Your first paycheck is a good time to build a money routine before expenses grow. Start with the amount that actually arrives after deductions, list essential expenses and debt due dates, and set aside savings within your means. The associated video discusses monthly investing in Nasdaq for a long-term goal, but it does not focus on new graduates or prescribe a salary percentage everyone should invest.
Build a Financial Foundation First
- Record actual income and expenses for one month.
- Set aside money for essential costs and debt obligations before planning other spending.
- Start building an emergency fund and keep it separate from routine spending.
- Set a measurable goal, such as further education, work equipment, or emergency savings.
- Before investing any money left over, learn about the risks, fees, and when you will need the money.
The Bank of Thailand advises employees to assess their finances, set goals, make an income-and-expense plan, and learn about savings and investment products that fit their risk tolerance. You do not need to use the same budget percentages as someone else. If income is not yet enough or debt is substantial, address cash flow and upcoming obligations first.
Separate Short-Term Savings from Investments
Money you will need soon should remain accessible and should not depend on an uncertain return. Long-term investments can fluctuate and lose value. The video on this page refers to past performance and investing in the Nasdaq index, but the available information does not include all the assumptions. Do not treat it as a promise that someone starting work will achieve the same result.
Read about setting SMART goals, savings goals for different time horizons, and use the emergency-fund planner.
Sources and Limitations
Updated 16 October 2026. This is general information and does not set a savings or investment percentage for everyone. The video discusses long-term investing but does not provide individualized advice or guarantee returns.