The biggest brake on wealth accumulation is procrastination. Many people believe they need to earn more, know more, or save more before they can invest. But that is a fallacy. Time is one of the most decisive success factors when it comes to investing. The compound interest effect — i.e. the principle that not only your invested capital but also the income from it generate returns over the years — requires one thing in particular: an early start.

What happens if you wait too long?

A simple example: If you invest 100 euros per month from the age of 25 with an average return of 6%, you have around 200,000 euros at 65 years of age. If you only start with 35, you get just around 100,000 euros. The difference? Ten years — but half of the wealth. Waiting means wasting valuable time and returns.

Please note that investments offer opportunities for increases in value and income, but also involve significant risks. Opportunities include potential share price gains and dividend payouts. Risks include market, credit and liquidity risks as well as the risk of complete loss of invested capital.

Refute excuses

Many people think that investing is only for the rich. Or too complicated. Or too risky. The truth is: Thanks to diversified equity funds, digital brokerage platforms and numerous educational opportunities, it has never been easier to take responsibility for your own finances yourself. You can start with even small amounts. With Sunrise, you can invest from as little as ten euros! It is therefore not important how much you invest — but that you start at all.

The first steps to invest

1. Define goals: What do you want to invest in? Retirement planning, real estate, travel?
2. Analyze budget: How much can you invest in the long term per month without breaking a sweat at the end of the month?
3. Open a depot: Choose a provider that's right for you — digital, cost-effective and easy to use.
4. Equity funds as a start: Broad diversification, low costs, transparent — ideal for beginners.
5. Use automation: With savings plans, you invest regularly without thinking too much.

Mistakes you should avoid

• Try timing: No one knows when it's the best time to get started. Waiting for “perfect timing” loses time.
• Only bet on individual shares: Without diversification, risk increases.
• Don't get informed: Financial education is crucial — you don't have to become a professional, but basic knowledge is mandatory.

Books to get you started

If you'd rather get started with a book, here are a few recommendations:

• “Invest confidently with index funds and ETFs” by Gerd Kommer: The classic for long-term, passive investment strategies.
• “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki: Motivates and explains the mindset behind financial success.
• “The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. Clason: Tells the basic principles of saving & investing in fictional stories

Conclusion

The earlier you start, the better. Investing is not rocket science, but a matter of choice. If you start today, you give your money time to grow — and lay the foundation for an independent future.

Disclaimer/Risk notice

Important information:
The information contained in this marketing communication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell financial instruments, nor should it be considered a solicitation to make an offer to enter into a contract for investment services or ancillary services. Since this communication does not assess the individual objectives, financial situation or specific needs of the recipient, it is all the more important to carefully review these aspects before making an investment decision and, where appropriate, to seek independent professional advice. Furthermore, the relevant documents (prospectus, basic information platform - KID, annual and half-year report) should be read carefully before making an investment decision. The published prospectus and key information sheet are available free of charge in German on the website www.iqam.com/de/fonds/partnerfonds. They contain detailed information about opportunities and risks. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Currency fluctuations can have a negative impact on the total return on the original investment.

The Sunrise brand is provided by Sunrise Securities GmbH. Sunrise Securities GmbH does not assume any liability.