Investing Basics
Investing fundamentals for beginners — compound interest, index funds, retirement accounts, and how to start without complicated jargon.
What Is Compound Interest?
Compound interest means you earn interest on your interest — and it's one of the most powerful forces in saving and investing. Here's how it works, with examples.
401(k) vs. IRA: What's the Difference (and Can You Have Both)?
A 401(k) is your employer's retirement plan; an IRA is one you open yourself. Here's how they differ on limits, matching, and choice — and why you can use both.
How to Invest in Index Funds: A Beginner's Guide
Index funds are the simplest, lowest-cost way most people build wealth. Here's how to actually buy one — step by step — plus how to pick a fund and avoid beginner mistakes.
How to Open a Roth IRA: A Step-by-Step Beginner's Guide
Opening a Roth IRA takes about 15 minutes. Here's how a Roth IRA works, who can contribute, and the exact steps to open, fund, and invest one as a beginner.
Investing for Beginners: How to Start With Little Money
A beginner's guide to investing — how to start with small amounts, what to invest in first, and common mistakes to avoid. Educational only, not investment advice.
Roth vs. Traditional IRA: Which Is Better for You?
Roth IRAs are taxed now; traditional IRAs are taxed later. Compare contribution rules, income limits, and who each account suits — in plain English.
What Is a 401(k) and How Does It Work?
A 401(k) is an employer retirement plan that lets you invest straight from your paycheck — often with free matching money. Here's how it works, in plain English.
What Is an Index Fund? A Beginner's Guide
An index fund is a low-cost investment that tracks a market index like the S&P 500. Here's how index funds work, their pros and cons, and how to start.
Acorns Review (2026): Is the Monthly Fee Worth It?
An honest Acorns review: how round-up investing works, the real cost of the flat monthly fee on small balances, who it's best for, and the trade-offs.
Public Review (2026): A No-Fee App That Grows With You
An honest Public review: commission-free stocks, ETFs, bonds and Treasuries with no monthly fee, a high-yield cash account, who it's best for, and the trade-offs.
Stash Review (2026): Fees, Stock-Back & Is It Worth It?
An honest Stash review: how its $3 and $9 plans work, the Stock-Back debit card, who it's best for, and where the flat fee and limits hold it back.