You need to invest — or at least, that’s what people say. But should you? And if so, why and how? The capital markets, often referred to as the stock market, can appear daunting, as they are not the most user-friendly platforms available. The myriad of securities and assets available for purchase can easily overwhelm those not well-versed in the area. Before you decide to pour your life savings into the market just because a friend suggested it, let’s cover the basics.

The stock market is a place where investors buy and sell positions in various companies that issue shares for public purchase. Each stock represents a share, which is essentially a slice of a company. Investors buy multiple shares of a company or companies to add to their portfolio, or the collection of shares accumulated by an investor. Whether you are an institutional investor trading millions of dollars worth of stock, or an individual — often referred to as a retail investor — with only a few hundred dollars to your name, anyone can invest. It’s important to note, however, that while the general age requirement to invest is 18, some jurisdictions allow minors to participate through custodial accounts managed by a guardian.

For the sake of stocks, investors tend to purchase in the stock market for two main reasons: capital appreciation and dividends. Capital appreciation is the potential for the stock price to increase in value over a period of time. For example, if an investor purchased Google stock at $100 and three weeks later sold the share in Google for $130, the investor made $30 due to capital appreciation. Dividends are payments made by the company to an investor holding shares in that company, generally paid out quarterly. While dividends provide an income stream, it’s crucial to understand that dividend policies vary by company, and not all companies choose to pay dividends.

Before delving into the stock market, it’s essential to establish your investment objectives. These objectives serve as guiding principles for your investment strategy, helping you determine the appropriate level of risk, the time horizon for your investments, and the types of assets that align with your goals. For instance, saving for retirement might lead you to adopt a long-term investment strategy focused on a diversified portfolio, while a short-term goal, like a down payment on a house, may require less volatile investments.

Educating yourself on the fundamentals of investing in stocks is crucial. This includes understanding key concepts such as valuation metrics, market trends and risk management strategies. It is recommended to seek guidance from financial professionals or utilize educational resources from reputable sources. Remember, investing in the stock market carries inherent risks, including the potential for loss of capital. Certain companies are more susceptible to market volatility than others. Therefore, approaching investing with a disciplined mindset, diversifying your portfolio, and regularly reviewing and adjusting your investment strategy are key to aligning your stock purchases with your objectives and risk tolerance.

Incorporating these suggestions into your investment journey can enhance your understanding and confidence, allowing you to make informed decisions that support your financial goals. With patience, diligence and a long-term perspective, the stock market can be a powerful tool that can help you build wealth and secure your financial future.