How to Monetize a Finance Blog and Build an Investment

Starting a finance blog is exciting! You have so much to explore, from picking a domain to setting up WordPress.

But once you've got the basics down, it's time to think about how to make money from it.

Trust me, this part will be the most enjoyable part of your blogging journey.

Whether you're just starting out or you've been sharing finance tips for a while, there are plenty of ways to monetize your blog.

Let’s dive into some effective strategies that can turn your passion into profit.

1. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is the best monetization method for finance bloggers because it hits the sweet spot between time investment and earning potential.

Affiliate marketing is a form of advertising where a publisher (the site owner) links to a product in their content and earns a commission from the advertiser (the affiliate program) if readers click on that link and make a purchase.

Also, since you can add links to your existing content, it’s the perfect method for beginners. You’ve already written content, so you’ve already done the hard part.

How to Start Affiliate Marketing for Finance Bloggers

When it comes to the finance blogging niche, there are plenty of affiliate products worth recommending. Here’s a quick rundown of some great options:

• Budgeting Apps: These tools help users manage their money effectively. Recommend popular options like Mint or YNAB.
• Investment Platforms: Sites like Robinhood or M1 Finance allow users to trade stocks. Good for new and seasoned investors alike.
• Credit Score Services: Encourage users to keep tabs on their credit. Services such as Credit Karma or Experian can be beneficial.
• Personal Finance Books: Books that teach about saving, investing, and money management can empower your readers. Classics like "Rich Dad Poor Dad" are always in demand.
• Online Courses: Websites like Udemy and Skillshare often have finance-related courses. Great for those wanting to learn at their own pace.
• Financial Advisory Services: Referring a reputable financial adviser can help your audience. Examples include SmartAsset or Facet Wealth.

Here are some reasons why these products are great for your audience:

• Wide Appeal: Finance products cater to a broad range of users—from beginners to experts.
• Recurring Revenue: Many of these services work on subscription models, meaning potential ongoing commissions.
• Value-driven: Users find real value in managing finances, which leads to higher trust and engagement with your recommendations.
• Rich Content Opportunities: These products allow for diverse content creation—reviews, how-tos, and comparisons can be very engaging!

Once you’ve identified which products will solve problems for your readers, you need to sign up for their affiliate programs.

You should start by joining the Amazon Associates affiliate program.

Most physical products in the finance niche will be available on Amazon, and the conversion rate on Amazon is insane.

Yes, Amazon’s commission rates are rough, and they only offer a 24-hour cookie duration, but the conversion rate makes up for it. Plus, you’re nearly guaranteed to get accepted into their program.

For products that aren’t available on Amazon, just Google “[Product] affiliate program,” and you’ll find their program’s signup page.

To save you some time, here are a few of the best affiliate networks for finance bloggers:

1. Vantage

   

   Commission Rate: Up to $1,200 CPA

   Cookie Duration: 30 Days

   Vantage is a global, multi-asset broker offering a robust and efficient service for trading CFDs on Forex, Commodities, Indices, Shares, and Cryptocurrencies. Vantage has a reputation for delivering high standards of trading to clients by providing a trusted trading ecosystem.

2. QuickBooks

   

   Commission Rate: 10% Per Sale

   Cookie Duration: 45 Days

   QuickBooks is an accounting software package developed and marketed by the company Intuit. Earn a referral fee by selling QuickBooks software!

3. Xero

   

   Commission Rate: 10% Per Sale

   Cookie Duration: Unknown

   Xero is online accounting software that connects you to all things business: accountants, bookkeepers, banks, enterprise & apps.

Once you’ve been approved for the product’s affiliate program, the program will give you your affiliate link, and you can start inserting it into your content.

How To Monetize A Finance Blog With Affiliate Marketing

To add your link to your content, go to your post editor, highlight the relevant text, and insert the link.

Here are a few best practices for adding affiliate links to your WordPress blog:

• Add links where it’s helpful. Adding too many links to your blog posts is just like adding too many ads; it’s annoying. Add links to product titles, images, CTA buttons, and the first time you mention a product. That’s plenty.
• Disclose your links. Every blog post with affiliate links should have a disclaimer at the beginning, and every CTA or product image should also.
• Use direct sales language. When you are writing your call to action, be direct. It’s not rude to say, “Check the price” or “Buy this product today.” Being too passive makes you look unconfident.

Or, take it a step further by creating product displays.

