Investment

Investment refers to the act of allocating resources, usually money, in order to generate income or profit. This can involve purchasing assets such as stocks, bonds, real estate, or businesses with the expectation that they will increase in value over time or produce returns through interest, dividends, or rental income. Investments may also encompass various financial instruments and vehicles, aiming for capital appreciation or income generation. The decision to invest typically involves a consideration of risk, potential return, and the time horizon for obtaining the desired returns, playing a critical role in personal finance, business strategy, and economic development.