*Web Novel chapter below*
How to Invest in Index Funds: A Beginner’s Guide to Effortless Wealth-Building
Investing can feel like a maze of confusing options and risky bets—especially if you’re just starting out. But there’s one strategy that cuts through the noise with its simplicity, low cost, and proven results: index fund investing. If you’re searching for a beginner-friendly way to grow your wealth over time, index funds are your golden ticket. In this guide, we’ll explain what index funds are, why they’re perfect for beginners, and how to get started today—complete with trusted platforms where you can sign up. By the end, you’ll have a clear, actionable path to launch your investment journey.
What Are Index Funds?
Imagine owning a small piece of the entire stock market without having to pick individual stocks. That’s the magic of an index fund. It’s a type of mutual fund or exchange-traded fund (ETF) that mirrors a specific market index, like the S&P 500 or the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Instead of betting on one company, you’re investing in hundreds—like Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon—all at once. It’s less about chasing winners and more about riding the market’s natural growth.
Why Index Funds Are Perfect for Beginners
Index funds are the go-to choice for new investors, and here’s why:
- Instant Diversification: One fund spreads your money across hundreds of companies, so a single stock’s stumble won’t derail your progress.
- Low Fees: No need for expensive stock-picking experts—index funds keep costs down.
- Set It and Forget It: No market expertise needed. Just invest and let time do the heavy lifting.
- Proven Track Record: Studies show index funds often outperform actively managed funds, making them a reliable path to long-term wealth.
How to Start Investing in Index Funds: A 3-Step Guide
Ready to take control of your financial future? Follow these simple steps to begin your index fund journey.
Step 1: Choose a Brokerage Account
A brokerage account is your gateway to buying index funds. Think of it as your investment dashboard. Here are three top platforms perfect for beginners:
- Vanguard: The pioneer of low-cost index funds. Sign up here.
- Fidelity: Offers zero-fee index funds with no minimums. Get started.
- Charles Schwab: Known for stellar customer support. Open an account.
Pro Tip: Look for platforms with low fees, a variety of funds, and an easy-to-use interface. Most let you start with as little as $1!
Step 2: Pick the Right Index Fund
Once your account is set up, choose a fund that matches your goals:
- S&P 500 Index Funds: Tracks the 500 largest U.S. companies (e.g., Vanguard’s VOO). Perfect for broad market exposure.
- Total Stock Market Index Funds: Includes small, mid, and large-cap stocks (e.g., Schwab’s SWTSX). Maximum diversification.
- International Index Funds: Invests globally (e.g., Fidelity’s FZILX). Adds worldwide balance.
Newbie Hack: Start with an S&P 500 or total market fund for simplicity and growth potential.
Step 3: Make Your First Investment
Now, it’s time to put your money to work:
- Fund Your Account: Transfer as little as $1–$100 to get started.
- Buy Your Fund: Search for your chosen fund (e.g., VOO at Vanguard) and hit “buy.”
- Automate It: Set up automatic investments—like $50 a month—to grow your wealth effortlessly.
Quick Links:
Why Index Funds Are a Smart Choice
- Lower Risk: Diversification cushions you from single-stock disasters.
- Tax-Friendly: Fewer trades mean fewer taxable events.
- Long-Term Gains: With the market’s historical 7–10% annual return, index funds are a retirement-building powerhouse.
Risks to Keep in Mind
No investment is bulletproof. Here’s what to watch:
- Market Swings: When the market dips, so does your fund. But history shows it bounces back.
- No Big Wins: You won’t beat the market—but for most, matching it is a win.
Tips for Index Fund Success
- Invest Regularly: Use dollar-cost averaging to smooth out market highs and lows.
- Diversify Further: Add international or bond funds as your portfolio grows.
- Stay the Course: Don’t panic-sell during downturns. Long-term investors win by holding steady.
Real-Life Success Story: Sarah’s $240,000 Nest Egg
Meet Sarah, a 30-year-old teacher who invested $200 a month in an S&P 500 index fund. After 30 years, her $72,000 in contributions ballooned to over $240,000—thanks to the market’s average 7% return. No stock-picking, no stress—just consistent investing through platforms like Fidelity or Vanguard.
Start Your Investment Journey Today
Index funds are your beginner-friendly path to low-cost, reliable wealth-building. Sign up with a trusted brokerage like Vanguard, Fidelity, or Charles Schwab, pick a fund, and start with as little as $50 a month. The sooner you begin, the more time your money has to grow. Take that first step now—your future self will thank you!
I Quit Being a Court Magician Apprentice to Become a Magical Item Craftsman
The demon Kiméjes has arrived. He has an aristocratic air about him, with brown hair and eyes, dressed in a black coat with gold trimmings. Today, he is clad entirely in black, with gold embroidery stitched here and there. He is contracted to Hannes, the court mage employed by Duke Augusto, who protects me in this country.
He had been sent as an envoy to the demon summoned to Tranchinel, under Belial’s orders, so this must be his report.
However, his expression is tense, and it seems like the content might not be good.
Sitting on the sofa in the guest room facing Belial. By the way, at first, he was even hesitant to sit down.
I am sitting next to Belial, while Sebirino, Ekvar , and Rini are also nearby.
This time, the demon Belphegor has also come to hear the report and is standing between Belial and Kiméjes. She looks like a secretary, with her brown hair tied up neatly and wearing glasses. She is dressed in sleek, rust-colored pants and a coat that reaches just above her knees.
“How did it go?”
“…It was worse than expected. They listened to what I had to say, but…”
Kiméjes’ usually articulate speech falters, indicating hesitation.
“Go on.”
