I only started investing in my 40s/50s

[@JamesShack]

You are normal! Please let me know about your journey, your struggles and your successes, in a comment below!

[@michaelleaver1766]

Thanks for the video,very concise and informative.Due to debt built up over almost 2 decades and the stress entailed,an employer who gave me a 50p total an hour raise in 14 years,i sold my property settled all debts,chucked the job in and have been trying to make concrete plans for the future,but at 49 in the current climate,things seem as clear as mud!! Interested in investing but realise the formula for everybody can't be entirely the same carbon copy.

[@kylebennett1928]

James - please see my comment below and the reply - apparently from you... You may want to look into this? - thank you

[@JamesShack]

@@kylebennett1928 It’s a bot. Please report them if you see them!

[@kylebennett1928]

@@JamesShack done - thanks

[@jmw20]

Add counsellor to your CV too! Great video. I'm 39 with a small defined contribution workplace pension I started in my early 30s. I will continue to pay into that, but I'm just starting my investing journey hoping to open a pension or LISA before I'm 40. Just trying to work out what's best. I find your videos so helpful, so keep up the good work.

[@stephenwalsh3708]

Hi James, I left you a comment last year how you inspired me to start investing. It's going great I plan to save £3k+ this next tax year. Why am I telling you this, because I'm 68 next month. Just get investing people! All the best Steve Walsh.

[@JamesShack]

Epic news! Keep it up!

[@stephen2203]

Here are some words of encouragement for those in their 40s who are wondering whether there is any point... I bought my first shares when I was 43yo. I had a mortgage and that was it. The paltry pension pots I had did quite well when placed into the right hands, in my case those were Fidelity, Phoenix and AXA, but they were later combined into a SIPP which I control. I also put a lot of effort into learning and maxxing out my ISA investments when I was able..... I retired ten years ago in my late 50s, although I continued putting a lot of time and effort into managing my investments. If you want to DIY then treat it like a second career, it will take several years to become competent and it is a realistic goal. When I started there was no such thing as KZbin. James' videos are a boon. Thank you, James

[@JamesShack]

Thank you for sharing this Stephen. It's a great example of what you can do!

[@Kalarandir]

I was in my mid 40s before I looked at my retirement and what I had to do about it. I was renting and had no pension. First on my list was sorting a home that I would own when I hit 60. Then looked at how much I would need if I wanted to retire at 60. This gave me my goal, and I am happy to say that 10 years later, and 5 years from retirement I am on track. The only change I have made is that having experienced lockdown I no longer want to stop working when I hit 60 but go part time. So now I will actually have more than I had planned on. Long story short, it is never too late.

[@JamesShack]

Love this Brian! If you can find a lifestyle Job that allows you to work part time it’s almost better than full retirement. Especially as it allows you to stop sooner.

[@TheBillaro]

exactly what i'm doing but in japan. 20k for a house? yes please

[@wildberrygarden]

I'm 39 and only just about to start my investment journey, so this is encouraging. Thank you.

[@kevh7941]

Snap! At 39 I'm starting to think about a retirement at around 55. I'm probably going to invest £400 per month into the s&p500 soon. See how that goes

[@markeh1971]

@@kevh7941 Hi, I’m 53 and started my SIPP last year. I’m investing what I can and that is the best any of us can do. I might might never get to retirement, but my SIPP is inside my estate and I’ve decided who gets the benefit. Be happy and smile knowing you are doing the best you can and that is better than most. Good luck M.

[@dancing523]

53 y.o. with a great career, and in 2020, my salary finally got to the mid-100s. I was ready to start investing, but then Covid hit, and I lost focus. I recently started investing in the stock market. There were days when I beat up on myself for starting so late, but the more I did that, the more depressed I would become. So, I accepted my mistakes and forgave the younger me. I can't say I know what I am doing, but I am learning daily.

[@djfearross4144]

COVID was a massive opportunity to START investing

[@jlbishop]

There is a way you can still achieve financial security and I would very much like to show you how. I am a financial advisor with a fiduciary duty to you - please reach out to me.

[@superman1081]

I love how you talk about the positive side of investing in our 50's. Other financial vloggers tend to beat you up!

[@DrProgNerd]

It's like you made this video just for me. I'm a single dad, whose youngest just became an adult. I recently started my 401k. My house is nearly paid off and I have saved an emergency fund that could carry me about a year if I lost my job. Something else to consider with 'older' people (especially parents) is that we are less apt to chase 'the shiney new things'. Odds are that we've been through that phase of our lives and are now more comfortable living below our means. Not to mention that parenting forces you to be more mindful about money. I definitely regret not putting at least something towards my 401k earlier. I'm telling my kids now to get in the habit of contributing even a small amount to a 401k. I hope they listen to the old man.

[@jlbishop]

I am a financial advisor with a fiduciary duty to you - I would love to show you a way you could significantly improve your returns. Please reach out to me.

[@cureenc8662]

I started investing at 48 after a friend sent me a link to the book 'The Simple Path to Wealth' by J.L. Collins. Before listening to the book I wrongly assumed investing in stocks and shares was only for wealthy people, and besides I didn't even know how to invest! But the book broke it down and helped me to understand that it can be simple.

