Investing and trading are two distinct approaches to participating in the stock market, each with different goals, strategies, and timeframes.

Investing involves buying and holding stocks for the long term, often years or even decades. Investors aim to build wealth gradually by benefiting from a company’s growth, dividend payouts, and long-term market appreciation. They typically use fundamental analysis, focusing on a company’s financial health, management, and long-term prospects. The goal is to accumulate value over time, weathering short-term market fluctuations.

Trading, on the other hand, focuses on short-term gains by frequently buying and selling stocks within days, weeks, or even minutes. Traders aim to capitalise on market volatility, price patterns, and technical indicators. Common trading strategies include day trading, swing trading, and scalping. Traders often rely on charts and momentum to make quick decisions.

The primary difference lies in the time horizon and approach to risk. Investors are patient, aiming for steady returns and compounding, while traders seek quick profits and must manage higher risks. Investors usually incur fewer transaction costs, while traders face higher fees due to frequent trades.

Ultimately, both approaches can be profitable, but they require different skills, risk tolerance, and commitment levels to be successful.