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How to Refresh Excel Stocks Data on iPad

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to refresh Excel Stocks data types on an iPad, as the data updates properly on a computer but lacks a refresh option on the mobile app.

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: iPadOS
Scenario: Attempting to update linked stock market data types within a spreadsheet while working on an iPad.
Observed behavior: Excel for iPad does not provide a reliable method or a dedicated refresh button to update Stocks data types or external connections.

Before you start

Ensure your iPad is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network, as fetching real-time stock market data requires an active internet connection.

Solution 1Recommended

Understand iPad Limitations and Submit Feedback

Currently, Excel for iPad does not natively support manual refresh buttons for data types like Stocks. The official recommendation is to submit a feature request to Microsoft.

While Microsoft Excel fully supports refreshing linked data types (such as Stocks and Geography) on Windows and Mac desktop applications, this feature is currently omitted from the iPadOS and iOS mobile versions.

Because there is no hidden menu or button to force a refresh on the iPad, users are encouraged to submit direct feedback so developers can prioritize this feature in future updates.

Open the Excel App

Launch the Microsoft Excel app on your iPad and ensure you are on the main file management screen or 'Home' tab.

Access Your Profile

Tap on your profile icon located in the upper-left corner of the screen to open the account menu.

Navigate to Help & Support

From the account menu, select 'Help & Support'.

Submit Feedback

Choose the option to submit feedback or suggest a feature, and request the addition of a 'Refresh Data Types' button for the iPad version.

Current Workaround: To get the latest stock prices, you must open the spreadsheet on a desktop version of Excel (Windows or Mac), click 'Refresh All' on the Data tab, let it sync to OneDrive, and then reopen the updated file on your iPad.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I refresh external data connections on Excel for iOS?

Currently, Excel for iOS (both iPad and iPhone) does not support refreshing external data connections, Power Query, or linked data types. These operations must be performed on a desktop version of Excel.

Why are my Excel stocks not updating automatically?

Stock data types in Excel do not stream live updates continuously. They require a manual refresh triggered by the user. Since the iPad app lacks this refresh button, the data remains static until updated on a supported desktop platform.

Is there any workaround to view updated stock prices on my iPad?

The most reliable workaround is to open your workbook on a PC or Mac, refresh the stock data there, save the file to a cloud service like OneDrive, and then reopen the newly saved file on your iPad to view the latest prices.

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