Investing with Influencers: A Personal Take on Why Caution is Key Recently, a friend of mine told me about a YouTube video from a finance influencer promoting a particular investment scheme. She was eager to invest after watching it and asked me for advice. While I always encourage learning about personal finance through educational content, I reminded her that blindly following advice—without proper research and understanding—can be risky. As a financial planner, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful and useful the right financial advice can be. However, it's important to remember: 1️⃣ Lack of Personalization: Many finfluencers share generic advice that doesn’t consider your personal financial situation. Just because a particular investment worked for someone else doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Your income, risk tolerance, debts, and long-term goals must always be factored in when making investment decisions. 2️⃣ Focus on Short-Term Gains: Some influencers promote investments based on recent performance, which may look appealing but often lacks the emphasis on long-term growth or diversification. Chasing quick returns can sometimes lead to higher risks and unwanted losses. While it’s true that many finfluencers offer valuable insights and can guide you toward better financial habits, it’s crucial to approach their advice with caution. Not all information shared online is tailored to your personal needs. My advice: Before making any investment, especially based on a video or social media post, take time to: Understand your financial goals. Do your own research. Seek advice from a certified financial planner. Investing wisely is about making informed decisions—not just following trends.