*Web Novel chapter blow*

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:

• Invest with Vanguard
• Trade with Fidelity
• Start with Schwab

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!

The Empire’s Strongest Genius Knight, Aspiring to Be an Adventurer

Eggreet once again took the initiative and launched an attack. This time, however, unlike before, he leapt high over Franz’s head and landed silently behind him. The moment his feet touched the ground, Eggreet kicked off strongly once more, this time charging at Franz from behind.

Franz swiftly turned around and countered with his sword, but due to Eggreet’s incredible speed, his reaction was slightly delayed, causing him to lean back just a bit. Seizing the opportunity, Franz unleashed a fireball to create some distance between himself and Eggreet.

“Now it’s my turn,” Franz declared as he charged toward Eggreet, raising his unsheathed sword and slashing down from the upper right. Though Eggreet easily dodged the blade, a sudden gust of wind shot out from the tip of the sword as it sliced through the air.

“Ugh… Not bad,” Eggreet muttered as he was caught off guard by the unexpected follow-up attack. Unable to completely evade it, he could only cross his arms in defense, narrowly avoiding a critical hit.

Blood began to seep from Eggreet’s forearms where they had blocked the wind blades.

From that point onward, neither side gave an inch, and neither could land a decisive blow. Eggreet deflected Franz’s sword strikes with his claws while evading his magic with swift movements, while Franz skillfully dodged Eggreet’s claw attacks and kicks using both his sword and spells.

The speed of their battle was extraordinary—only a handful among the spectators possessed enough skill to fully grasp what was happening.

“Are humans really this strong…?” 

“Boss, you’re going all out, right?” 

“To me, it looks like full power. I can’t believe he’s matching up with Eggreet like this.”

As the beastmen murmured in astonishment, the end of their fierce exchange finally came into view.

Franz launched yet another attack similar to those he had used against Eggreet multiple times before. When Eggreet focused on avoiding the downward swing of the sword—

Franz let go of his weapon.

With the newfound agility of empty hands, he delivered a powerful punch straight into Eggreet’s abdomen, capitalizing on the momentum of his charge.

Caught off guard by the unexpected fist attack after focusing on the sword, Eggreet took the full force of the blow to his solar plexus.

“Gahh…” Eggreet groaned, collapsing to the ground as he expelled a breath. Without missing a beat, Franz closed in on him.

He quickly flipped Eggreet onto his stomach with a kick, pinning him down with one foot on his back while grabbing his right arm and locking it behind him at its full range of motion.

Realizing there was no way out, Eggreet immediately conceded. 

“I lose!” 

At that moment, Franz released his hold and extended a hand to help Eggreet up. 

“Sorry about that. Are you hurt anywhere?” 

Smiling wryly, Eggreet accepted the hand. 

“That was a total loss for me… Franz, you’re something else.” 

Exhausted, Eggreet sat down on the ground with one knee raised. With a slight smirk, Franz spoke. 

“You were incredibly strong too, Eggreet. It’s been a while since I’ve fought with everything I’ve got—it was fun. I appreciate it.” 

“The pleasure was mine,” Eggreet replied. 

As Eggreet stood up, the two exchanged a firm handshake, signaling mutual respect. The watching beastmen erupted in cheers.

“Th-This is insane!!” 

“What an amazing duel…!” 

“I never thought our leader would lose! Unbelievable!” 

“Are all humans this strong?!” 

“Magic is incredible!” 

Initially wary of Franz, the beastmen now seemed to have warmed up to him after witnessing the duel, clearly excited by what they saw.

Amidst the commotion, Maria sighed and gazed off distantly. 

“The standard for humans among the beastmen has become Franz now…” 

Her quiet muttering went unheard as Eggreet spoke again. 

“As for interacting with humans, since we had such a fun duel, I’ll cooperate fully.” 

“Really? That would be a great help.” 

“Are all humans as strong as you, Franz?” 

“Not at all. But there are plenty of strong ones. I’ve met many powerful individuals in my time.” 

Though Franz’s words were influenced by the fact that he had always been surrounded by top-tier talents of the empire, Eggreet’s face brightened even further. 

“That sounds promising! By the way, who exactly are you? Humans belong to organizations, right? Your organization must have lots of strong members.” 

“My name is Franz Balschmiede. I’m the commander of the First Knight Order governing this land under the Stohl Empire. However, I’m currently on leave and working as an adventurer—a wonderful profession, if I may say so myself.” 

Upon hearing Franz’s explanation, one of the beastmen called out loudly. 

“I know adventurers! They defeat monsters, right?” 

“That’s correct. And not only do they slay monsters, but they also assist those without combat skills—truly admirable people.” 

“So that means there are tons of strong adventurers, huh?” 

“Absolutely. Many indeed.” 

Franz nodded confidently, which only fueled the beastmen’s growing admiration for adventurers. 

“I wanna become an adventurer too!” 

“It sounds fun!” 

Franz didn’t deny these exclamations, instead nodding as if it were only natural. 

“I’d be delighted if you became adventurers and helped everyone.” 

“Hold on a second! Adventurers like Franz are extremely rare…” Maria interjected hurriedly, though her voice was drowned out by the excited chatter of the beastmen.

In the midst of the uproar, Adel, seated near Maria, quietly asked, 

“Um… What does being a ‘knight captain’ mean exactly?” 

Seeing Adel’s puzzled expression, Maria decided it was best to clarify the matter herself and sat back down on the steps. 

“It means exactly what it sounds like. Franz is the captain of the First Knight Order and the son of the Duke ruling the Balschmiede Duchy. He’s taken an extended vacation to pursue his dream of becoming an adventurer.” 

Though Maria relayed the facts plainly, Adel tilted her head, still confused. 

“The knight captain is taking a long vacation to become an adventurer…?” 

“—It’s understandable if you don’t get it. Franz’s actions often defy expectations. For now, please keep this information a secret, okay?” 

“O-Of course!” 

Adel nodded repeatedly, clearly wanting to avoid getting entangled in anything strange. She then sternly reminded Mira and Haniruka not to tell anyone about this.

After confirming Adel’s reaction, Maria turned her gaze back to Franz and the others.

There, Franz was surrounded by the beastmen, bombarded with rapid-fire questions: What kind of training did he do daily? Which monsters had he defeated? Who were the strongest humans?