[@robi4514]

Great vid. 👍 I also started investing relatively late - ten years ago (in my mid forties) I had very little in the way of investments and pension and things seemed pretty desperate, but I started saving and investing as much as I could every month - it hurt, but over ten years I’ve gone from pretty much zero to a really decent pot and I may actually have a shot at a decent retirement in the next 5 years. Don’t underestimate what it is possible to achieve over 10 years with discipline and a sensible investment plan.

[@kenmurray25]

I am 44 years old, and only started getting my financial house in order this year. Up to that point I had never budgeted, and let myself slide further into debt every year. Now I have a plan to be out of debt in 2 years, and start actually saving for my future by 46. I don't know if I will be able to retire at a reasonable age, but my chances are better now than they ever have been before.

[@daemianbox]

54 here and ZERO savings for retirement until past february. I had to emigrate and start all over from scratch at age 33. Had no financial education and was just living paycheck to paycheck. Like many others here thought that I had to keep on working until the grave, but after watching your videos and several from other youtubers, I decided to educate myself in investing and trading. I started investing last february (just 3 months ago) and set saving and investing targets for the next 7 years. Hopefully, even if I have to work until I drop, my future looks a lot brighter thanks to you.

[@williamparrish2436]

You'll have money for the medical emergencies. And if you have a house already then you are golden.

[@CGAZ66]

Started late also use my employer 401k match and have it in a more safe investment. Do stocks on the side on my own to get better results. Investing in dividend stocks. at this time getting 1200 a month from this. Pay off all your debts first and you will be fine.

[@daemianbox]

@@CGAZ66 Thanks. Self employed here. No 401k option. But saving as much as I can. Thanks!

[@mjmdiver1137]

I work in the architectural design field and I had a conversation with a landscape architect many years ago. He said “the best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago. The second best time to plant a tree is TODAY”. The same thing holds true for investing…

[@JamesShack]

Yes indeed!

[@pistopit7142]

The only downside of this channel is that I can’t wait for another episode. Simply the best financial UK based YT channel at the moment. Pensioncraft also has good content but somehow you sound so much more refreshing James. Great work, all the best.

[@DanielAdolf]

I'm currently pursuing a balance between fat and lean FIRE with the guidance of financial advisor David Marvin Willis. By diligently budgeting and keeping living costs in check, I save a substantial portion of my income. However, I prioritize enjoying life, dining out, going on holidays, and savoring good food at home. With the goal to grow my income in the next 5-10 years (I'm 44), maintaining a savings rate of 30-40%, I aim to potentially reduce working hours around the 45-50 age range. This journey, spanning the next 10-15 years, won't entail a bare minimum lifestyle.

[@idiomatika]

I have nothing substantive to add here - I'd just like to thank you for lowering my anxiety levels a little (46 - no pension as yet, but that's going to change very bloody soon).

[@chrisbarlow5968]

49y/o started investing in 2023. Looking to keep investing each year, started with a S&S ISA and I am now learnings about SIPPS. Going to try and pump as much spare capital in to these going forward each year. I have started with buyings shares but I am hoping to start looking at buying some global index funds to keep it simpler. Fingers crossed.

[@rossmacintosh5652]

I'm 60 and semi-retired. One part of the video that really resonated with me was the reminder that our investments horizon shouldn't just be how much money we have the day we retire. It's not like the day we retire we cash out and stuff our suitcases with money to spend over our retirement. In all likelihood our investment horizon is the entirety of our remaining lifespans. Yes, we will make withdrawals but not from the suitcase but from a pool of investments that continues to grow.

[@gingermattb]

Agreed. I think a lot of people who contributed to pensions before drawdown was an option have understandably been programmed to think about the commencement of retirement being the "end" of the investing phase, when in fact that is really unlikely to be the case for the vast majority of people in DC schemes.

[@tonyh1460]

Hi Ross, same boat here, 60 and only started investing in Vanguard last March, transferred my pension over too. Pretty impressive gains last year, big drops this month has wiped out all those gains however, like you said, the money will be in there for decades so should be fine. Also it's better than being in a bank account Time to buy more !!

[@rossmacintosh5652]

@@tonyh1460 Tony, I've been investing since the late 1980's and have seen lots of volatility but stuck with it to benefit from long-term gains. There will be challenging times ahead (even worse than the recent beating is guaranteed) but perseverance is the real game. Good luck to us all!

[@tonyh1460]

@@rossmacintosh5652 thanks Ross, I'll HODL as they say 😀

[@JamesWoodGuitar]

I didn’t even know about investing until last year!! I’m 43 and started investing last September. Now I’m excited to see what I can achieve for the future! Keep up the great videos James.

[@barbarar5869]

I think that people feel life they have missed the boat and it's too late. There is maybe a sense a shame and regret. Thank you for demonstrating that it's NEVER TOO LATE.

[@TheMichelex20]

I’ve watched thousands of finance videos on the internet. This is one of the first videos that left me feeling hopeful and not hopeless. Thank you.

