Starting your investment journey doesn’t require thousands of dollars. In fact, in 2025, you can start investing with just $100—and thanks to modern platforms, it’s easier than ever. Here’s how you can make your first $100 investment work for you.
💡 1. Choose a Low-Cost Brokerage
Look for beginner-friendly investment platforms like Robinhood, Webull, SoFi, or Fidelity. These brokers offer commission-free trades, fractional shares, and low (or no) minimum deposits. That means you can buy partial shares of expensive stocks like Amazon or Tesla with just a few bucks.
📊 2. Invest in ETFs or Index Funds
With only $100, diversification is key. Instead of buying a single stock, consider ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) that give you exposure to dozens or even hundreds of companies.
Popular low-cost ETFs include:
- VOO (S&P 500 Index Fund – Vanguard)
- QQQ (Tech-heavy Nasdaq 100)
- VTI (Total U.S. Market)
These funds are less risky than single stocks and great for long-term growth.
🪙 3. Consider Fractional Shares
Don’t let high stock prices hold you back. Platforms like Fidelity or M1 Finance allow you to invest $1 in Apple, Google, or Tesla by purchasing fractional shares. That means your $100 can go into multiple companies instead of just one.
📈 4. Set Up Automatic Contributions
Turning $100 into wealth starts with consistency. Many platforms let you automate weekly or monthly deposits. Even adding $25 a month can make a big difference thanks to compound interest.
💸 5. Avoid High Fees & Stay Consistent
Watch out for hidden fees, especially if you’re considering apps with subscription models. Stick to low-fee ETFs or brokerages with transparent pricing.
And most importantly: don’t try to time the market. Time in the market beats timing the market, especially for beginners.
✅ Final Thoughts
Investing $100 might seem small, but it’s the most important step you’ll take. With the right strategy and consistency, that $100 can be the beginning of long-term financial growth. Remember: it’s not about how much you start with—it’s that you start at all.