If I Started Investing in 2026, This is What I Would Do

How to Start Investing From Scratch in 2026

Mark Tilbury, an investor with over 40 years of experience and multiple millions in accumulated wealth, walks through a complete eight-step process for beginning an investment journey with minimal resources. The video uses Trading 212 as a practical platform demonstration, showing how someone with no existing investments, a modest salary, and only a phone could build a portfolio from the ground up. Rather than theoretical advice, Tilbury presents a hands-on walkthrough of each stage, from selecting a broker to executing actual trades.

The tutorial emphasizes that this approach is designed to be copyable—viewers who follow along carefully should be able to replicate each decision and setup choice without getting lost in technical jargon or complex options. The focus is on simplifying the process so that beginners don't waste time figuring out where to start, what account type to use, or how to move from theory into action.

Key Strategies for New Investors Starting Today

• Choose an investment platform deliberately, comparing features and accessibility before opening an account
• Open the correct account type for your goals and tax situation, rather than defaulting to the first option available
• Take advantage of promotional offers like fractional shares to reduce the barrier to entry with real money
• Apply a proven investment strategy rather than making ad-hoc stock picks based on emotion or trends
• Build a diversified real portfolio over time using systematic buying, not just holding a single position
• Understand the mechanics of selling stocks and managing positions rather than treating investing as a one-time setup

Why This Step-by-Step Approach Matters for Beginners

Many people delay investing because the process feels overwhelming—too many platforms, account types, and decisions to make. By breaking the journey into eight concrete steps, the video removes ambiguity and lowers the psychological friction that stops people from starting. This is especially valuable for those with limited capital or experience, because it proves that you don't need large sums or advanced knowledge to begin. The emphasis on long-term thinking at the end also reframes investing not as speculation or a quick path to wealth, but as a patient, systematic wealth-building habit. For anyone who has wanted to invest but didn't know where to begin, seeing a clear, executable roadmap can be the permission slip needed to take action.

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting to Invest in 2026

What platform should I use if I'm a complete beginner?

The video uses Trading 212 as the example platform and walks through its setup process. However, the core principles—choosing based on fees, ease of use, and available investment types—apply to any broker. The video emphasizes selecting deliberately rather than randomly picking the first option you find.

Do I need a lot of money to start investing?

No. The video specifically addresses starting with a low salary and minimal resources, using fractional shares as a way to invest in expensive stocks with small amounts. This removes the excuse that you need thousands of pounds to begin.

What is a "proven strategy" and how do I find one?

Rather than picking individual stocks based on hunches, a proven strategy is typically a systematic approach—such as buying a diversified mix of stocks, investing regularly regardless of price, or following an established allocation model. The video demonstrates copying a strategy rather than inventing your own.

Should I sell my stocks immediately after buying them?

The video dedicates time to the mechanics of selling, but also emphasizes "playing the long game" at the end. This suggests that while knowing how to sell is important, the default approach is to hold investments and let them grow over time rather than trade frequently.

Can I really follow this advice with just a phone?

Yes—the video is built around that constraint. Modern investment apps work fully on mobile devices, so you don't need a computer or any special equipment beyond a smartphone and internet access to complete all eight steps.