[@lolawodjouatt3583]

Same here! Thank you for this video, super reassuring

[@dianestephenson5637]

Great content James....as you say there's so much content aimed at those in their 20s & 30s, it's very hard not to feel as though you dropped the ball! I'm 54 and just starting to invest, reassured by the knowledge that these are my best earning years and any Investments won't stop growing just because I reach retirement age!

[@glazersout4272]

I never would've dreamed of investing, didn't know a thing about index funds etc. Then the pandemic hits and my nephew informs me that the market has crashed and I should start investing. Initally, very sceptical - I learned bit by bit and eventually decided to go for it. Now, four years later I am on track for a decent little nest-egg once I retire. So cheers, nephew! Am in my late forties for context.

[@benking9593]

An older video, I know, apologies for opening up an old thread, but I've just come across James' channel. This is a great video, and very encouraging for people like me. I'm in my 40's ( just ), and I have very recently cleared all of my debts ( excluding mortgage), so I am very keen to now start investing and videos like this really help.

[@ibolyap]

I am now 28 years old. I started investing in myself first: got two diplomas at Pitman Training, had a laser eye surgery, got my Invisalign to sort out my teeth, travelled a bit, and I am glad that I paid for these things. With no children (yet), explore the world and get yourself "sorted", invest in yourself as well, until you have more time and energy, later on it might be harder, but still not impossible of course. These things helped me a lot to improve my life, so definitely good investments. Love your videos, keep up the good work! :)

[@aryehbarron4067]

28 years old myself, i haven’t really invested much in myself although I’m now married with 2 kids. Not much remains to invest each month but will try my best to invest what I can to help me free up life when the kids are out the way :)

[@charleslawsongill]

I'm 20 years old now, but I started investing on my 18th birthday, putting my first bit of cash into a Vanguard S&P 500 fund through a Stocks and Shares ISA. Over the past two years, I've worked hard to keep contributing as much as possible, and I've now built it up to £25k. It's amazing to see how much compound interest has played a role in that growth already. I'm aiming to retire well before 65, with a target of reaching £625k. Videos like this have been incredibly helpful along the way. Thanks, James!

[@awkwardatlas5623]

Thank you for making this video. I'm in my mid thirties and have just started investing. I've been feeling so dejected and behind looking at all the Alice's on KZbin. I really appreciate the message in this video and it's really motivated me to increase my contributions and keep investing. Thank you!

[@tanyapavlova4758]

@James I was about to mention that not many people in their 20s have 5k per year to just throw into an investment portfolio and then I watched the video. Yeah, you are absolutely correct with regards to both investment and those fitness Instagram. Subscribed

[@viviluv5606]

I'm in my mid-20s with low income，your videos motivate me to start investing and save money for the future

[@paddybrown1644]

Hello everyone... Just a real life encouraging email to say to live and start investing. Im a 47 year old dad who got divorced after 22 years of marriage. Never invested and also was the lower earner in the relationship. We have gone our seperate ways and now i have got myself a mortgage on my own which im proud about. I also started investing for the first time and this was in September 2021. Not a clue what i had to do but with many mistakes and trial and error i deposit something even if its £20 a month. If i can do it folks and i mean i had not even a place to live in for myself then aanyone can. Am I scared, yes. Am i proud of myself and what ive achieved, yes. Take the plunge and invest, move forward and invest. You can lose folks cause the banks will take your money if you dont. TAKE THE LEAP OF FAITH!!!!

[@guitarsandcheesecake1632]

Great video........ the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is now!! What ever you want to do, start now!! I invested £50 a month in a pension in my late 20s. Payed for about 9 years. About 6/7 yrs ago I remembered about it. It was worth £50,000. I'm 58yrs old now. I've started investing property in the last 3 years. Both my parent's died. I bought a house and now invest about £100 A week. I currently have over £110,000 invested in pensions and isa' s...... it never too late. Just remember compound interest will work for you every year!!!

[@JamesShack]

Absolutely - compound interest and a positive attitude are unstoppable!

[@bengarick]

43 years old and started 'tinkering' last year with investing (ETFs mainly but a couple companies). Currently have 2k invested and in the process of restructuring finances (£20k Debt - reduced from 50 last month), no mortgage, no savings and live in overdraft. Currently earning £80k plus 15% bonus and £5k car allowance. Consolidated pension sitting at £50k 2 year old and wife re-qualifying being a driver for making a change now with plans to put a few hundred a month in investing but priority is to get rid of debt as a priority.

[@dorissteve912]

The stock market has been a really tough one this past year, but I watched an interview on CNBC where the anchor kept mentioning " TERESA JENSEN WHITE ". This prompted me to get in touch with her, and from January 2022 till now we have been working together, and I can now boast of $540,000 in my trading portfolio.

[@wilsonjudson1650]

That's right, getting in touch with a consultant during the pandemic was how I was able to scale through the crazy stock downtrend.

[@henryclinton9317]

That's massive. Can you please connect me with your personal broker, I would love to work with her

[@dorissteve912]

Like I said previously, her name is TERESA JENSEN WHITE , and you can reach her via her website.

[@dorissteve912]

Just run a search on her name, and you would see all you need.

