These days, you don’t need to look far to find investing advice. Just open TikTok or scroll through Instagram Reels, and you’ll be greeted by “finfluencers” breaking down stock picks, showing off their gains, or explaining how to turn ₱1,000 into ₱10,000 “fast.” The content is eye-catching, bite-sized, and often sounds too good to ignore especially if you’re a first-time investor.
There’s nothing wrong with learning through social media. In fact, it’s a great way to get curious about your finances. But like many things online, what goes viral isn’t always the full picture. And when it comes to investing your hard-earned money, the real lessons often happen off-screen.
The Rise of Finfluencers
Financial influencers, or “finfluencers”, have made the stock market feel more approachable for many young Filipinos. They simplify concepts, share personal stories, and make investing feel less intimidating. Thanks to them, more people are opening trading accounts, learning new terms, and realizing that the stock market isn’t just for the wealthy.
But here’s where it gets tricky. Many of these videos are focused on hype, not habits. They show the highlight reels such as the “I bought this stock and made 50%!” moments, but often skip over the months (or years) of waiting, the dips in between, and the importance of consistency. When new investors follow these trends without understanding the full picture, they risk making emotional decisions that could hurt their progress.
The Common Traps of Trend-Based Investing
It’s easy to get caught up in stock market FOMO, fear of missing out. You see a trending stock on your feed, and without doing much research, you buy in. Then the price drops, and panic sets in. Many beginners end up selling too early or chasing another stock that’s gone viral, only to repeat the same cycle.
Another common mistake is copying someone else’s portfolio just because it worked for them. But every investor has a different goal, timeline, and risk tolerance. What works for one person might not make sense for you. Without context, these viral “investment strategies” can lead to losses, frustration, and even giving up altogether.
What Really Matters in Investing
Here’s the truth: investing isn’t about chasing quick wins, it’s about building wealth over time. The most successful investors don’t rely on hype. They make a plan, understand their goals, and stick to strategies that match their timeline and risk appetite.
Before buying any stock, ask yourself: Why am I investing? What do I want to achieve—saving for a house? Funding a future business? Building retirement income? Once you know your “why,” you can choose investments that support it. This is how you invest with intention, not just impulse.
How to Spot Red Flags in Online Advice
When you scroll through finance content online, pay close attention to what’s not being said. Be cautious of creators who promise “guaranteed” returns or talk only about gains without discussing risks. If a video sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Real investing includes ups and downs, and anyone who claims otherwise is leaving out the hard part.
Also, look out for buzzwords without explanation. If someone mentions a stock or fund without context, or doesn’t explain why it’s worth looking into, take it as a sign to do your own research before taking action.
Investing With Clarity, Not Clout
At UTrade, we believe that investing should be clear, accessible, and aligned with your goals, not someone else’s clout. That’s why we offer tools and guidance that help new investors build confidence the smart way.
With UTrade, you get access to local market insights, curated research, and educational materials that help you understand what you’re investing in. Our Stock Investment Program (SIP) allows you to invest in top-performing stocks regularly with as little as ₱1,000, helping you grow your wealth little by little without the pressure to time the market.
More than a trading platform, UTrade is your investing partner. Whether you’re just starting out or already building a portfolio, we’re here to support your journey with the tools, knowledge, and guidance you need.
Financial content on social media can be fun and motivating, but it’s not a shortcut to financial success. Real investing takes time, patience, and a plan that fits you. Don’t fall into the trap of chasing trends just because they’re trending. Instead, invest in your future with clarity, discipline, and the right tools by your side.
With UTrade, you don’t have to guess your way through the stock market. You can learn, grow, and invest with confidence at your own pace, with your own goals, and without the hype.
UTrade, is the online stock trading platform of Unicapital Securities, Inc., which offers smooth online stock trading and investing. With real-time market access, customizable layouts, and comprehensive charting, our platform provides convenience and a wide range of investment options, including stocks and mutual funds.
Unicapital Securities, Inc. (USI), under the Unicapital Group of companies, is a leading brokerage house duly licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission and is a member of the Philippine Stock Exchange.
