 TITLE: What Are Penny Stocks and Are They Safe? CONTENT: Additional Places to Invest Your Money\n--------------------------------------\nIn addition to fractional shares in individual stocks, you've got plenty of other options that may be safer, and even more lucrative, than penny stocks. Depending on how much you have to trade, you may also have other options, including:\n*   Bonds\n*   Mutual funds\n*   ETFs\n*   Certificates of deposit\n*   Real estate\n*   Precious metals\n*   Cryptocurrency\nOf course, it's a good idea to do your research on investment opportunities before you pull the trigger. With individual stocks, for instance, there are different categories, such as large cap, small cap, growth and value. Each of these categories has its benefits and drawbacks, and it's important to understand them to ensure you make the right decision, especially when you're just starting out with investing.\nAdditionally, it's a good idea to make sure your finances are in enough order that it makes sense to begin investing. For example, you'll want to make sure you have a robust enough emergency fund that you can weather rainy days. It's also generally a good idea to pay down high-interest debt because the interest rates are often higher than the expected return of the stock market.\nAs you invest, keep your long-term financial goals in mind. It's a good idea to maintain a retirement account separate from the investment accounts you manage, so you don't put all your eggs in one basket. Managing your own investments can be worthwhile, but it can also be riskier than a professionally managed 401(k) or IRA account. END