Start investing your way — from just $100/month

When you're ready to start investing, the next big questions you might ask are: ‘How?’ and ‘What if I only have $100 a month?’ Whether you prefer doing it yourself or letting an app handle it for you, there are plenty of beginner-friendly ways to invest consistently without stress. Remember: you don’t need to be rich to invest, but it pays to be consistent. Starting small is still starting, and that’s what counts.

Before you dive into investing, make sure you've got your basics covered, and that starts with an emergency fund. Aim to save at least 3 to 6 months' worth of essential expenses. This acts as your financial safety net in case you lose your job, fall sick, or face any unexpected costs. Investing without this buffer can backfire, especially if you’re forced to pull out your investments early during a market dip.

Now that’s out of the way, let’s explore your options, all based on the same starting point: $100/month.

1. Regular Savings Plans (RSPs)
   
   Best for: Beginners who want to build a habit without thinking too much

   RSPs let you automatically invest a fixed amount into ETFs, unit trusts, or even blue-chip stocks every month. You just set it and leave it aside.

   • Start from $100/month with platforms
   • Allows you to buy more when prices are low
   • Limited investment choices, but low-effort and very beginner-friendly
2. Robo-advisors
   
   Best for: Busy folks who want a smart, hands-off solution

   Robo-advisors use algorithms to build a diversified portfolio for you. You just answer a few questions about your goals and risk level, and they handle the rest.

   • Most accept $100/month contributions
   • You get broad exposure to global markets with little effort
   • Annual fees typically range from 0.3% to 0.8%
3. DIY investing
   Best for: Those who want full control and love doing research

   If you want to choose your own investment products, you can open a brokerage account.

   • Flexibility to build your own portfolio
   • Lower fees, but also higher risk if you’re not careful
   • You’ll need to research and monitor your investments regularly

   Tip: Start with diversified ETFs if you want diversification without needing to pick individual stocks.

4. Financial advisors
   
   Best for: People who want tailored guidance

   Human advisors can help set financial goals and recommend investment products. Some work on commission, others charge fees directly, so always ask how they get paid.

   • Some advisors work with clients investing as little as $100/month
   • More personalised advice, especially if your finances are complex
   • May cost more over time due to hidden product fees or sales charges

   Pro tip: If you go with an advisor, prioritise fee-based advisors (paid by you) over commission-based ones (paid by product providers).

So, which path suits you best?

• Like to keep things simple? Go with an RSP or robo-advisor.
• Prefer hands-on control? Try DIY investing (but start with research!).
• Need someone to guide you? A financial advisor could be worth it (just take note of the fees they’re charging)

The most important thing is to start now, not later. Your $100/month today could grow into something much bigger down the road, and the habit you build is worth even more.

Always remember, diversify your portfolio to minimise your risks of losing everything in one fell swoop. It’s like having several playlists for different moods.

Potentially high returns typically mean high risks!