You Can Double Your Affiliate Sales With Lasso Displays

You can create displays manually using the post editor to add links to images and buttons.

However, it can be time-consuming to create these displays and keep them updated if you’re doing it all by hand.

Luckily, monetizing your blog with affiliate links is simplified when you’re using a tool like Lasso.

Lasso makes it super easy to add links and product displays to your posts. You can add product displays to posts right from the post editor; no coding is required. It’s as simple as clicking your mouse three times.

You can also automatically import product info from retailers like Amazon. Just paste the link into the Lasso dashboard, and Lasso will populate the display with the product title, image, and price.

With all of this, remember to follow the guidelines in the affiliate program’s terms and conditions. Amazon, in particular, is pretty stringent.

But everything Lasso does is compliant with Amazon Associates’ TOS, so you never have to worry about being booted from the program.

That’s just scratching the surface of what Lasso can do to help you monetize your finance blog. If you’re ready to start making a serious affiliate income from your finance site, sign up for Lasso today.

Affiliate Marketing Pros and Cons for Finance Bloggers

Affiliate marketing can be a great way for finance bloggers to monetize their content. It's simple: you promote products or services, and earn a commission for every sale made through your unique link. This can align well with finance topics, as many readers are actively looking for financial tools and services.

However, there are downsides. The competition is fierce. Many bloggers promote similar financial products, making it challenging to stand out. Additionally, if you're not careful about the products you promote, it can impact your credibility. Your audience trusts your insights, and promoting low-quality services can backfire.

On the plus side, creating affiliate content often doesn’t require extensive upfront investment. You don’t need to carry inventory or manage customer service. Just a solid strategy on content marketing can amplify your earnings. However, it can take time to build a steady stream of income through affiliate programs.

2. Display Ads

The second best way to monetize your finance blog is with display ads. Ads are the internet's favorite monetization method, but they have severe drawbacks.

How to Monetize a Finance Blog With Display Ads

Monetizing a finance blog with display ads couldn’t be easier.

First, choose an ad network to join. Networks have traffic requirements, so here are the best ad networks to join based on your site’s page views:

• 100,000+ Visitors per month - Raptive
• 50,000+ Sessions per month - Mediavine
• < 50,000+ Visitors per month - Ezoic

Once you’re accepted to an ad network, follow their instructions to integrate their ads into your site. They will have documentation for every type of content management service (WordPress, Joomla, Ghost, etc.).

If your chosen ad network has a dedicated accounts manager, they will guide you through getting their ads on your site.

And… that’s it. Let the ads run and wait for your deposits to hit your account.

Display Ad Pros And Cons For Finance Bloggers

Display ads can be a great way for finance bloggers to monetize their content. They're visually appealing and can catch the attention of your audience quickly. You can earn revenue based on clicks or impressions, which gives you a chance for passive income while you focus on writing.

However, there are some downsides too. Many readers find display ads distracting, and they can detract from the overall user experience. If the ads are not relevant to your audience, they might even lose interest in your content. Balance is key here.

Moreover, ad blockers are becoming more popular. A significant percentage of users have them installed, which means your ads might not even be seen. It’s a gamble, and you'll need to track performance closely. If engagement drops, it might be time to rethink your strategy.

In the end, display ads can be effective if used thoughtfully. Make sure they're integrated well with your blog design and cater to your audience. Keep experimenting to find the right mix that works for you!

3. Digital Products

Selling your own digital products is a great way to increase your earnings per visitor in the finance niche.

A digital product is anything you can sell on your finance blog that the customer will receive via download.

Here’s a quick list of digital products to consider for your finance blog:

• E-books: Create deep dives into budgeting, saving, or investing. A downloadable PDF can be easily shared and marketed.
• Online Courses: Offer structured lessons on topics like stock trading or personal finance basics. Video content keeps it engaging.
• Financial Templates: Design spreadsheets for budgeting, expense tracking, or investment analysis. These tools save time for your readers.
• Webinars: Host live sessions on financial literacy. Interactive Q&A can build community and trust.
• Membership Access: Provide exclusive content—like in-depth guides or one-on-one coaching. Monthly fees can create a steady income stream.

A lot of people search for simple checklists and guides related to different topics. They’d happily pay you for them.