[@henryclinton9317]

thanks for the info . Found her website and it impressive

[@maribeldeguzman1399]

just came a crossed with this video and I totally agree with you telling it's embarrassing to start investing in your forties since I just started my journey...I'm about to hit mid-forty and I am thankful to all the financial gurus who keep on sharing insights and tips on investing

[@mikehibbett3301]

Spot on! I'm 59, just cleared my mortgage, started late on good pension contributions, but will follow this advice. I have a sick daughter I am caring for but still have the space to invest more. Thank you.

[@martinp21000]

Just paid off my huge credit card debts age 48. Saving grace has been my Australian super. I have 2 young kids and don’t own home and just started index investing for family. My thinking is if I start now for my 5 & 6 year old, the opportunity I missed is there’s now and so I’m happy about that!

[@Neptunianist]

Yes, I really appreciate that. Imagine where your children will be if you invested on their behalf until they’re old enough to start themselves. Naturally you can also save less in their case, as the growth potential is more, which leaves a good proportion left over, hopefully, for your own retirement.

[@kevinsteen9864]

Just started Investing after years of struggling. Got 2 business and as well as working full time, so i have been investing in myself. This video gave me massive motivation. Thank you for making it. Subscriped and watching your content.

[@GuybrushThreepwood79]

Thanks, James. Nice to know that even though I'll only be starting later this year (43 and will finally be rid of a lifetime of bad debt from financial ineptitude) but it's good to know that I'm not alone and will in fact be ahead of others who have not come across the right books or KZbin videos yet. Thanks for the information you share!

[@JamesShack]

Great effort working your way out of that debt! People that pay off debt often end up going onto be the best savers and investors. It's hard to believe that you're ahead but very few people ever do think they're ahead, because there's always someone infront of us to compare ourselves to!

[@grahammarsh440]

You're not alone mate, also 43 and slowly getting my finances in order

[@myexercise9001]

Yup another 43 year old , young kids so feeling the squeeze and historically in debt since 18 , but trying to make headway now, tough going but try to be consistent. This channel was the 1st I came across that gave some hope that I can still improve overstate pension etc . Will be educating my kids on this, so they learn it earlier than I did.

[@phoenixchi64]

I'm 58 this year, divorced, left in debt by my husband, who died a few years ago & who I discovered had over a 1/4 million in the bank but had spent most of it before he died. I rent & have only been working the last 8 years due to caring responsibilities of a disabled son. However, I paid off the debt & have only just opened a Vanguard Target Retirement Fund at a £100 per month to begin with until I've saved an Emergency Fund. I will get a final salary pension, but it won't be much, but I've 10 years to hopefully make a difference. I'm just sad I never managed 2 get onto the property ladder, although I've thought about Shared Ownership, I'm not sure if my age would be against me.... thanks for the inspiration James! 😁

[@JamesShack]

You’re been through a lot, we’ll done for staying the course. Keep it up!

[@malarkey2217]

I started a workplace pension in 2003. In 2008, the crash really shook me and knocked a big hole in my small-ish pension pot. I built it back up and have continued to put money in. However, in the last 20 months or so the pot (now 2 pension pots) has lost just over 20% of its value, just as i've reached 5 years from retirement! As you can imagine, i have found this worrying to say the least. After watching this video i can genuinely say i have felt a weight lift from my shoulders. That it's not the end of the world and there is a way through. Thanks, James!

[@JamesShack]

I'm glad to hear that! Most pension have taken a hit this year. In 5 years time it will look very different!

[@Mark-dq5qf]

Thank you for yelling at me. I needed that. And also, my paramedic teacher told the class that everyone should think of themselves 10 years younger than they really are because of how much cardiac has and continues to advance. Life expectancy continues to grow.

[@robsalvv5853]

My parents instilled a great savings discipline in me, but they had no investing smarts beyond bank term deposits and maybe a fixed lump sum in a managed fund. I really wish I knew more about investing 30yrs ago when I started my professional career. Fortunately my work place kicked off a superannuation plan that I have always contributed to, so there is a decent super funded pension for my senior years. But I could have probably been FIRE retired in my late 40’s if I’d taken up active investing in my 20’s. Can’t cry over spilt milk right? The time to start investing for a self funded FIRE is now.

[@louise3507]

I started investing last year at age 58. Opened up a SIPP with Vanguard ftse global index fund accumulation. This year at age 59 I opened a S&S ISA with Vanguard.. I still will be working until 2032.. I have years to continue important thing is to get started.. I only joined work pension last year DB pension.. I am trying to improve my financial situation..

[@markjordan4826]

I’m 51 my company recently shut down the final salary pension where I have amassed a 300k pension pot. I also paid AVC’s where I have 36k. I paid off my mortgage at 47 and have been investing since, I have 35k in a stocks and shares ISA. I hope to retire in 4 years but expect when I get there prices of everything will force me to work on. I definitely think I started too late. Watching you content has got me really looking at the vanguard life strategy etf which I intend to start soon. Keep up the great content

[@lorenaolide9858]

Thank you! I needed this and I feel much better:)

[@maryt8600]

Started a pension in my 20s then 15 year's of no available income to contribute to it. Now in my late 40s and trying to do the research to understand what I need to do to minimise the damage.

