finance tips

i love teaching myself financial literacy and talking about everything economics!

investing basics

start investing as early as possible (compound interest grows wealth massively)
try max out tax-advantaged accounts first (Roth IRA, 401k)
low-cost index funds are the way to go for most people (VOO, VTI)
stay consistent in the market (time IN the market beats TIMING the market)
diversification is key to managing risk (index funds do a good job)

budgeting strategies

follow the 60/20/20 rule (60% needs, 20% wants, 20% savings)
pay yourself first (save before spending on non-essentials)
cut out unnecessary subscriptions (you do not need netflix, i promise)
automate your credit card payment (ensures you NEVER miss a payment)
build an emergency fund covering 3-6 months of expenses (ideally in a HYSA)

saving hacks

consider multiple credit cards for different spending categories
cook at home instead of eating out (way cheaper + healthier)
take advantage of student discounts while you can
buy used for big purchases when possible (you don't need that new car)
wait 24-48 hours before making non-essential purchases

crypto investments

only invest what you can afford to lose (crypto is very speculative)
do your own research before investing (review whitepaper, tokenomics, etc)
most altcoins will lose value relative to bitcoin in the long term
DO NOT listen to an influencer shilling an investment (you will lose money)
consider dollar-cost averaging over lump sum investing (lowers your cost-basis)

miscellaneous finance tips

apply for a secured student card (helps build credit)
get a HYSA (miles better than traditional savings accounts)
avoid lifestyle inflation (avoid increasing spending when income increases)
do not carry a credit card balance (the interest rates are CRAZY)
value money in terms of opportunity cost (prevents spontaneous spending)

disclaimer: i'm not a financial advisor (sorry)