Investing works because it allows you to participate in the relentless growth of the world's economy, which hardly follows a straight line, but does trend upward over time. If you think you will need access to your funds sooner rather than later, look for an investment that provides a fairly safe and steady growth rate. Yield Yield is the interest or dividends paid on your investment. Like growth, it can vary in importance depending on your needs. If you are retired and your investment is funding your retirement, your investments should generate enough yield to let you live on the interest.
Savings accounts tend to yield small percentages.
Stocks can yield the highest percentages but also have the greatest risk. Income Income is closely related to yield. If so, you may want to be more conservative with your investment choices to ensure that the amount of yield it produces remains consistent and reliable. You should give careful consideration to where and how often you want to reinvest your money, as it could effect your financial security.