The Venetian traders were probably the first ones to begin dealing with government securities and even back then there was insider trading going on. In fact as early as 1351 there was a law passed in Venice which was designed to stop people spreading rumors that would drive down prices. As more formal commerce spread around Europe so did the need to have stock markets. Instead of paying the massive amounts of interest that the credit card companies charge you can often get a lower rate of interest together with a lower monthly payment. So are credit card consolidation loans all good news? Well unsurprisingly no they aren't. As with any other financial product, credit card consolidation loans require some very careful consideration before you decide whether or not they are for you. It's as true today as it ever was and will be forever no doubt. Of course we all want to be in at the bottom of the latest, greatest stellar investment but to put all your cash into that one stock isn't investing its gambling. By following these few simple guidelines you can ease your mind and sleep soundly at night without fretting about your portfolio. How much will be saved each and every month over what is currently being paid? 3. Is there a cheaper option? A re-mortgage for example 4. Would getting a part-time job help rather than taking out a loan? Equally important if someone decides to go ahead is making certain that the loan they are taking out is the cheapest they can get. Without warning we find ourselves in debt and it's well so sudden! Debt is also something that many of us have been told since childhood is a bad thing. And that just adds to our woes. Here we are unexpectedly in a traumatic situation and we get hit by the double whammy of sudden debt and guilt! If you think it will never happen to you don't be too sure. If you need quick access to your cash you are always going to be at risk of needing to withdraw at the same time as a price crash. That being the case only risk money that you can afford to leave invested. Assuming that you feel comfortable with your risk level and the length of time you will need to tie up your money for you can begin to choose how to get started with your investing in the stock market.