Unrequested payday wisdom. Before you start investing in stocks, make sure you have the basics covered. Have an emergency fund. An account which holds 3-6 months worth of your NECESSARY expenses (rent, food, electricity). I know 3-6 months worth of savings is insane in this economy and country but it’s something you build towards every month. It will most probably take years to build and that’s normal. Reason for covering this base before you invest is to avoid dipping into your investments when life throws unplanned expenses at you. You’ll be able to leave your investments alone and allow them to compound.