Lesson 5: Investing Fundamentals - Checklist

Investment Readiness

Confirm emergency fund is fully funded (3-6 months of expenses)

Ensure high-interest debt is eliminated

Identify clear financial goals with timeframes

Assess your risk tolerance (conservative, moderate, aggressive)

Determine your investment time horizon for each goal

Research investment platforms based on fees, available investments, and usability

Open appropriate tax-advantaged accounts (ISAs, pensions)

Complete risk assessment questionnaires

Set up regular contribution schedule

Link bank accounts for funding

Determine appropriate asset allocation based on goals and risk tolerance

Research low-cost index funds or ETFs for each asset class

Compare expense ratios across similar funds

Select specific investments for your portfolio

Document your investment rationale for future reference

Set up automatic regular investments

Create a rebalancing schedule (annually or when allocations drift by 5%+)

Establish rules for when to review investment choices

Determine how to handle market downturns

Schedule quarterly portfolio reviews