Robinhood is a financial services company founded in 2013 by Vladimir Tenev and Baiju Bhatt, headquartered in Menlo Park, California. It offers a mobile app and website that enable users to trade stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options, and cryptocurrencies without paying commissions.
Over the years, Robinhood has expanded its services beyond commission-free trading. In March 2025, the company introduced Robinhood Strategies, a wealth management platform that provides actively managed portfolios of ETFs and individual stocks for a 0.25% annual fee, capped at $250 for Gold subscribers. This service aims to cater to users seeking more sophisticated investment options.
Additionally, Robinhood launched Robinhood Banking, offering checking and savings accounts with a 4% annual percentage yield (APY) and FDIC insurance up to $2.5 million. A unique feature of this service is the delivery of physical cash “on-demand” to customers’ doorsteps, depending on geographic location. Initially available to Robinhood Gold subscribers, these banking services are part of the company’s strategy to provide a comprehensive financial experience.
In the realm of artificial intelligence, Robinhood is developing Robinhood Cortex, an AI-powered investment tool designed to offer real-time market analysis and insights, enhancing users’ investment decisions.
However, Robinhood has also faced regulatory scrutiny. Massachusetts regulators are investigating the company’s launch of a predictive markets center that allows users to bet on outcomes of various events, including the March Madness basketball tournament. The concern is that linking betting with popular sports events could lead investors away from more traditional investments.
Despite these challenges, Robinhood continues to innovate and expand its services, aiming to democratize finance for all.