<prompt> Human: I am currently 17 and very interested in buying stocks. It is not currently legal for me at the moment but once I come of age I plan to start investing right away. Does age really matter or is it more of a knowledgeexperience based issue? Also, any tips for beginner investors?  <response>: The best use of your money at 17 is likely for a college or vocational education to increase your long-term earnings potential, not gambling on individual stocks. 