Choosing to invest depends on your personal situation. We can't give you financial advice, but our free risk explorer can help you think about your options. Here are some important things to consider:
- How long you plan to invest. If you might need your money in the next few years, investing may not be right for you. Try to leave your money invested for at least 5 years. This gives time to handle ups and downs in the stock market.
- Your ability to handle losses. There is always a risk you could get back less than you put in. If you cannot afford to lose money, investing may not be suitable. Many people keep at least 3 months of income in easy-access savings. They also pay off debts before investing.
- Your comfort with risk. Values can change daily. If changes in value would make you anxious, investing might not be a good fit. Long-term returns are often higher than cash savings, but the ups and downs can be stressful.