My boy is turning 18-what to give/get/invest

My son will be turning 18 this month and we are trying to figure out what to give/get for him. We can't afford to spend much (in comparison to some of the $ amounts mentioned on the site) and are looking at what we could do for $500 or less. I know he would be willing to match our $500. He is a kid who works/studies hard and would be considered a saver not a spender so some type of invest for the long haul would work well for him. I know he would rather have the dollars invested vs. having a party or money spent on gifts just to have something to open. Your suggestions are most welcome.

Cheers,
Carol

Open a Roth IRA for him. Most mutual funds have a $500 or $1000 minimum investment to open.

It can compund tax-free for 40 years or so.

Yes, I would agree that a ROTH IRA would be a great start for him and will be appreciated many years from now also.
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Money Saving Advice (http://www.savingadvice.com)

I'd agree with all of the others. A Roth IRA would be a great investment.

If you don't want it tied up for the long-term, then maybe look into the S+P 500.

Yes,A Roth IRA would be a great investment.

i think by this time your kid is about 21. so how is he doing with the investment thingy..?