Investing in the stock or real estate market will make you an owner, and it could secure your path towards financial stability, in the long run. So, before you set up a real trading account, here’s what you should know.

1. A recession is anticipated

Although it’s mainly impossible to anticipate what the future will bring, history taught us that a growing market doesn’t last forever. That being said, a recession is anticipated, according to financial specialists. While one cannot be 100 percent sure that it is due to occur in the 2018, it will happen eventually.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to pay attention to the signs of a forthcoming recession, and plan accordingly. At the end of the day, it’s worth noting that recessions offer bountiful opportunities as well: it’s up to you to adapt your strategy accordingly.

2. Creating a balanced portfolio is key

Although you might be eager to start investing, remember that creating a balanced portfolio is the way to do it successfully. Otherwise, you risk too much. Also, you shouldn’t invest all your money at once. In this way, in the event in which the market does fall, you’ll still have financial resources to buy at lower prices.

3. Exposure to other markets can be beneficial

There are other ways in which you can maximize your financial wealth than investing in the stock market alone. That being said, bonds, precious metals, commodities, and real estate account for equally viable ways of making money.

4. Keep an eye out for international possibilities

Although the majority of your stocks should be directed to domestic stocks, you should keep an eye out for international opportunities, as well. Truth be told, the average weight of the American economy in the global context has diminished in the last 20 years. It’s worth noting that didn’t happen due to a lack of growth, but due to the significant development of the international market.

5. Asia could be volatile

Moreover, while Asia is the continent that experienced a steady growth pace, it presents a lot of volatility, as well. For instance, the hostile or potentially aggressive Russia, as well as the stressing ongoing Syrian conflict account for two problems that could turn things upside down anytime. To that end, it would be safer to avoid investing in companies that are based in China, or any other Asian country, to be on the safe side.

6. Australia and Africa might be good options

If you’re on the lookout for lucrative areas of growth, in the international context, Africa and Australia could be your best bets. South America is characterized by instability, whereas Europe is struggling with Brexit, which would make Australia and Africa decent options. For example, Australia is known to have one of the highest standards of life in the world, not to mention it has economic connections with Oceania and Asia, facilitating safe access to that market.

7. There are no guarantees

In spite of all the projections, studies and facts, the bottom-line is that nothing is for sure. Try to remain calm, irrespective of the circumstances, and make sure you rebalance your portfolio on a regular basis. Still, make sure you don’t do that too frequently.

Now that you have an idea of the stock market in 2018, you should know which would be the best investments for you. While these points are helpful, remember to keep your mind open and never stop learning! The stock market is continually changing, and it should be treated as such.