<prompt> Human: Whenever it is brought up that I started my stock portfolio at 16, every adult well over the age of 16 always says, I wish I wouldve started at 16! Youre going to be a multi-millionaire! I can understand it is probably a thing to say just to give me a pat on that I am starting so young but every single person says it. Is it really that probable? Im only investing in blue chip stocks right now and a few small stocks I think will grow but nothing that would seem to grow to millions or even hundred thousands for that matter. I just dont see the logic in it and want some reassurance as to whether I should believe them or believe myself. Thanks!  <response>: Because compound interest does some very heavy lifting the longer the time period is. So a modest amount of money invested plus 50 years of compound interest is a lot of money. 