Pros and Cons of Selling Digital Products for Finance Bloggers

One major pro of selling digital products as a finance blogger is the potential for passive income. Once you've created an ebook or a course, you can earn money while you sleep. Digital products require upfront effort but, once set up, they can keep generating revenue with little maintenance.

Another advantage is the low overhead costs. You don’t need a physical inventory or shipping supplies. All you need is a platform to sell your product, which means more profit in your pocket.

However, there are some cons to consider. Creating a high-quality digital product takes time and expertise. If it doesn’t meet the needs of your audience, it could flop. Plus, the market is competitive, so standing out might require more marketing effort than expected.

Lastly, tech issues can arise. Not all bloggers are tech-savvy, and dealing with website hiccups and payment processing can be stressful. It’s important to stay prepared for the challenges that come with selling online.

How To Monetize a Finance Blog By Selling Digital Products

The first thing to do is create your digital product.

Look at which content your audience interacts with the most, and brainstorm digital products to help serve their search intent.

That’s what I did when I created our Ultimate Blogging Guide:

Then, create the product using whatever tools are at your disposal. For example, use Microsoft Word to create an ebook PDF, or Google Sheets to create interactive spreadsheets and checklists.

Next, you have to figure out how to distribute your product. The easiest way to distribute PDFs is by uploading them to your WordPress media library. Then you can give customers the link, and they can download the PDF from there.

Lastly, you’ll have to set up payment processing and order fulfillment. A plugin like Woocommerce can automate most of this, but you’ll have to tie it to a processor like Stripe or PayPal.

Woocommerce can even connect to an email tool like ConvertKit, so as soon as your customer finishes their checkout, they’ll get an email with a link to their download.

Barring any issues, you won’t have to do anything but watch your bank account grow.

4. Email Newsletter

One effective way to monetize a finance blog is by creating an email newsletter. This method allows you to build a loyal audience and engage with your readers on a more personal level. Let's explore how to monetize a finance blog with an email newsletter and the pros and cons of email marketing for finance bloggers.

How to Monetize a Finance Blog with an Email Newsletter

Email newsletters are a fantastic way for finance bloggers to build a loyal readership and generate revenue. They provide a direct line of communication with your audience, allowing you to share valuable insights, updates, and exclusive content. By offering useful financial information, you can persuade your readers to subscribe and even purchase premium subscriptions or products.

One effective way to monetize your finance blog through email newsletters is by offering a premium subscription model. You can produce high-quality, exclusive content like in-depth analyses, investment tips, or market reports specifically tailored for your subscribers. By charging a monthly or yearly fee, you create a sustainable revenue stream while delivering valuable financial guidance to your audience. Make sure to showcase the benefits of subscribing, like access to proprietary research or one-on-one consultations, to encourage sign-ups.

Another avenue is affiliate marketing through your newsletters. You can partner with financial service providers, investment platforms, or relevant products that resonate with your audience's needs. Include embedded affiliate links in your emails to drive traffic and earn commissions on successful referrals. This is particularly advantageous because finance enthusiasts are often seeking trusted products and services to manage their money.

You can also leverage your email newsletters to promote e-books, courses, or webinars related to finance topics. If you have expertise in personal finance, budgeting, or investing, consider creating and marketing these products directly to your email list. By helping your audience solve problems they care about, you position yourself as a thought leader and can command higher prices for your offerings.

Pros and Cons of Email Marketing for Finance Bloggers

• Pros:
  • Direct Access: You communicate directly with your audience, ensuring your message reaches them without spam filters.
  • High Engagement: Subscribers are typically more engaged, responding better to calls-to-action in emails.
  • Brand Loyalty: Regular updates build trust and loyalty, turning casual readers into dedicated followers.
  • Analytics: Email marketing tools allow you to track performance, helping you refine your strategies for better results.
• Cons:
  • Time-Consuming: Crafting quality emails requires consistent effort and creativity to maintain reader interest.
  • List Management: Building and managing your email list takes time; growth might be slow initially.
  • Competition: Your subscribers are likely bombarded with emails; standing out can be challenging.
  • Compliance Requirements: You need to comply with regulations like GDPR, requiring careful handling of personal data.

5. Consulting and Coaching Services

Consulting or coaching is exchanging your expertise and time for a fee. Your customers need an expert, and you’ve proven yourself to be that expert.

As you become an authority in the industry, people will reach out to you with questions about topics they consider you an expert in.

Now, you don’t have to charge for being helpful, but you should place a dollar value on your time.

