That's my conclusion for my first 9 months on the stock market.
I am in my mid-40s and have always read a lot about the stock market, but have never dared to become active myself. Money was/is in the savings bank, has flowed into a home and two condominiums round off my retirement provision including a Riester pension.
My teenage son finally persuaded me to invest in the stock market at the beginning of the year. He sensed a quick buck to supplement his pocket money and I took the first steps.
As I also tend to gamble, I set myself clear rules at the beginning.
1. monthly savings plan on an ETF that is not touched
2. maximum amount for "gambling", this will not be increased. Initially with smaller contributions, gradually increased to the maximum amount over the course of the year.
What have I learned?
1. reading in advance was good, but actually trading with real money is something else
2. setting goals is important and helps to make decisions
3. don't be led by emotions or hype!
Here are a few examples of what I mean exactly.
I didn't define clear exit guidelines for myself and acted arbitrarily.
I was convinced of $INTC (-8.67%) . Why? Because it is the only chip manufacturer in the USA. All the other big ones have their products made. I bought Intel very cheaply and sold it with a profit of around 40%. The rocket then went up and by now I would have more than doubled my investment.
I was convinced of $RVMD (-3.32%) . Here, too, I sold with a 30% gain. Same story, after my sale the share rose and I had more than doubled my stake!
At the drop in October/November, I traded emotionally and sold a lot, sometimes with high losses. Today I know that was total nonsense.
Do the above examples annoy me? I would be lying if I said no. But it was important for me to have had the experience to act differently next time. Learn, learn, learn!
What are my goals for 2026?
Let's take a quick look back at the figures for 2025:
The ETF stands at +3.x percent. That's better than the savings bank
The share block stands at 8.x percent. In figures 850 euros. That's also more than with the savings bank 😜
What are my specific plans for this year?
-Increase the ETF block to 40,000 euros
-Define clear exit scenarios for the equity block (percentage gain)
-Generate 3000 euros through sales
-in 2027, a family vacation, 5000 euros, should come out of it
-Deal more intensively with the topic of derivatives and leverage and gain initial positive experience
-take another look at my Riester contract and find out more if necessary, it is currently dormant.
What do I plan to do in the next 5 years?
The condominiums will be sold as it is too labor-intensive. That will give the portfolio another nice boost.
I want to pay off my own home. That's ambitious, but feasible.
Continue to go on vacation with the family twice a year
Last but not least, many thanks to the forum here. I have read many interesting posts and even though I don't know anyone personally, I have learned to appreciate one or two of them. Many thanks for the numerous contributions and the answers to my questions and tips regarding shares!
Happy New Year to everyone! Above all, good health - you can't buy it on the stock market. Satisfaction with yourself. There is nothing better than not being stressed and being at peace with yourself. It's an easy way to live in the often stressful everyday/family life.