[@sksman71]

It's never too late,I'm 52 receive a pension and I still work.I am putting $20,000 a year into my Roth IRA @52.

[@NedFlanders39]

I'm 25 and STILL feel behind. FOMO is one powerful drug and comparing yourself is the thief of joy. Focus on yourself, and be happy you've found channels like this. Most people still rely on a 0.1% savings account. Cheers as always James.

[@JamesShack]

The rising interest in "financial independence" among young people can have negative side effects. It can set unrealistic saving expectations when you're young. Instead of trying to save 50% of your income, or something like that, i would suggest trying to save 50% of any future raises you make. With this, instead of focusing on saving more, you're then focused on growing your income. Which is what you should be focused on in your 20/30s. All the best!

[@NedFlanders39]

@@JamesShack Great advice, never really thought about it in that way. And yes, tell me about it... you have these people saying 'just invest as little as £1,000 a month' or you have CNBC 'make it' videos telling you someone aged 21 is earning 200k a year and has half a mill in investments. Not good for the 99% with different circumstances.

[@NedFlanders39]

@@jamblpaints8453 100%. The only time I ever listen to financial advise is if they talk about pensions or ISAs that are invested in funds or Bonds. Anything else is usually random nonsense

[@sunnyside287]

30, just started investing. Definitely feel a bit behind. But! I have a third of a house saved up without any help and a small pension pot. I think what most of us forget is that when you’re in your twenties you aren’t earning much and still need to buy all the adult basics like first car etc. You also tend to buy more shiny stuff that you may not need. But as you get old you earn more, get more discipline, learn to budget and just get better at delayed gratification. So I try to feel proud of myself rather than feeling like I’ve missed out. These videos help a lot. I think we should try to think positively and take our own situation into consideration.

[@klaoll]

I'm 36 and just got a grip on my finances. I loved seeing this video!

[@JamesShack]

pffff well ahead of the game!

[@NoName-ql1wk]

I really like your channel. Never heard of an ISA until I was 36 and make good money. Now put £1666.67 pcm into my S&S Vanguard. Up to £8k already and loving watch it grow. Roll on early retirement.

[@JamesShack]

It's as easy as that - just contribute each month - and let it do it's thing.

[@anonnymous4684]

Thank you. This is a very reassuring video. I've never really thought about money that much and only ever earned an average income but now that I've turned 50 I've become anxious about how I'll manage in retirement. Or even if I'll ever be able to afford to retire. But I have managed to save up around £35k in the last 6 years (one of the few benefits of the pandemic and not having anything to really spend money on, as well as giving up smoking) and after watching lots of videos finally took the plunge and opened a Vanguard account in January where I'm in the process of depositing most of my savings across a couple of funds. I do feel that I've left things late, especially given the gains of the stock market in recent years, but doing something proactive has at least eased my anxieties about my standard of living in retirement.

[@JamesShack]

Taking action is the important thing. You're on the move, heading in the right direction. That in itself feels GOOD!

[@shimmime]

Hi James, thank you for this video. I am in my late 40s, spent 20 years of my life in academia but was earning and contributing to a pension for some of that time. I am renting still, never bought a home, and am weighing up the option of whether buying is worth it now. I got into investing in my early 40s, but lost the savings I had. I rebuilt my career though and now earn a very good wage, and built up some savings. I do have some of my savings invested, but most of it is just gathering dust stagnating. After doing some calculations on how much money I would need in retirement, I realise I'm way off, so I'm ramping up efforts now to make my money work for me.

[@seismic6402]

I would say it is always worth investing as whatever you can accumulate will make your life much easier. There are properties available in non-prime areas that perhaps need renovated (for example available at auction). I renovated a flat that I now live in and I never had a mortgage on it as it was a cash purchase. Getting a place to live in and paid off is important, I'll be honest.

[@mkcraycray1316]

Got out of debt at 46. Started investing at 47. Now 52 - house will be paid off this year. Hoping to retire at 60!

[@sezo3820]

This are the same arguments for exercising regularly! Not matter the age, just start today and you'll be grateful in the future

[@JamesShack]

Even if it’s just a little. And don’t punish yourself if you miss a day, or a week, or even a year. It’s hard to stay the course!

[@dmski2323]

I’m 24 now. Started investing last year. Don’t have a huge income but no debt also. Was amazed to see that I was in the 5% of viewership! Expected 10-15%. Got two separate accounts one for growth and another for dividends but building the dividend portfolio takes a while.. currently avg 30$/month. Def takes time but like he said it’s ur own journey. Personally, struggling with the patience and income

[@TheFirstRealChewy]

Assuming you progress in your field, You'll make more in your later years, even if some of that is due to inflation. Resist the urge to inflate your lifestyle at the same rate that your income increases. It's fine to want more, bit let your income increase at a faster rate than your lifestyle. This way you can save and hence invest more.

