Every morning, especially during the summer months, it's common to see lines forming at coffee stands. A cup of latte, a chocolate muffin, or a croissant—these small indulgences seem to kickstart the day. However, when such "little pleasures" become daily routines, they can accumulate into significant financial burdens. If we pause and calculate, we might find ourselves spending around 60,000 AMD monthly on coffee and similar small purchases. Did you know that this amount could be invested in Armenia?
In this blog, we'll explore how everyday habits can hinder our financial discipline and how transforming these habits into investment activities can pave the way for a more secure financial future.
THE COST OF COFFEE VS. THE VALUE OF SHARES
Imagine investing 2,000 AMD daily instead of spending it on coffee. That's approximately 60,000 AMD a month, or over 700,000 AMD a year. This sum could be used to purchase bonds in Armenia, contributing to your financial stability.
Many perceive investing as a domain reserved for those with substantial capital or complex financial instruments. In reality, investments can start with small steps. The key is to begin. And to start, one must first shift their mindset:
- Daily taxi rides instead of public transport = Shares in an international company
- Monthly payments for 3–4 unused apps = Investment in an ETF
- Trendy and expensive clothing that ends up unused = U.S. government bond
These examples illustrate that the issue isn't the amount of money but the choices we make. When our decisions focus solely on the present, we pay the price in our future.
HOW TO START INVESTING WITHOUT SIGNIFICANT DISRUPTIONS
Many might ask: How do I start investing if I've never been interested in the investment sector? Rest assured, it's much simpler than it seems.
- Clarify Your Goals: Understanding your objectives will help you choose the right investment direction.
- Start Small: No one requires you to invest millions. Begin with 50,000–60,000 AMD monthly, within your means.
- Explore International Investment Platforms: Through platforms like Unibank Invest, you can make reliable investments in globally renowned companies and earn stable income.
- Maintain Financial Discipline: Investing requires as much care as sports or a healthy diet. If you're ready to hit the gym three times a week, you can also set aside funds and "train" your portfolio.
ADJUST DAILY HABITS WITHOUT FEELING DEPRIVED
This doesn't mean you have to give up coffee or live under strict limitations. It's about making conscious choices. If you buy coffee 15 times a month, try reducing that number to 5. Invest the remaining funds. This way, you'll enjoy pleasant mornings and a financially stable future. Starting today, you can begin altering small habits for significant outcomes. Coffee offers momentary pleasure, but shares provide long-term confidence in your future.
CONCLUSION
Next time you're about to make another small purchase, pause and consider: Does this bring you closer to your financial goals? If not, perhaps today is the perfect day to invest instead of buying coffee.
Remember, investments don't start with large sums but with a change in mindset. Financial discipline begins with the simple choices you make today.
HOW TO INVEST?
Open a free brokerage account with Unibank Invest and start investing. The Unibank Invest app provides access to the world’s largest stock exchanges, enabling you to purchase international investment instruments, such as stocks, bonds, and ETFs.
To open a brokerage account, fill out the online application or call +374 43 004 382.