What Should I Do When I Lose Money From a Bad Investment?

We don’t like to talk about it.

But let’s face it—not every investment goes as planned.

Maybe you bought a stock that tanked.

Or tried crypto at the wrong time.

Or tied your money down in a business that never took off.

It happens. Even the best investors in the world—including Warren Buffett—have had their fair share of losses.

So, what do you do next? 

1. Don’t Panic, Don’t Deny

The worst thing you can do is pretend the loss didn’t happen or panic into more bad decisions. Accept it. Losses are part of investing.

2. Ask: Was It Strategy or Speculation?

Be honest with yourself:

Did you research the investment?

Did you diversify?

Or was it a rushed decision based on hype?

Answering these questions helps you avoid repeating the same mistake.

3. Revisit Your Risk Tolerance

Not every opportunity is for everyone.

If losing ₦500,000 keeps you up at night, then maybe high-risk assets aren’t your lane. Balance your portfolio with safer options.

4. Cut Your Losses or Hold Long-Term?

Some investments bounce back over time. Others never do.

This is where having clear goals and guidance comes in—sometimes the smart move is to exit, other times it’s to wait.

5. Learn and Rebuild

Every loss is tuition in the school of investing.

The key is to take the lesson, apply it, and move forward stronger.

Losses don’t mean you’ve failed.

They mean you’re in the game.

But the winners are those who learn, adjust, and keep building.

At MoneyAfrica, we help you:

✓  Review past investments

✓  Reposition your portfolio

✓  Build a strategy that aligns with your goals

 If you’ve experienced a loss or just want to invest smarter going forward, book a one-on-one session with us today. www.themoneyafrica.com

Together, we’ll turn lessons into a stronger financial future. 

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