[@3pilot]

Well. I started investing at 12 with my paper route money. I was on my way easily when I decided to take it all out to invest in a new multi level marketing company promising me big profits. Well that didn’t turn out and unfortunately I never invested again until 42. I am filled with regrets. But I have to try and do the best I can. What I do now isn’t for me anymore. It’s for my kids

[@eplugplay8409]

I started investing at age 31 kind of late but in 10 years my wife and I paid off our mortgage with 0 debt of any kind, max out Roth IRA and 401k, fund 2 kids 529s a month and have 3 year worth of fully funded emergency fund if both my wife and I were to lose our jobs. I’m 41 and 3 years ago hit just over 1M in net worth. We do save 35% of our income and some years as high as 40% with no life style creep. Hoping to retire in 10 years or by 55.

[@AshtasticAcrobat]

My God, this video is so refreshing!

[@adamivey9103]

James. Thank you for your information. I was thinking I was way behind because I am 40 and have nothing invested. I am just starting. I now know better. I will stop looking behind me, because you are right, I cannot change the past. I need to be looking forward. I will definitely eep watching your content. Thank you so much.

[@fiachramclaughlin3196]

I’m a doctor/pharmacist. 39yo. Have invested in crypto previously successfully. Now investing full time about 12000 euro per year in the stock market. Only started properly last year. Ideally I Would have liked to do this aged 29 than 39 but it is what it is!!

[@abskaher878]

I don’t think I have ever commented on youtube before but want to on this occasion. I found this video very inspiring. I too felt like maybe I have left it too late but not anymore. Great content, thanks James.

[@JamesShack]

It’s easy to think you’re behind when everyone’s driving around in leased cars and living in mortgaged houses. And it’s terrible how feeling behind can make people give up - when they’re actuality ahead of the crowd! All the best Abs!

[@paulchallis9097]

Yes I’m mid 40s and only just started investing but I see this as a positive step toward the goals I am looking to achieve. But thanks to videos like this my children will be investing ASAP so at least they can achieve the level of financial freedom I would have liked to achieve. That’s a positive legacy to leave. Great videos BTW

[@JamesShack]

Hi Paul - thanks for sharing. You're at a prime time to start saving and really make a difference. Which is great but - as you say - the best part is that you can pass what you learn onto the next generation so they have it easy!

[@ezrolith85]

Such an important message. I had the same problem with being in debt and my overall 'networth' (excluding pensions). I've been in debt since I was 18 (i'm 36 now) and finally managed to have a positive networth for the first time in my adult life! When I read about 25 year olds with a networth of £100,000 I used to think what's the point, then I look at how far I've come from where I was a few years ago and realise that alone is reason to celebrate, the only way is up from here - and the same thing applies to people who are in a worse position - hating your current situation isn't going to change it, the only person who can change your perspective is you.

[@Jcrossland1980]

Similar story to me Peter.

[@sophietan4394]

Hi James, thanks for this video, super helpful and encouraging. Am sending this to my sister who just turned 50 and is trying to get her head around investing. Just to flag that a discouraging point is a presumption that someone in their 50s has a mortgage (being paid off) and kids out of the home, which is not necessarily the case (in either respect). While it may be ‘probable’, would find it more encouraging to add in the proviso of ‘even if not…’, just because (as you have flagged) it can be so demoralising examining your financial situation, that extra bit of inclusivity can be helpful. Thanks so much for your content, really appreciate the good work you are doing.

[@richardshaw4336]

Superb videos James. I have subscribed to lots of American videos but its refreshing to have an English man doing it. Keep educating.

[@stuartmbrown66]

I'm 57 we had a property we rented which we've just sold. We don't want to reinvest in property so we are trying to get our heads around the best way to invest, without spaffing away our retirement funds.

[@paolatropical]

Me 42 yo, a housewife.. working on and off. Mother of two young children. My husband pays most of the bills, we don't own a house yet and just moved to another country in Europe. But still saving some money as I work.

[@ashleyhyne7027]

Hi James, excellent videos. I started investing really late (early 50s) - which is bewildering for a Taurean. However, just to give some idea as to how compound interest is working for me ... I invest £800 per month and actually really enjoy checking the progress of those investments. Over the last 5 months alone I have invested £4k. However, they have returned £9k in just those 5 months. As my pot increases the next 5 months will see a dramatic increase on the £9k compared to the last 5 months. So my message to everyone is keep going and keep watching the videos from James because it's all educational and it's all a positive. Don't get disillusioned or demoralised by those goody two shoes who had the privilege of sound advice when younger. The vast vast majority of people in the country haven't got a pot to piss in so the fact that you're setting money aside to buy a pot to piss in should be worth a good back pat for yourselves. Keep going.

[@David-tg8ku]

You made me feel so much better!

[@cmnhl1329]

Started to invest the day I turned 40. Withdrew my 10k from my retirement fund (30k only) and implemented a highly concentrated portfolio into stocks (2 only). One of the stocks went to the moon within two years. I’m sitting on six figures. Please don’t try this. I was just fortunate.

[@iamjonezjonez4481]

Thank you James. I started investing in my 50's but do not seem to good progess. We are now approching 60s and would like to get back on track.

