SMG InvestQuest™
An interactive investment simulation that challenges you to think strategically, diversify your assets and plan for the long term. It gives a glimpse of The Stock Market Game in a single sitting, as a standalone activity or a warm-up for the full game.
A quick, real-data investing challenge
Players start with $100,000 in virtual cash and three years to build a portfolio. Each press of the play button advances one quarter. Stock charts, company news and market commentary from historical data guide each decision.
Choose from index funds, sector ETFs, individual stocks and bond funds. Each level sets diversification rules; fall out of compliance and you are prompted to rebalance.
At the end, a performance report compares your strategy with the S&P 500 and other players on a leaderboard. Then we encourage you to join a semester or year-long Stock Market Game.
Alone at your own pace, or as a class
Singleplayer lets anyone play at their own pace. Multiplayer lets a teacher host a game: teams join a lobby with a code, play through at their own speed, and compare results together at the end.
- Index funds such as SPY and QQQ, sector ETFs, well-known stocks and bond funds
- Real historical prices and news from the period being simulated
- Quarterly market updates, tips and a glossary of investing terms
- Cash earns 0.2% interest; bond funds pay interest twice a year
- Replay as often as you like with a different strategy
Three levels of challenge
Every level teaches diversification and a long-term view; the rules get stricter as you go.
Learn the basics
Definitions, tips and simpler allocation rules for first-time investors.
Balance risk
Minimum shares for index or sector funds and bonds push you to diversify.
Think like a manager
Tighter allocation requirements and more decisions each quarter.
Play in four moves
Pick a level
Beginner, intermediate or advanced. Each level sets minimum shares for index funds and bonds.
Build a portfolio
Spread your $100,000 across funds, stocks and bonds on the Trade screen.
Read the news
Each quarter brings market updates and company headlines. Rebalance if you need to.
See your results
After three simulated years, compare your return with the S&P 500 and the leaderboard.
Common questions
Is registration required?
No. SMG InvestQuest is available without registration. Teachers and parents are encouraged to register for The Stock Market Game for the full experience.
Are there age requirements?
No. It is designed to teach long-term investing decisions, and some players may benefit from playing with a parent, teacher or other adult.
Does it use real data?
Yes. Prices and news summaries reflect historical market data.
Are awards offered?
No, but you get a detailed performance report comparing your results with benchmarks and a leaderboard.
Is there a time limit?
No. Most players finish in 30–40 minutes, and you can play at your own pace.
Connected programs
Ready for the full game?
Take what you learned into a semester or year-long Stock Market Game with competitions, curriculum and expert insights.