In recent years, the concept of investing has ceased to be exclusive to large entrepreneurs or finance experts. Today, thanks to micro-investment apps, anyone can start with minimal amounts —even as low as $100— and access instruments that were previously unthinkable for the general public.
This phenomenon is rapidly growing in Argentina and throughout Latin America, driven by technological advances, financial digitalization, and the search for alternatives to beat inflation.
What are micro-investments?
Micro-investments are a way to invest money in different assets —such as stocks, mutual funds, cryptocurrencies, or bonds— with very low amounts, generally starting from $100 or $500.
Through digital platforms and investment wallets, users can easily operate from their phones, view real-time returns, and withdraw their funds whenever they want.
Why they are growing so much
1. Total accessibility: anyone can start without advanced knowledge or large capital.
2. Digital financial education: the apps include tutorials, graphs, and simulators to learn while investing.
3. Distrust in traditional savings: inflation and low bank interest rates push users to seek more profitable alternatives.
4. Rewards and incentives: some platforms offer benefits for maintaining invested balances or inviting friends.
Among the most popular platforms are Ualá, Mercado Pago, Belo, Buenbit, and Lemon, all offering fast investment options and no high commissions.
A trend that crosses borders
The model was born in the United States with apps like Acorns and Robinhood, and quickly spread to Latin America. Today, millions of users in the region take advantage of this system to save, dollarize, or invest in global assets.
In Argentina, the growth of micro-investments also responds to the need to maintain the value of money in a context of high inflation and scarce opportunities in the traditional financial system.
- Risks and precautions
Although micro-investments democratize access, they also involve risks:
Returns can vary depending on the asset.
Not all platforms are regulated by local financial authorities.
The lack of financial education can lead to impulsive decision-making.
Therefore, experts recommend diversifying, staying informed, and avoiding investing money that is needed in the short term.
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