Investing on a Budget
When we think of investing, it should come as no surprise that the vast majority of us think of a brokerage firm with its minimum investment amounts, fees, and a litany of other financial ties that might keep us from investing.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little bit of information, even those of us without a ton of money can find a way to invest and grow that money. Knowing the right approaches make all the difference in the world.
Try the Cookie Jar Strategy
It should come as no surprise that investing and saving money are closely related. Thankfully, with the development of technology, you can go with a literal cookie jar or use an investment app that allows for smaller investments.
Think about $10-20 per week. This might not seem like much, but it can add up to a lot over time. And when you put that money to work for you, it can grow to a whole lot more, too. Being smart with how you invest that little bit of money can go a long way towards creating a nice return.
Enroll in Your Employer’s Retirement Plan
This is one of the easiest ways to invest in your retirement and one that should not be overlooked. Enrolling in your 401(k) means that your employer takes a little bit of money out of each paycheck to put towards your retirement fund.
Even better is that most employer-sponsored plans will match up to a certain amount (usually three or four percent). This is free money, people. If you can afford to chip in that amount each week, your employer will match it and you’ll have that much more in your retirement account. Your 401(k) is the easiest and best way to save and invest.
That actually was a very helpful piece. I’ve not yet started investing and the main thing that stopped me was that I don’t really have much of a capital. I guess with all these investment groups and brokers and the like, one never really sees that you can get into this business even without a huge fortune.
I’m glad my article was of help and I hope you’ll make your first investment soon. Remember, anyone can do it!
I agree with Alex, the whole investment industry is so intimidating, it seems like it’s reserved for some elite of the rich and famous. Thank you, Richard, for reminding us that it’s not so.
Helen, I understand that this can be confusing for beginners, but I hope to provide you and everyone else with some tips that will bring you to financial security.