum lot sizes (e.g., Hong Kong’s “board lots”). The answer is a resounding yes—U.S. stocks can be bought one share at a time, offering flexibility for retail investors.

Single-Share Purchases

• No Minimum Share Requirement: Unlike some markets, the U.S. allows purchases of as little as one share. For example, an investor can buy a single share of Tesla or Apple through any major brokerage.
• Fractional Shares: Many U.S. brokers, such as Robinhood, Fidelity, Charles Schwab, and Interactive Brokers, offer fractional share trading. This allows investors to buy less than one share, ideal for high-priced stocks. For instance, with 100 USD, an investor could purchase 0.25 shares of Tesla if the price is 400 USD.
• Brokerage Platforms: Investors can use platforms like Tiger Brokers, Futu Securities, or international brokers like Interactive Brokers. Many offer commission-free trading, reducing costs for single-share purchases.

How to Buy Single Shares

1. Open a Brokerage Account: Choose a regulated broker (SEC-registered for U.S. brokers). Popular options for Chinese investors include Tiger Brokers and Futu Securities.
2. Fund and Trade: Deposit funds, search for a stock by its ticker (e.g., TSLA for Tesla), and place a buy order for one share or a fractional amount.
3. Fractional Share Option: Some platforms allow “dollar-based investing,” where you specify an amount (e.g., 50 USD), and the platform allocates the equivalent share fraction.
4. Monitor Fees: While many brokers offer zero-commission trades, watch for account maintenance or currency conversion fees, especially for non-U.S. residents.

Practical Considerations

• Liquidity: The U.S. market’s high liquidity ensures seamless single-share transactions, even for volatile stocks.
• Tax Implications: Non-U.S. investors may face capital gains or dividend withholding taxes (e.g., 30%, depending on tax treaties). Consulting a tax advisor is advisable.
• Risk Management: Single-share purchases allow diversification but carry risks, especially for volatile tech stocks. Beginners should start small and research thoroughly.
• Trading Hours: U.S. markets operate from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM Eastern Time, with T+0 trading rules allowing same-day buying and selling.

Example

To buy one share of Tesla (TSLA) at approximately 350–400 USD, an investor would log into their brokerage, enter the ticker “TSLA,” select “buy,” and specify one share. For limited budgets, fractional shares enable participation with as little as 10 USD.

Recommendations for Investors

• Real-Time Price Checks: Use Yahoo Finance, Google Finance, or brokerage apps for up-to-date stock prices.
• Start Small: Test single-share or fractional purchases to understand market dynamics.
• Learn the Basics: Study U.S. market rules, trading hours, and fundamental analysis to make informed decisions.
• Diversify: Avoid concentrating investments in one stock to mitigate risk.

Conclusion

The U.S. stock market offers significant opportunities, with major stocks like Tesla, Nvidia, and Apple driving growth amid favorable conditions like anticipated rate cuts. As of August 23, 2025, key indices and stocks are near record highs, reflecting strong investor confidence. Additionally, the ability to buy stocks one share at a time, or even in fractional amounts, makes the market accessible to investors of all levels. By leveraging regulated brokers and real-time data, investors can confidently participate in this vibrant market. For specific stock prices or detailed trading guidance, platforms like Tiger Brokers or Yahoo Finance are invaluable resources.