Investing in the Share Market: A Beginner’s Guide You’ll Actually Understand

27 July

Let’s be real: the world of investing can feel like it’s built to confuse you.
Between the charts, acronyms, and “finance bro” energy, it’s no wonder so many women feel like it’s not for them.

But here’s the truth:
You don’t need a finance degree. You don’t need to be rich.
And you don’t need to understand everything before you get started.

You just need a few basics in plain English and the confidence to begin.

So… What is investing, really?

Investing is simply using your money to grow more money over time.

Instead of letting your savings sit in a bank earning barely anything, you’re putting it to work by buying things like shares (aka stocks), ETFs, or property that can increase in value and generate income.

You’re giving your money the chance to grow with you.

The Most Important Concept: Compound Growth

This is where the magic happens.
Compound growth means you earn returns on your returns like a snowball rolling downhill, getting bigger and faster as time goes on.

That’s why starting small but starting early matters.
Even $50 a month can grow into thousands over time.

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to begin.

How to Start (Without Overwhelm)

Pick one platform.
Apps like eToro, Revolut, Vanguard, Sharesies, or even your bank's investing app are beginner friendly. Choose one that feels easy to use.
Start with an ETF.
ETFs are a great starting point because they’re diversified (you’re not betting on just one company). You can buy a small amount and see how it feels.
Decide on your “why.”
Are you investing for long term freedom? To one day buy property? Retire early? Knowing your goal will help you stay calm during ups and downs.
Invest consistently, not perfectly.
Even $20, $50, or $100 a month matters. Automate it if you can. Think long term, and don’t panic when the market wobbles, that’s normal.

You Deserve to Build Wealth Too

If no one ever taught you this it’s not your fault.
Many of us grew up thinking investing was for “other people.”
But it’s for you, too.

You don’t need to know everything before you start.
You just need to start with what you have, where you are.

Because the sooner you begin, the more your future self will thank you.

Let’s Break Down Some Common Terms (Without the Eye Rolls)

Shares/Stocks: Tiny pieces of ownership in a company. If the company does well, your shares can increase in value.
ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds): A basket of shares grouped together. It’s like buying a whole fruit salad instead of one apple. Great for beginners.
Index Fund: A type of ETF that follows a whole market (like the ASX 200 or S&P 500). Low cost and beginner friendly.
Liquidity: How quickly you can turn an investment into cash. (Shares = high liquidity. Property = low.)
Expense Ratio: The annual fee charged by a fund (like an ETF) to manage your money. Lower is usually better.
Risk Tolerance: Your personal comfort level with investment ups and downs.
Blue Chip Stocks: Well-established, stable companies with a history of strong performance.
Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA): Investing a fixed amount regularly, regardless of market ups or downs. Smooths out risk over time.
Time Horizon: How long you plan to keep your money invested before needing it.
Dividends: Cash payments some companies give shareholders, like a little thank you for investing.
Portfolio: A mix of everything you invest in shares, ETFs, etc.
Risk: The chance your investments could lose value. (Yes, it happens, but so does recovery.)
Diversification: A fancy word for “don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” By spreading your money across different investments, you reduce your risk.

Bonus: How I Personally Got Started With Investing

I used to think investing was too complicated, too risky, and honestly. But once I started learning the basics, I realised it wasn’t about being perfect, it was about being consistent.

Here’s what my investing journey looks like now:

I use a platform called eToro and CommSec Pocket because it's easy to navigate and doesn’t overwhelm me with information.
I started by investing in Vanguard ETFs. I liked that I was spreading my money across many companies instead of just picking one.
I invest a fixed amount every fortnight, no matter what the market is doing. Even if it's just $50, it keeps the habit going.
I don’t try to “time the market” or chase trends. I focus on long term growth and trust the process.
I check in with my investments once a week, not every day. That helps me stay calm and not emotionally react to every little rise or dip.

What’s made the biggest difference?
Treating investing like an act of self respect not something I need to get perfect.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is based on my personal experience and is for educational purposes only. It is not financial advice. Always do your own research or speak to a licensed financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Abeer Verma