5 Smart Investments for Black Folks in 2024

You don’t have to be rich to invest.

Frankly, you don’t even have to have much money at all. In 2024, navigating the investment landscape may be challenging, but it’s also extremely rewarding if you know where to start.

It’s all about making the right moves at the right time, and for those in the Black community, it’s even more critical. Don’t let tough socioeconomic circumstances get you down. Do you want to build a passive income? Looking to put your money to work for you, instead of always grinding for your bread?

Here are five smart investments for Black investors in 2024 you gotta check out.

1. Crypto

Cryptocurrency is getting bigger and bigger, so hopping on this train is more important than ever. Looking for potentially high returns? Consider currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Given their impressive growth over the decade, they are a very attractive option for modern investors.

This financial frontier is also popular because of its low barriers to entry. You don’t need a lot of capital, and thanks to its decentralized nature, you don’t have to sweat someone breathing down your neck watching your every move.

The best exchanges to start with are Coinbase or Binance. Before you start, study up on blockchain technology and various cryptos out there. The online community of crypto investors is quite friendly and helpful, so don’t be afraid to ask those ‘beginner’ questions!

2. Health & Wellness

There’s a reason you’re reading this article right now, on this health and wellness website.

Because health and wellness is popular! In fact, the industry is exploding, especially after the Pandemic when many people are now more conscious about their well-being than ever before. From fitness gadgets to organic meals and mental health apps, the offerings are numerous.

Health and wellness are also very important to the Black community, as business owners and entrepreneurs strive to bring their customers new ways to improve their lives. Diet supplements. Workout equipment. Disease prevention routines. You name it, it’s all there, so find yourself a publicly traded company and consider investing.

Just make sure the company has a good track record, and most importantly, reflects the kinds of things you care about!

3. Black-Owned Startups

Speaking of companies, how about those that reflect a unique cultural experience and history? If you want to invest close to home, consider Black-owned startups. These are often run by people who are full of energy and optimism, looking to bring something revolutionary to the market. From sporting apparel and fashion to technology and pop culture, the products and services of Black startups cover it all.

Many of these startups also try to fill gaps in the community, helping with common problems that affect Black people of all ages and walks of life.

One way to get linked up is through Backstage Capital or the Black Angel Group. These are great for connecting with entrepreneurs with values just like yours. You can invest alongside others in crowdfunding platforms, making it even easier to get the ball rolling!

And you’ll have a truly personal stake in the company.

4. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)

Think of Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) as ‘diversifying your portfolio’ without all the hassle.

Basically, you invest in different ventures, but never have to worry about picking individual stocks. This could be everything from real estate to bonds. The good news is, they’re not that expensive. You can start with limited capital, and many ETFs are very flexible, so you can go in for the short-term or long-term – up to you.

If you want to avoid big fees and big risks, look into opening an account with a brokerage firm that specializes in low-cost index funds. These are some of the best options for reliable, predictable growth!

5. Real Estate Crowdfunding

Real estate is often said to be the best investment choice during a recession.

Well… What better time than now, then?

If you’re looking into real estate, crowdfunding allows you to get involved without huge capital reserves. Interested in residential? Looking at a big apartment complex? How about a multi-use office building or industrial project?

With real estate crowdfunding, it’s easy to diversify and build wealth through income-generating properties. Ventures like low-income housing developments are also great for providing shelter to the community!

Interested? Try platforms like Fundrise, RealtyMogul, or Crowdstreet. Learn the fees and terms, start smaller, and build up over time.

By applying strategies like this one, successful investing doesn’t have to be difficult. Depending on your risk tolerance and your goals, you can quickly get involved in projects that will not only pay you in the short term, but help you build a cash flow for life!