Start Investing with $100—Yes, It’s Really That Simple. Think you need thousands to invest? Think again. In 2025, it’s easier than ever to start investing with $100. With smart tools, fractional shares, and micro-investing platforms, anyone can begin building real wealth—even with a tight budget.
Why Start Investing with $100?
The barrier to entry in investing has crumbled. Thanks to new technologies and lower fees, you can start investing with $100 and still see meaningful returns over time.
Here’s why it makes sense to start small:
- You build consistent financial habits early.
- Your money compounds, even in small amounts.
- You gain market experience with minimal risk.
A recent NerdWallet study found that investors who began with just $100 in diversified funds in 2015 saw average annual returns of 10% by 2023 (NerdWallet 2023).
Where to Start Investing with $100 Right Now
1. Use Micro-Investing Apps
Apps like Acorns, Stash, and Public let you begin with as little as $5. These platforms automate investing by rounding up purchases or allowing you to set recurring contributions.
Why they’re ideal:
- No experience needed.
- You get into the habit of saving and investing automatically.
- Access to curated portfolios or thematic investments.
Investopedia reports that micro-investing is one of the top entry points for Gen Z and Millennials (Investopedia 2024).
2. Buy Fractional Shares
Platforms such as Robinhood, Fidelity, and M1 Finance offer fractional investing, so you can buy a slice of any stock—whether it’s Apple, Amazon, or Google.
This means your $100 can be spread across multiple top-performing stocks instead of buying just one low-cost share.
3. Invest in ETFs
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) are low-cost, diversified, and beginner-friendly. With just $100, you can purchase ETFs that track the S&P 500 or specific sectors like tech or clean energy.
Top ETFs for beginners:
- Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI)
- SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)
- iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (AGG)
Morningstar confirms that ETF fees are now among the lowest in investing history, with some charging just 0.03% annually (Morningstar 2023).
Step-by-Step: How to Start Investing with $100
Step 1: Pick the Right Platform
Depending on your comfort level:
- Beginner-friendly: Acorns, Stash
- Active traders: Robinhood, Webull
- Hands-off investors: Betterment (robo-advisors)
Step 2: Set Up Your Account
This typically involves:
- Providing basic personal info
- Linking your bank account
- Answering a risk profile questionnaire
It usually takes just 5–10 minutes.
Step 3: Deposit Your $100
Once your account is live, fund it. Most platforms allow automatic bank transfers to make this part seamless.
Step 4: Choose Where to Invest
For your first $100, consider:
- A broad market ETF (e.g., VTI)
- A socially responsible ETF (e.g., ESGV)
- Fractional shares of your favorite brands
Step 5: Monitor & Adjust
Track your investments, but don’t panic over daily changes. Focus on learning and building discipline. Reinvest earnings and consider adding $10–$25 weekly.
Trending Ideas for Where to Start Investing with $100 in 2025
Renewable Energy
Green energy ETFs like ICLN and TAN are drawing attention as the world accelerates toward carbon neutrality.
Artificial Intelligence Funds
AI-focused ETFs like BOTZ and ARKQ are seeing big gains in 2025 due to innovation across industries.
Cryptocurrency ETFs
ETFs like BITO allow you to gain exposure to Bitcoin without directly buying crypto. A good option for those curious but cautious.
Forbes recently ranked these sectors among the best for low-budget investors in 2025 (Forbes 2025).
Best Practices When You Start Investing with $100
- Diversify: Don’t bet your $100 on one stock.
- Be consistent: Consider automating a $10 weekly contribution.
- Keep learning: Read, watch tutorials, and follow credible finance sources.
This isn’t just about returns—it’s about starting a lifelong habit of smart money management.
Risks to Consider
While investing offers growth, it comes with risks. Your $100 may drop in value temporarily, especially in volatile markets. But it’s better to gain experience now than later.
A diversified $100 investment today is not likely to make you rich overnight—but it will get you in the game.
Conclusion: Start Investing with $100—No More Excuses
There’s no perfect moment to start investing—but there is a right moment. And that moment is now.
With fractional shares, zero-commission trades, and automated apps, starting with $100 is no longer a limitation—it’s a launchpad.
Don’t wait for “more money” or “the right time.” Take action. Start investing with $100—today—and begin shaping your financial future.
References:
- NerdWallet. (2023). Best Investments for Beginners. Available at: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/investments-for-beginners
- Investopedia. (2024). How to Invest on a Shoestring Budget. Available at: https://www.investopedia.com/articles/younginvestors/07/shoestring_budget.asp
- Forbes. (2025). Top Investment Trends for 2025. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites
- Morningstar. (2023). ETF Fee Report 2023. Available at: https://www.morningstar.com
The Rise of Plant-Based Skincare: What to Know