ABOUT 1 MONTH AGO • 1 MIN READ

The $25 Question...

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I help everyday people regain control of their money and use their income with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Most people feel financially stretched and out of control—blaming external factors like the economy or their income. But lasting financial change comes from mastering what’s already within your control. I specialise in teaching practical money skills that help everyday people gain clarity, confidence, and control over their finances — so you can make intentional decisions, reduce stress, and create long-term stability and independence.

This week I had a fascinating conversation with a client.

They casually mentioned that every week they spend $25 on Lotto.

Now before I go any further, let me say this...

I'm not against Lotto.

If buying a ticket brings you enjoyment or a little excitement each week, there's nothing wrong with that.

But I asked them one simple question.

What if you invested that same $25 instead?

If you invested $25 every week into an account or investment earning 3.5% per annum, after 10 years you would have accumulated approximately $15,511.

That single question completely changed the conversation.

Not because Lotto is "bad."

But because it introduced one of the most powerful concepts in personal finance:

Opportunity Cost.

Every dollar we spend has another possible job.

Every subscription.

Every takeaway coffee.

Every Lotto ticket.

Every purchase is a decision between today's enjoyment and tomorrow's opportunities.

This doesn't mean we should never spend money on things we enjoy.

Life is meant to be lived.

But occasionally it's worth stopping and asking:

"If I invested this instead, what could it become?"

Over time, it's rarely the big financial decisions that create wealth.

It's the hundreds of small ones.

That's why I encourage people not to chase quick wins.

Instead, build habits that quietly work for you year after year.

Small amounts invested consistently can become surprisingly significant over time.

And that's far more predictable than relying on luck.

🎥 Did You Know?

Every Tuesday, I publish a New Zealand Share Market Update, where I explain what's happening on the NZX in plain English.

Then every Thursday, I review a New Zealand company, ETF or investment opportunity and explain what I look for as an investor.

My goal is simple:

To help everyday Kiwis become more confident with investing and make better financial decisions.

📺 You can watch the latest videos on my YouTube channel using the link below.

I'd love to have you join our growing community of Kiwi investors.

Here's to making small decisions today that your future self will thank you for.

Kind regards,

Kara Northcott

Financial Educator | Helping Kiwis Take Control of Their Money

027 666 6784

https://kara-northcott-financial-consultant.kit.com/

I help everyday people regain control of their money and use their income with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Most people feel financially stretched and out of control—blaming external factors like the economy or their income. But lasting financial change comes from mastering what’s already within your control. I specialise in teaching practical money skills that help everyday people gain clarity, confidence, and control over their finances — so you can make intentional decisions, reduce stress, and create long-term stability and independence.