[@rodlewis3544]

Wise words James- compounding is actually "magic". I started again at 40 after a divorce and am now 53. Maxed out employer contributions, paid as much as i could in AVC's to pay 20% tax. Invested in eqities - non UK and S&P heavy and even successfully timed the market a couple of times - including putting a lot into cash Jan 3rd and back in S&P 27th Jan. I have had to invest a lot and taken a fair bit of risk but should work out that i have options in 2-4 years to think more about how much of my time i commmit to working. Starting even 5 years earlier would have made all the difference. One thing i am going to do for my kids is make sure they start early with pensions and try and get a bit in there for them whist they are still in their early 20's

[@JamesShack]

Hi Rod - thanks for sharing! Divorce is a read kick in the teeth. You can be doing everything right and then suddenly you're set back 15 years. It's very hard to pick yourself up from it. But well done for your effort!

[@marzenazet7875]

I have started investing in July 2021 and I am 41. Initially, I felt like I have wasted my time but as you said, I started paying my mortgage 5 years ago (before that I was renting). I had no disposable income. Educated myself, got a better payed job. Being a single mum, I had to create my own financial future. Thanks for this video!

[@JamesShack]

Well done! Your primary focus when young should be on building an income (through work) rather than getting too caught up in investing. It's great to do a little on the side so you can learn but don't beat yourself up about not doing it. But now you're in a great position and can really focus on investing and building for the future!

[@saladcream1884]

TY. Felt like I've left too late (51 y.o.). From your vids I feel there is hope.

[@jamieh2239]

Excellent video. We started investing late (in our 40s) once we got into FIRE planning and that concentrated our minds, its never too late to start. Information is so accessible and investments easier to understand than ever before... just start whenever you can

[@JamesShack]

Well said Jamie. There is such an inclusive and optimistic community around FIRE. It's infectious!

[@SnapRasta]

I was very fortunate i got a pretty good start from an inheritance when i was 27 of 212k. Last year i was up 14% roi so i am hoping by 70 i will have well over a couple million.

[@phyllismcauley1323]

Hi James I’ve just started investing in a S&S ISA and I’m in my 60’s still working partime and receiving a work pension (which I was lucky enough to have as a final salary version 🙌🏻) I’ll still need to invest more to supplement my pension when I finally retire in a few years, hence the reason I’ve started investing with a 5-10 yr plan to build enough to beat the bank rate and be able to afford a few extras later in life, or leave to my children if I don’t live that long …who knows? So yes I thought it was too late but through family and KZbin videos like yours, Pete Matthew and Manafurfur, I’ve been encouraged to start investing- you could argue ‘very late’ in life!

[@JamesShack]

Hi Phyllis, great effort! It's never too late to start. Every penny saved goes towards a brighter tomorrow.

[@cisium1184]

Thank you for this. I'm actually American but I found this such a positive video that I subscribed anyway.

[@i.p.freely2501]

This canadian just subbed too. Cheers!

[@paulb236]

Thank you James - really grateful for the way you approach these topics and deal with them in a realistic way ie considering life situation, emotions etc.

[@laurencelagden]

I’m 53 married with 6 kids. Only 2 of them are young and at school still. Neither of us have ever been high earners, always just scratching out a living. All our money went into paying for the house, vehicles and kids hobbies etc. Always living in the overdraft but just about keeping head above water. Now 53, house is currently worth about £600k (had some luck with houses) and only £13k left on the mortgage which should be cleared in the next 3 years. I worry about a lack of mortgage apart from the government one which to be honest I feel like I could survive on. When you get used to a low income lifestyle and haven’t ever seen the riches you get used to it. People seem to expect a nice car, holiday every year etc etc but you don’t need these things really. I really feel I’ve left it too late and actually I still haven’t got spare money to invest.

[@JamesShack]

When you pay off your mortgage, you should have that additional cashflow to start saving and investing? You could even look at downsizing once the kids have left home and releasing capital that way. Do you not have a pension through work?

[@laurencelagden]

@@JamesShack thank you. I’m amazed you replied to my comment on a video you’ve made from a year ago. Work pensions are nothing to write home about. Worth next to nothing so I don’t even take them into account

[@skinnymoonbob]

Started at 38, planning retirement before 50.

[@philh3041]

Thanks for this James! Totally hit the nail on the head for me. Just turned 48 and although I have some money invested in my pension I jump on a pension calculator and think OMG I am waaayyy behind and I’ll be having to work until I drop! 😬 I’ve just paid off my mortgage though and will be focusing on my pension now. Encouraging words thanks! 👍🏻

[@JamesShack]

Hi Phil - yes this is your time to really get at it and make a big difference!

[@humbledgentileimage4448]

Brilliant content, thank you! This gives me hope. I have a decent pension pot which, I’m trying to work out how to handle. My wife does not have a similar pot and now in our early 50s we’re finally getting in a position to do something about that!

[@jbivphotography]

Amazing video! For someone who is only a couple of years away from being 40 but just not getting into investing and saving for retirement, this is HIGHLY reassuring. Thank you for making this video.

[@pataleno]

I can relate to this. I'm 52 My pension is now at £150k paying just a few hundred a month. I have rental property and decided to pay this mortgage down. I have 20k left to pay with about 180k equity, my own mortgage paid off. I've now ramped up paying 20k a year into my pension from my salary. It's never too late to invest.

