Jun 9, 2025
How much should I invest, and when?
How to decide how much to invest and when to start — with simple rules that work for any income level or market cycle.
The answer isn’t a number, it’s a mindset.
This is one of the most common questions we get. And the truth is: there’s no magic number, but there is a smarter way to think about it.
Whether you’re starting with $5,000 or $500,000, what matters most is how you approach investing with consistency, clarity, and purpose.
Start With What You Can Afford to Leave Alone
Investing isn’t about putting everything in at once. It’s about allocating the money you won’t need for the next few years, money you’re willing to let work for you.
We suggest:
Start with your emergency savings set aside
Only invest what you can afford to leave untouched for 3–5+ years
Think in terms of percentages, not pesos or dollars
A good starting point?
10–20% of your monthly income, consistently. Or a lump sum with a clear time horizon.
When’s the Best Time to Invest?
Most people wait for the “perfect moment.” But here’s the truth:
The best time to invest is when you’re ready, and the second-best time is right now.
Trying to time the market usually leads to missed opportunities. Historically, staying invested matters far more than entering at the perfect moment.
If you’re unsure, consider dollar-cost averaging — investing in smaller amounts over time to reduce risk and build discipline.
A Better Question: What’s the Plan?
The real question isn’t how much or when. It’s: What’s the plan behind it?
Your investment amount should reflect:
Your goals (growth, income, preservation)
Your time horizon
Your risk tolerance
Your cash flow and responsibilities
A personalized strategy gives context to every dollar you invest.
Want help building your plan?
We’ll walk through your numbers, your timeline, and your objectives — and give you a clear answer built for your life.
