Overview

• At a 5% annual rate, inflation strips about €167 of purchasing power from €10,000 in just four months even though the account balance does not change.
• Over a decade, 3% inflation cuts the real value of €10,000 to roughly €7,400, underscoring the long‑term cost of holding idle cash.
• The recommended plan keeps three to six months of expenses in a secure account as a buffer, with any surplus moved into straightforward, low‑cost investments.
• Small, regular contributions into diversified ETFs via automated savings plans lower complexity and help turn caution into consistent investing behavior.
• An example shows €50 per month compounding to about €20,700 at 6% over 20 years versus €12,000 if left as cash, and the articles disclose a content partnership with Fortunalista.