I have zero knowledge about the stock market. Where should a 24-year-old start investing?

Published 22 September 2026

Yogesh from Coimbatore
I am 24 years old and want to start investing my savings.

However, I have no idea how to pick stocks, and the market seems incredibly complex and time-consuming.

I also have an agent pitching me a life insurance policy that doubles as an investment. What is the simplest way to start?
Sachin Kabra Sachin Kabra ex-Director HDFC Private Wealth, Business Head Motilal Oswal AMC LinkedIn
Investing does not need to be complex or time consuming. You absolutely do not need to be a market expert to build wealth. Here is how I look at the foundational rules for investing when you are young.

First, keep it simple with Index Funds. Mutual funds, specifically Index Funds like the Nifty 50 or Nifty Next 50, are excellent starting points. By investing in these, you are allowing market experts and the broader economy to manage your money.

Second, you must invest consistently. Set up a monthly SIP and let your long time horizon work in your favor through the power of compounding.

Finally, and this is crucial, never mix insurance and investment. Keep your life insurance, like pure term plans, strictly separate from your market investments.

Products like ULIPs that attempt to combine the two often yield sub-par returns and offer inadequate coverage. Stick to this simple framework and you will secure your financial future without needing to track the markets daily.

Disclaimer: All information shared above are strictly for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be construed as financial or investment advice.
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