To invest is to put money or your time into something with the potential to produce a profit. This could be in the form of interest, income, or appreciation in value. You can also invest your time, hopes, or talents into a project or individual. The word invest has several meanings and origins in both Latin and English. Originally, it simply meant to clothe someone. Some churches even have vestries, or places where vestments are kept.
Many investors seek both a capital gain and income in order to make money. Companies will often issue stock in order to raise money or finance new initiatives. To earn interest from these investments, corporations must have both an active business and not invest in real estate or other ventures. Some individuals choose to invest in themselves, and this can lead to success and perseverance. The risks of investing in an entrepreneur, however, are much higher. Therefore, it is necessary to consider a number of factors before investing in a new business venture.