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Investing 101 by Michele Cagan

Investing 101

by Michele Cagan, CPA
★★★★☆
4/5
FinanceInvesting

Summary

"Investing 101" offers a clear and approachable introduction to the world of investing. Written by a certified public accountant, the book breaks down complex financial topics into digestible chapters that explain everything from stocks, bonds, and mutual funds to retirement accounts and risk tolerance.

It’s designed specifically for beginners who want to start building wealth through long-term financial planning and strategic investment decisions.

Key Takeaways

1. Start with a Plan
Successful investing begins with clear financial goals and an understanding of your risk tolerance.

2. Diversification is Critical
Spreading your money across different investment types helps reduce risk.

3. Understand What You Invest In
Don’t blindly follow trends. Always research the assets you’re putting your money into.

4. Time is Your Best Friend
Compound interest and long-term growth reward those who invest early and consistently.

5. Retirement Planning is a Priority
Take advantage of tax-advantaged retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s to prepare for the future.

Favorite Quotes

"The earlier you begin investing, the more time your money has to grow."
"The biggest mistake new investors make is trying to time the market."
"Investing isn't about getting rich quickly—it's about building wealth steadily over time."

Personal Reflection

As someone new to personal finance at the time, this book gave me the confidence to take control of my financial future. It demystified the language of investing and helped me understand how to start building a simple, solid portfolio. I still recommend it to anyone who says, “I want to start investing, but I don’t know how.”

Who Should Read This

This book is ideal for:

  • Young adults beginning their financial journey
  • Professionals with zero investing background
  • Anyone who feels overwhelmed by financial jargon
  • Readers seeking a no-nonsense, practical investing primer