[@JamesShack]

THIS 👆🏻 is NORMAL. You've built yourself a great platform, from here on it's all upside!

[@gonnahavemesomefun]

What sets James' content apart from any other financial-based presenter is the emotional wealth I find myself gaining from watching. There is just too much to say about how fantastic this video is to fit in a comment box, but wow. I will get up from my home office chair with a spring in my step knowing I am doing pretty good because I am not in competition with Alice, or Ben 🙂 Thank you James 👏

[@JamesShack]

What a fantastic comment! Thank you very much, and I hope you have a great weekend!

[@stuartheslop8002]

I've started at 45, £22k lump sum and I'm £2k down so far... so so painful 😅

[@welshhibby]

Stuart it will recover...it always does.

[@JamesShack]

The first few months are the worst. As long as you’re diversified you have nothing to worry about. The stock market has come back EVERY TIME!

[@stuartheslop8002]

Really hope so... I started later November, was ready to cut my losses mid January, slowly climbing but I think there's another big shock coming when the fed starts raising interest rates.

[@anonnymous4684]

I started last month. I got excited one day last week when my gains surged to £100, but they were all wiped out the following day and I was back in the red. It's certainly a test of one's patience.

[@rlove21]

@@anonnymous4684 don't watch it every day, invest for the long term not days, not months, its years - ideally many years. look once a quarter if you must, but unless you enjoy the volatility of active investing (and have the safe cash reserves to let you do so), just focus on index tracking low cost investment, that you can set and forget for months at a time.

[@mala1219]

I’ve just started my investment journey. Graduated uni and got my first medical job this year at 22. Set up a monthly direct debit to vwrl and don’t intend to cancel my payments for a very long time.

[@JamesShack]

Wow that is so far ahead. Don't pressure yourself to save too much - still gotta live on those early year medical salaries!

[@nickd1973]

I started of well with setting up a personal pension and PEP when I was a freelance designer aged 25. I had a few years of regularly investing then life got in the way in my 30s with £10K a year on childcare. I’m now 48 and while I’m glad I started when I was 25 but wish I was a bit further along in investing but with a main job and a good side hustle that’s being going 4 years I have a bit more to invest and I think I can get myself in a good financial place in the next 10 years or so. I really appreciate the content you create and this video in particular gives me a reminder that my situation isn’t unique

[@JamesShack]

Hi Nick, thanks for your comment. I think 25% of the people who watch this video will be in your situation. We’d all like to be slightly further ahead, but hey that’s life! As a designer I imagine you could carry on working longer but part time? Finishing a ‘lifestyle job’ works wonders later on in life.

[@nickd1973]

@@JamesShack yes I hope I’d keep working a long time part time. I create a lot of illustration and it’s inspiring to hear of illustrators still being productive in the their 80s or even 90s like Judith Kerr.

[@garethrickerby389]

Great video and wise words for money and life in general

[@kylebennett1928]

going to turn 47 this year. Lucky enough to have a DB pension that will currently pay me £13k in retirement. added to state pension, that just about covers my needs. last year I bought two cheap houses to rent and this provides a decent yield of around 8%. I only started thinking about retirement last year (hence the property purchases) but have never really saved and invested. I now have a small SIPP that gets £1200 a year and an investment product with high risk with another £1200 going in a year. None of this is mega money, but allows me to sleep peacefully knowing that, bar any significant changes, I shall be sorted in retirement. both my kids (18 and 22) have SIPPS and investments so I now invest vicariously through them. I consider myself very lucky. still have monthly mortgage to pay as well as all the increasing bills, but these are covered by salary and income from rentals. Thanks for the vids James.

[@grizzlygrindin]

51 just started investing this year sad but true

[@donnlowel2387]

This is the video i was looking for... Subscribed.

[@andymcall1986]

Just started my investment journey now at 36 and feel like I'm very late to the party. This video gives me hope, so thanks!

[@chrishayward4649]

The best pieces of advice I've picked up from James are in the 3 simple rules video - know your own risk tolerance; understanding what risk really means and your window to invest is much longer than you think. To be honest none of this was new but it has given me the confidence to act when i was starting to go rabbit in the headlights mode!!

[@JamesShack]

That's great to hear Chris. All the best!

[@chrishayward4649]

@@JamesShack no thank you.

[@Rosetteismyname]

The best don't compare yourself argument I have heard when it comes to finance

[@arndabbagh]

Wonderful video mate 🙏

[@connorsdad1841]

I was 43 before I started investing in my retirement, albeit aggressively, still, it's never too late. "The best time to invest was yesterday, the second best was today!"

[@JamesShack]

Amen!

[@carguyuk7525]

There is always time to save. In 10 years (starting age 40) I have a pension pot of over £500k. If I can do it them anyone can. If you are in your 20s then start saving so you still have spare money for nice cars and holidays. I had to make sacrifices to put money away. Don't leave it. Take action.

[@anonnymous4684]

What sort of amount have you put away each month in order to have accrued a pension pot of £500k in 10 years?

[@JamesShack]

Wow - that is impressive!