How to Monetize a Finance Blog and Build an Investment

Starting a finance blog is an exciting journey! You’ll learn how to register your domain, set up WordPress, and create awesome content.

But once you get the hang of things, it's time to dive into monetization. Trust me, this part is super fun!

Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced finance influencer, these methods will help you turn your passion into profit.

Let's explore the best ways to make money with your finance blog!

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

Ready to dive into the finance blogging niche with some great affiliate products? Here are some money-making ideas to consider!

1. **Personal Finance Apps**: These apps help track expenses and budget effectively. Users appreciate the convenience of managing money right from their mobile devices.

2. **Investment Platforms**: Recommend platforms for stocks, ETFs, or cryptocurrency. They often come with user-friendly interfaces and great support resources.

3. **Credit Cards**: Everyone needs one! Suggest cards with great rewards or cash back programs. People love to earn while they spend.

4. **Loans and Mortgage Services**: Many readers might be looking for loans or refinancing options. Highlight services with competitive rates and straightforward terms.

5. **Online Courses**: These can teach valuable skills, like investing or budgeting. People are eager to gain knowledge and improve their financial literacy.

6. **Financial Planning Services**: Professional advice can make a big difference. Position these services as tools for achieving financial goals.

Here are some reasons why promoting these products can be beneficial:

• User Demand: Financial products are always in demand as everyone wants to manage their finances better.
• Wide Audience: You can target various demographics, from young adults to retirees, looking for finance solutions.
• Recurring Revenue: Some services offer recurring commissions, meaning earning potential isn’t just one-time.
• High-Value Items: Finance products can have high value, leading to larger commissions for each sale.
• Trust Factor: Recommending reputable products builds authority and trust with your audience.

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. Olavivo

   

   Commission Rate: $250+

   Cookie Duration: 30 - 90 Days

   Olavivo is a boutique affiliate network with a focus on Ecommerce, Health & Beauty, Sweepstakes, Gaming, Dating, Finance and Cryptocurrency.

2. 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.

3. 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!

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. One major pro is the potential for passive income. Once you've set up affiliate links, you can earn money even while you sleep, as long as readers click through and make purchases.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. One downside is that it can take time to build trust with your audience. If you promote too many products, your readers might see you as inauthentic. So, it's crucial to choose affiliate programs that align with your values and your audience's needs.

On the flip side, the earning potential can be significant. With the right strategy and quality content, many finance bloggers have turned affiliate marketing into a full-time income. Just remember, you need to keep delivering value to your readers to keep them engaged and clicking your links.

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 mixed bag for finance bloggers. On one hand, they offer an easy way to monetize a blog. You sign up for an ad network, and they handle most of the heavy lifting. This means you can earn money without having to create or sell a product.

However, there are downsides. Ads can clutter your site and detract from your content. Visitors may find them annoying, which could lead to higher bounce rates. Plus, many finance-focused audiences use ad blockers, reducing your potential earnings.

Moreover, the revenue from display ads varies widely. You might earn a significant amount if your traffic is high, but if it's not, the income can be marginal. This makes display ads less predictable than affiliate marketing or sponsored posts, where you often have direct control over the terms.

Ultimately, if you choose display ads, consider balancing them with quality content. They can supplement your income, but don’t rely on them solely. Keeping your reader's experience in mind is crucial for long-term success.

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.

Digital Products to Sell on a Finance Blog

• Budgeting Templates: Easy-to-use spreadsheets that help users track income, expenses, and savings goals.
• Online Courses: Courses covering topics like investing basics, retirement planning, or personal finance strategies.
• E-books: Informative guides on specific finance topics like debt reduction, stock market investing, or financial independence.
• Financial Planners: Downloadable planners that assist users in setting yearly financial goals and tracking their progress.
• Investment Trackers: Tools to help users monitor their investment portfolios and analyze performance over time.

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

Selling digital products as a finance blogger comes with some fantastic perks. First off, the cost of production is relatively low. You can create things like e-books, online courses, or budgeting templates fairly easily. Once they’re made, your product can be sold repeatedly without any additional expense. This means less overhead and more profit in your pocket!

On the flip side, digital products do require some marketing effort. You can’t just create something and expect sales to roll in. You’ll need to invest time in promoting your products through social media, email lists, or even SEO strategies. It can be a bit overwhelming at first, especially if you’re used to just writing blog posts.

Additionally, competition is fierce in the digital space. Many finance bloggers offer similar products, so standing out is crucial. You might need to find a unique angle or develop a dedicated following to be successful. But, if you nail this, the rewards can be substantial.

Lastly, customer support can be a draw on your time. Queries and issues will inevitably pop up with digital products. While you’re easily reachable, providing timely assistance is key to keeping your customers happy and your reputation intact.

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 powerful tool for finance bloggers. They allow you to connect directly with your audience and provide valuable insights. You can share exclusive content, tips, and financial tools that help your readers manage their finances better. This makes newsletters not only a relationship-building tool but also a monetization strategy.

To monetize your finance blog using an email newsletter, start by offering a free subscription. Share weekly or monthly insights about personal finance, investment opportunities, and financial trends. You can include affiliate links for finance-related products, like budgeting apps or investment platforms, right in your newsletter. This helps you earn commissions while providing your readers with useful resources.

Once you have an engaged subscriber base, consider offering premium content. This could be exclusive reports, personalized consulting services, or even online courses related to finance. You can charge a subscription fee or a one-time payment for these valuable offerings. It's really effective because finance is a subject that many people seek guidance on but often feel lost in.

Don’t forget to ask subscribers how they feel about the content you're providing. Use surveys to adjust what you deliver. Keeping your newsletter relevant to your audience's financial questions will not only retain your subscribers but also attract new ones. More subscribers mean more opportunities for monetization!

Pros and Cons of Email Marketing for Finance Bloggers

• Pros:
  • Direct Engagement: You build a personal relationship with your audience, fostering loyalty.
  • High Conversion Rates: Email marketing tends to have higher ROI compared to other channels.
  • Targeted Promotions: You can segment your list and tailor financial products based on subscriber interests.
• Cons:
  • Time-Consuming: Building and maintaining an email list requires consistent effort and content creation.
  • Spam Filters: Your emails might get trapped in users’ spam filters, affecting delivery rates.
  • Compliance Challenges: Staying compliant with email marketing laws (like GDPR) can add complexity.

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

When it comes to selling consulting services, finance bloggers face some unique advantages. First, there's the credibility factor. If you're already a trusted source of financial information, potential clients are more likely to see you as an expert. Your established audience gives you a leg up in attracting clients who are eager for personalized guidance.

However, there are downsides to consider. Time is a major issue. Providing consulting services can be incredibly time-consuming, leaving you with less time to create content or engage with your audience. Also, not every reader will convert into a client, meaning you may invest significant effort for uncertain returns.

Another pro is the potential for higher income. Consulting can offer lucrative opportunities compared to ad revenue or affiliate marketing, especially if you have niche expertise. On the flip side, the market can be competitive. Many bloggers are jumping into consulting, so differentiating yourself in a crowded space requires constant effort and innovation.

Lastly, the flexibility of consulting is appealing. You can set your own hours and choose clients that resonate with your values. But that independence can also bring challenges like inconsistent income. Balancing direct client work with blogging can be tricky, making it essential to have a solid plan.

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’ve learned how to monetize your finance blog, here’s one last tip:

Use different ways to make money!

Diversifying your income is the key to a stable business. If you try affiliate marketing, display ads, and sell your own products, you won’t be thrown off by changes in one area.

With this mix of strategies, along with some hard work and smart planning, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your blog’s earning potential.

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.