How to Start an Investment Club

July 10, 2006 — -- Does the thought of investing in the stock market give you the shakes? You're not alone -- many Americans know that it's smart to invest for the future, but are too intimidated to take the plunge.

If that sounds familiar, "Good Morning America's" Investment Club could help.

Mellody Hobson looks at the growing trend of clubs dedicated to learning about and investing in the market.

It's no secret that the world of finance has long been dominated by men. But a growing number of women are making waves, forming all-female financial clubs.

In Sacramento, Calif., a group of women formed the Millennium Money Makers Investment Club.

The women are a group of moms who met when their children got involved in theater together; the women founded the group in 2000 as a means of learning more about the world of finance.

The club's No. 1 rule -- no men. They feared that by including men, they wouldn't really learn to think for themselves.

"The main goal of the club is about education," said Anne Becker. "It's also about having a good time, but education is our main goal."

Over dinner and drinks, the group of 22 mull over stocks, share insights and pool together their combined financial wisdom.

The women say the only way to learn about the world of finance is by jumping in -- and sometimes failing.

"I've recently learned that in order to learn how to invest, you have to be willing to use your own money -- to invest your own money and put it where your mouth is," said Nancy Bergold.

"We all are into the ups and downs of the stock market and it doesn't bother us when it's up or it's down. We like to laugh when it's up and also like to laugh when it's down," said Carol Crosta.

After a tough first couple of years, the Millennium Club women say they are on the upswing. They saw a 37.8 percent jump in their portfolio in 2004 and 8.6 percent increase in 2005.

Mellody Hobson has some advice for others thinking of starting an investment club.