Introduction
Think you need thousands to begin investing? You don’t. Thanks to modern financial platforms and tools, even $100 is enough to kick-start your investment journey. Whether you’re aiming to grow wealth slowly, learn the ropes of finance, or gain experience in the markets, this guide will walk you through 10 powerful ways to invest with just $100. Start small, stay consistent — and let your money work for you.
1. Micro-Investing Apps
Key Features:
- Invest spare change automatically
- Pre-built ETF portfolios
- Auto-deposit features
Pros:
- Beginner-friendly and easy to automate
- Encourages consistent saving habits
Cons:
- Monthly fees may outweigh returns for very small balances
- Limited customization options
Pricing:
- Acorns: $3/month (Personal), $5/month (Family)
- Stash: $3/month (Beginner plan)
2. Fractional Shares
Key Features:
- Buy partial shares of expensive stocks
- No commissions
- Real-time trading
Pros:
- Access to major companies like Amazon or Tesla
- Start investing in stocks without large capital
Cons:
- Easy to get overexposed to a single company
- Still carries market risk
Pricing:
- $0 commission trading on most platforms
Source:
Robinhood, Fidelity, Public
3. Low-Cost Index Funds
Key Features:
- Broad market exposure through one fund
- Low expense ratios
Pros:
- Great for long-term passive investing
- Lower risk through diversification
Cons:
- Requires patience for growth
- Less control over individual stock selection
Pricing:
- Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO): Expense ratio ~0.03%
- Schwab S&P 500 Index Fund (SWPPX): $0 minimum to start
Source:
Vanguard, Charles Schwab
4. High-Yield Savings Account
Key Features:
- 4–5% APY in 2025
- FDIC-insured
Pros:
- No risk of loss
- Immediate access to funds
Cons:
- Limited growth potential compared to stocks
- Returns may not beat inflation long-term
Pricing:
- No fees at Ally, Discover, or SoFi
- Minimum deposit: $0
Source:
NerdWallet High-Yield Savings
5. Cryptocurrency
Key Features:
- Trade crypto with as little as $1
- Access to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins
Pros:
- High potential returns
- 24/7 trading
Cons:
- Very volatile
- Regulatory risks
Pricing:
- Coinbase: ~1.49% transaction fee
- Kraken: ~0.9%–1.5% depending on coin
6. Peer-to-Peer Lending
Key Features:
- Lend to individuals or businesses
- Earn interest on repayments
Pros:
- Potentially higher returns than savings
- Diversifies income streams
Cons:
- Risk of borrower default
- Illiquid investments
Pricing:
- Minimum investment: $25
- Service fees ~1% annually
Source:
LendingClub, Prosper
7. Online Learning as Investment
Key Features:
- Purchase courses to improve skills
- Lifetime access
Pros:
- High ROI through better career opportunities
- Flexible learning schedules
Cons:
- No direct financial returns
- Requires time commitment
Pricing:
- Udemy: Courses start $10–$20
- Coursera: Some free, certificates $39+/month
8. Treasury Securities
Key Features:
- Government-backed
- Inflation-adjusted interest
Pros:
- Virtually risk-free
- Protection against inflation
Cons:
- Locked for 12 months minimum
- Purchase limit $10,000/year
Pricing:
- Minimum investment: $25
- Current rates ~5.27%
Source:
TreasuryDirect
9. Dividend Reinvestment Plans
Key Features:
- Automatically reinvest dividends
- Some companies allow direct stock purchase
Pros:
- Compounding growth
- Low to no fees
Cons:
- Limited stock options
- Long-term commitment needed
Pricing:
- Minimums $10–$100 depending on company
- Often no commission fees
Source:
DRIPInvestor, Computershare
10. Open a Roth IRA
Key Features:
- Tax-free growth
- Flexible investments
Pros:
- Tax benefits for retirement
- No minimum deposit at some brokers
Cons:
- Income eligibility limits
- Early withdrawal penalties
Pricing:
- $0 minimum at Fidelity and M1 Finance
- Commission-free trades
Source:
M1 Finance, Fidelity
Conclusion
Starting to invest with just $100 is not only possible but smart. The key is to pick the right platform or investment type that matches your goals and risk tolerance. Whether it’s micro-investing, buying fractional shares, or opening a Roth IRA, small consistent steps lead to big results over time. Begin now, stay consistent, and watch your financial future grow.
