A simple guide to investing your first $500 Jan 22nd

How to go about securing the best return for your investment in Canada.
Latest News

The best GIC rates in Canada for 2026 + MORE Feb 23rd

GIC comparison tool Find the best and most up-to-date GIC rates in Canada using the comparison tool below. Plus, use the filters to assess your estimated rate of return based on the size of your balance. Why trust us MoneySense is an award-winning magazine, helping Canadians navigate m.... More »
 earnings

Before you borrow: Navigating back-to-school financial aid in Canada + MORE Jun 26th

Each year, more than half a million Canadians take out student loans to cover tuition, books, and living costs. But according to some recent research, including a study from Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), many students are unprepared for how these loans work and how to manage repayment. Understandin.... More »

How retirees should respond to the Iran crisis + MORE Mar 26th

Cynics have rechristened America’s attack on Iran as Operation Epstein Fury, suggesting the main reason for Operation Epic Fury (as the Trump Administration originally called it) was to distract from the Epstein Files and the president’s one million mentions therein. Whether that cynicism is ju.... More »
 money market

Why Vanguard’s ETF aimed at retirees is currently cautious in its asset allocation Feb 27th

As a semi-retired investor who recently started a registered retirement income fund (RRIF), I regard exchange-traded funds (ETFs) from Vanguard Group as a major part of my core portfolio, along with low-volatility ETFs from BMO ETFs, and income-oriented ETFs from various other vendors. After the .... More »

The best high-interest savings accounts in Canada for 2025 + MORE Jan 26th

Savings comparison tool Find the best and most up-to-date savings rates in Canada using the comparison tool below. Plus, use the filters to assess your estimated return based on the size of your balance. Advertisement Why trust us MoneySense is an.... More »
For many young Canadians, the barrier to entry for investing feels impossibly high. Between student loans, rising rent, and the cost of living, scraping together a starter fund can seem daunting. Yet, as little as $500 to $1,000 is sufficient enough to begin building the habits that create long-term wealth.

When you have a limited budget, every dollar has to work harder. The margin for error is slimmer, and the overwhelming number of financial products, from ETFs to individual stocks, can lead to analysis paralysis. Experts say there is no bulletproof way to stock pick in the early stages. Instead, focus on structure, simplicity, and consistency.

Pick the right home for your money

Before browsing the stock market, young investors need to decide where their money will live. There are a number of options including the tax-free savings account (TFSA), registered retirement savings plan (RRSP), first home savings account (FHSA), or an unregistered account. 

Rankings

Compare the best TFSA rates in Canada

see rates

Diandra Camilleri, associate portfolio manager at Verecan Capital Management Inc…

Continue Reading On moneysense.ca »

Share

PinIt
Compare insurance quotes through Kanetix.ca - save time and money!