If you’re new here, this video will give you a better understanding of who I am and why I care so much about helping people learn how to invest. 👋
Growing up as the child of immigrants taught me the importance of hard work, financial security, and making the most of every opportunity.
It also showed me how overwhelming money can feel when no one takes the time to explain it clearly.
That’s why I became a teacher, and it’s still how I approach investing today. My goal is to break things down, answer the questions people are often afraid to ask, and help you understand how to make informed decisions for your future.
Because investing should not feel confusing or out of reach.
Comment “PLAN” and I’ll send you the next steps.
What are the 5 accounts you should have in 2026 to stop living paycheck to paycheck? 💰
Most people focus on how much they make, but not enough on where their money goes.
Having the right accounts can help you separate your spending, emergency savings, retirement, and long-term investments so every dollar has a purpose.
From a checking account and emergency fund to a 401(k), Roth IRA, and taxable brokerage account, having a simple system can make managing your money much easier. 📈
💬 Comment “SHEETS” and I'll send you all of my FREE investing resources!
— Steve
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Follow me @stevecheninvest to start your journey toward financial freedom!
#PersonalFinance #Investing #InvestingForBeginners #MoneyManagement #FinancialFreedom #WealthBuilding #RetirementPlanning #RothIRA #401k #MoneyTips #FinancialEducation #SteveChen
One of the speakers that really changed how I think about money is Brian Tracy.
His approach to planning, discipline, and taking action helped me finally get my finances in order.
The same principles I learned from him are exactly what I’m sharing in this video 👇
— Steve
If you’re ready to start investing this year, don’t miss my Beginner’s Investing Masterclass.
Sign up now — link in bio.
Follow @stevecheninvest
Follow @stevecheninvest for investing videos
Follow me @stevecheninvest to start your journey toward financial freedom
#MindsetShift #Gratitude #PersonalGrowth #InnerPeace #SteveChen #MoneyMindset
How would I invest $10,000 in 2026? 💰
If I were starting with $10,000, I wouldn't put it all into one investment.
I’d focus on diversification: broad S&P 500 exposure, a growth or tech ETF, a dividend-focused ETF, and keeping some cash in a money market fund.
The goal isn't to find the one perfect investment.
It's to build a simple portfolio with different sources of growth and income while keeping some money accessible. 📈
What actually helped me build a $1.7M+ portfolio? For me, it came down to consistently investing in companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon through the S&P 500.
In this video, I break down some of the most popular S&P 500 funds and share which one I personally like the most.
Thinking About Investing in a 401(k)? Read This First.
1. A 401(k) isn’t your only option.
Just because your employer offers one doesn’t mean it has to be your only retirement account. Compare it with options like a Roth IRA.
2. Don’t overlook the employer match.
If your employer offers a match, understand how it works. It can influence how much you contribute before investing elsewhere.
3. A 401(k) is an account, NOT an investment.
Contributing is only step one. You still need to choose how that money is invested.
4. Your investment choices may be limited.
You generally choose from the investments available in your employer’s plan, while an IRA may offer more options.
5. Pay attention to fees.
Check expense ratios and plan fees. Small percentages can add up over decades.
6. Understand when you’ll pay taxes.
Traditional 401(k) contributions may reduce taxable income today, but withdrawals are generally taxed in retirement. Roth accounts work differently.
7. Know the withdrawal rules.
Taking money out early may mean taxes and penalties, although certain exceptions apply.
8. Maxing it out isn’t automatically the right move.
Consider your employer match, taxes, fees, investment choices, and other accounts before putting every retirement dollar into your 401(k).
9. Know what happens when you leave your job.
You may be able to keep your old plan, move it to a new employer’s plan, or roll it into an IRA.
10. Have a strategy BEFORE choosing the account.
Don’t invest somewhere just because it’s the default at work. Choose accounts based on your goals and overall strategy.
A 401(k) can be an important part of your retirement plan—but it doesn’t have to be your entire strategy
Here are 10 things i would tell anyone in their 20s:
1. get a job and learn how to work hard. Your 20s are a time to learn, build experience, and figure out what you’re good at.
2. don’t expect everything to happen right away. Focus on becoming more valuable instead of constantly chasing the next paycheck.
3. be intentional with your choices. The decisions you make now can shape the direction of your life for years to come.
4. keep learning outside of school. A degree can help you get started, but there’s always another skill worth learning.
5. learn skills that will keep you useful in a changing world. Technology and AI are moving fast, so staying curious really matters.
6. choose your friends wisely. The people you spend your time with can influence your habits, your goals, and the way you see life.
7. don’t follow the crowd just because something feels normal. You’re allowed to choose a different path.
8. don’t let consumerism convince you that you need more to be happy. You don’t have to spend everything you earn.
9. learn to save early. Even if you start small, building the habit now can make a huge difference later.
10. don’t waste your 20s trying to have everything figured out. Keep learning, make mistakes, and make choices your future self will be grateful for.
I’m 39 now, and there are so many things I wish I understood when I was younger.
Your 20s don’t have to be perfect. Just make choices today that your future self will thank you for. 🤍
Most people aren’t broke because they don’t make enough…
They’re broke because they don’t know where their money should go.
Your money needs a system.
How much should stay in checking?
How much should go to savings?
And when should you start investing?
Once you understand the order, managing money becomes a lot less stressful
My portfolio is now worth $1.7M+ and most of it came from some of the most boring investments. 💰
Building wealth doesn't always mean chasing the next hot stock or trying to find the perfect investment.
Sometimes, the most boring strategy is the one that works: invest consistently, keep your costs low, diversify, and give your money time to compound.
You don't need exciting investments to build serious wealth.
You need a strategy you can stick with for the long term. 📈