<prompt> Human: I was wondering if I really would rather spent the money on a material item or if I should begin letting my money earn me more money. I get 500 isnt enough to see dramatic returns but is it worth starting a portfolio with? My understanding is that there are fees involved in every transaction and Im unsure if 500 is enough to purchase stocks and occasionally trade them. If 500 is enough to start one, how and where would I start, and if it is not enough to start one, how much is? Im 21 btw. Thanks.  <response>: You have an emergency fund. Congrats. 