My Investing Journey: From University to Smart Stock Picks and Future Trends

Since graduating from university well over a decade ago, I embarked on an exciting journey into the world of investing. I believe in starting early, so I dedicated a percentage of my savings toward stocks and commodities. The sooner you start investing, the better—thanks to compound growth. The goal is to save and invest wisely for an abundant secure future ahead for generations.

Investing is more accessible today than ever, with many local e-banking apps allowing for easy stock trading, or popular platforms like Futubull.

Invest in Companies You Believe In

One crucial lesson I've learned is to invest in companies and products you trust or use often. For example, I invested in brands like Alibaba and Apple because I have used their products and services for years. This personal connection not only helps me keep track of how the companies are performing but also strengthens my confidence in their long-term growth. Investing in brands you understand can create a reliable foundation for your portfolio.

Invest in ETFs

Another effective strategy is investing in Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). Take VOO as an example. VOO is one of the most popular ETFs, tracking the performance of the S&P 500. According to a 2022 report from Morningstar, ETFs like VOO have provided an average annual return of about 10.5% over the past decade. Warren Buffett himself encourages such investments, especially for retirement planning, given their broad market coverage and low costs.

My Personal Picks and Stocks to Watch

The stocks I watch vary based on market conditions and insights from my husband, who excels in chart reading and technical analysis. Here are some of my current favorite stocks:

VOO

As mentioned earlier, VOO is my go-to ETF. This fund allows me to invest in the largest U.S. companies, such as Apple and Microsoft, with low management fees.

QQQ

QQQ tracks the Nasdaq-100 and offers exposure to leading tech firms. Given that technology has been growing at approximately 15% annually, I see great potential in the companies within this fund.

Tesla

Tesla is more than an electric car maker. With investments in SpaceX and Starlink, Tesla is innovating in areas like robotics and AI. Imagine a future where robots handle chores or self-driving cars navigate our streets; that’s the future I believe Tesla is working toward.

Tencent

Tencent is a major player in tech, primarily in gaming and social media, making it well positioned for sustained growth. With a market share of over 50% in mobile gaming in China, Tencent's influence remains strong.

Alibaba

Owning Taobao, Alibaba is an e-commerce giant in Asia. Its robust logistics and vast ecosystem make it a key player in online retail. The company reported over $100 billion in revenue in 2022, showcasing its market strength.

Apple

Apple's products are a daily part of life for many. Its interconnected ecosystem encourages customers to stick with its brand, leading to steady income from services and subscriptions. Apple’s dividends of $0.23 per share also add appeal for long-term investors.

Meta

Meta connects billions of users through platforms like Facebook and Instagram. As advertising revenue from these sources continues to grow, Meta taps into major revenue streams, showing promising financial results.

NVDA

NVIDIA, or NVDA, has captured attention for its breakthroughs in AI hardware and software. According to reports, it was the hottest stock in 2024, and its advancements could drive the future of AI technology.

Research Is Key

No matter how familiar you are with a company or stock, always do your homework. Understanding market dynamics, specific company performance, and broader economic trends can guide smarter investment choices. A study from Fidelity indicates that investors who take the time to research and educate themselves on their investments have 30% better return rates.

Disclaimer: This is not investment advice, and I am not liable for any losses you may incur. These are just my two cents on building a secure financial future for yourself and future generations.

Embracing the Future of Investing

My Investment Journey

Although I've acquired some valuable insights over the years, there's still a lot to learn. Beginning early has provided me with a strong foundation, and concentrating on companies I truly believe in keeps me motivated to remain involved with my investments.

Investing is a powerful tool for your future. By following core principles, you too can benefit from compound growth and a world of opportunities, whether through individual stocks or ETFs. Let's invest in what we believe and shape a brighter financial future!

Get the books I read to learn about investing & entrepreneurialism here.