Global Investment Bank

It’s important to understand each instrument and how much risk it carries. The most popular investments for those just starting out include:

One common investment goal is retirement. If you have a retirement account at work, like a 401(k), and it offers matching dollars, your first investing milestone is easy: Contribute at least enough to that account to earn the full match. That's free money, and you don't want to miss out on it.

There will be ups and downs in the stock market, of course, but investing young means you have decades to ride them out — and decades for your money to grow. Start now, even if you have to start small.

Investing when you’re young is one of the best ways to see solid returns on your money. That's thanks to compound earnings, which means your investment returns start earning their own return.

For other investing goals, consider your time horizon and the amount you need, then work backwards to break that amount down into monthly or weekly investments.

Your capital is at risk. You should not spend more than you can afford to lose and should ensure that you fully understand the risks involved.