As the new year begins, it’s a good time to focus on one’s financial goals. Setting clear investing resolutions can help guide one’s decisions and lead to long-term success. In order to do that, Lori Shock, Director of the SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, has created 10 resolutions to consider for 2025.
1. Check out Investor.gov
Before investing, explore the free resources offered through Investor.gov. Use its financial planning tools, calculators, and valuable information to create an investment plan that aligns with your financial goals.
2. Conduct a Background Check on an Investment Professional
Before working with an investment professional, check their credentials and use Investor.gov to verify their background, registration status, and more.
3. Take Our Monthly Investing Quizzes
Test your knowledge each month with the SEC’s monthly quizzes, designed to educate people while providing helpful tips. Take them as often as needed to reinforce the information.
4. Research Every Investment Opportunity Thoroughly
Always conduct independent research to fully understand the investment and its associated risks before you invest. Do not rely on endorsements made by celebrities or ads that were found online – always investigate the information before committing.
5. Say “NO” to FOMO
Avoid the temptation of the latest investment craze driven by a fear of missing out or FOMO. Stay focused on the long-term goals you’ve set for yourself.
6. Sign Up For Our Investor Alerts and Bulletins
Stay informed about potential investment scams and trends by subscribing to the SEC’s Investor Alerts and Bulletins. These resources can help you avoid fraud and update you on important investment topics like digital assets and ESG investing.
7. Visit Our Director’s Take Articles Page
The SEC’s Director’s Take articles offer easy-to-understand articles on current investment topics, such as market volatility or teen trading.
8. Watch Our Public Service Campaign Videos
Learn key investing concepts and current topics through the SEC’s short informative videos. These can help you understand complex financial concepts better and make more informed decisions.
9. Create a Long-Term Investment Plan
Develop a diversified investment strategy that reflects your goals and risk tolerance. Remember, time in the market, not timing the market, leads to success.
10. Resolve to Steer Clear of Investment Scams
Be cautious of “too good to be true” opportunities, promises of guaranteed returns and investment schemes based on hype. Stay alert for signs of fraud in investment offers.
