With the US stock market all over the place in the last three years, investors seem to mainly be keeping their money in the bank or possibly in government bonds. Sure these investment vehicles are very safe, but basically they are not investments at all. You can hardly call a return of under 2% an investment when inflation has averaged more than that in the last 50 years, on average. The problem is that stocks seem too risky for many.

So, what are your other option to at least make a little money from your money? Real estate in my opinion is a great investment right now. Most locations in the United States have hit bottom, price wise. This means things can only go up. With so many foreclosures, people are looking to rent places, thus an opportunity for you as a landlord should you invest in real estate. The great thing about real estate is that you can earn money in two ways. First the property’s value is sure to rise in the coming years as the economy picks back up. That’s what you call capital gains. Secondly the rental income can easily offset any expense you may have with the property, such as property taxes and maintenance. In addition to this, you will likely have a good amount left over as income.

Another option is managed forex accounts. Foreign exchange trading has become a big business, and although it is risky, you can easily do an online search for some of the more stable managed trading accounts out there. Always look at the trader’s credentials and trading history before giving them your money though.

There are options out there, you just need to think outside the box a little.