Investing in shares: Business or Investment

We all desire a comfortable life where we can provide for our loved ones, treat each other occasionally, and have financial security. However, attaining our objectives frequently requires sufficient finances, push us to work more and help us find sources of income to earn more. When we say we require a stable source of income, the first thing that comes to mind is employment. However, there are times when our normal wage is sufficient to meet our ever-growing requirements. We then consider how to budget our limited income or, for the entrepreneurial, how to increase our earnings by offering products or services for a profit.

Our income from employment or entrepreneurship is referred to as active income since we earn it by exerting effort to work. However, were you aware that you may make passive income by allowing your money to work for you? This is referred to as passive income. You now have two choices: create a business or invest in shares. Starting a business provides an opportunity to make an active income, whilst investing in the shares provides an opportunity to earn a passive income.

• Investing in shares
• Is this a good time to invest in shares?
• Factors to consider before planning for a business or investing in shares

Investing in shares

When you purchase shares, you acquire direct ownership. Investing is preferred by those seeking a long-term stake hoping that the companys shares would appreciate in value. As a business grows and becomes more valuable, the value of its shares is likely to increase as well.

As a shareholder, you stand to earn a profit if you sell your shares at a greater price than the price you bought at the time of purchase. However, because investments can appreciate or depreciate in value, you may earn less than you invested if the companys share price declines and you close your position.

Investing in the share might be daunting for people with a lack of understanding; fear of losing their hard-earned money, fear of scams, and inadequate cash flow management can be other factors.

With the rise in popularity of online investment platforms, every individual must take the sufficient understanding online before investing money into the shares to know how it works. Investing in the shares does not guarantee big returns; worse, if one does it through trial and error, one could end lose money. Thus, Investing directly in the shares entails greater risks. If you invest in the shares without sufficient understanding, it becomes a gamble that may result in significant losses.

Also See: SEIS and EIS Investment Scheme for UK Startups

Is this a good time to invest in shares?

Reasons to be hopeful about the share market in 2021 include the following:

1. A successful vaccination campaign could increase in travel, commerce, and spending.
2. Industries that have been closed will reopen (think travel and entertainment).
3. New industries, such as technology, e-commerce, and biotechnology, have grown in the pandemic and continue to grow further.
4. Interest rates that are too low will encourage people to spend or invest.

It is critical to note that both investing in shares and launching a business involve dangers. In either case, it is possible that you might lose your entire investment. This is why you need to understand the risks involved before taking the plunge.

1. Fears about new coronavirus strains
2. In the short run, rising unemployment and the elimination of government support schemes.
3. Share markets have already recovered significantly from their March lows at the start of the covid-19 outbreak. Which may mean they are due a fall?
4. Brexit and the consequences of exiting the EU.

Also See: Investing in properties through a trading company – Pitfalls

Factors to consider before planning for a business or investing in shares

1. Consider the Risk involvement

   – The toughest question that an individual need to answer is, “Should I start a business or invest in the share market?” There is no right or wrong answer because it depends upon personal preferences, skills, expertise, and resources.

   Capital is frequently the most difficult obstacle to overcome when beginning a business. You should account for government fees, monthly operating expenditures, equipment, and other start-up costs. Bear in mind that there is also a possibility that your business will slow down, cease to profit, or perhaps go bankrupt. While you own the business, your cash flow is less liquid, and you may be unable to access your funds in an emergency. Despite the hurdles, many entrepreneurs continue to pursue business opportunities due to the chance of huge profits. However, the reality is that it is not suitable for everyone. Another possibility is to make an investment in shares.

2. Consider the time you have to spend

   – Starting a business takes time. Being ones own boss requires a great deal of effort, patience, and sacrifice. Typically, business owners spend more time working than salaried employees, particularly when the business is just getting started. Are you willing to sacrifice time with friends and family and sleep in order to bring your vision to life?

   On the other hand, investing in shares provides a variety of opportunities. While you can invest and manage your shares personally, you can also invest in pooled funds such as mutual funds and investment funds.

   One of the primary benefits of investing in the share market is that you are not as concerned with management as business owners are. Because you are not involved in the actual business in which you own shares, you are not required to deal with actual business problems. While you must monitor the share market, this still leaves you with more time and freedom to pursue other interests. Additionally, some may claim that having a strong portfolio does not provide the same sense of fulfilment as entering your own office or seeing your name on a logo. Individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit frequently derive satisfaction from developing a firm, distinct from investing in stocks.

3. Consider your knowledge level and skills

   – The most critical element to consider is your objective. Establishing a business and investing in the share market are not equivalent activities due to their distinct objectives. You may hear advice such as "you will never know unless you try," which is equivalent to taking as many risks as possible in the absence of adequate knowledge or supervision.

   Your awareness of your true capabilities will primarily determine your choice. By balancing your goals against your skills, financial capacity, and available time, you can make a more informed decision about whether to start your own business or invest in the share market.

   Establishing a clear and well-defined financial objective is an excellent place to start. By defining your objectives, you may develop a realistic plan of action that meets your needs. Having enough money to start a business or invest in the share market is only the beginning. There is plenty to learn and do in order to minimise risks and avoid losing your hard-earned money. After all, achieving your objectives and dreams is based upon your willingness to gain rather than lose.

In case you have any queries or want assistance and specialist advice on “Setting up a new business” or "Investing in shares”, kindly call us on 03330886686, or you can also e-mail us at enquiry@dnsaccountants.co.uk.

Also See: How to manage a cash surplus in a limited company?

About the author

Sumit Agarwal
Sumit Agarwal (ACMA ACA India), the Managing partner of dns accountants is a highly respected accountant with expertise in helping owner-managed businesses.