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Getting started

How much money do you need to start investing?

Reviewed 11 October 2026

The short answer

Many brokers let you start with a small amount, sometimes the price of a single share or less with fractional shares. What matters more than the starting sum is having emergency savings first, paying off expensive debt, keeping fees low relative to what you invest and only investing money you can leave alone for years.

Investing involves risk and you can lose money. This page explains general ideas; it is not personal financial, tax or investment advice.

Many people delay investing because they think they need a large sum to begin. In practice, many providers now let you start with small amounts or regular monthly contributions.

The more important question is not the minimum, but how much you can comfortably set aside after essential spending and emergency savings, and leave invested for years.

Part 1

Sort these out first

Before investing, build an emergency fund and clear high-interest debt.

  • Emergency savings, often a few months of essential costs
  • No expensive credit card or loan debt
  • Money you will not need for at least five years

Part 2

Small amounts work, if fees are small too

A fixed fee of a few euro on a small purchase can wipe out a large share of a year's growth.

Compare the broker's trading fees, account fees and currency charges. Fractional shares and regular investment plans can make small amounts more practical.

Part 3

Regular investing

Investing a fixed amount each month builds the habit and spreads your purchases over time.

This is sometimes called euro-cost or pound-cost averaging. It does not guarantee a profit, but it avoids the pressure of choosing one perfect moment.

Part 4

What to start with

Many beginners start with a broad, low-cost fund before choosing individual companies.

If you do buy individual shares, keep each one a small part of the total and make sure you can explain what the company does.

How Mesodian helps

Read the beginner guide

Every step from your goal to your first purchase.

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Index funds explained

A common first investment, compared simply.

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Invest for the future

Build towards long-term goals.

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Common questions

Can I start investing with €100?

Often, yes. Many brokers accept small amounts or fractional shares. Check that fees are a small share of what you invest, and keep emergency savings first.

Is it better to invest a lump sum or monthly?

Historically a lump sum has often done better because money is invested for longer, but monthly investing reduces the regret of investing just before a fall. Many beginners prefer regular amounts.

How much should a beginner invest each month?

Only an amount you can comfortably keep investing after bills, savings and debt repayments. Consistency matters more than size.

Official and independent sources

Keep going

How do I start investing?How do I know what to invest in?How do I understand and manage my investments?How do I start investing in Ireland?How do I start investing in Europe?How do I start investing in the UK?What are the basics of investing?How do I invest in index funds?How do I invest in AI?What are stock market sectors?How do European stocks work?What is the FTSE 100?Well-known companies, explained for beginners

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