5 Financial Literacy Basics If You Are Just Getting Started

Yusra3

VIP Contributor
1. Understand the difference between saving and investing

Saving means putting money aside in a low-risk account, such as a savings account or a certificate of deposit (CD), in order to build up a financial cushion or to have funds available for future expenses. Investing, on the other hand, means using your money to buy assets that have the potential to grow in value over time, such as stocks, bonds, or real estate.

2. Create a budget and track your spending

A budget is a plan that helps you manage your money by allocating it to different spending categories, such as housing, food, transportation, and entertainment. By tracking your spending, you can see where your money is going and make adjustments to stay on track with your budget.

3. Build an emergency fund

An emergency fund is a savings account that is set aside for unexpected expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs, or job loss. Experts recommend having enough money in your emergency fund to cover three to six months of living expenses.

4. Understand the power of compound interest

Compound interest is the interest that is earned on both the original principal and the accumulated interest of a savings or investment account. By starting to save and invest early and allowing your money to compound over time, you can build significant wealth.

5. Learn about different types of investment vehicles

There are many different ways to invest your money, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and real estate. Each has its own unique characteristics, risks, and potential rewards, so it's important to learn about the different options and choose the ones that align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
 

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