Breaking the Cycle: How to Be the First in Your Family to Invest in Ireland

You’ve been doing everything right with your money. Saving, being frugal and yet you still feel behind.

Here’s the truth: there’s nothing wrong with you.

Saving money (the responsible thing we’ve all been taught to do) simply isn’t enough. Not when inflation exists. Not in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis. Not when buying a house feels like a distant dream.

The real risk is leaving all your money sitting in a bank account, quietly losing value every year and not investing.

So let’s change that narrative. Right now. Together.

You’re going to be the first in your family to become an investor, and I’m going to show you exactly how.

The First Rule of Building Generational Wealth: Own Assets, Not Liabilities

Assets are things like property, stocks, gold. Things that are expected to grow in value and provide future financial benefits.

Investing in the stock market is one of the simplest and most accessible ways to start building wealth. Yes, capital is at risk. But so is doing nothing.

Understanding Your Options: Stocks vs. ETFs

Before you dive in, you need to understand what you’re investing in and why it matters.

Stocks = Buying ownership in a single company (like Apple or Ryanair).

ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) = A basket of different stocks bundled together.

Think of it like your makeup bag. You don’t just own foundation. You’ve got lip gloss, mascara, blush. If one product isn’t trending, you’re still covered. That’s diversification. And in investing, diversification = reduced risk.

If foundation is all the rage? Great. If not? You’ve still got options.

That’s why ETFs are a beginner’s best friend. 

How Do You Actually Start Investing in Ireland?

It’s simpler than you think.

Step 1: Open an investment brokerage account. Popular platforms in Ireland include Trading 212, Trade Republic, DEGIRO, and more.

Step 2: Decide whether you want to invest in individual stocks or ETFs.

Step 3: Start small. Even with €1. Consistency beats perfection every time.

Stocks or ETFs? What’s the Difference (and Why It Matters for Irish Taxes)

Stock gains are taxed at 33% Capital Gains Tax (CGT), and you get a €1,270 tax-free allowance per year on your first €1,270 in profits.

ETF gains are taxed at 38% (Exit Tax), whether you sell or hit the 8-year deemed disposal rule.

Yes, the tax on ETFs is higher. But they still outperform leaving your money in a savings account. And the diversification they offer makes them a safer, smarter choice for most beginners.

What Should You Invest In?

That depends on your values and the type of investor you are (risky, moderate, conservative)

There are ETFs that focus on sustainability, social responsibility, ethical standards, and more. Do your research. Find what aligns with you.

The Most Important Thing to Remember

(Successful) Investing in the stock market is a long-term game. The best investors think in timelines of 5+ years, depending on their goals.

Never invest money you can’t afford to lose or might need soon.

But if you’re ready to start building wealth (the kind that lasts, the kind that changes your family’s story), then this is your moment.

You will be the one in your family to change the narrative.