As a finance blogger, you extensive knowledge of the industry. If a reader reaches out to you asking for help, you should get paid for that effort.

How To Monetize A Finance Blog With Consulting Services

Monetizing a finance blog with consulting services is similar to selling sponsored posts.

Put a “Coaching” option in your nav bar that goes to a landing page outlining your consulting services and your hourly rate. This will help head off some of the people looking for free advice.

Then, wait for requests to come in, evaluate them, and propose your offer. If the customer accepts, send them an invoice using PayPal or another payment processor, and schedule the call.

Pros and Cons of Selling Consulting Services for Finance Bloggers

Selling consulting services can be a lucrative opportunity for finance bloggers. First, it allows you to monetize your expertise directly. If you already have a solid audience, they likely trust your insights. That trust can convert into paying clients, which is a win-win.

However, there are some drawbacks. Consulting can be time-consuming and may require a different skill set than blogging. You'll need to communicate clearly and often handle client expectations. It can be stressful if you're not prepared for sudden demands on your time.

Also, there's the competition to consider. Many finance professionals offer consulting services. You’ll need a strong niche and standout marketing to attract clients. If your offerings aren’t unique, it might be hard to differentiate yourself.

Finally, keep in mind the financial aspect. Initial costs for setting up your consulting practice can add up. You'll need to invest in professional branding, possibly legal advice, and marketing. Weighing these pros and cons is key before jumping in.

Finance Blog Monetization FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Make Money From Finance Blogging?

If you want to build a successful finance blog, then affiliate marketing is the best way to monetize it. It’s the least intrusive way to make a lot of money from your site without much extra effort.

Can I Make A Full-Time Income From Finance Blogging?

Absolutely! Some finance blogs, like Money Crashers and Get Rich Slowly get hundreds of thousands of monthly visitors. That’s enough for a full-time income for a small team of people.

How Do I Start a Finance Blog?

Learning how to start a finance blog is the first best way to use your expertise to start an online business.

You need to register a domain, install WordPress, and publish great content. It's a lot of work, but totally worth it!

How Do Finance Bloggers Get Paid?

Most finance bloggers make money through affiliate commissions and advertising fees. Both of these monetization methods pay out one or two months after the fees have been generated.

Some finance bloggers also sell sponsored posts, consulting services, or their own products. In these cases, a payment processor like PayPal or Stripe is necessary.

Is Finance Blogging Easy?

Nothing worth doing is truly easy, but that doesn’t mean finance blogging isn’t fun.

As a finance blogger, you’ll get to go places, try new things, and meet new people. And it will be part of your business! What could be cooler than that?

Is It Worth Starting A Finance Blog?

It’s absolutely worth it to start a finance blog. Not only can you make a living from it, but you can also build a community and control the conversation.

Once you’re an established authority, people in finance-related industries will take you seriously.

Final Thoughts on Monetizing a Finance Blog

Now that you know how to monetize your finance blog, here’s a bonus tip:

Use multiple methods to make money!

Diversifying your income is key to your blog’s future success.

If you rely on affiliate offers, display ads, and your own products, you’ll stay secure even if one income stream takes a hit.

With a multi-faceted approach, hard work, and smart planning, you’ll be on the fast track to making the money your blog deserves.

Why You Should Trust Our Finance Blogging Content

You may be thinking, "that's all great, but what does Lasso know about finance blogging?"

Quite a lot, actually.

Here's why you can trust our process for building a successful finance blog:

We've Built Wildly Successful Blogs

Lasso is built for affiliate marketers, by affiliate marketers. We're not gurus; we've walked the walk.

Our team members have built multiple blogs from the ground up, some of them earning over seven figures in revenue.

We put that experience into every guide we write, so you can trust we're giving you a process that works.

We Talk To Finance Bloggers Every Day

Lasso's WordPress plugin is installed on over 8,000 websites, including a lot of finance blogs.

Our team supports those bloggers every day as they create awesome content and earn lots of money.

These communications give us a bird's-eye view of what's new in the finance industry. We take that information and use it to keep these guides as up-to-date and accurate as possible.

We're Super Nerds

We've put a lot of company focus into learning everything we can about blogging, affiliate marketing, SEO, and anything to do with online entrepreneurship.

We attend conferences, collect high-level contacts, read tons of books, and distill all of that information into our content. We pass information onto you that was previously only available to industry insiders.