When should you invest in the Stock Market? Time vs. Instinct

2 types of people earn the same amount of money.

One starts investing early and builds wealth

The other waits, overthinks, and stays stuck trading time for money.

This is important because its how and when they choose to invest

So when should you invest in the stock market? And how does timing and instinct play into that decision?

Well, first we would need know the basics right?

When does the stock market open?

• In the US, the NYSE and NASDAQ are open Monday-Friday

• 9:30 AM - 4 PM Eastern Time

• Closed on major holidays

There are also:

• Pre-market hours: 4:00 AM - 9:30 AM

• After hours trading: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

However, the most stable and clear prices are present during regular market hours. The extended hours are riskier and meant for experienced investors.

Does the Time of Day Matter When Investing?

Yes- but you don't need to trade at the perfect hour!

• Market open (9:30 AM - 10:30 AM): More volatility, prices move fast

• Midday: Slower, more stable

• End of Day: Increased activity again

Long Term investors care more about years, not minutes.

This idea connects to Rich Dad Poor Dad moral:

The rich focus on long-term systems, not short-term excitement

When is a GOOD Time to Invest? (Big Picture)

✅Invest when:

• You don't need the money soon

• You understand what you're investing in

• The plan to hold long-term

• The market is down or you're investing consistently

🚫Avoid Investing When:

• You are acting out of fear or hype

• You expect quick money

• You don't understand the risks

• You'll panic when prices drop

The book stresses that fear keeps people poor - not because investing is dangerous, but because avoiding assets prevents growth.

One of the biggest lessons from Rich Dad Poor Dad about investing, is that poor people wait for certainty, Rich people prepare to act.

Trying to 'time the market' means:

• Waiting for for the lowest price

• Hesitating during uncertainty

• Missing long-term growth

What should Beginners Invest in?

(Broken down simply!)

• Index Funds ( like S&P 500) is most suitable for beginners and teens

• Strong, established companies

• Long-term investments, not day trades

Buying assets > Gambling

An asset puts money in your pocket over time - even when you are not working!

Key ideas applied to investing:

• Financial education reduces risk

• Emotion is the biggest enemy

• Start early, even with small amounts

• Assets matter more than income

Final Takeaway

The stock market is not about luck or hype.

• It's about knowing when the market is open

• Understanding when it makes sense to invest

• Thinking long term

Understanding the stock market can be tricky, but with the right strategy, you will see a difference...

And then it's hard to miss.

Upcoming Next Week:

Apple

Next week, we’re breaking down Apple (AAPL) — one of the most popular stocks in the world. We’ll cover how Apple actually makes money, why it’s considered a long-term investment, while teaching about owning strong assets instead of chasing hype.

See you next week 🍏📈

Best,

Kas