Top Honest and Engaging YouTube Channels for Learning Investing and Finance
Disclaimer: The following is not investment advice. It is personal research used solely for my own informational and analytical purposes. All content, data, and assessments included may contain errors, omissions, or inaccuracies, and are subject to change without notice. This material should not be interpreted as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security. Always perform your own due diligence or consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
In a sea of YouTube content promising overnight riches and "moonshot" stocks, it can be tough to find channels that deliver straightforward, educational insights into investing and finance. I've curated this list focusing on creators who prioritize honesty, evidence-based advice, and engaging storytelling—without the hype. These channels break down complex topics like market fundamentals, personal finance strategies, and long-term wealth building in ways that are accessible and thought-provoking. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned investor, they emphasize process over predictions, drawing from research, real-world examples, and timeless principles. Based on recent recommendations and reviews as of 2025, here are my top picks.
1. The Plain Bagel
Run by Richard Coffin, a CFA charterholder, The Plain Bagel stands out for its clear, no-nonsense explanations of investment concepts. Videos cover everything from debunking common myths (like "Why Index Funds Aren't Always the Best Choice") to reacting to viral financial TikToks with humor and facts. What makes it engaging? The straightforward animations and relatable breakdowns make dense topics digestible without dumbing them down. It's honest because it avoids stock picks or get-rich-quick schemes, focusing instead on how markets work and citing academic studies. With around 800K subscribers, it's ideal for those wanting educational content that's entertaining but grounded.
2. Common Sense Investing (Ben Felix)
Ben Felix, a portfolio manager and host of the Rational Reminder podcast, delivers evidence-based videos that reference academic research papers directly. Topics include "The Impact of Fees on Investment Returns" and behavioral finance pitfalls. His style is intelligent and detailed, perfect for viewers who appreciate depth without fluff. Engaging through clear visuals and logical breakdowns, it's honest in its reliance on data over opinions—no hype, just facts to help you make informed decisions. Subscriber count hovers at 500K, making it a go-to for serious learners.
3. Patrick Boyle
A finance professor and hedge fund veteran, Patrick Boyle's channel blends dry wit with insightful commentary on markets, economics, and scandals. Videos like "The Truth About High-Frequency Trading" or breakdowns of economic theories use stock photos and puns for levity, keeping things engaging without sensationalism. Honesty shines through his avoidance of investment advice or predictions; instead, he educates on processes and historical context. With about 400K subscribers, it's a favorite for its informative, entertaining take on finance.
4. The Money Guy Show
Hosted by Bo Hanson and Brian Preston, this channel focuses on building long-term financial plans, from debt payoff to retirement strategies. Episodes like "The Financial Order of Operations" guide viewers through automatic investing setups without chasing trends. Engaging via conversational style and listener Q&A, it's honest in promoting steady, boring wealth-building over excitement. Boasting over 1M subscribers, it's great for practical, hype-free advice.
5. WhiteBoard Finance
Marko, the creator, uses whiteboard sketches to dive deep into personal finance, real estate, and investing myths. Videos such as "Debunking the $2.2 Million Wealth Myth" offer researched, actionable insights. It's engaging through visual teaching aids and straightforward language, remaining honest by emphasizing education over endorsements. With 1M+ subscribers, it's a solid pick for visual learners.
6. Principles by Ray Dalio
From billionaire investor Ray Dalio, this channel shares timeless economic principles via animated videos and interviews. Content like "How the Economic Machine Works" explains cycles without promising returns. Engaging storytelling and high production value make it captivating, while honesty comes from Dalio's focus on decision-making frameworks. Over 2M subscribers tune in for its credible, non-hype approach.
7. The Swedish Investor
This channel summarizes investing books and strategies with clean animations, covering value investing icons like Warren Buffett. Videos like "The Intelligent Investor in 10 Minutes" distill classics efficiently. It's engaging for its concise format and honest in sticking to proven ideas without speculation. Around 300K subscribers appreciate the educational summaries.
8. Rational Reminder
Tied to Ben Felix's podcast, this channel uploads full episodes discussing evidence-based investing, taxes, and behavioral economics. Engaging through expert guests and Q&A, it's honest with data-driven discussions—no stock tips, just tools for better choices. With 100K+ subscribers, it's podcast-style learning at its best.
9. Dave Ramsey
The personal finance guru's channel (via The Ramsey Show) tackles debt, budgeting, and investing with caller interactions. Episodes emphasize "baby steps" for financial freedom. Engaging and motivational without hype, it's honest in advocating discipline over shortcuts. Massive 3M+ subscribers reflect its practical appeal.
10. Graham Stephan
A real estate investor turned YouTuber, Graham covers market trends, savings tips, and reactions to news. Videos like "My Stock Market Predictions for 2025" are balanced with caveats. Engaging via fast-paced editing and personal stories, it's honest by sharing failures alongside successes—no wild promises. With 4M+ subscribers, it's a dynamic entry point.
These channels prove that finance education can be compelling without the noise. They encourage critical thinking and sustainable habits, making them worthwhile follows in 2025. Always do your own research, as markets evolve—happy watching!
If you found this guide helpful and want more curated insights on investing, finance, and wealth-building strategies delivered straight to your inbox, consider subscribing to my Substack. It's free to join, and you'll get exclusive articles, updates, and tips to help you navigate the world of money smarter. Hit that subscribe button below—let's build better financial futures together!