At Belial’s urging, Belphegor nods as well, prompting him to continue.
“They said they were going to finish their ‘play.’ They also asked if we knew of Belial’s whereabouts. I feigned ignorance.”
“…I see. Well done. You have my gratitude.”
This is quite a dangerous sign, isn’t it? Could it be that Belial will have to go to war? Anxious, I decided to ask:
“Belial-sama, what do you intend to do?”
“…There is no choice but for us to go. If they rampage their way northward, it could cause trouble, don’t you think?”
“That’s true, but…”
What would happen if two kings clashed? I can’t even imagine. Wouldn’t it lead to massive destruction?
“Such ill-timed events. Please wait a moment. Currently, Lucifer-sama is leading troops in Hell. Some forces, realizing several kings are absent, have started causing trouble. But he will quell it soon. We strongly wish to avoid any conflict between the two of you.”
“Indeed, I sensed the watchful eyes of Heaven. For the kings of Hell to fight amongst themselves would only expose our weaknesses.”
Belphegor and Kiméjes both urged caution. The watchful eyes of Heaven, huh?
They must be referring to the Creator—the god who oversees this world. Angels are messengers of Heaven, beings who take on tasks assigned by this god. Demons contract with humans because they were commanded by god to “heed the words of humans.” God’s commands are their highest duty, and contracts with humans come second.
“I will inform Baal-sama of the situation. Belial-sama, please act prudently.”
“I understand, Belphegor. But tell me—under what circumstances would a recall order grant us leeway?”
“That depends… First, if there is no suitable summoner available. Also, depending on the situation, if one is currently fulfilling or engaged in something akin to fulfilling a contract, or if the contractor is in danger, we may receive leeway. Contracts should be respected.”
Belphegor answers carefully, and Belial nods before turning to Kiméjes.
“Hmm. So, Kiméjes, they said they would ‘finish’ it, correct? What do you think they meant?”
“…That is a difficult question. If they are trying to find Belial-sama, I speculate they wish to fight… But…”
Kiméjes places a hand on his chin, recalling the words of Hell’s king. Belial wasn’t present then—does he already know the answer? Wanting to fight Belial alone wouldn’t justify staying after being told to leave.
“That might be part of it, but not the main reason. What kind of contract do you think the military state of Tranchinel made with them?”
“Contract… I thought they aimed to attack the Duchy of Fenn, but there’s no sign of that… Could it be…”
“Yes. Until now, it was all play. Even if told to return, as long as they claim the contract is unfulfilled, they’ll gain leeway.”
Contracts are important to demons too. While they may deceive through terms and conditions, they don’t easily break agreements once sealed.
“In other words, the destruction of Tranchinel, the country where they were summoned, was merely the prelude. Now comes the real battle—they mean to destroy the Duchy of Fenn…?”
As Belphegor adjusts her glasses, she mutters as though convincing herself of something.
This is shaping up to be a disaster!
“I concur with that interpretation.”
“…So they want to play until the very end. That sounds like them… But what will Lucifer-sama say…?”
Just what kind of demon did Tranchinel summon? In the worst-case scenario, it could lead to the final war in this world. Everyone wants to avoid that outcome, I suppose.
“This much information suffices.”
“Yes, it’s troubling indeed. Yet, speaking to them won’t change anything… They won’t listen to my words anyway.”
All three wear bitter expressions.
“The sparks in Hell’s fires will likely be extinguished swiftly by Lucifer-sama. I plan to head to the Duchy of Fenn soon. Should a clash occur, Lucifer-sama will need to be summoned. Please relay the message and prepare accordingly.”
“Understood.”
Belphegor gives a slight bow, signaling the end of the discussion. Leaning back against the sofa, Belial exhales sharply.
“…They’ve probably sensed my presence nearby and accounted for possible interference. This is becoming quite troublesome.”
With that, the meeting adjourns. Belphegor returns to Hell.
Ah, Lucifer is leading troops in Hell…
If I remember correctly, the reason Belial started planting flowers in the garden was because Belphegor disliked displaying enemy heads as trophies. Growing human-world flowers in Hell requires skill, showcasing power. Let’s hope the fence doesn’t get decorated with severed heads again…
After the two demons depart, Belial turns his gaze toward me.
“…In case of an emergency, you must not step forward. As my contractor, you may become a target.”
“…Is this someone who would actually do such a thing?”
Normally, demons don’t deliberately target contractors, especially when bound by protective contracts. From Belial’s unusually serious expression, however, it seems highly plausible.
“It’s possible. Ekvar , Sebirino. Stay vigilant.”
“Of course. I’ll stake my life on it.”
“For my master, I will give my all!”
Both respond firmly. Satisfied, Belial narrows his eyes slightly, finally managing a small smile.
“The girl is reckless… Stay put and don’t stray far from me until this is resolved.”
“Hmph. I don’t consider myself reckless.”
“That’s exactly why you’re blind to your own recklessness.”
“My lord rushes into dragon fights faster than anyone else!”
Now even those two gang up on me!
I may challenge dragons, but I wouldn’t dare face a king of Hell!
“…Sometimes, Iriya is more reckless than Ekvar . It worries me.”
Even Rini chimes in!
The conversation ends, and Sebirino moves toward the kitchen to prepare dinner. Just as he opens the door, Belial’s crimson eyes glance at his retreating figure before calling out:
“The name of the king summoned to Tranchinel is Paimon. He delights in bloodshed and takes pleasure in killing humans.”
Finally, Belial reveals it to me. Quite disturbing tastes.
No wonder I don’t want to imagine what would happen if he came to the Duchy of Fenn.
Danger looms near, doesn’t it…?
