Investment refers to the allocation of resources, usually money, into assets or projects with the expectation of generating a return or profit over time. This concept can apply to a variety of financial instruments and assets, including:
1. **Stocks**: Purchasing shares of a company, which gives you a claim on its assets and earnings. Investors benefit from price appreciation and dividends.
2. **Bonds**: Lending money to an entity (government or corporation) in exchange for periodic interest payments and the return of the bond's face value at maturity.
3. **Real Estate**: Acquiring property with the intention of generating rental income or capital appreciation.
4. **Mutual Funds/ETFs**: Investing in a collection of stocks, bonds, or other securities, managed by a professional to achieve a diversified portfolio.
5. **Commodities**: Investing in physical goods like gold, oil, or agricultural products, often to hedge against inflation.
6. **Startups or Business Ventures**: Providing capital to new enterprises with the expectation of earning returns as the business grows.
Investments carry varying degrees of risk and potential return, and the strategies can range from conservative (low-risk investments) to aggressive (high-risk investments). The goal is typically to increase wealth over time, although short-term trading strategies can also exist within the investment landscape.